# Charms

> Source: https://indiegameswiki.com/wiki/hollow-knight/charms
> Part of the Hollow Knight wiki on Indie Games Wiki. License: CC BY-SA 4.0.
> Last updated: 2026-07-15T03:20:32.120Z
Charms are equippable items that modify the Knight's abilities. They are equipped at benches and limited by charm notches.

## Basics

- Charms can only be equipped or unequipped while resting at a bench.
- Each charm costs between one and five notches; total notches can be increased by finding notch upgrades.
- "Overcharming" (forcing one extra charm past your notch limit) is possible but doubles the damage you take.

## Notable early charms

| Charm | Effect |
| ----- | ------ |
| Wayward Compass | Shows your location on the map |
| Gathering Swarm | Collects loose Geo for you |
| Soul Catcher | Gain more SOUL when striking enemies |
| Quick Focus | Heal faster |

## See also

- [[Abilities]] for movement and spell upgrades
- [[Bosses]] for fights where specific charm loadouts shine