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SergeantRogers's avatar
SergeantRogers
https://twitter.com/mester3550/status/1833272020571681220

The top half of the tier list is whats really worth looking at, the rest are ships that are simply not made for mining, or are very bad at it.

The best ones are the Cutter, Python, Corvette, and the Anaconda, The T9 Is very good for its cargo capacity too. Ships like the Clipper, T10, are adequate. The Adder, Cobra mk3 and mk4(just noticed I put it into F tier, thats my bad.) are great for starting out, as they are very cheap for what they offer.
Engineering is generally not needed for mining ships whatsoever, but if you have the spare time and materials, go ahead.

RicZA's avatar
RicZA

https://twitter.com/CMDR_RicZA/status/1833235356730462572


My opinions are such. While the CORVETTE and CUTTER are arguably S Tier, I've shifted them down to A due to the reputation grind.

  • Python Vs Anaconda: The python is far more nimble than the Anaconda and a pleasure to mine in, however, the Anaconda has far better power management and plenty of hardpoints/module space.

  • Type 9: Cargo for days, plenty of power. BUT its as nimble as a snail on peanut butter.

  • Asp Explorer: Cheap, Great field of view! no real down sides and great for newish players

  • Cobra and Adder are great starter ships for new players getting into mining.

My progression advice would be Cobra > Asp Explorer > Python

I havent included the Type 8, as i have yet to use one, but i have heard good things.

V
VanillaIsi
https://www.instagram.com/p/C_q0NDfSPWM

This is my tier list for the best mining ships. As criteria I focused on storage, speed, jump range and shields because I am not crazy to mine without my shields. And I won't know how those criteria are represented in numbers, just my experience. Now I use the Python and the Cutter and the Anaconda I know their famous by the community. Hope I can buy them soon.

So telling what I know about these other ships is that the storage isn't the only important thing in a mining ship, you will spent a lot of timing going from point A to point B to mine and sells the goods so that's why I love to play with my Python that has great jump range and great maneuverability and speed to fly across the asteroids and a decent storage capacity.

About the Type 9 I never played with it but it is the main mining ship from my boyfriend and even been an big ship he do a great job mining and has a nice profit selling goods, and he engineered the FSD and it has a ok jump range for not taking too much time going to the selling point.

The Krait is very siilar do the python, but I don't think it works that well, its good and there is nothing to be regreted to use as a mining ship and the Keelback stands out for be a gfreat mining ship for a good price.

yan57436's avatar
yan57436

Of course wouldn't be another ship on the top. The Cutter is the supreme ship for everybody who loves to mins (and for another things ass well, this ship rocks). I make this tier with storage, speed and shields in mind. You have to get nice cargo and try to escape a bunch of pirates along the way. So I couldn't put ships like Type- 9 on a better row because it is so slow even having a good capacity and enough slots for the lasers or mines.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_odItrxWeP

Slamscape's avatar
Slamscape
https://twitter.com/SlamscapeX/status/1831847733881401760

S Tier - These ships are all best of the best at mining, with very high cargo capacity, decent maneuverability, and enough internal space for mining, Cutter for laser mining, Python and Type 8 for laser and core mining (I haven't had a chance to fly the Type 8 yet, but based on it's stats)

A Tier - Are fairly solid mining ships, the Anaconda, Federal Corvette, and Type-7 are strong but lack the cargo capacity of the S Tier ships. The Cobra Mk4 (Mk3 would work also) and the Dolphin are the best small mining ships.

B Tier - They are viable but have one or two stats that put it lower on the list, whether it be lower cargo space, lack of hardpoints for mining gear or have poor handling

C Tier - These are average, and could work if you want something different but are outclassed by all the vessels above.

D Tier - Hauler might work as a first time mining vessel stepping stone, Type-10 looks decent on paper but is very expensive and not maneuverable.

F Tier - These are all combat ships and can not fit cargo and all the equipment required to mine.

Toretto 70's avatar
Toretto 70
https://twitter.com/brianto1970/status/1830984462924128647

  1. Python : Extreamly versatile, Nice Cargo capacity, excellent maneuver

  2. Imperial Cutter : Massive cargo capacity, strong shield, high speed

  3. Anaconda : Large cargo capacity, good jump range

  4. Type 9 Heavy : Huge cargo capacity, relatively affordable

  5. ASP Explorer : Good jump range, decent cargo capacity, affordable

  6. Cobra MK III : Very affordable, fast, maneuverable

Luriant's avatar
Luriant
https://twitter.com/Luriant/status/1830895152820261134

Top ships in his size:

Cutter have the cargo and distro for surface mining, the most profitable one. The best money maker for mining, but also some content like rescue of Human Pods. Not recommended for subsurface or even core miner.

Python is the best in his size, without downsides, and great multipurpose ship for passengers and trade, but outclassed by the Type-8 except for the best mining without compromise.

CobraMk4, the preorder bonus, its great with lot of modules, but only a bunch of players have this, and once you moved to medium ship, the ship lack a good niche.

Close, use as step for moving forward:

Type-8 have limited distro, a problem that will reduce mining speed,or increase your heat attracting RES pirates. Its good enough to use as step before going for the Cutter, without the problems of Type-9 low distro. Also not enough hardpoints for all form of mining in the same build. Close to be a great mining ship, but you always have some compromise.

All the other big ships have the distro but lack the cargo (Anaconda, Corvette), have the cargo but lack distro and/or convergence (Type-10 and Type-9), or are a downgrade over other ship (KraitMk2 loss a size6 slot from Python).

From here, CobraMk3 and AspX work great for his value, and can do lot of things. Even if other ship become better, you will enjoy the time with this ship when learning the game. Dolphin is a new addition with more cargo, Viper4 is close to Cobra, and Keelback is even better at 2x cobra price and fix the Type-6 lack of distro, but you are really close to AspX for a more rounded ship.

1 Useful stat... don't save a ship

Hauler, Type 6, Type 7 lack distro and hardpoints, pure cargo for LONG mining session with small lasers.

Orca and Krait Phantom are a downside over the KraitMk2, already under Python stats.

Viper3, Adder and the more expensive DBX are worse then Cobra3, the distro don't save the lack of cargo and other bad stats.

What are you doing?

This ones are starter or combat ships, that lack big modules for cargo, or have some of the optional slots restricted to military equipment. Anything else will be superior.

JHenckes's avatar
JHenckes

I'm not that experienced in the game, but one thing I've learned to love is mining in Elite Dangerous.

I made this tierlist only with ships that are really good for mining, I think it's important to emphasize that the focus is on storage! The more resources you can carry, the bigger the profit!

These are very expensive ships, but they pay for themselves quickly because it's a very lucrative business (it's that profit that's addictive). Using the right tools and good storage, profit is guaranteed with most of these.

One tip is to use a decent shield and cooling engineering to help with mining!

My dream ship is the Imperial Cutter (the first on the tierlist). It has all the features I mentioned and it's beautiful! I've been saving my money to buy it.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_bpmcjPjt2

V
VanillaIsi
JHenckes

One of the things that I don't agree is the Type-9 in Tier S, it is a good ship but I think it fits better in tier A or B. But it is a great tier list by the way!

JHenckes's avatar
JHenckes
VanillaIsi

Thanks for your comment! I considered it tier-S because it's a complete ship with plenty of cargo space. But mainly for the cost benefit. Among the tier-S ships, it's the cheapest by far and still offers a lot of quality (it was my best mining ship for a long time, until I managed to invest in an Anaconda).

CMDR Henckes's avatar
CMDR Henckes
VanillaIsi

Hey don't say that about Type-9, even I agreeing with you. But its my main mining ship hahaha

Block9's avatar
Block9

https://twitter.com/r66680314/status/1830585659440165196

1. *Sidewinder MkI*
- *Description: The Sidewinder* is the starter ship provided to new players. While limited in terms of cargo capacity and internal slots, it can be outfitted for basic mining.
- *Capabilities*: It has space for a mining laser and some limpet controllers. Ideal for learning the basics of mining before investing in a better ship.
- *Advantages*: Low cost and easy to maintain.
- *Disadvantages*: Small cargo space and limited equipment capacity, making large-scale mining impractical.

2. *Cobra MkIII*
- *Description: A versatile ship that is very popular among new players due to its cost-effectiveness. The Cobra MkIII* offers a good balance of cargo capacity, speed, and manoeuvrability.
- *Capabilities*: Can equip mining lasers and drones, as well as having space for a small refinery. Its cargo capacity is modest but sufficient for small-scale mining operations.
- *Advantages*: Good initial cargo capacity for mining, affordable, and fast enough to escape from pirates.
- *Disadvantages*: Limited internal module space and fewer weapon slots compared to larger ships.

3. *Asp Explorer*
- *Description: Originally an exploration ship, the Asp Explorer* can be modified for mining thanks to its decent cargo capacity and space for equipment.
- *Capabilities*: Can equip multiple mining lasers, limpet controllers, and refineries. Has enough cargo space for prolonged mining operations.
- *Advantages*: Versatility, great jump range (ideal for finding asteroid-rich systems), and good cargo capacity.
- *Disadvantages*: Higher cost than starter ships and requires more experience to use effectively.

4. *Python*
- *Description: The Python* is one of the best ships for mining in terms of balancing capacity, size, and manoeuvrability. It is often the top choice for players who want to mine seriously.
- *Capabilities*: Can equip several mining lasers, drones, and refineries, with excellent cargo capacity, making it suitable for long mining sessions.
- *Advantages*: High cargo capacity, flexible equipment options, and can dock at smaller outposts.
- *Disadvantages*: High price and maintenance costs.

5. *Type-9 Heavy*
- *Description: The Type-9 Heavy* is a massive cargo hauler that can also be used for large-scale mining due to its vast cargo capacity.
- *Capabilities*: Can be equipped with multiple mining lasers, a large number of limpet controllers, and several refineries. With one of the largest cargo capacities in the game, it is ideal for high-yield mining operations.
- *Advantages*: Huge cargo capacity and space for mining equipment.
- *Disadvantages*: Very slow and difficult to manoeuvre; vulnerable to attacks, especially in dangerous systems.

6. *Anaconda*
- *Description: The Anaconda* is one of the most powerful and versatile ships in the game, capable of being configured for any role, including high-level mining.
- *Capabilities*: Has enough internal slots for a large amount of mining equipment, including drones, refineries, and limpets. Cargo capacity is extensive, and it can also be equipped with heavy weaponry for protection.
- *Advantages*: Massive cargo capacity, space for numerous mining modules, and excellent defensive capability.
- *Disadvantages*: Very expensive, high maintenance costs, and requires extensive engineering for optimal performance.

Conclusion

For beginners, the Cobra MkIII or Asp Explorer are good options to start with, while the Python is ideal for more experienced players who want to maximise mining efficiency. Larger ships like the Type-9 Heavy and Anaconda are best for large-scale mining operations but require significant investment.

Alex Sinclair's avatar
Alex SinclairMod
Block9

Block9 this is a really great, thorough submission! That said, an essential component of this bounty is the ship tier list being shown in an image or video, with the text there to justify the choices. You've done the hard part and you have all of the foundations for a winning entry here, so I suggest you head over to Tier Maker and put together a quick image. Then (once you've shared that via a connected social media account), edit your submission above to include it. I can't promise anything until the bounty has closed, but I suspect a prize would be headed your way if you did that.

Block9's avatar
Block9
Alex Sinclair

The above is edited with the following requested corrections, thank you.

Alex Sinclair's avatar
Alex SinclairMod
Block9

Perfect, thank you very much!

CMDR Henckes's avatar
CMDR Henckes

I think the tier list for most of people here will be similar, but the I considered as the main factor for this tier is the cargo and the price, but there is other important factors that ar resistance in hull or shields, jump range and manoeuvrability, for example the Cutter is very expansive but how it is so good in other aspects it has the first place.

Another exemple is the Type-10, it ha enormous amount of cargo but it has overpriced in my opinion that get in the 4th row in the tier ranking, you could be able to mine with excellency with it but you will spent a lot of money just to buy and outfit if. Instead of it you can buy the Type-9, which is my main mining ship and have similar results with spending so much less in the investment.

Also I considered good starter ships to who wanna start in mining at the begging of the game and I think that the best one is the Dolphin because of the cargo capacity but you have to gain a little more money before to be able buy and outfit it, if you can't wait you can go with the cobra or the Adder.

https://twitter.com/CMDRHenckes/status/1829614443485151735

JHenckes's avatar
JHenckes
CMDR Henckes

What a well-done list, it will help me too much!!!

V
VanillaIsi
CMDR Henckes

Totally agree!

Alex Sinclair's avatar
Alex SinclairMod
CMDR Henckes

Great entry!

Imperial Senator Bluecrash's avatar
Imperial Senator Bluecrash

Sometimes you just need to mine underground with a Muon Imager. Order of Twelve has laid claim to all the underground Guardian Generation, ARK ships that many of the Structures were built on top of. There is the micro triangle ship formation flying in a perfect 3.14 circle as well. Pilots Federation has been slow in recognizing our claims to all the ships under all the Guardian Structures. We have been tied up in the bureaucracy for years accused of grave robbing. The real question is: When does our dig become archeology, instead of grave robbing. You can't confuse our science team with careless pirates. We want the Guardians Monolith Network map and connections, as well as some of their other 2 million old tech. We found it, so it's all ours.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/Oibw0ph01ss?feature=oembed

USCSS's avatar
USCSS
https://twitter.com/USCSS141477/status/1832915232039063738

S-Tier (Top Mining Ships)

  • Python: A superb all-rounder, with excellent cargo space, strong defense capabilities, and perfect for both planetary and asteroid mining. Its size allows for great maneuverability in asteroid fields.

  • Anaconda: The ultimate heavy miner, boasting incredible cargo space, which makes it ideal for long mining sessions. It can handle a wide variety of modules for all types of mining.

A-Tier (Highly Capable Mining Ships)

  • Imperial Cutter: Outstanding cargo capacity but less maneuverable in asteroid belts. Excellent for long mining hauls, especially in safer areas.

  • Krait Mk II: Another versatile ship, almost as good as the Python but with slightly less cargo space. It's faster and can still perform very well in combat if needed.

B-Tier (Solid Mining Ships)

  • Type-9 Heavy: A pure workhorse with unmatched cargo capacity but low maneuverability, making it tough in asteroid belts.

  • Asp Explorer: Good jump range and a decent mining platform for smaller hauls. It’s a solid choice for exploration and mining, though not as specialized.

C-Tier (Usable but not Ideal)

  • Type-6 Transporter: A great starter miner with decent capacity for newer players but lacks versatility and power.

  • Cobra Mk III: Low cargo and not suited for extensive mining operations, but a good multi-role option for newer players.

D-Tier (Not Recommended for Mining)

  • Adder: A very low-end ship for mining, suitable only for absolute beginners. It has little cargo capacity and lacks mining equipment flexibility.

Alex Sinclair's avatar
Alex SinclairMod
USCSS

Howdy USCSS. You entered this bounty with a reply rather than a submission. You're new to the platform so I asked our engineers to manually add $5 to your wallet to recognise this otherwise great entry (which should by now have arrived). In the future, please double check that you've hit the purple 'submit to this bounty' button to make sure you don't miss out. o7

USCSS's avatar
USCSS
Alex Sinclair

Oh sorry.. Thanks!!

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