2025 • Comparison
Crystal Extractor vs Wind Catcher: Choose the Right Build
Side-by-side comparison of Crystal Extractor and Wind Catcher—ROI, placement, shard/hour vs wind control, and best picks by scenario.
Quick Comparison
Crystal Extractor
Best for shards/hr and GP. Needs two-tile placement and 5-tick empties. ROI depends on shard price (8–15 shards/hr typical).
Wind Catcher
Best for wind control and speed. Lower direct GP but smoother contract routes and Barracuda steering.
When to Choose Each
- Pick Crystal Extractor when you want GP and shard income without new wind tools.
- Pick Wind Catcher when navigation stability matters more than shards/hr.
- Hybrid runs: Use Wind Catcher on windy contracts, switch to Crystal Extractor for shard farming legs.
Placements & Operations
- Crystal Extractor: Within two tiles of helm; empty every 5 ticks; cargo ≤70%.
- Wind Catcher: Place to avoid blocking helm; prioritize wind alignment and turning room.
- Testing: Run 5-minute trials to confirm shard/hr or speed gain before committing.
Features
ROI Math
Calculator link for Crystal Extractor payback; Wind Catcher focuses on time saved.
Placement Rules
Two-tile placement for Crystal Extractor; clear lane rules for Wind Catcher.
Barracuda Ready
Keep helm manned; assign roles to avoid clashes between builds.
Privacy
Free, online, no registration; works in any language.
Testimonials
“Swapping to Wind Catcher on windy contracts saved minutes. For shard farming, Crystal Extractor still wins.”
“Two builds, one crew. We keep ROI math for Extractor and speed tests for Wind Catcher.”
Pricing
Free Comparison Guide
Free
- Crystal Extractor vs Wind Catcher pros/cons
- ROI math and placement rules
- Privacy-first, no registration
Crystal Extractor vs Wind Catcher FAQ
Which is faster?
Wind Catcher improves handling; Crystal Extractor can slow if overloaded. For speed, pick Wind Catcher.
Which makes more GP?
Crystal Extractor wins for shard income. Use the ROI calculator with current shard prices.
Can I use both?
Yes. Run Wind Catcher on windy routes, switch to Crystal Extractor for shard farming legs.
Is this guide free?
Yes. Free, online, and privacy-first.