All Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked from Worst to Best

Embarking on your *Elden Ring* adventure begins with selecting one of ten starting classes, each subtly distinct in stats and initial equipment. This ranking outlines them from least to most advantageous.

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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Vagabond class in Elden Ring.

Screenshot by The Escapist.

While the Vagabond and Wretch often top the lists, several other classes offer compelling choices. Let's delve into a detailed ranking of each.

10. Bandit

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

9. Confessor

Confessors offer limited advantages compared to other options. Faith, their primary stat, is challenging to develop effectively until acquiring necessary items. Their starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game builds or Faith-based damage.

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 outclassed by better alternatives for those focusing on these stats.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity-focused classes, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity options exist. While possessing the highest base Dexterity, offering proximity to the soft stat cap, the one-point advantage and gear don't justify its selection over stronger alternatives. Still, it surpasses the previous three.

6. Prophet

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

**Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring**

5. Hero

The top four classes clearly stand out. The Hero boasts advantages: a Battle Axe and 16 Strength provide significant early-game power. The Ash of War further enhances damage. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a superior Strength option exists.

4. Samurai

This is the best readily available Dexterity starting class. The armor is excellent, and the starting weapon, the Uchigatana, is exceptional. Its scaling, damage, and bleed effect make it a formidable early-game asset.

3. Astrologer

Players wanting a mage build or Intelligence focus should begin here. Its early-game spellcasting capabilities are unmatched, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. The ample room for stat improvement and excellent starting equipment make it ideal for pure mage builds or hybrid Intelligence/Strength builds.

2. Wretch

The Wretch starts at level one with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a strong Ash of War. However, its low level and lack of armor create a challenging start for newcomers. While potentially weak if sticking to a single stat, its flexibility makes it the best option for those wanting to customize their build or respec later.

1. Vagabond

For both newcomers and experienced players, the Vagabond reigns supreme. Its excellent stat distribution, fantastic weapon, and useful armor make it a strong contender throughout the game. The balanced stats allow easy respeccing or adaptation to various builds.

Choosing the Vagabond ensures a smooth and effective start.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless meticulously min-maxing, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit presents a tougher early game, eventually you'll allocate points to desired stats, achieving your intended build regardless of initial class. The difference from a "wrong" class might only be a few stat points from optimal.

Even min-maxing, especially in PvP, has limited impact. An optimized build provides a slight edge, but this difference is barely noticeable except against top-tier PvP players.

Ultimately, aesthetic preference can outweigh minor statistical differences.