Executive Summary — A fresh analysis of the 2026 starter lineup reveals a clear winner for all‑around play, a budget champion, and a cargo‑focused standout. Prices are in USD and current as of January 2026.

🥇 Rank #1 — Aegis Avenger Titan ($75)

Best for: Jack‑of‑all‑trades • Cargo: 8 SCU • Fun Rating: ★★★★★

The Avenger Titan remains the newsroom’s top pick. Built from a police‑interceptor legacy, it blends combat capability, cargo utility, and everyday flexibility. It handles most mission types with ease.

• Strengths: Best starter combat performance, 8 SCU cargo, bed, agility, strong weapon loadout.
• Weaknesses: Mid‑range price, not specialized, cargo access can be awkward.

Verdict: If you can buy only one ship, this is the most versatile choice.

🥈 Rank #2 — Consolidated Outland Mustang Alpha ($45)

Best for: Budget‑conscious players • Cargo: 4 SCU • Fun Rating: ★★★★☆

The Mustang Alpha is the cheapest entry point with a surprisingly strong cockpit view and a fun flight profile.

• Strengths: Lowest price, panoramic cockpit, decent weapons, agile, great CCU upgrade value.
• Weaknesses: Fragile, weak in combat, no bed, limited cargo.

Newsroom Tip: Many buy it for the CCU value and upgrade later.

🥉 Rank #3 — Consolidated Outland Nomad ($95)

Best for: Cargo trading & versatility • Cargo: 24 SCU • Fun Rating: ★★★★★

The Nomad is the cargo king of the starter class, enabling profitable trading runs from day one.

• Strengths: Massive 24 SCU, fast for size, triple shields, bed & kitchenette, can carry small vehicles.
• Weaknesses: Higher price, exposed cargo bay, larger combat target.

Economy Watch: Its 24 SCU can yield roughly 3× the profit per run versus the Titan.

4 — Drake Cutter ($50)

Best for: Exploration & delivery • Cargo: 4 SCU • Fun Rating: ★★★★☆

The Cutter brings range and practicality on a tight budget, tailored for delivery routes and exploration.

• Strengths: Low price, large quantum tank, bed, compact landing footprint.
• Weaknesses: Weak defenses, low firepower, only 4 SCU.

Note: Not a combat ship—combat pilots should look elsewhere.

5 — Gatac Syulen ($85)

Best for: Alien ship enthusiasts • Cargo: 6 SCU • Fun Rating: ★★★★☆

The Syulen delivers a distinct Xi’an design with solid combat stats and a unique flight feel.

• Strengths: Exotic aesthetics, solid weapons, good quantum range.
• Weaknesses: Exposed cargo pods, unusual controls, higher price.

Culture Desk: Ideal for players who value style and uniqueness.

Honorable Mention — RSI Salvation ($75)

Specialty: Salvage operations • Total storage: 12 SCU (6 internal + 6 external)

The Salvation is the first dedicated salvage starter, built for players who want to earn through wreck processing.

• Highlights: Dual salvage arms, auto‑loader, compact maneuvering, strong salvage focus.
• Limits: Single‑profession focus, no bed, low combat versatility.

Income Potential: Salvage can reach 50,000–150,000 aUEC/hour with experience.