Best armors in Stalker 2, ranked

The best armors in Stalker 2 make all the difference when it comes to survival. They protect you from everything the game throws at you — mutants, radiation, and hazardous anomalies. Whether you’re looking for high physical protection, radiation resistance, or PSI defense, these suits offer a unique advantage.

This article ranks the seven best armors in Stalker 2.

Note: This list is subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.

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Ranking 7 best armors in Stalker 2

7) Ruby Exosuit

With over 3 physical resistance, RE ranks seventh in this list of best armors in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 5
Weight: 20kg
Protection: High Physical, Radiation, and decent Chemical Resistance
Where to find: The Ruby Exosuit can be found in the Enerhetyk Palace of Culture in Prypiat. After entering the building, throw a grenade through the gap on the right. Then, climb the stairs to reach the sports court. The armor is located in a room on the second floor.

Why it deserves this spot: The Ruby Exosuit may not be the most balanced option in the game, but its excellent radiation resistance makes it ideal for highly radioactive zones. It is designed with cost-effective Corundum components and first-generation servos, which means it has strong physical defense despite weighing a hefty 20 kg.

Stats:

Thermal Resistance: 1.3
Electrical Resistance: 1.8
Chemical Resistance: 1.3
Radiation Resistance: 4
PSI Resistance: 1.1
Physical Resistance: 3.7

6) Brummbar Exoskeleton

The BE armor is a favorite among mercenaries in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 4
Weight: 9.5kg
Protection: High physical protection
Where to find: The Brummbar Exoskeleton is on the top floor of the apartment building known as the White House in the Zone. Be wary of enemy patrols. In the room, near the bed, lies the armor.

Why it deserves this spot: The Brummbar Exoskeleton offers good physical resilience and Psi resistance for a variety of survival missions. Although it falls short in radiation resistance compared to top-tier suits like the X7, its durability and reliability make it one of the best armors in Stalker 2.

Designed as a limited-production model for mercenaries, this armor combines practicality with robust defense.

Stats:

Thermal Resistance: 1.55
Electrical Resistance: 1.55
Chemical Resistance: 1.7
Radiation Resistance: 3
PSI Resistance: 1.1
Physical Resistance: 4

5) Operator Exoskeleton

Weighing over nine kg, the OE is among the best armors in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 4
Weight: 9.5kg
Protection: High Physical and Radiation, No PSI Resistance
Where to find: The Operator Exoskeleton can be located in the Fluoridation Station. To access it, climb the large pipes and jump to the second floor. The armor is located on a shelf inside the building.

Why it deserves this spot: With excellent physical durability and strong radiation defense, the Operator Exoskeleton is a solid choice for most survival scenarios. However, its lack of Psi protection limits its use in Psi-heavy zones like Rostok.

Stats:

Thermal Resistance: 1.7
Electrical Resistance: 1.7
Chemical Resistance: 1.7
Radiation Resistance: 3.4
PSI Resistance: 0
Physical Resistance: 4

4) Diamond Exoskeleton

DE is one of Monolith's best armors in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 5
Weight: 9.5kg
Protection: High Physical and Radiation
Where to find: The Diamond Exoskeleton is found at Yantiv Station. Complete the Boundary Main Mission and take the ladder to get to the second floor, where the suit is located.

Why it deserves this spot: This exoskeleton is most commonly used by Monolith forces and provides superior protection both physically and against radiation, making it one of the best armors in Stalker 2.

It's an upgrade from the Operator Exoskeleton, giving it more overall survivability. While it's somewhat heavy, its balanced protection across multiple damage types, like thermal, electrical, etc., makes it a reliable pick for both mid-game and end-game players.

Stats:

Thermal Resistance: 2
Electrical Resistance: 2
Chemical Resistance: 2
Radiation Resistance: 4
PSI Resistance: 2.1
Physical Resistance: 4.3

Also read: Stalker 2 walkthrough: How to complete The Boundary mission

3) Liberty Exoskeleton

Liberty Exoskeleton is one of the Freedom faction's best armors in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 5
Weight: 10.5kg
Protection: High Physical, Radiation, and PSI Resistance
Where to find: To obtain the Liberty Exoskeleton, head to the bookstore in Prypiat. Climb the stairs to the second floor, and you’ll find it near a wooden notice board.

Why it deserves this spot: Boasting superior physical and radiation protection, the Liberty Exoskeleton is a high-tier choice for withstanding heavy damage in combat. While its weight limits mobility, its all-around defense makes it perfect for surviving the Zone's deadliest threats. It was designed for Freedom and offers unmatched resilience to harsh environments.

Stats:

Thermal Resistance: 1.8
Electrical Resistance: 1.8
Chemical Resistance: 1.6
Radiation Resistance: 4
PSI Resistance: 2.1
Physical Resistance: 4.3

2) X7 Suit

Col. Korshunov wearing the X7 suit in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 5
Weight: 4.0kg
Protection: High Physical, Radiation, and decent PSI Resistance
Where to find: The X7 Suit unlocks through the completion of the "Down Below" mission, after dealing with Colonel Korshunov.

Why it deserves this spot: The X7 Suit strikes a perfect balance between strength and mobility, offering excellent physical and radiation protection while being lighter than most exoskeletons. Another important feature of the X7 Suit is its versatility: it allows the user to equip additional gear, giving you more freedom in combat and survival situations.

The suit was developed for the harsh conditions of the X7 Lab and was worn by Col. Korshunov, offering solid PSI defense. It is thus ideal for protection from both environmental hazards and mutant threats without the sluggishness of heavier armor.

Stats:

Thermal Resistance: 1.8
Electrical Resistance: 1.8
Chemical Resistance: 1.6
Radiation Resistance: 4
PSI Resistance: 2.1
Physical Resistance: 4.3

Also check out: Stalker 2 walkthrough: How to complete Down Below mission

1) Cuirass Exoskeleton

The Cuirass Exoskeleton tops this list of best armors in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Artifact slots: 3
Weight: 10.5kg
Protection: Very High Physical, Radiation, and PSI Resistance
Where to find: You can find the Cuirass Exoskeleton at the SKD Assembly Unit in the Cooling Towers, located beside an ordinary stash.

Why it deserves this spot: The Cuirass Exoskeleton has the highest defensive capability, earning the top spot among the best armors in Stalker 2. Tough, homemade, and built to be picked up by the Duty faction, it provides maximum physical protection combined with strong resistance to both radiation and Psi threats.

However, one significant trade-off is its weight—it’s heavy enough that it completely restricts sprinting, making you move at a slower pace. If you prioritize protection over speed, this armor is worth the sacrifice.

Stats: