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Premium tanks in War Thunder are as varied as they are numerous. Each one has unique capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses. Just like regular tech tree tanks, you cannot say the best premium tanks in the game are the ones that have the highest Battle Rating. What makes a tank good depends on various factors, such as its effectiveness at its own BR, how it complements your lineup, and more.
This article ranks the five best premium tanks in this military vehicle combat MMO.
Note: This article is subjective and solely reflects the opinions of the writer. We are not taking into account premium vehicles that were event rewards.
What are the five best premium tanks in War Thunder?
5) Ho-Ri Prototype
The Ho-Ri Prototype is a Japanese premium tank destroyer that sits at Rank IV, BR 6.7 in War Thunder. It costs 6090 Golden Eagles.
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The Ho-Ri Prototype is highly survivable due to its strong frontal armor. It is also decently mobile, and its 105 mm cannon has enough firepower to knock out most other vehicles it comes across.
However, the lack of a rotating turret can be an issue. If you are immobilized, you will not be able to hit a tank if it is outside your very narrow 10-degree horizontal gun traverse window.
Also read: 5 best Japanese tanks in War Thunder
4) Somua SM
The Somua SM is is one of the best premium tanks in the French ground tree. It is a Rank V, BR 7.7 vehicle and costs $44.99.
As with most other French tanks at this BR, the Somua SM is very mobile and has decent armor. However, its 100 mm gun with a four-second autoloader is what makes it a dangerous vehicle to go up against.
3) XM1 (GM)
The XM1 (GM) is one of the oldest and most loved premium tanks in War Thunder. It is a Rank VI, BR 9.3 MBT that you can buy for $59.99.
The XM1 (GM) has been a staple for players who want to grind the American ground tree. It has good firepower and mobility, as well as thermal optics for the gunner. Its position in the tech tree makes it very balanced, and it is an efficient grinder in the current meta.
2) 2S38
The 2S38 is a Russian Rank VII, BR 10.3 light tank that costs 9270 Golden Eagles in War Thunder. It is one of the most enjoyable or annoying premium tanks in the game, depending on whether you are playing it or facing it. Its armor is virtually nonexistent, but it is highly mobile.
The 2S38's 57 mm autocannon can fire a variety of shells, including APFSDS and proximity fuse HE. The optical target tracker is especially lethal on this vehicle. The lead indicator, combined with the proximity shells, makes this tank deadly against aircraft and helicopters. This vehicle is also equipped with high-quality thermal sights.
Read more: How to get Golden Eagles in War Thunder
1) T-80U-E1
The T-80 series of MBTs in the Russian ground tree are some of the best in War Thunder, and the T-80U-E1 is no exception.
The T-80U-E1, which costs $69.99, is arguably the best of the top-tier premium tanks and is identical to the regular T-80U. The only difference is that the premium status means it can effectively research the whole Russian ground tree.
As other T-80 series MBTs, this vehicle is extremely mobile with great firepower. It is equipped with an autoloader and has access to thermal sights for the gunner.
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