Elden Ring's 10 Starting Classes Ranked: From Worst to Best

Every Elden Ring journey begins with a class selection, offering 10 distinct options. These classes differ subtly in stats and equipment. This ranking assesses them from least to most effective.

Table of Contents

• Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
• Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
• What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

The Vagabond and Wretch top the list, though other contenders offer compelling arguments. Each class possesses unique strengths, detailed below.

10. Bandit

The bottom three classes are largely interchangeable, but the Bandit stands out negatively. Its low starting level (5) and primary focus on Dexterity (a relatively weak stat) coupled with subpar equipment render it an undesirable choice.

9. Confessor

Confessors offer limited advantages. Faith is a challenging stat to develop early on, and the initial equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game Faith builds.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is an inferior version of other Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its fragility and less-than-ideal starting weapons make it a poor choice for players seeking a Dexterity or Intelligence focus.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity options exist. While possessing the highest base Dexterity, falling just short of the soft cap, its gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it surpasses the preceding three.

6. Prophet

Faith-based starting classes present challenges. However, the Prophet is the best of the bunch. Its starting spells are decent, but the equipment lags behind others. With strategic Faith weapon acquisition, the Prophet can prove viable.

Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring

5. Hero

The top four classes are clearly superior. The Hero boasts advantages: a Battle Axe and 16 Strength provide early-game combat effectiveness. Its Ash of War enhances damage. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a better Strength-focused option exists.

4. Samurai

This is Elden Ring's best essential Dexterity class. Its armor is excellent, and its starting weapon, the Uchigatana, excels with great scaling, impressive damage, and bleed potential.

3. Astrologer

Players focusing on magic or Intelligence should choose the Astrologer. Its early-game spellcasting capabilities are unmatched, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. Its equipment is ideal, and it offers flexibility for Intelligence/Strength builds.

2. Wretch

The Wretch begins at level one with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a strong Ash of War. Its low level and lack of armor create a challenging start for newcomers. It's less effective for single-stat builds but shines for highly customized builds or respec options.

1. Vagabond

The Vagabond is the optimal starting class for both new and experienced players. Its stat distribution is ideal for early-game builds, offering a fantastic weapon and durable armor. Its stat spread facilitates easy respeccing or build adaptation.

Choosing the Vagabond ensures a strong foundation.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless you're heavily optimizing builds, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit presents a tougher early game, stat allocation eventually overrides initial class differences. Even min-maxing, especially in PvP, offers only marginal advantages unless competing at the highest levels. Choose a class that appeals aesthetically.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

For newcomers, the Vagabond is recommended. Its straightforward melee combat facilitates learning Elden Ring's mechanics.

Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.