module upgrade Tech Comparison
Module Retrofitting vs Tier V Calibration
Comparing the Module Retrofitting (Tier 3) and Tier V Calibration (Tier 4), both module upgrade 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 | Module Retrofitting | Tier V Calibration |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T3 | T4 |
| Research time | 22▼ | 70 |
| metal cost | 40,000▼ | 110,000 |
| crystal cost | 22,000▼ | 55,000 |
| antimatter cost | — | 600▼ |
| dark matter cost | — | 500▼ |
| Effect | +4 unlocks module tier | +5 unlocks module tier; +5% module stats |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Module Retrofitting
Standardised upgrade bays let you retrofit installed modules in the field, unlocking access to tier IV module variants across all categories.
Unlocks buildings: upgrade bay
Requires: shipbuilding 2, crafting 2
Tier V Calibration
Quantum calibration rigs tune modules to their theoretical limit, unlocking access to tier V module variants and adding +5% to all module stats.
Unlocks buildings: calibration rig
Requires: module upgrade 1, science 5
Which Should You Research First?
The Module Retrofitting is the lower-tier prerequisite step and typically comes first in the module upgrade branch, opening the path toward Tier V Calibration.