/opt/helldivers2/warbonds.tierlist

Criteria: strength of standout gameplay unlocks first, then breadth of useful kit, then theme. Cosmetics help only if the kit is at least decent.

1. democratic detonation The gold standard. Eruptor is a primary with high pen and shrapnel good for any front, Crossbow, Thermite is amazing at killing nearly all tanks, Grenade Pistol for clearing bug holes or illuminate ships. If you want one premium track that changes your toolbox across bugs, bots, and squids, it is this one. Yes, the internet keeps repeating that for a reason. 
2. helldivers mobilize The free “starter” bond that stubbornly refuses to be starter tier. Cheap S tier fundamentals like boosters and stat perks that you use forever. the sniper is good fun. If you ignore this because it is free, that is a you problem. 
3. servants of freedom Rounds out gaps for squads that already own the heavy hitters. A good “second or third” purchase.
4. dust devils Newer premium with a desert frontier theme. Worth it if you love the aesthetic and want more sidegrades. Not a must-buy if you already own Detonation and Force. Coyote is amazing, the best ar in the game.
5. chemical agents Niche tools, map dependent, but the gas grenades are some of the best in the game. the guard dog is good too. when coordinated, it deletes.
6. urban legends Directional shield, stun lance, flame sentry, and siege-ready armor. Great for objective play and bunker busting. Also doubles as a cosplay kit for your “mall security” roleplay. 
7. polar patriots Pummeler SMG staggers like a champ, incendiary impact nades are spicy, and the blue scout set is a community favorite. Very practical in hectic lobbies where positioning is “a suggestion.” 
8. control group Experimental theme, selective wins. includes warp pack and quirky guns. Your scientist friend will swear by it.
9. cutting edge Laser toys for precise players. When your aim is good and your trigger discipline is better, the value shows. If your idea of recoil control is prayer, move on. 
10. truth enforcers Solid midgame picks that age well as you climb difficulties. Not as peaky as the top five, but rarely a waste. Think dependable deputy, not hero marshal. 
11. viper commandos Theme slaps, kit is mixed. Fun cosmetics, a couple utility unlocks, and some pattern swaps. Buy for swagger, not for a meta shift. 
12. borderline justice Western vibe, lever-action R-6 Deadeye, laser revolver, dynamite, jetpack update. Great style, situational power. If you hit heads, it sings. If you do not, it wheezes. 
13. obedient democracy support troopers (ODST)
    First Legendary Warbond. Stealth mechanics, Feet First passive, and a suppressed sidearm novelty in a game about orbital carpet cleaning. Amazing theme, good kit if your squad actually sneaks. Price bump compared to premiums. 
14. force of law Crowd control heaven. Pacifier rifle for consistency, De-escalator arc launcher for bullying armor, Guard Dog K9 variant for hands-free zapping (team kill machine), plus Stun Pods. When your squad needs order, bring this bureaucracy.
15. steeled veterans Early content with aging picks. Still fine, just overshadowed by later releases. Buy if you are filling the museum. 
16. freedom’s flame Fire is fun until armor laughs. Great for clearing trash, not great for bossing. Consider it a side dish, not the entree. 
17. masters of ceremony Event energy, collectible value, minimal gameplay impact. If your endgame is fashion screenshots, congratulations, you found it.

credit: jose, george, mike