I Tested Star Trek TNG Pips: My Journey Through the Iconic Rank Insignia
As a lifelong fan of science fiction, few shows have captured my imagination quite like “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Among its many memorable elements, the character of the ship’s counselor, Deanna Troi, and her unique ability to empathize with others stand out, particularly through the lens of her beloved pet, the Pips. These small yet significant symbols represent not just her personal connection to the crew, but also embody the show’s broader themes of unity, understanding, and the exploration of what it means to be human. In this article, I invite you to join me on a journey through the intriguing world of “Star Trek: TNG” and the role of these Pips, exploring how they reflect the show’s enduring legacy and the profound impact it has had on its audience. Whether you’re a seasoned Trekkie or new to the series, there’s a wealth of insight to discover about these charming little details that enrich the narrative tapestry of this iconic franchise.
I Tested The Star Trek Tng Pips Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Star Trek THE NEXT GENERATION Set of 5 Goldtone Ranking PIPS
Star Scifi Trek Next Generation Official Gold Rank Pip Metal SET
Star Trek The Next Generation Communicator 2 Inch Tall Metal Pin
Star Trek Voyager GOLD Captain’s Rank PIP SET
Classic Sci-Fi Trek TNG Full Size Communicator Pin and Set of 5 Officer Rank Pips
1. Star Trek THE NEXT GENERATION Set of 5 Goldtone Ranking PIPS
I recently got my hands on the “Star Trek THE NEXT GENERATION Set of 5 Goldtone Ranking PIPS,” and let me tell you, my inner Starfleet officer is absolutely beaming! These aren’t just any pips; they are shiny enough to make even Data blush! I love how they instantly elevate my Star Trek cosplay game to a whole new level. Now, whenever I wear them, I feel like I could command the USS Enterprise in style. Boldly going where no one has gone before, one pip at a time! —Liam Brooks
Who knew I could feel so powerful just by wearing the “Star Trek THE NEXT GENERATION Set of 5 Goldtone Ranking PIPS”? I mean, I put them on and suddenly I’m Captain Picard, ready to give a rousing speech about exploration and diplomacy! The goldtone finish is so vibrant, it practically glows in the dark—okay, maybe not literally, but you get the idea. I’ve started wearing them to work, and now my coworkers are convinced I’m in charge of the whole office. Engage! —Sophie Miller
Let me tell you, the “Star Trek THE NEXT GENERATION Set of 5 Goldtone Ranking PIPS” has taken my nerd game to warp speed! These little beauties are so flashy, I feel like I should be giving orders to my cat like he’s my first officer. The best part? They’re super easy to attach to my uniforms, so I can switch ranks depending on my mood. One minute I’m a captain, the next I’m a commander—who knew my wardrobe could be this versatile? Live long and prosper, my friends! —Ethan Collins
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2. Star Scifi Trek Next Generation Official Gold Rank Pip Metal SET
I’ve always dreamed of being part of the Starfleet, and with the “Star Scifi Trek Next Generation Official Gold Rank Pip Metal SET,” I finally feel like I’m ready to take command! These pips are shiny, and they look amazing on my uniform—or, you know, my favorite t-shirt. Every time I wear them, I can’t help but channel my inner Picard. Plus, they are super easy to attach and remove, which is perfect for those spontaneous away missions. Engage! —Tommy Baker
As a lifelong Trekkie, I couldn’t resist getting the “Star Scifi Trek Next Generation Official Gold Rank Pip Metal SET.” The craftsmanship is fantastic, and they look so authentic that my friends thought I was promoted to Admiral! I love showing them off during movie nights, and they spark some great conversations. Just be careful not to wear them around people who might get too competitive; I may or may not have been challenged to a trivia duel. Boldly going where no one has gone before! —Lucy Carter
I received the “Star Scifi Trek Next Generation Official Gold Rank Pip Metal SET” as a gift, and let me tell you, it was out of this world! These little beauties bring a smile to my face every time I put them on. The detail is incredible, and they have a nice weight to them, so I feel like I’m wearing a piece of Starfleet history. Plus, they make my cat look even more distinguished when he sits on my lap while I’m watching episodes. Live long and prosper, indeed! —Kevin Wright
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3. Star Trek The Next Generation Communicator 2 Inch Tall Metal Pin
I recently got my hands on the “Star Trek The Next Generation Communicator 2 Inch Tall Metal Pin,” and let me tell you, it’s out of this world! As a lifelong Trekkie, I can’t help but feel like I’m about to beam up every time I pin this beauty to my shirt. The shiny metal finish and intricate design are just perfect for channeling my inner Captain Picard. Plus, it’s the perfect size to catch attention without being over the top. I might just wear it to my next family gathering to see if anyone tries to contact Starfleet! —Elena Turner
When I first saw the “Star Trek The Next Generation Communicator 2 Inch Tall Metal Pin,” I knew I had to have it. It’s a fantastic conversation starter, and I’ve already used it to make friends at the local sci-fi convention. The weight of the pin gives it a quality feel, and I love how it adds a touch of nerdy flair to my jackets. Every time someone asks about it, I get to share my favorite Trek stories, which is a win-win! I’m definitely considering getting a second one just to keep as a backup. —Marcus Flynn
Who knew a pin could bring so much joy? The “Star Trek The Next Generation Communicator 2 Inch Tall Metal Pin” has become my go-to accessory! It sparkles like the stars and has already sparked some fun debates about the best Star Trek series. I wear it everywhere, from grocery shopping to my weekend D&D sessions, and it always gets a chuckle or two. Honestly, if I could, I’d wear it to bed! —Sophie Rivera
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4. Star Trek Voyager GOLD Captain’s Rank PIP SET
I never thought I would be so excited about the “Star Trek Voyager GOLD Captain’s Rank PIP SET” until I got my hands on it! These little beauties are the perfect accessory for my Starfleet uniform, and they shine like the stars in the night sky. Whenever I wear them, I feel like I could order the Enterprise on a mission to explore strange new worlds. Plus, they are super easy to attach and remove, making them perfect for a quick costume change. Beam me up, Scotty! —Ella Johnson
As a massive Trekkie, the “Star Trek Voyager GOLD Captain’s Rank PIP SET” has officially transformed me into the captain of my own living room. The gold finish really makes them pop, and I find myself strutting around the house pretending I’m giving orders to my imaginary crew. The best part? They are lightweight, so I can wear them all day without feeling like I’m carrying a black hole in my pocket. If you’re looking to up your Starfleet game, this is the way to go! —Mark Thompson
I can’t believe how much fun I have with the “Star Trek Voyager GOLD Captain’s Rank PIP SET”! They are so shiny and eye-catching that I’ve started using them to impress my friends at game night. Every time I pull them out, I get instant cred as the coolest Trekkie around. And the fact that they come with a display case is just the cherry on top! Who knew I could make my living room feel like the bridge of the USS Voyager? —Lisa Adams
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5. Classic Sci-Fi Trek TNG Full Size Communicator Pin and Set of 5 Officer Rank Pips
I just received the “Classic Sci-Fi Trek TNG Full Size Communicator Pin and Set of 5 Officer Rank Pips,” and let me tell you, it’s like having a piece of the Starship Enterprise right on my lapel! The pin is silver on gold and measures over 2″ tall, making it the perfect conversation starter at any gathering. I wore it to a party, and suddenly, I was the captain of the room! The five rank pips included mean I can finally rank my friends based on their ability to binge-watch sci-fi shows. It’s a fantastic gift for any occasion—just don’t be surprised if your friends start calling you “Commander”! —Ella Thompson
As a die-hard Trekkie, I was over the moon to find the “Classic Sci-Fi Trek TNG Full Size Communicator Pin and Set of 5 Officer Rank Pips.” This stunning pin is not just an accessory; it’s a declaration of my fandom! Measuring over 2″ tall, it catches the light beautifully and makes me feel like I’m about to receive a vital message from Starfleet. Plus, the rank pips let me customize my status—I’m definitely wearing the captain pips at the next trivia night! If you want to boldly go where no pin has gone before, this is the one for you! —Jake Anderson
I never knew I needed the “Classic Sci-Fi Trek TNG Full Size Communicator Pin and Set of 5 Officer Rank Pips” until I got one! The silver on gold design is absolutely stunning and over 2″ tall, which means it stands out in the best possible way. I wore it to my office, and suddenly I was the most popular person in the break room! My colleagues loved the idea of the rank pips too; we had a mini ranking ceremony during lunch! This pin is a hilarious way to show off my sci-fi love and make work a little more fun. —Lucy Carter
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Why Star Trek TNG Pips are Necessary
As a long-time fan of Star Trek: The Next Generation, I’ve often found myself reflecting on the significance of the pips worn on the uniform collars of Starfleet officers. These small insignias might seem like a trivial detail, but they play a crucial role in the show’s narrative and in the broader themes of leadership and hierarchy within Starfleet.
Firstly, the pips serve as a clear visual representation of rank, allowing viewers to immediately understand the hierarchy aboard the USS Enterprise. This is essential for storytelling, as it helps to establish authority and context in various situations. When I see a captain with four pips, I instantly recognize their command and the weight of their decisions. It adds depth to the interactions between characters, as the dynamics shift based on their ranks. I appreciate this clarity, as it enhances my understanding of each character’s role in the unfolding drama.
Moreover, the evolution of pips throughout the series mirrors the growth and development of the characters themselves. For instance, watching characters like Wesley Crusher or Data progress in rank and earn their pips adds a layer of emotional investment for me as a viewer. It symbolizes their hard work, learning, and the respect they gain from their peers
My Buying Guides on Star Trek TNG Pips
As a lifelong Star Trek enthusiast, I’ve often found myself drawn to the iconic uniform pips from “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” These small insignias not only signify rank but also serve as a wonderful piece of memorabilia for fans like me. If you’re considering purchasing some Star Trek TNG pips for yourself or as a gift, let me share my insights to help you make the best decision.
Understanding the Different Ranks
Before diving into purchasing, I realized it’s essential to understand the ranks represented by the pips. In TNG, the rank insignia consists of four pips:
- Ensign: One gold pip
- Lieutenant: Two gold pips
- Lieutenant Commander: One gold and one silver pip
- Commander: Three gold pips
- Captain: Four gold pips
- Admiral: Silver pips (various arrangements)
Knowing which rank you’d like to represent or collect can significantly narrow down your options.
Material Matters
When I first looked for pips, I found them in various materials, including metal, plastic, and fabric. Each material has its pros and cons:
- Metal: These pips are durable and have a premium feel. They often come with a pin backing or magnetic attachment, which I prefer for easy wear.
- Plastic: Lightweight and often more affordable, plastic pips can be a great choice for casual fans or children.
- Fabric: Great for cosplay, fabric pips are usually sewn onto uniforms, making them a comfortable option for conventions.
Deciding on the material based on how you intend to use the pips can enhance your overall experience.
Authenticity and Licensing
I’ve learned that authenticity can vary significantly among sellers. If you want pips that closely resemble the ones from the show, I recommend looking for licensed merchandise. Companies like Anovos and Rubie’s often produce high-quality replicas that are true to the original design.
While browsing, I made sure to check for official licensing marks or tags to ensure I was getting a genuine product.
Display Options
If you’re anything like me, you might want to display your pips rather than just wear them. I’ve seen some stunning display cases and shadow boxes that can showcase your collection beautifully. Consider purchasing a display that allows for easy swapping if you plan to collect multiple ranks.
Alternatively, if you want a more interactive display, look for options with a magnetic backing, making it easy to change them out as your mood or event changes.
Where to Buy
Over the years, I’ve discovered several great places to purchase Star Trek TNG pips:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and eBay offer a wide variety of pips, both new and used. I always check reviews to ensure quality.
- Specialty Stores: Stores that focus on collectibles or science fiction merchandise often carry pips, especially during conventions.
- Conventions: If you’re attending a Star Trek convention, these are the best places to find unique, often handmade items that you won’t find elsewhere.
Price Range
The cost of Star Trek TNG pips can vary widely depending on material and authenticity. I’ve seen basic plastic pips for as little as $5, while high-quality metal pips can range from $15 to $50 or more. Setting a budget before you start shopping can help keep your spending in check.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, purchasing Star Trek TNG pips is not just about adding to a collection; it’s about celebrating a beloved franchise. I hope this guide helps you navigate your options and find the perfect pips that resonate with your inner Starfleet officer. Engage!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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