Embarking on your *Elden Ring* journey begins with selecting one of ten starting classes, each subtly differing in stats and initial equipment. This ranking lists 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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While the Vagabond and Wretch often top the lists, several others offer compelling reasons for consideration. Let's delve into a detailed ranking of each class's strengths and weaknesses.

10. Bandit

The Bandit occupies the bottom rung. Its low starting level (5) and reliance on Dexterity—a relatively weak stat early on—coupled with subpar initial equipment, makes it a less-than-ideal choice.

9. Confessor

Confessors suffer from a lack of impactful advantages compared to other classes. Faith, their primary stat, is difficult to develop effectively until acquiring specific 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-optimal starting weapons make it a less attractive option for players focused on these stats.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity-focused classes, the Warrior isn't bad; starting with two swords is a plus. However, superior Dexterity options exist. While boasting the highest base Dexterity, edging closer to the soft stat cap, its gear doesn't justify its selection over other alternatives.

6. Prophet

Faith-based starting classes generally present challenges. The Prophet, however, is the best among them. Its spells are decent, but the equipment lags behind other classes. With strategic acquisition of Faith-enhancing 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, however, offers significant advantages. Starting with a Battle Axe and 16 Strength allows for effective early-game combat. The Ash of War further enhances damage. Low Dexterity, however, hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and stronger Strength options exist.

4. Samurai

This is the optimal Dexterity starting class. Its excellent armor and exceptional starting weapon, the Uchigatana (featuring great scaling, impressive damage, and bleed potential), make it a strong contender.

3. Astrologer

Players aiming for mage builds or Intelligence-focused gameplay should choose the Astrologer. Its early-game spellcasting capabilities are unmatched, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. Excellent equipment and ample room for stat improvement solidify its position.

2. Wretch

The Wretch starts at level one with even stat distribution (10 in each). Its decent club and effective Ash of War are notable. However, the lack of armor and low level pose challenges for new players. While potentially suboptimal for players committed to a single stat, its flexibility makes it ideal for build customization and respeccing.

1. Vagabond

The Vagabond emerges as the best starting class, suitable for both new and experienced players. Its superior stat distribution facilitates early-game builds, and its excellent weapon and armor are beneficial throughout the game. Its versatility allows for easy respeccing or transitioning into diverse builds.

For optimal success, the Vagabond is a reliable choice.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless you're meticulously min-maxing your build, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit presents a tougher early game, long-term stat investment and build customization ultimately negate initial differences. Even a suboptimal class choice results in only minor deviations from a fully optimized build.

Furthermore, min-maxing offers limited advantages, especially in PvP. While a fully optimized build might provide a slight edge against top-tier PvP players, the difference is generally negligible.

Ultimately, aesthetic preference should influence your choice.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

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

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