Converting Genesis Crystals into Primogems is a straightforward process within Genshin Impact. If you are wondering how to convert genesis crystals to primogems, the answer is simple: you do it directly through the in-game shop menu. This guide will walk you through every step, explain the exchange rate, and answer common questions so you can manage your premium currency like a pro.
Genesis Crystals are the premium currency you buy with real money. Primogems are the main currency used for wishes and other in-game purchases. The conversion is one-way: you can turn Genesis Crystals into Primogems, but not the other way around. Let’s get into the details.
How To Convert Genesis Crystals To Primogems
The conversion process takes less than a minute once you know where to look. Here is the step-by-step method:
- Open Genshin Impact and log into your account.
- Press the Esc key (on PC) or tap the Paimon menu icon (on mobile/console) to open the main menu.
- Select the “Shop” option from the menu.
- In the Shop screen, click on the “Paimon’s Bargains” tab at the top.
- Look for the “Genesis Crystal” section. You will see a button that says “Exchange” or a similar prompt.
- Click the exchange button. A window will appear showing your current Genesis Crystal balance and how many Primogems you will receive.
- Choose the amount you want to convert. You can do a partial exchange or all at once.
- Confirm the transaction. The Primogems will be added to your account instantly.
That is all there is to it. The exchange rate is 1 Genesis Crystal equals 1 Primogem. There are no fees or extra steps. You can do this as many times as you want, as long as you have Genesis Crystals available.
Where To Find The Exchange Option
Some players miss the exchange button because it is not in the most obvious place. Here are the exact locations for different platforms:
- PC: Press Esc, click Shop, then click Paimon’s Bargains. The exchange button is near the top of the screen.
- Mobile: Tap the Paimon icon (top left), then tap Shop, then Paimon’s Bargains. The button is labeled “Exchange.”
- PlayStation: Press the Options button, go to Shop, then Paimon’s Bargains. Use the on-screen prompt to exchange.
If you still cannot find it, check your Genesis Crystal balance first. You can see it at the top of the Shop screen next to your Primogem count. If the balance is zero, the exchange option may be grayed out.
Exchange Rate And Limits
The conversion is always 1:1. There is no bonus for converting larger amounts, and no penalty for converting small amounts. You can exchange as little as 1 Genesis Crystal at a time. There is no daily or weekly limit on how many you can convert.
One important thing to note: Genesis Crystals are not the same as “Crystal Top-ups.” When you buy a top-up pack, you receive Genesis Crystals. Those crystals are then converted to Primogems. The top-up packs themselves sometimes give bonus Primogems on first purchase, but that bonus is separate from the conversion rate.
Why Convert Genesis Crystals To Primogems
Primogems are the most versatile currency in Genshin Impact. You use them for:
- Making Wishes on character and weapon banners
- Refilling Original Resin (up to a limit each day)
- Purchasing Battle Pass levels (not recommended)
- Buying items from the Paimon’s Bargains shop (like Fates)
Genesis Crystals, on the other hand, are only used for conversion and for buying character outfits (skins). If you do not plan to buy skins, converting all your Genesis Crystals to Primogems is the smart move. Skins cost 1350 to 1680 Genesis Crystals, so keep that in mind if you want a specific outfit.
When To Convert And When To Wait
There is no strategic advantage to waiting. The exchange rate never changes, and there are no events that give bonus Primogems for converting. However, consider these points:
- Immediate needs: If you are close to pity on a banner, convert right away to get more wishes.
- Future skins: If you plan to buy a skin, keep the Genesis Crystals until the skin is released. You cannot use Primogems to buy skins.
- Battle Pass: Some players save Genesis Crystals to buy the Battle Pass (Gnostic Hymn). That costs 10 dollars worth of crystals, but you can also just buy the pass directly with real money.
For most players, converting immediately is fine. Primogems are more useful in daily play.
Common Mistakes When Converting
Even though the process is simple, players sometimes make errors. Here are the most common ones:
- Accidentally buying Genesis Crystals instead of converting. The Shop screen has two sections: one for buying crystals with real money, and one for exchanging them. Make sure you are in the “Exchange” tab, not the “Top-Up” tab.
- Converting too many when you want a skin. Once converted, you cannot reverse it. If you later decide you want a skin, you will need to buy more Genesis Crystals.
- Not checking your balance first. Some players think they have crystals but actually have Primogems. Check the number next to the Genesis Crystal icon before starting.
- Confusing Genesis Crystals with Masterless Starglitter. These are different currencies. Starglitter is earned from wishes and used in the shop for Fates and weapons.
What Happens If The Exchange Button Is Missing
If you cannot see the exchange button, try these fixes:
- Restart the game. Sometimes the UI does not load properly.
- Check your internet connection. A weak connection can cause menu items to disappear.
- Update the game. Older versions may have bugs.
- Contact customer support if the issue persists. Provide a screenshot of your Shop screen.
Most of the time, a simple restart fixes it. The exchange feature has been in the game since launch, so it is unlikely to be removed.
Primogems Vs Genesis Crystals: Which Is Better
This is a common question. The answer depends on what you want to do:
- For wishing: Primogems are better because they are the direct currency for Fates.
- For buying skins: Genesis Crystals are required. You cannot use Primogems.
- For resin refills: Primogems work fine. There is no benefit to using Genesis Crystals directly.
In short, Primogems are more flexible for daily use. Genesis Crystals are only needed for skins and as a store of value before conversion. If you are not interested in skins, convert all your crystals to Primogems.
How Many Primogems Do You Get From Top-Ups
When you buy a top-up pack, you receive Genesis Crystals. Here is the breakdown:
- 60 Crystals: $0.99 (first-time bonus: 60 extra)
- 300 Crystals: $4.99 (first-time bonus: 300 extra)
- 980 Crystals: $14.99 (first-time bonus: 980 extra)
- 1980 Crystals: $29.99 (first-time bonus: 1980 extra)
- 3280 Crystals: $49.99 (first-time bonus: 3280 extra)
- 6480 Crystals: $99.99 (first-time bonus: 6480 extra)
After the first purchase, you only get the base amount. Those Genesis Crystals convert 1:1 to Primogems. So a $99.99 pack gives you 6480 Primogems normally, or 12960 on the first purchase.
Tips For Managing Your Premium Currency
Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your Genesis Crystals and Primogems:
- Set a budget. Decide how much real money you want to spend per month. Convert only what you need.
- Save for banners you want. Do not convert all at once if you are saving for a future character. Keep the crystals in their original form until you need Primogems.
- Use the Welkin Moon. This is a better value than direct top-ups. It gives 90 Primogems per day for 30 days, plus 300 Genesis Crystals upfront. Those crystals can be converted or saved.
- Avoid impulse conversions. Once converted, you cannot change your mind. Think before you click.
- Track your pity. If you are close to a 5-star, convert just enough to reach pity. Do not over-convert.
Can You Convert Primogems Back To Genesis Crystals
No. The conversion is one-way only. Once you turn Genesis Crystals into Primogems, you cannot reverse the process. This is why it is important to be sure before you convert. If you accidentally convert too many, you will need to buy more Genesis Crystals if you want a skin later.
Some players wish there was a reverse option, but miHoYo (now HoYoverse) has not added one. It is unlikely to change in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert Genesis Crystals to Primogems on mobile?
Open the Paimon menu, tap Shop, then Paimon’s Bargains. Tap the exchange button next to your Genesis Crystal balance. Confirm the amount and you are done.
Is the exchange rate always 1:1?
Yes. One Genesis Crystal always equals one Primogem. There are no bonuses or penalties for converting.
Can I convert Genesis Crystals without spending real money?
Only if you already have Genesis Crystals from a previous purchase or from the Welkin Moon. You cannot earn them through gameplay.
What happens if I convert all my Genesis Crystals?
You will have only Primogems. You will not be able to buy character skins unless you purchase more Genesis Crystals. Make sure you do not want any skins first.
How many Primogems do I need for a 10-pull?
A single wish costs 160 Primogems. A 10-pull costs 1600 Primogems. So you would need to convert 1600 Genesis Crystals for one 10-pull.
Final Thoughts On Converting Genesis Crystals
Converting Genesis Crystals to Primogems is one of the simplest actions in Genshin Impact. The process takes seconds, and the exchange rate is fair. Just remember that it is a one-way transaction, so think about whether you want any character skins before you convert everything.
For most players, converting as needed is the best strategy. Keep a small reserve of Genesis Crystals if you think you might want a future skin. Otherwise, turn them into Primogems and use them for wishes, resin, or other in-game needs.
Now you know exactly how to convert genesis crystals to primogems. Go ahead and manage your currency with confidence. If you have more questions, check the FAQ section or leave a comment below.