Introduction
For many beginners entering the Warhammer hobby, one of the first decisions is choosing the right starter box. Games Workshop produces several starter sets designed to introduce players to the Warhammer universe, rules, and miniatures.
Two of the most common entry points are the Warhammer Starter Set and the Warhammer Ultimate Starter Set. Both boxes are designed for beginners and include miniatures, rules, and accessories needed to begin playing.
However, the two sets differ significantly in the number of models included, the size of the armies, and the overall experience they offer. Understanding these differences can help beginners choose the right option for their first Warhammer purchase.
Some beginners may also start with smaller introductory boxes such as the Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set, which focuses on teaching the basic mechanics before expanding into larger sets.
What Is a Warhammer Starter Set?
A Warhammer Starter Set is a boxed set designed to introduce new players to the game. It includes a small selection of miniatures, simplified rules, and the tools required to play beginner battles.
The purpose of a starter set is to teach the fundamentals of the game while providing players with their first miniatures.
These sets usually include two small armies that allow two players to learn the game together.
Starter sets are commonly recommended for beginners who want to experience the gameplay before committing to building larger armies.
If you are completely new to the hobby, our guide How to Start Warhammer explains the first steps of entering the Warhammer universe.
What Is the Warhammer Ultimate Starter Set?
The Warhammer Ultimate Starter Set is a larger and more complete beginner box. It contains more miniatures, additional terrain pieces, and a more advanced introduction to the Warhammer game.
While the standard starter set focuses on learning the basics, the Ultimate Starter Set provides a deeper introduction to the full tabletop experience.
The Ultimate Starter Set often includes:
- More miniatures for both armies
- Additional terrain for the battlefield
- Expanded gameplay components
- More advanced rules scenarios
Because of the extra content, the Ultimate Starter Set usually costs more than the standard starter set.
Key Differences Between the Starter Set and the Ultimate Starter Set
Number of Miniatures
The biggest difference between the two boxes is the number of miniatures included.
The Ultimate Starter Set typically contains significantly more models, allowing players to field larger armies.
This gives players a stronger foundation for building full Warhammer forces.
Terrain and Battlefield Components
The Ultimate Starter Set often includes terrain pieces that create a more immersive battlefield.
Terrain adds tactical depth to games and improves the visual experience of the tabletop battlefield.
Gameplay Depth
The standard starter set focuses primarily on teaching the basic rules.
The Ultimate Starter Set expands on this by offering more advanced missions and gameplay scenarios.
Price
Because it contains more miniatures and components, the Ultimate Starter Set is typically more expensive than the basic starter set.
However, many players consider it better value due to the additional models included.
Which Starter Set Is Best for Beginners?
Choose the Starter Set if:
- You want the simplest introduction to the game
- You want to learn the rules gradually
- You are unsure whether you will commit to the hobby
- You prefer a lower initial investment
Choose the Ultimate Starter Set if:
- You want more miniatures from the beginning
- You want a more complete tabletop experience
- You plan to build a full Warhammer army
- You want better long-term value
Many beginners eventually expand their armies with additional units such as the Space Marines Terminator Squad or the Space Marines Primaris Intercessors.
Expanding Your Starter Set Armies
After learning the basics of the game, most players expand their armies with additional miniatures.
Popular additions include specialised units and elite troops.
Examples include:
These units allow players to customise their armies and explore different playstyles.
Painting Your First Warhammer Miniatures
Painting is an essential part of the Warhammer hobby. Many players enjoy the creative aspect of painting their armies.
Starter hobby kits such as the Warhammer 40,000 Paints and Tools Set provide beginner-friendly tools and paints.
Fantasy players may also use the Stormcast Eternals Paint Set to start painting their models.
Our guide How to Paint Warhammer Miniatures explains the fundamentals of miniature painting.
Are Warhammer Starter Sets Worth It?
Starter sets are widely considered one of the best ways to begin the Warhammer hobby.
They combine miniatures, rules, and gameplay components in one box, allowing beginners to start playing immediately.
Compared with buying individual miniatures separately, starter sets typically provide better value.
If you are wondering about the overall cost of the hobby, our guide Is Warhammer Expensive explains what new players should expect.
FAQ
What is the difference between the Warhammer Starter Set and Ultimate Starter Set?
The Ultimate Starter Set includes more miniatures, additional terrain, and expanded gameplay components compared with the standard starter set.
Is the Ultimate Starter Set better for beginners?
It depends on the player. Beginners who want a larger collection immediately may prefer the Ultimate Starter Set, while others may prefer the simpler Starter Set.
Do both starter sets include two armies?
Yes. Most Warhammer starter sets include two opposing factions so that two players can begin playing immediately.
Can you expand the armies from the starter set?
Yes. Starter sets are designed as the beginning of an army collection, and players can expand their forces with additional units.
Do starter sets include paints?
Most starter sets do not include paints. Players typically purchase painting kits separately.
Conclusion
The Warhammer Starter Set and Ultimate Starter Set both provide excellent entry points into the Warhammer hobby. Each box introduces players to miniature building, painting, and tabletop battles.
The main difference lies in the scale of the experience. The Starter Set focuses on simplicity and learning the rules, while the Ultimate Starter Set offers a more complete introduction with additional miniatures and terrain.
For beginners who want the most complete starting experience, the Ultimate Starter Set often provides the best long-term value. However, the standard Starter Set remains a strong choice for players who want to begin the hobby gradually.
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