The Instant Ramen Tier List, Settled (Mostly)
One tier list to start every argument: the best instant ramen, sorted S to B.
Quick answer: A simple instant-ramen tier list: S-tier — Shin Ramyun, Buldak, Indomie Mi Goreng; A-tier — Neoguri, Jin Ramen, Chapagetti, Samyang Ramen, Nissin Raoh; B-tier — standard Cup Noodles, Maruchan. S-tier are the near-universal favorites; the rest depends on whether you want spice, broth or value.
Every noodle has its champions. Here’s the instant-ramen tier list — sorted, and ready for your objections.
The tiers
S-tier (near-universal favorites)
- Shin Ramyun (Nongshim) — the iconic spicy beef soup.
- Buldak (Samyang) — the viral fiery stir-fry.
- Indomie Mi Goreng (Indonesia) — the best-value fried noodle.
A-tier (excellent, depends on taste)
- Neoguri (spicy seafood), Jin Ramen (balanced value), Chapagetti (no-spice black bean), Samyang Ramen (the original), Nissin Raoh (premium Japanese).
B-tier (reliable basics)
- Standard Cup Noodles, Maruchan/Top Ramen — convenient and cheap, great as upgrade bases.
| Tier | Picks |
|---|---|
| S | Shin Ramyun, Buldak, Indomie Mi Goreng |
| A | Neoguri, Jin Ramen, Chapagetti, Samyang Ramen, Nissin Raoh |
| B | Cup Noodles, Maruchan |
Bottom line
You can’t go wrong with the S-tier. Pick A-tier by craving — spice, seafood, value or premium broth. B-tier is for convenience and DIY upgrades.
FAQ
What is the best instant ramen overall?
By broad popularity, Shin Ramyun, Buldak and Indomie Mi Goreng sit at the top (S-tier). The best for you depends on whether you prefer spicy soup, fiery stir-fry or value fried noodles.
What instant noodles are considered top tier?
Top-tier picks commonly include Shin Ramyun, Buldak and Indomie Mi Goreng, followed by Neoguri, Jin Ramen, Chapagetti, Samyang Ramen and Nissin Raoh.
Sources
Image: “Korean instant noodles on a shelf” by Jang ikjun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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