Starfield BEST Ships And How To Get Them [Top 17]

Explore the best ships in Starfield, featuring the unbeatable Abyss Trekker, versatile Star Eagle, and agile Watchdog III.

In Starfield, a ship defines a player’s journey. From the combat power of the Abyss Trekker, and the versatility of the Star Eagle, to the sheer dominance of the Watchdog III, selecting the perfect ship to cruise space is crucial. Each ship, with its distinct strengths and weaknesses, promises a unique take on how you explore space in the game. So here’s a Starfield best ship list that will help you on your journeys! 

Key Takeaways
  • Starfield features 75 Ship types in the game. 
  • Owning a ship opens up vast, uncharted planets and galaxies for exploration.
  • Best ships ensure superior combat prowess against space pirates in Starfield.
  • Maintaining high-quality vessels demands a large investment in credits and upgrades in Starfield.
  • Ships with larger crew capacities offer diverse dynamics and team strategies in Starfield.
  • Without a reliable ship, players risk frequent space ambushes and loss by Space Pirates.

Best Ships In Starfield

Here is a quick look at the list of Starfield best ships along with Fuel, Hull, Cargo, Reactor, Crew, Jump, Shield, BAL, LAS, PAR, EM, MSL, Mass, and Value stats: 

Serial NumberShip NameFuelHullCargoReactorCrewJumpShieldBALLASPAREMMSLMassValue
17Vista III8001,3363,28038 (C)6301,350162220102,045548,900
16Silent Runner3001,1646,08034 (C)52997500380962,463390,150
15Stronghold2,2001,0472,36027 (C)6301,60048360002,030400,125
14Wanderwell20050280020227 LY45527N/AN/A37N/A62271,186
13Starborn GuardianN/A64995022530 LY630N/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A9,843
12Vanquisher III1,1009084,12020621 LY730149634002,087335,655
11RazorleafN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A16 LY468N/A6N/A16N/AN/AN/A
10Renegade III5001,4884,36727623 LY8501004837N/AN/A2,050270,062
9Kepler R2,8001,0003,55024628 LY805N/A4438N/AN/A2,642457,641
8Conqueror2,8009993,90524N/AN/A805N/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A433,570
7Shield breaker5509402,28027522 LY6102824N/AN/AN/A1,238265,443
6Kepler SN/A6893,20018327 LY570N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A1,474176,240
5Crimson Fleet Wight IIIN/A1,516957N/AUp to 7 crew membersN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AThe Key for 300,000 Credits
4Narwhal5602118176036730 LY99511424N/AN/A861593N/A
3Watchdog III5061980523425 LY550N/AN/AN/AN/A172473140,643
2Star Eagle1409482,73629N/AN/A912N/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A57,228
1The Abyss Trekker9501,03134027 (C)628 LY850N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A1,282347,230

17. Vista III

Vista lll
Vista III (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
FUEL800
HULL1,336
CARGO3,280
REACTOR38 (C)
CREW6
JUMP30
SHIELD1,350
BAL162
LAS22
PAR0
EM1
MSL0
MASS2,045
VALUE548,900

The Vista III ship in Starfield is a formidable “flagship” type vessel, having impressive stats like a large crew capacity of 6 members, powerful weapon systems, a big cargo hold of 3,280, and one of the game’s best shields at 1,350. These features make it an ideal choice for various in-game scenarios, ensuring confidence in almost any situation.

Note: The Vista III isn’t without its drawbacks. Its weaker jump drive and the absence of shielded cargo limits its advantages. Yet, with upgrades, these limitations are manageable.

How To Get

Acquiring the Vista III is straightforward. It’s available for purchase in Neon’s Ship Services, priced at 300,000 credits.

16. Silent Runner

Silent runner ship
Silent Runner ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
FUEL300
HULL1,164
CARGO6,080
REACTOR34 (C)
CREW5
JUMP29
SHIELD975
BAL0
LAS0
PAR38
EM0
MSL96
MASS2,463
VALUE390,150

The Silent Runner ship is famous for its unmatched base cargo capacity, a staggering 6,080, making it the go-to ship for players prioritizing storage. This unrivaled carrying capacity allows players to essentially disregard weight limits when collecting resources, a significant benefit given Starfield’s emphasis on item & material collection.

How To Get

To get the Silent Runner in Starfield, head to HopeTown, situated on Polvo within the Valo star system. At Hopetech HQ, players can approach Inaya Rehman, who sells the ship for 390,150 Credits.

Important: While this price might seem a little high, the ship’s exceptional storage capability justifies the purchase. Upon buying, players can also enhance the already impressive cargo space further.

15. Stronghold

Stronghold ship
Stronghold ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
FUEL2,200
HULL1,047
CARGO2,360
REACTOR27 (C)
CREW6
JUMP30
SHIELD1,600
BAL48
LAS36
PAR0
EM0
MSL0
MASS2,030
VALUE400,125

The Stronghold ship in Starfield stands true to its name, emerging as one of the best “defensive” ships in the game. With its robust shields and large Cargo Capacity, it ensures players can explore the galaxy without the constant threat of destruction.

Stronghold ship’s main trade-off in Starfield, however, is its notable lack of agility. But for those prioritizing protection and extensive travel capabilities, Stronghold’s benefits often outweigh its mobility limitations.

How To Get

To acquire the Stronghold, players need to head to Akilia City in Starfield, where it can be purchased for 400,125 Credits.

Though its price is high in the early game, its defensive capabilities and transport efficiency make it a valuable asset for players seeking safe, long-range transport of vast cargo amounts. 

14. Wanderwell

wanderwell ship
wanderwell ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel200
Hull502
Cargo800
Reactor20
Crew2
Jump27 LY
Shield455
MSL
BAL27
LAS
EM37
Value71,186
Mass622

The Wanderwell ship in Starfield is an early-game ship, superior to the starter ship, Frontier, in many vital categories and is obtainable almost from the game’s very start. However, to unlock this ship, players must select the Kid’s Stuff Trait during the initial character creation.

While the Wanderwell offers certain early-game advantages, particularly in cargo capacity, its overall utility might not be good enough to select the Kid’s Stuff Trait. While the Wanderweel has improved over the UC Prison Shuttle, it still doesn’t match up to the initial ship. 

How To Get

To get the Wanderwell in Starfield, players need to select the Kid’s Stuff Trait when they start the game for the first time and then visit in-game parents, who will give the Wanderwell ship.

13. Starborn Guardian

Starborn guardian ship
Starborn guardian ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship ClassA
Reactor Power22
Crew Capacity5
Gravity Jump Distance30 LY
Shield630
Fuel1,500
Hull649
Cargo950
Value9,843

The Starborn Guardian in Starfield is a reward ship, only accessible post-campaign in a New Game+ run.

The Ship stands out as an amazing combat ship, having unique weaponry and absolutely great stats. Its combat prowess is centered on its Solar Flare Beam and Gravity Torpedo, making it a dominant force in space battles. The Starborn ship can grav jump up to 30 lightyears as well.

However, getting The Guardian ship after completing the main campaign might be a letdown for many players. While its stats are impressive, the Guardian’s inability to undergo upgrades limits its long-term potential. As a result, while it serves as a solid starting ship for New Game+ mode, players might pick more customizable ships once they get enough in-game credits.

How To Get

Important: To obtain the Starborn Guardian, one must finish the Starfield main campaign and start a New Game+ journey.

12. Vanquisher III

Vanquisher lll
Vanquisher lll (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel1,100
Hull908
Cargo4,120
Reactor20
Crew6
Jump21 LY
Shield730
MSL149
BAL
LAS6
PAR34
Value335,655
Mass2,087

The Vanquisher III in Starfield is a mammoth star cruiser, ideal for those prioritizing cargo space without sacrificing speed.

  • Undoubtedly, the Vanquisher III shines in its sheer size and functionality.
  • Unlike many other ships, it retains missile capabilities.
  • However, this doesn’t overshadow its weaker shields, a potential vulnerability during space combat.
  • The biggest advantage is The Vanquisher III ship’s capacity to house up to six crew members while efficiently exploring resource-focused missions.

How To Get

Important: To get this behemoth, Vanquisher III in Starfield, be prepared to spend a whopping 490,000 Credits, which might seem very high, but the benefits it offers definitely are worth the price tag.

The Vanquisher III can be acquired in Starfield New Atlantis, and though its cost surpasses its counterpart, the Renegade III, its enhanced features and capabilities make it a worthy pick.

11. Razorleaf

Razorleaf ship
Razorleaf ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship ClassA
Reactor Power19
Crew Capacity2
Gravity Jump Distance16 LY
Shield468
LAS6
BALnone
MSL36
PAR16

The Razorleaf in Starfield is arguably the best early-game ship, perfect for those valuing speed and combat capabilities, and can be obtained as early as Level 10.

  • What sets the Razorleaf apart is its exemplary combat performance, coupled with a blazing speed.
  • A unique feature is its unique effect that makes many bandits flee upon spotting it, providing an implicit combat advantage.
  • However, it does come with a modest cargo capacity, although a portion is shielded, making it suitable for smuggling endeavors.
  • Though Razorleaf has some limitations in cargo capacity and shield strength, its speed, combat proficiency, and acquisition cost (free!) make it a worthwhile ship to have.

How To Get

Important: To obtain the Razorleaf, players must start & play the Mantis quest, triggered by discovering the “Secret Outpost” datapad found on a Spacer enemy in Starfield.

Successfully completing the Mantis quest rewards the player with the Razorleaf, free of charge.

10. Renegade III

Renegade lll
Renegade lll (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel500
Hull1,488
Cargo4,367
Reactor27
Crew6
Jump23 LY
Shield850
MSL100
BAL48
LAS37
PAR
Value270,062
Mass2,050

The Renegade III in Starfield is a combat-capable, end-game starship, known for its vast cargo capacity and balanced attributes, available for around 490,000 Credits.

The ship’s well-rounded attributes cater to various playstyles, making it one of the most prized ships in the Starfield.

How To Get

Important: To get the Renegade III, players need to spend roughly 490,000 Credits in Starfield.
  • So far I’ve found potential locations at main starports such as New Atlantis, Neon, Akila City, Cydonia, and Paradiso.
  • Specifically, Neon has offered this ship for 450,000 Credits.
  • Although the exact location isn’t guaranteed, sticking to the main starports increases the chances of locating the Renegade III.

9. Kepler R

Kepler R ship
Kepler R ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel2,800
Hull1,000
Cargo3,550
Reactor24
Crew6
Jump28 LY
Shield805
MSL
BAL44
LAS38
PAR
Value457,641
Mass2,642

The Kepler R in Starfield is a “free” high-capacity vessel famously known for its crew and cargo space, robust weaponry, shields, and fuel capacity.

The Kepler R ship serves as a reliable tank in Starfield, shielded by a robust hull and sufficient cargo space, facilitating lengthy space missions due to its significant fuel storage. However, its sheer size limits optimal combat performance, and it doesn’t dominate in any specific category.

How To Get

Important: Obtaining the Kepler R involves playing the “Overdesigned” quest, given by NPC Walter Stroud found in The Lodge in New Atlantis.

8. Conqueror

Conquerer ship
Conquerer ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel2,800
Hull999
Cargo3,905
Shield805
Reactor Potency24
Cumulative Value433,570

The Conqueror in Starfield is a mammoth ship, notable for its impressive size, and can be acquired around the game’s midway point.

  • This ship’s appeal lies not so much in its combat prowess – which is decent, not exceptional – but in its enormous fuel capacity, giant cargo hold, and big interiors.
  • Surprisingly agile given the Conqueror’s massive frame, the ship ensures a smooth flight experience, even if its offensive capabilities might not be its core highlight.

If you prioritize size, cargo space, and crew capacity over combat efficiency, the Conqueror is a worthy addition to your Starfield fleet.

How To Get

Important: To acquire the Conqueror in Starfield, players will need to visit the Stroud-Eklund Staryards and be ready to spend approximately 250,000 credits.

7. Shield breaker

Shieldbreaker ship
Shieldbreaker ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship statsValue
Fuel550
Hull940
Cargo2,280
Reactor27
Crew5
Jump22 LY
Shield610
MSL58
BAL28
LAS24
PAR
Value265,443
Mass1,238

The Shieldbreaker is a premier combat ship, renowned for decimating enemy shields with its powerful laser weaponry and agility.

While its cargo capacity may not be monumental, its sheer combat efficiency coupled with its satisfactory storage makes the Shieldbreaker a worthy investment.

How To Get

Important: Those eager to acquire the Shieldbreaker won’t have to venture far. It is available at New Atlantis Spaceport right from the beginning of Starfield.

6. Kepler S

Kepler S ship
Kepler S ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Value176,240
Mass1,474
Fuel400
Hull689
Cargo Capacity3,200
Shielded Capacity0
ReactorClass B 18
Crew3
Jump27 LY
Shield570

The Kepler S is an important ship obtainable via the Overdesigned quest, following the completion of the “High Price to Pay” mission, initiated at The Lodge in New Atlantis.

This ship isn’t only about aesthetics or prestige; its balanced stats make it a gem for those traversing the vastness of Starfield.

  • The Kepler S is notably distinct from its counterpart, the Kepler R, due to the choices players make during the quest.
  • After succeeding in the persuasion endeavor with Frank, a crucial choice emerges: propose a compromise.
  • This decision, combined with prior successful interactions, culminates in acquiring the Kepler S.

How To Get

Important: To secure the Kepler S, players must select the modest budget option with Jules, leading to a persuasion interaction with Frank.

This conversation is very important in obtaining the Kepler S; if players fail to convince Frank about the budget reduction, the Kepler S remains hard to get. That is why you should increase persuasion skills or items before the conversation. 

5. Crimson Fleet Wight III

Crimson fleet wight lll
Crimson Fleet Wight III (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Shield Strength2,104
Hull Strength1,516
Fuel CapacityFantastic fuel capacity
Crew CapacityUp to 7 crew members
Cargo Capacity957
Lasers and BallisticsDecent lasers and ballistics backing up incredibly strong missiles
Purchase LocationThe Key for 300,000 Credits
Join RequirementRequires joining the Crimson Fleet

The Crimson Fleet Wight III is a premium pirate ship design, having unparalleled defensive capabilities and offering an exciting appeal to those players who want a life of space piracy.

How To Get

To acquire the Crimson Fleet Wight III, players must align with the Crimson Fleet faction in Starfield.

Once allegiances are declared, players can head to “The Key”, where Crimson Fleet Wight III ship is available to be taken by its next commander after paying of course 300,000 credits.

4. Narwhal

Narwhal ship
Narwhal ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Class C Reaction36
Jump30 LY
Crew7
Las24
Bal114
Shield995
MSL86
Fuel560
Cargo Capacity1760
Hull 2118
Mass1593

The Narwhal is an elite vessel in Starfield, famously known for its potent combination of defense, firepower, and crew capacity, however, it comes with a very high price.

The ship’s crowning feature, however, is its capacity to support seven crew members. When loaded with a skilled crew that enhances the ship’s functionalities, the Narwhal is virtually unparalleled. While certain aspects might be taken as weaknesses, they’re effortlessly reduced after basic ship upgrades.

How To Get

Players must begin their journey in Neon City, located within the Volii star system on Voli Alpha to get the Narwhal ship in Starfield.

  1. Seek out the red-interior Ryujin Industries headquarters at the far end of Neon Core.
  2. Within, head straight to the elevator and select the Taiyo Astroneering destination.
  3. Here, a brief conversation with Veronica Young opens up purchasing options, including the Narwhal.
  4. Possessing the Commerce skill offers a cost advantage, reducing the ship’s 450,000 Credits price tag.

3. Watchdog III

watchdog lll ship
watchdog lll ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel50
Hull619
Cargo805
Reactor23
Crew4
Jump25 LY
Shield550
MSL172
BAL
LAS
PAR23
Value140,643
Mass473

The Watchdog III in Starfield is a highly agile fighter, known for its missile firepower and impressive mobility, frequently seen in both Akila City and Neon.

The ship’s compact design doesn’t limit its efficiency; the Watchdog III boasts a large reactor, fueling its power beyond what its size might suggest. This makes the Watchdog III an invaluable asset for those skilled in ship-based combat, offering both agility and the firepower to destroy space pirates in Starfield.

How To Get

To get the Watchdog III for your fleet, a journey to either Akila City or Neon is in order. Once there, players will find the ship available for purchase, with its value marked at 140,643 Credits.

2. Star Eagle

Star eagle ship
Star Eagle ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Fuel140
Hull948
Cargo2,736
Shield912
Reactor29
Value57,228

The Star Eagle is a versatile, well-rounded ship, obtainable relatively early, having powerful weaponry, a robust hull, and a generous cargo hold.

The Star Eagle does have its limitations, notably in its jump capabilities. However, its exceptional performance in many areas means it remains a viable choice for an extended period in Starfield.

Beyond the raw statistics, the Star Eagle has a unique feature for budding space pirates: a magnet to immobilize enemy ships, facilitating boarding and raiding. Paired with missiles, shields, and health, it can manage aggressive engagements and quick raids, reinforcing its reputation as an early-game gem in Starfield.

How To Get

Important: Acquiring the Star Eagle requires playing the Freestar Rangers questline, a sequence comprising around eight missions, which originates in Akila City.

In Akila, located in the Cheyenne System, players will intersect with the Freestar Rangers, kicking off with the “Job Gone Wrong” mission. Progressing through their tasks will eventually reward the player with the Star Eagle, a ship that excels in its class.

1. The Abyss Trekker

Abyss trekker ship
Abyss trekker ship (picture credits: eXputer)
Ship StatsValue
Value347,230
Mass1,282
Fuel950
Hull1,031
Cargo Capacity340
Shielded Capacity0
ReactorClass C 27
Crew6
Jump28 LY
Shield850

The Abyss Trekker in Starfield is a combat-centric ship best known for its impressive firepower and rapid engagement capabilities, despite some flaws. 

  • One of the standout attributes of the Abyss Trekker is its space combat power.
  • While it might not be the largest or fastest ship in Starfield, it compensates with unmatched combat efficiency.
  • Few ships can rival the Abyss Trekker’s speed in dealing with enemy vessels.

How To Get

Players must head over to Paradiso in Starfield first. Here, the Abyss Trekker ship can be acquired from the Ship Services Technician for a price tag of approximately 365,000 Credits.

However, those prepared to look beyond this limitation will find the Abyss Trekker an invaluable asset, particularly when confronted by enemy factions like the Crimson Fleet or the Va’ruun.

To wrap it up, exploring Starfield’s worlds demands a vessel worthy of the challenge. Whether prioritizing combat, speed, or cargo capacity, the Abyss Trekker, Star Eagle, and Watchdog III stand out as top-tier choices. These ships, each exceptional in its own right, ensure every spacefarer’s journey is as thrilling as the destination.

I strongly suggest you also go over & read the Starfield enlightened vs universal, All console commands, ships inventory, and Starfield United Colonies guides.

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Moiz Banoori.


Having worked at various Video Game sites, coupled with 7 years of Content Writing Experience. I presently monitor teams, create strategies, and publish qualified pieces through my aptitude.

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