As you can see from the short exchange above, there is skill based matchmaking in Valorant's unranked modes, which means you'll come up against players of roughly the same ability as you in both of the shooter's main modes. While a lot of players dislike it, SBMM offers a more well-rounded experience for all players.

Does Valorant have skill based matchmaking in unrated?

Unrated is an alternate label for unranked gameplay in Valorant. There will be skill based matchmaking in unrated :). Not beating around the bush as many devs have in the past when it comes to SBMM, he outright confirmed unranked playlists will, in fact, be influenced by skill.

Is there SBMM in Valorant?

However, unlike games where skill-based matchmaking can be optional, Valorant being a skill-based tactical shooter, makes SBMM compulsory for players.