Level 3 · Research priorities
Sandustry Research Tree: What to Unlock First
A practical Sandustry research order for Gold production, logistics, sorting, exploration, fluids, drones, and Crackstone progression.
Prioritize the unlock that fixes your current bottleneck. A safe general route is Shaker → Logistics → Map or Flare Gun → Filter, then Kinetic Press and Flamethrower before choosing a fluids, mobility, drone, or Rocket Launcher branch.
Recommended general route
| Priority | Unlock | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shaker | Creates the first repeatable Gold loop |
| 2 | Logistics | Conveyor Belt and Launcher reduce manual hauling |
| 3 | Map / Flare Gun | Improves navigation or visibility |
| 4 | Filter | Separates mixed pixel streams |
| 5 | Kinetic Press / Flamethrower | Extends the Residue and heat chain |
Choose the next branch by problem
- Water routing problem: work toward Fluids, Pipe, Pump, and Liquid Vent.
- Material handling problem: Filter, Conveyor Portal, Clearing Frame, or Vacuum.
- Exploration blocker: Gun, Rocket Launcher, mobility, and map upgrades.
- Scale problem: Digger, Sweeper, Hauler, and Recon Drones.
- Temperature chain: Thermal Buffer, Burner Belt, Cryoblaster, Steam Dryer, and Condenser.
Current costs are provisional
The official research table lists five tiers, but it is explicitly marked WIP. Early Access balance may change. Treat the values on this page as a verified launch-day snapshot rather than a permanent spreadsheet.
Early Access note: Last checked against the official Wiki on August 13, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What unlocks the Rocket Launcher?
The current official Wiki places Rocket Launcher in Tier 4 and lists a cost of 2,000 Gold.
Should I unlock Filter early?
Yes when mixed material streams are creating manual work. If you are still starved for Gold, first stabilize the Shaker line.
Sources checked
Facts were checked against these primary or official sources on August 13, 2026. Explanations and recommendations are independently written.