There are many different sizes of ships, typically called a ship class. While a ship’s class does not limit it to certain roles, the class and size of a ship strongly influence what said ship can be used for.
A newer player will most likely start with Fighters, working their way up to whatever ship class feels most comfortable.
Tip
Bigger does not always mean better for every situation.
Fighters are small, single-pilot ships that require no crew. While some fighter class ships may be able to carry more than one person, this is the solo pilot’s bread and butter.
Frigates are the smallest vessel that is typically manned by a crew, instead of a single pilot. Frigates are small and simple enough to be easy and efficient to operate without help or escort.
Cruisers are the next step up from frigates, trading speed and maneuverability for more defensive and/or offensive capabilities. Cruisers typically benefit from having others aboard.
Cruisers may have a difficult time fending off Fighters without Fighter or Frigate support of their own.
Battlecruisers are the size of a Cruiser, but typically carry Battleship weaponry. This allows for a cheap way to attack larger targets without having to rely exclusively on the more expensive and cumbersom Battleships.
Battlecruisers tend to be about as durable as a Cruiser. Due to their larger weapons (meant for larger targets), Battlecruisers may struggle to fend off Fighters and Frigates effectively.
Battleships are large, lumbering mammoths, often bristling with lots of nasty weaponry. These ships’ sole purpose is to deal out as much pain as possible, meanwhile absorbing as much retaliation as possible.
Battleships are almost never seen alone, and require the support of smaller ships. Battleships are particularly ill-equipped to defend themselves from large groups of Fighters and Frigates.
Capital Ships are the largest ships to grace the space lanes. These range in purpose from mass cargo freighters, to factory ships, to Carriers and Dreadnaughts.
Capital Ships are typically very specialized, extremely expensive, and reliant upon fleet support. Capitals may often field and maintain a complement of Fighters.