A Guide to Power Armor in Fallout 4
Fallout 4 has seen a resurgence in popularity since the critically acclaimed release of Bethesda Games Studio and Amazon Video’s wildly popular new series, Fallout, based on the franchise. The Fallout stories take place in a post-apocalyptic, alternate historical timeline where the military technology of the 1950s is very advanced. One piece of that military technology is the Power Armor suit. Fallout 4 Power Armor is one of the single most transformative pieces of gear you’ll unlock as you explore the Commonwealth. From basic T-45 suits spotted during your first quests to top-tier X-01 armor hiding in high-level zones, Power Armor elevates how you survive and fight.
What is Power Armor?
Power Armor is a mechanized exoskeleton that offers massive boosts to defense, strength, and radiation protection — way beyond what regular armor can do. In Fallout 4, it behaves more like a vehicle than wearable clothes: you step in, power it up with a Fusion Core, and suddenly even deathclaws hesitate before engaging you (not really, but you do feel pretty badass wearing it).
Unlike past Fallout games, there’s no training required to use Power Armor in Fallout 4. Just install a Fusion Core and hop in.
Enclave Hellfire Mk. VI X-02 Black Power Armor
Different Types of Power Armor in Fallout 4
Power armor includes helmet, torso, right arm, left arm, right leg, and left leg and must be repaired when damaged. Most power armor suits are upgradable and parts can be modified at a power armor crafting station.
Different corporate and military factions created different types of power armor that offer different benefits to the wearer.
T-45 Power Armor: The earliest variant encountered by players, the T-45 provides a solid balance of protection and mobility. Found scattered across the Commonwealth, especially in military installations and abandoned warehouses, the T-45 serves as a reliable entry-level suit for the Sole Survivor.
T-51 Power Armor: A significant upgrade to the T-45, its predecessor, the T-51 boasts superior defensive capabilities and is favored by Brotherhood of Steel. Seek out Brotherhood outposts or explore the remnants of military bases to secure these advanced suits.
T-60 Power Armor: A later model developed by the Brotherhood of Steel, T-60 Power Armor is a symbol of their technological prowess. With exceptional durability and customizable features, T-60 suits are highly sought after by wasteland adventurers. Look for them in Brotherhood-controlled territories or during pivotal story quests.
X-01 Power Armor: Developed by the U.S., the X-01 Power Armor represents the ultimate in pre-war military engineering. Rare and coveted, these suits can be found in the most hazardous locations, such as heavily fortified facilities or within the depths of hidden bunkers.
X-02 Power Armor: The most powerful power armor in Fallout 4, the X-02 was developed by the Enclave for special operations. It’s called the Black Devil for its design and is only acquired as a quest reward for completing the “Speak of the Devil” quest line.
Raider Power Armor: Scavenged from old power armor, Raider Power Armor is the least powerful among the list of power armor. It’s still good to have as it provides decent damage and energy resistance and can be upgraded to Raider II Power Armor.
Where to Find Power Armor in Fallout 4
Power Armor is scattered all across the Commonwealth, with some locations spawning specific sets:
Museum of Freedom (Concord):This is the first guaranteed Power Armor you’ll encounter during the quest When Freedom Calls. You’ll find a T-45 suit on the rooftop.
South Boston Military Checkpoint & 35 Court: Both locations may spawn higher-tier armor (up to X-01, depending on your level).
Atom Cats Garage: A reliable place to buy or find T-60 armor and parts.
National Guard Training Yard & Fort Strong: These military locations often have full or partial Power Armor sets inside crates or armories.
Random Crashed Vertibird Sites: Scattered across the map you can stumble into Power Armor pieces at wreckage spots.
Armor spawn types scale with your level; early on you’ll mainly see T-45, then T-51, T-60, and, at level 28+, X-01.
Best Early Power Armor Locations (Featured Snippet Focus)
If you want Power Armor fast, these are the earliest guaranteed or easy-to-get spots:
Concord – Museum of Freedom
During the early quest When Freedom Calls, you’ll find a T-45 suit on the roof. This is basically the game’s primer for Power Armor.Crashed Vertibird West of Sanctuary
Just outside the starting area, a crashed vertibird often has a random T-45 suit lying near it — an early bonus if you explore before Concord.USAF Satellite Station Olivia Area
A bit southeast of the Concord route, mutants guard a T-45 there — a solid early alternative.Locked Train Car Near Drumlin Diner
Hack an Advanced terminal to unlock a cage with a randomized set (usually T-45 or T-51).
How to Enter and Exit Power Armor
One of the biggest questions new Sole Survivors in Fallout 4 ask is “How do I take power armor off?” Taking putting on and taking off power armor is very easy. But for first-time players, it can be slightly confusing. Here’s how to get into and out of power armor.
When you first encounter the power armor you want, approach the power armor frame and interact with it to initiate the entry sequence. On PC, you Enter power armor by pressing E. On Xbox, Press A to enter power armor. On PlayStation, press X to enter power armor. Once inside, you'll be encased in the armor, ready to face the dangers of the wasteland.
To get out of Power Armor, hold down the designated button or button. Again, to exit power armor on PC, hold E. To exit power armor on Xbox hold A. On PlayStation, hold X to exit power armor. Your character will take off the power, leaving it ready for future use.
Fallout 4 Power Armor is both a formidable tool at your disposal and a symbol of technological marvel in the Commonwealth. Understanding the different types, where to find them, and how to operate them is necessary for survival at the critical moment or just seeking to thrive in this post-apocalyptic world in general.
As Fallout 4 regains its popularity thanks to the hit series, it’s the perfect time to revisit or experience the game for the first time. The Power Armor suit and the immersive, post-apocalyptic world of Fallout 4 continue to captivate players, offering endless exploration and adventure. If you're eager to step into this universe and witness its rich storytelling firsthand, now is a great time to buy Fallout 4 on PlayStation 5. Rediscover the excitement of navigating a world shaped by advanced 1950s military technology and unforgettable narratives.
FAQ
Do I need Power Armor for the main story?
No. However, it makes many combat encounters far easier and lets you explore radioactive or heavily-fortified zones with confidence.
Can companions use Power Armor?
Yes! Tell your companion to enter a Power Armor frame just like you. They don’t drain your Fusion Cores.
Can enemies steal my Power Armor?
Yes! Always remove the Fusion Core before leaving a frame to avoid NPC theft.
What type of Power Armor is best?
X-01 is typically the strongest standard armor, but fully upgraded T-60 and T-51 suits can compete depending on mod choices.
