defense Tech Comparison
Reinforced Hulls vs Deflector Shields
Comparing the Reinforced Hulls (Tier 1) and Deflector Shields (Tier 2), both defense technologies in Starforge MMO. Use this to decide which to queue first when your research lab can only run one project at a time.
Research Comparison
| Attribute | Reinforced Hulls | Deflector Shields |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T1 | T2 |
| Research time | 2▼ | 10 |
| metal cost | 1,500▼ | 12,000 |
| crystal cost | 800▼ | 6,000 |
| Effect | +10% armor | +25% shield hp |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Reinforced Hulls
All ships gain +10% armor.
Deflector Shields
Shield HP +25% for all ships.
Unlocks buildings: shield generator
Requires: defense 1
Which Should You Research First?
The Reinforced Hulls is the lower-tier prerequisite step and typically comes first in the defense branch, opening the path toward Deflector Shields.