GTA Online has seen 44 updates, introducing numerous vehicles, missions, elements, and features. While each update aims to refresh the game, not all are well-received.

Bugs, glitches, and subpar content still occur, just to name a few issues. Having said that, which updates are the favorites among fans? Let’s explore!

5 Greatest GTA Online Updates (As Of 2023)

In GTA Online, you can’t skip updates—they’re a must. How you enjoy updates depends on how long you’ve played the game.

For instance, if you’ve just started in 2023, you might miss out on missions or events in the 2018 updates.

Moreover, it’s important to note that this list of the 5 best GTA Online updates is subjective, based on our personal experience and the opinions of some GTA players.

Additionally, the list is not in any particular order. All the listed updates are equal.

Without further ado, below is the list of 5 best GTA Online updates and why!

1. The Contract (Wednesday, December 15, 2021)

Many GTA Online players and ourselves agree that The Contracts is undeniably among the game’s best updates.

Upon receiving this update, one of the first noticeable features is the return of Franklin, a familiar protagonist from Story mode. He’ll approach you with business propositions, offering around 4 purchasable agencies.

These agencies allow for weapon upgrades to MK II variants and the introduction of Imani Tech, enhancing your vehicle’s capabilities. Additionally, the update reintroduces Chop, Franklin’s loyal Rottweiler.

This update provides lucrative opportunities to expand your in-game budget through missions like “Payphone Hits“, which, if executed efficiently, can earn up to $70,000 in less than 10 minutes.

If you miss the thrill of controlling Frankling in GTA 5, then the “Short Trips” mission lets you control him (and Lamar) freshly and engagingly.

Given that the update involves Dr. Dre, it’s no surprise that it brings an extensive collection of songs. Musical tastes vary, so the quality of his music is subjective.

Moreover, The Contract update introduces plenty of new vehicles, including popular favorites like the Pfister Comet S2, Cabrio, or Pegassi Ignus, alongside various clothing items to redefine your character’s appearance.

2. Heists (Tuesday, March 10, 2015)

The Heists update was a significant addition to GTA Online in 2015 and continues to be relevant for many reasons.

First of all, the Heists update is the first update that introduces vehicles that are exclusive to GTA Online only, such as the Karin Kuruma, Lampadati Casco, etc.

Regarding content diversity and intensity, the Heists update surpassed all previous updates from 2013 and 2014. Comprising 5 heist missions, players had the opportunity to team up with friends in strategic planning and earn substantial in-game money.

The potential earnings from each heist depended on the difficulty level chosen by the heist leader. For instance, the Pacific Standard heist in hard mode offered a potential takeoff of up to $1,875,000 (provided you don’t lose money during the mission).

3. The Diamond Casino Heist (Thursday, December 12, 2019)

The Diamond Casino Heist update introduces the Diamond Casino heist, the most profitable heist since its release. This particular heist demanded strategic planning, wise selection of teammates, and careful heist approaches to maximize potential earnings.

The payout potential for this heist is notably high, ranging between 2 and 3 million GTA$, a substantial sum that can allow you to purchase properties.

Yet, this update isn’t just about the heist; it introduces various other profitable opportunities. For instance, the Open Wheel races offer up to $40,000 for securing first place, while Gerald’s Last Play provides earnings between $2,000 and $20,000 based on your skill level.

Furthermore, the update introduced an array of new vehicles and weapons, expanding the choices available to players within the game.

4. Import/Export (Tuesday, December 13, 2016)

The Import/Export update is undeniably one of the most significant updates in the GTA franchise. It has brought back the core element that made the game popular – stealing vehicles.

Rockstar has introduced up to 22 new vehicles featured in missions and available for purchase. With the update, you can access 8 special vehicles and work missions that are both entertaining and lucrative, offering up to $10k to $20k for each mission.

Additionally, 8 new VIP and CEO work missions are included, providing RP and approximately $30,000 to $40,000, making it an excellent way to earn more money.

One vehicle that stands out in this update is the Coil Rocket Voltic, which features a rocket booster that makes it unique and highly performative. In summary, the Import/Export update is a game-changer.

5. The Cayo Perico Heist (Tuesday, December 15, 2020)

Without a doubt, the Cayo Perico Heist update is the grandest scale heist in GTA Online.

As the name suggests, this update focuses on the Cayo Perico Heist, featuring a new map (the Cayo Perico Island) and a job (Cayo Perico Heist). The heist is exceptional, not only in how missions progress but also in how you prepare for the mission.

Not to mention, it’s one of the best opportunities to earn money, with up to $1,400,000 for completing the heist in just an hour.

Moreover, the update has introduced several new characters and vehicles, giving the game a fresh and new look. The focus on personal appearance and style is evident, with hundreds of pieces of clothing and dance styles added, allowing you to express your unique style.