energy Tech Comparison
Dark Matter Tap vs Zero-Point Modules
Comparing the Dark Matter Tap (Tier 3) and Zero-Point Modules (Tier 3), both energy 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 | Dark Matter Tap | Zero-Point Modules |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T3 | T3 |
| Research time | 24 | 18▼ |
| metal cost | 50,000 | 35,000▼ |
| crystal cost | 25,000 | 18,000▼ |
| dark matter cost | 1,000 | 500▼ |
| Effect | removes energy cap: true | +5000 flat energy per planet |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Dark Matter Tap
Harnesses dark matter for unlimited energy. Removes energy caps.
Unlocks buildings: dark matter reactor
Requires: energy 2
Zero-Point Modules
Extract vacuum energy at the quantum scale. Adds flat +5000 energy per planet.
Unlocks buildings: zpm array
Requires: energy 2
Which Should You Research First?
Both sit at the same tier. The Zero-Point Modules is the cheaper project, so it's the safer early pick if your economy is tight; otherwise prioritise whichever effect supports your current strategy.