Best Star Wars Ships Ranked From X-Wing To Millennium Falcon

For decades, fans of Star Wars have dreamed of traveling to the galaxy far, far away. For many, the dream may be to become a Jedi, gain incredible mental powers and also have a lightsaber. Because who doesn’t want a lightsaber? But for some, the fantasy is all about traveling through space in a starship, and Star Wars gives us so many choices when it comes to spacecraft that it’s almost impossible to pick which one we’d want to fly.

So what are the best ships in all of the Star Wars franchise? From the Rebels to the Empire and stories that cover hundreds of years, there are a lot of choices. We’ve taken a look at all the ships from throughout the galaxy far, far away, and picked our favorites. Here are the best Star Wars ships.

The Iconic Star Wars Ships

Lambda Class Imperial Shuttle

The Lambda Class Imperial Shuttle, introduced in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, doesn’t do a lot in terms of battle prowess. It’s primarily a personnel shuttle, designed to transport people rather than engage in space combat. Despite its limited functionality, the shuttle’s design is incredibly distinctive. Its three-wing configuration, with the two lower wings folding up upon landing, is both practical and visually appealing.

Why did they build it like this? Nobody knows. Is it super cool? Absolutely. The design became so iconic for shuttles that the folding wing look would continue to be used, with The First Order having similar designs for Kylo Ren’s shuttle.

Razor Crest

When it debuted in the first of the Star Wars Disney+ shows, The Mandalorian’s Razor Crest wasn’t a particularly sexy ship, but that’s part of why it was so great. It was likely preferred by Mando because it was so functional. He wasn’t looking for the fastest or the coolest ship in space. He had a job to do and needed a ship that would get the job done. The Razor Crest was that.

If he needed to chase down a bounty, the Razor Crest could do it, but the ship was also his home. It had everything he needed to live since he was always moving. And it had plenty of storage space for his carbonite-frozen visitors.

Naboo Royal Starship

Everything from the Prequel era is a bit sexier and a bit shinier than the Original Trilogy. If you watch the Star Wars movies in order, it’s even clearer that the suffering under the Empire affects everything, even the spacecraft. The Naboo Royal Starship is a perfect symbol of everything that existed before the Empire that was lost.

If you’re a queen, you get to travel in style. Queen Amidala’s Royal Starship is so sleek it looks like it’s traveling through hyperspace when it’s standing still. The thing is so shiny it might blind you if the sun reflects off it in the wrong way, but nobody is ever going to claim it’s not a memorable ship.

First Order TIE Echelon

Not every awesome Star Wars spaceship is actually in a movie. In fact, one of the coolest ships can only be found in a Star Wars theme park. The First Order’s TIE Echelon is a ship that was designed for Colin Trevorrow’s abandoned version of Star Wars: Episode IX. However, as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland and Walt Disney World were in development around the same time, the ship design was used there, where it still remains today.

The ship was designed to be an armed troop transport, and it’s easy to see the inspiration of other Star Wars ships, including some other ships on this list, in the new creation. While we never saw this ship in the films, it’s an incredible set piece at Galaxy’s Edge.

Classic Ships from the Original Trilogy

Imperial Star Destroyer

From the opening shot of Star Wars: A New Hope, we knew everything that we would ever need to know about the Galactic Empire. The Star Destroyer fills the screen showing us the power that the Empire has and how small the Rebel Alliance is by comparison. The Star Destroyer is basically a flying city full of evil.

Future Star Wars movies would make bigger ships, but they’d never quite match the menace of the original. At a certain point, the scale gets lost. The Rebels never had anything to match even the standard Star Destroyer, so anything bigger was just showing off.

X-Wing

When you think of space battles, you probably think of the X-Wing fighter. It’s a simple design that looks formidable in a fight, while at the same time showing that the Rebel Alliance is a rag-tag group of fighters because all X-Wings look like they might fly apart at any moment. Whether flown by Luke Skywalker or Poe Dameron, the X-Wing is no less iconic.

Dogfights with the X-Wing are as exciting as anything we’ve seen in a Top Gun movie. It’s why so many were excited by the idea of Patty Jenkins’ Rogue Squadron movie. An entire film about X-Wings and all the action that suggests is too much fun to ignore.

Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter

The standard TIE Fighter flown by the Galactic Empire is fine. It’s functional and it looks as scary and menacing as it needs to look, but Darth Vader’s personal TIE Fighter was something else. The first Star Wars movie needed to do something to make sure the audience knew which ship Darth Vader was in, and the minor and simple modifications to the general TIE design were perfect, making the ship look as menacing as the man flying it.

Vader’s ship isn’t just shaped differently, it’s also smaller. It makes his ship harder to see and hit, while also making it more maneuverable. We would learn later just how good a pilot Anakin Skywalker was, but this ship hinted early at his skill.

Slave I

We finally got to spend some real time inside Slave I, Boba Fett’s iconic and unusual spaceship, as part of The Mandalorian but it’s been an iconic Star Wars set piece since its brief appearance in one of the best Star Wars movies, The Empire Strikes Back. The ship has a design unlike any other in Star Wars, one that embraces the fact that in space concepts like “up” and “front” are all relative.

These differences may have been part of the reason that Boba Fett, despite his brief time in the original trilogy, became one of the Star Wars characters fans embraced. From his ship design to his full body armor, we had so many questions that eventually the franchise would need to give us answers.

Millennium Falcon

What is there to say about the most important ship in all of Star Wars that hasn’t already been said? The Millennium Falcon has been through a lot. Originally owned by Lando Calrissian before being won by Han Solo, lost and then returned to the smuggler, the Millennium Falcon has been through it all. The Falcon was unlike anything we’d seen in sci-fi movies before, but that’s what made it so memorable.

While these may be the best, there are so many great ships in Star Wars it’s honestly difficult to narrow it down to a small list. And with so many great upcoming Star Wars movies and TV shows, there will surely be more amazing ships in the future.

Lesser-Known but Intriguing Ships

U-Wing

The U-Wing may not be as famous as some of the other ships on this list, but it played a crucial role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Used primarily as a troop transport and gunship by the Rebel Alliance, the U-Wing’s versatility made it indispensable. Its sleek design and unique U-shaped wings, which could pivot to provide greater maneuverability, set it apart from other Rebel ships.

In battle, the U-Wing was used to insert troops into hot zones and provide air support. This dual functionality made it a vital asset during the pivotal Battle of Scarif, where it helped the Rebel forces steal the Death Star plans. The U-Wing’s blend of utility and firepower makes it a standout in the Star Wars fleet.

B-Wing

The B-Wing is another Rebel Alliance starfighter that deserves recognition. Introduced in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, the B-Wing was designed as a heavy assault starfighter. Its distinctive gyroscopic cockpit and s-foil wings, which could rotate to maximize its firepower and stability, make it one of the most unique ships in the Star Wars universe.

The B-Wing was armed with an impressive array of weaponry, including laser cannons, ion cannons, and proton torpedoes, making it ideal for taking on large Imperial ships. Its heavy armament and innovative design allowed it to punch well above its weight class, providing essential support to the Rebel fleet during space battles.

Ghost

The Ghost, featured prominently in Star Wars Rebels, is a VCX-100 light freighter that became the home and headquarters for the crew of the Ghost. Piloted by Hera Syndulla, the ship was instrumental in the early days of the Rebellion against the Empire. Its design allowed it to blend in with civilian freighters while packing a significant punch with its laser cannons and proton torpedo launchers.

The Ghost’s versatility extended beyond combat; it served as a mobile command center, reconnaissance vessel, and even a home for its crew. The ship’s design included a detachable shuttle, the Phantom, which provided additional tactical flexibility. The Ghost’s combination of firepower, agility, and functionality made it a critical asset for the fledgling Rebellion.

TIE Defender

The TIE Defender was an advanced starfighter used by the Galactic Empire, designed to outperform Rebel starfighters in every way. Introduced in the Star Wars Expanded Universe and later canonized in Star Wars Rebels, the TIE Defender featured shield generators, hyperdrive capability, and heavy armament, including laser cannons and ion cannons.

Unlike the standard TIE Fighter, which lacked shields and hyperdrive, the TIE Defender was a formidable opponent, capable of holding its own in dogfights and larger engagements. Its introduction posed a significant threat to the Rebel Alliance, forcing them to adapt their strategies to counter this new menace. The TIE Defender’s superior technology and combat prowess made it one of the most dangerous ships in the Imperial fleet.

Star Wars Ships and Their Cultural Impact

Influence on Sci-Fi and Pop Culture

Star Wars ships have not only become iconic within the franchise but have also had a significant impact on sci-fi and pop culture. The Millennium Falcon, for instance, is arguably one of the most recognizable starships in cinematic history. Its unique design, combining a saucer-like body with protruding prongs and a cockpit mounted on the side, broke the mold of traditional spacecraft designs and inspired countless other creations in sci-fi media.

Similarly, the X-Wing’s distinct s-foil wings and streamlined design have become a staple of space combat aesthetics. Its role in the climactic battles of the original trilogy cemented its status as a symbol of the Rebel Alliance’s fight against tyranny. The X-Wing’s design has been referenced and parodied in various forms of media, from animated series to video games, demonstrating its enduring legacy.

The Evolution of Ship Design in Star Wars

The evolution of ship design in Star Wars reflects the changing aesthetics and technological advancements within the galaxy. The sleek and polished look of the Naboo Royal Starship from the prequel trilogy contrasts sharply with the rugged and utilitarian designs of ships like the Millennium Falcon and X-Wing from the original trilogy. This visual distinction helps to convey the shift from the opulent and peaceful days of the Galactic Republic to the darker, more desperate times of the Rebel Alliance’s struggle against the Empire.

In the sequel trilogy, ships like the TIE Echelon and Kylo Ren’s shuttle continue to build on the legacy of their predecessors, blending familiar elements with new innovations. These designs help to bridge the gap between the old and new, creating a cohesive visual narrative that spans the entire saga.

Fan Engagement and Star Wars Ships

The fascination with Star Wars ships extends beyond the screen, with fans engaging in various ways to celebrate these iconic vessels. Model building and collecting have become popular hobbies, with companies like LEGO and Hasbro producing detailed replicas of fan-favorite ships. These models allow fans to bring a piece of the Star Wars galaxy into their homes, fostering a deeper connection to the franchise.

Additionally, fan-created content, such as detailed ship blueprints, custom-built models, and fan fiction, showcases the creativity and passion of the Star Wars community. Online forums and social media platforms provide spaces for fans to share their creations and discuss their favorite ships, further cementing the cultural impact of these iconic vessels.

The Future of Star Wars Ships

New Ships in Upcoming Movies and Series

With the Star Wars universe continuing to expand through new movies, TV series, and other media, fans can look forward to seeing more innovative and exciting ship designs. The success of The Mandalorian and other Disney+ series has demonstrated that there is still a vast, untapped potential within the Star Wars galaxy. Upcoming projects, such as The Acolyte and Ahsoka, are likely to introduce new ships that will capture the imagination of fans.

These new additions will not only enrich the visual tapestry of Star Wars but also offer fresh storytelling opportunities. The unique capabilities and designs of these ships can play a crucial role in the narrative, shaping the adventures and conflicts of the characters who pilot them.

The Role of Star Wars Ships in Storytelling

Star Wars ships are more than just modes of transportation; they are integral to the storytelling process. Ships like the Millennium Falcon and the Razor Crest serve as extensions of their pilots’ personalities, reflecting their skills, values, and histories. The Falcon’s storied past, from its smuggling days to its role in the Rebel Alliance, mirrors Han Solo’s own journey from rogue to hero.

Similarly, the Razor Crest’s rugged functionality and versatility embody Din Djarin’s pragmatic approach to bounty hunting. The destruction of the Razor Crest in The Mandalorian season 2 was a significant moment, underscoring the emotional bond between the character and his ship. Such moments highlight the deep connection between Star Wars characters and their vessels, adding layers of meaning and depth to the narrative.

Technological Advances in Star Wars Ships

As technology continues to evolve, so too do the ships in the Star Wars universe. Advances in CGI and practical effects have allowed for more detailed and realistic ship designs, enhancing the visual impact of space battles and other scenes. The Mandalorian, for example, utilized cutting-edge technology to create lifelike ship interiors and exteriors, immersing viewers in the Star Wars galaxy like never before.

Future Star Wars projects are likely to push the boundaries of what’s possible, introducing even more intricate and innovative ship designs. These technological advancements will not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of the ships but also enable more dynamic and engaging storytelling.

Conclusion

Star Wars ships are an integral part of what makes the franchise so beloved. From the iconic Millennium Falcon to the lesser-known but equally fascinating U-Wing and TIE Defender, each ship contributes to the rich tapestry of the Star Wars galaxy. These vessels are not just modes of transportation; they are symbols of the characters who pilot them, the factions they represent, and the larger conflict that defines the saga.

As Star Wars continues to grow and evolve, fans can look forward to the introduction of new ships that will capture their imaginations and further expand the universe. Whether you’re a fan of the sleek and shiny designs of the prequel era, the rugged and battle-worn ships of the original trilogy, or the innovative new designs from the latest installments, there’s something for everyone in the vast array of Star Wars ships.

So buckle up, engage the hyperdrive, and get ready to explore the galaxy far, far away. The adventure is just beginning.