All Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked from Worst to Best

Embarking on your *Elden Ring* adventure begins with choosing one of ten starting classes, each subtly differing in stats and equipment. This ranking guides you from least to most effective.

Table of contents

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Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked

10. Bandit

9. Confessor

8. Prisoner

7. Warrior

6. Prophet

5. Hero

4. Samurai

3. Astrologer

2. Wretch

1. Vagabond

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked

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While the Vagabond and Wretch often top the lists, several others offer compelling arguments. Let's explore each class's strengths and weaknesses.

10. Bandit

Among the bottom three, the Bandit stands out negatively. Its low starting level (5) and reliance on the comparatively weak Dexterity stat, combined with subpar equipment, make it a less-than-ideal choice.

9. Confessor

Confessors lack the impact of other classes. Faith, its primary stat, requires significant investment before becoming truly effective. Furthermore, the starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game Faith builds or damage output.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is an inferior version of other Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its fragility and less-than-optimal starting weapons make it a less attractive option for those focusing on these stats.

7. Warrior

A decent Dexterity option, the Warrior starts with two swords. However, superior Dexterity choices exist. While boasting the highest base Dexterity, nearing the soft stat cap by only one point, its gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it surpasses the previous three as a starting build.

6. Prophet

Faith-based starting classes present challenges. The Prophet, however, is the best among them. Its 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 stand apart. The Hero offers advantages: a Battle Axe and 16 Strength provide early-game power, and the Ash of War boosts damage. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a superior Strength option exists.

4. Samurai

The best readily available Dexterity class. The fantastic armor and exceptionally strong Uchigatana, with its excellent scaling, impressive damage, and bleed potential, make it a top contender.

3. Astrologer

The ideal choice for Intelligence-focused builds or mages. Its ability to spam early-game spells, combined with 16 Intelligence at level 6 and excellent starting equipment, makes it a powerful option. It also transitions well into Intelligence/Strength builds.

2. Wretch

Starting at level 1 with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a strong Ash of War, the Wretch presents a challenging but rewarding start. Its lack of armor makes it difficult for newcomers. While not ideal for single-stat builds, it's perfect for those wanting complete build customization or respeccing.

1. Vagabond

For both new and experienced players, the Vagabond reigns supreme. Its excellent early-game stat distribution, fantastic weapon, and durable armor make it a versatile choice. Its stat spread allows for easy respeccing and adaptation to various builds.

The Vagabond is a consistently strong and reliable choice.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless you're min-maxing, your starting class's long-term impact is minimal. While the Bandit might present early difficulties, you'll eventually invest in desired stats, achieving your preferred build regardless of your initial choice. The differences are usually minor.

Even min-maxing, particularly in PvP, offers only a slight advantage, barely noticeable except at the highest competitive levels.

Choose a class that appeals to you aesthetically.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

For newcomers, the Vagabond is recommended. Its straightforward melee combat eases players into *Elden Ring*'s mechanics.

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