Upgrade Pokémon GO is one of the special evolution items used to evolve certain Pokémon. While it’s not needed very often, you’ll eventually need an Upgrade if you want to add Porygon2 to your Pokédex or continue evolving Porygon into its final form.
If you’ve just received an Upgrade and aren’t sure what it’s for, here’s everything you need to know, including how to get one, which Pokémon use it and whether you should keep any spare Upgrades in your Item Bag.
What is an Upgrade in Pokémon GO?
An Upgrade is a special evolution item in Pokémon GO that allows certain Pokémon to evolve. Unlike Candy, which is required for almost every evolution, an Upgrade is only used by a small number of Pokémon.
Once you’ve used an Upgrade, it’s consumed permanently, so you’ll need to obtain another one if you ever need one again.
Upgrade Pokémon GO information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Evolution Item |
| Used For | Special Evolutions |
| Can Be Deleted | Yes |
| Can Be Purchased | No |
| Obtained From | PokéStops, Research and Events |
How to get an Upgrade in Pokémon GO
There are several ways to get an Upgrade Pokémon GO item, although it’s considered one of the rarer evolution items.
| Method | Available | Details |
|---|---|---|
| PokéStop 7-Day Spin Streak | ✅ | One of the most reliable methods |
| Field Research | ✅ | Occasionally available |
| Special Research | ✅ | Some storylines reward an Upgrade |
| Timed Research | ✅ | Event dependent |
| Seasonal Events | ✅ | Sometimes included in rewards |
Because they’re used so rarely, most players will naturally collect a few Upgrades simply by playing regularly.
Which Pokémon use an Upgrade in Pokémon GO?
At the moment, only one Pokémon family requires an Upgrade Pokémon GO item.
| Pokémon | Evolution |
|---|---|
| Porygon | Porygon2 |
To evolve Porygon into Porygon2 you’ll need:
- 25 Porygon Candy
- 1 Upgrade
To evolve Porygon2 into Porygon-Z you’ll then need:
- 100 Porygon Candy
- 1 Sinnoh Stone
This means completing the entire evolutionary line requires both an Upgrade and a Sinnoh Stone.
Should you keep Upgrades?
Yes, but you don’t need lots of them.
Unlike Poké Balls or Berries, Upgrade Pokémon GO items aren’t used regularly. Keeping two or three is usually more than enough unless you’re collecting multiple Porygon for different battle leagues.
If your Item Bag is getting full, spare Upgrades are often safe to delete.
Upgrade vs other evolution items
| Evolution Item | Used For |
|---|---|
| Upgrade | Porygon |
| Metal Coat | Scyther and Onix |
| King’s Rock | Poliwhirl and Slowpoke |
| Dragon Scale | Seadra |
| Sun Stone | Various Pokémon |
| Sinnoh Stone | Multiple Gen 4 evolutions |
| Unova Stone | Multiple Gen 5 evolutions |
Each evolution item has a different purpose, so it’s worth keeping at least one of each in your inventory.
Tips for using an Upgrade in Pokémon GO
Before using an Upgrade Pokémon GO item, it’s worth checking the Porygon you’re evolving.
Many players choose to evolve:
- A high IV Porygon
- A Lucky Porygon
- A Shiny Porygon
- One with strong PvP IVs
Since Upgrades aren’t especially common, using one on your best Pokémon is usually the smartest choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Upgrade in Pokémon GO?
An Upgrade Pokémon GO item is a special evolution item used to evolve Porygon into Porygon2.
How do you get an Upgrade in Pokémon GO?
You can get an Upgrade Pokémon GO item through PokéStop 7-day streaks, Research tasks and certain events.
Can you buy an Upgrade in Pokémon GO?
No. Upgrades can’t be purchased from the in-game Shop.
Which Pokémon need an Upgrade in Pokémon GO?
Currently, only Porygon requires an Upgrade Pokémon GO item to evolve into Porygon2.
Should I keep more than one Upgrade?
It’s worth keeping a couple, but most players don’t need a large collection because they’re only used for the Porygon evolution line.
Is an Upgrade consumed after evolving?
Yes. Like every evolution item in Pokémon GO, the Upgrade disappears after it’s used.
