what is fast tm pokemon go

3 min read 05-02-2025

Pokémon GO's battle system relies heavily on your Pokémon's moveset. A strong moveset can mean the difference between victory and defeat in raids, gyms, and PvP battles. This is where Fast TMs come in. This guide will explain what Fast TMs are, how to get them, and how to use them to optimize your Pokémon.

What are Fast TMs?

Fast TMs (Technical Machines) are items in Pokémon GO that allow you to change the Fast Attack of a Pokémon. Fast Attacks are the quick moves your Pokémon uses repeatedly in battle. They build up energy for Charged Attacks, which are more powerful but take longer to charge. Choosing the right Fast Attack is crucial for maximizing your Pokémon's damage output and energy gain. Understanding Fast Attacks is fundamental to mastering Pokémon GO battles.

How to Get Fast TMs

Fast TMs aren't easy to come by. You can obtain them through several methods:

Team Rocket Stops: Defeating Team Rocket Grunts and Leaders at PokéStops often rewards you with various items, including Fast TMs. This is a reliable, consistent method for acquiring them.
Research Tasks: Completing certain research tasks, both Field Research and Special Research, can reward you with Fast TMs. Check your research tasks regularly for opportunities to earn them.
Events: Niantic frequently holds in-game events. Some events offer Fast TMs as special rewards or bonuses. Keep an eye out for announcements!
PvP Rewards: Participating in the Go Battle League can sometimes reward you with Fast TMs as part of your rank-up rewards.
Purchase with PokéCoins: While not ideal, you can purchase Fast TMs in the in-game shop using PokéCoins, the premium currency in Pokémon GO.

How to Use a Fast TM

Using a Fast TM is straightforward:

Select a Pokémon: Choose the Pokémon whose Fast Attack you want to change.
Open the Pokémon's screen: Tap on the Pokémon to access its details.
Use the TM: You'll see a button to use a Fast TM. Tap it to initiate the process.
Choose a new move: The game will present you with a list of possible Fast Attacks that the Pokémon can learn. Select the one that best suits your needs based on its type effectiveness, damage, and energy generation.

Important Note: Once you use a Fast TM, the change is permanent. You cannot undo it, so choose wisely!

Choosing the Right Fast Attack

The best Fast Attack for a Pokémon depends on several factors:

Type Effectiveness: Consider the type matchups against common opponents. A super-effective Fast Attack will deal significantly more damage.
Energy Generation: Some Fast Attacks generate energy faster than others. A faster energy gain allows you to use Charged Attacks more frequently.
Damage Output: The raw damage of the Fast Attack is also important. However, balance this with energy generation.
PvP vs. PvE: The optimal Fast Attack might differ depending on whether you're using the Pokémon in Player versus Player (PvP) battles or Player versus Environment (PvE) battles like raids and gyms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a Fast TM on a Shadow Pokémon?

A: Yes, you can use a Fast TM on a Shadow Pokémon. However, remember that purifying a Shadow Pokémon will change its moveset, so plan accordingly.

Q: Can I use a Fast TM on a Mega-Evolved Pokémon?

A: No, you cannot use TMs on Mega-Evolved Pokémon.

Conclusion

Fast TMs are valuable tools in Pokémon GO. Understanding how to acquire and effectively use them is essential for building a powerful and competitive team. Remember to carefully consider type effectiveness, energy generation, and damage when choosing a new Fast Attack for your Pokémon. Happy battling!