Introduction: Choosing the Cheapest Warhammer Army
Starting a Warhammer army can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to keep costs low. With dozens of factions, hundreds of units, and multiple game systems, beginners often ask the same question: what is the cheapest Warhammer army to start?
The answer depends on your goals, but the key principle is simple: some armies are naturally cheaper because they require fewer models, simpler builds, or lower upfront investment.
This guide explains which Warhammer armies are the most affordable, why they cost less, and how you can start building your army without overspending.
What Is a Warhammer Army?
A Warhammer army is a collection of miniatures that you use to play tabletop battles.
Simple definition: A Warhammer army is a group of models representing a faction, used in gameplay according to specific rules.
Each army is built from units, and each unit has a points value that determines how large your army is.
- Infantry units (basic troops)
- Elite units (stronger, fewer models)
- Characters (leaders and heroes)
- Vehicles or monsters
The total cost of an army depends on how many models you need and how complex they are.
What Makes an Army Cheap?
Not all Warhammer armies cost the same. Some are significantly cheaper to start than others.
Short answer: The cheapest Warhammer armies require fewer models and have efficient units that cover more points per purchase.
Key Factors That Affect Army Cost
- Model count (fewer models = cheaper)
- Points per unit (stronger units = fewer purchases)
- Availability of starter sets
- Ease of painting (simpler schemes reduce hobby costs)
Understanding these factors helps you make a smart and budget-friendly decision.
Cheapest Warhammer Armies for Beginners
1. Space Marines (Best Overall Budget Army)
Space Marines are widely considered the best cheap army for beginners.
Why they are affordable:
- High points per model
- Small army sizes
- Widely available starter sets
Example units to start your army:
These units provide a strong foundation and are easy to expand later.
Many starter boxes also include Space Marines, making them one of the most cost-effective choices.
Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set
2. Custodes (Low Model Count Army)
Although not listed in starter products, Custodes are known for being extremely cheap to build.
Why they are cheap:
- Very low model count
- Each model is powerful
- Small armies still competitive
This type of army is ideal if you want to spend less time and money collecting models.
3. Necrons (Starter Set Friendly)
Necrons are often included in starter sets, making them a budget-friendly option.
Why they are affordable:
- Included in beginner boxes
- Simple painting schemes
- Good unit efficiency
Starter sets reduce costs significantly by bundling multiple units together.
4. Stormcast Eternals (Age of Sigmar Equivalent)
If you prefer fantasy over sci-fi, Stormcast Eternals are one of the cheapest armies in Warhammer Age of Sigmar.
Age of Sigmar Introductory Set
- Elite units (fewer models needed)
- Beginner-friendly rules
- Easy to paint
5. Thousand Sons (Small Elite Units)
Thousand Sons are another relatively affordable army due to their elite units.
- Strong individual models
- Smaller army sizes
- Distinct playstyle
Cheapest Way to Start Any Warhammer Army
Step 1: Start with a Starter Set
Starter sets are the most cost-effective way to begin.
They include multiple units at a lower combined price.
Step 2: Add One Core Unit
After your starter set, expand with a single unit box.
This keeps costs manageable while growing your army.
Step 3: Avoid Overbuying
Many beginners buy too many models too early.
Focus on learning the game first.
Step 4: Use Basic Paint Sets
Keep painting costs low with beginner kits:
Warhammer 40K Paints and Tools Set
Learn more here: How to Paint Warhammer Miniatures
Budget Comparison: Cheap vs Expensive Armies
Cheap Armies
- Fewer models required
- Lower initial cost
- Faster to build and paint
- Ideal for beginners
Expensive Armies
- Large model counts
- Higher total cost
- More time to assemble and paint
- Better for experienced players
Quick takeaway: Elite armies are usually cheaper than horde armies.
Common Beginner Mistakes When Choosing an Army
- Choosing based only on appearance without considering cost
- Starting with large armies
- Ignoring starter sets
- Buying too many units at once
To understand factions better, visit Warhammer Factions Explained.
Is Warhammer Expensive Overall?
Warhammer has a reputation for being expensive, but this depends on how you approach it.
Short answer: Warhammer can be affordable if you start small and expand gradually.
Starter sets and elite armies make it possible to keep costs low.
Read more: Is Warhammer Expensive
FAQ: Cheapest Warhammer Army to Start
What is the absolute cheapest Warhammer army?
The cheapest armies are typically elite factions like Space Marines or Custodes because they require fewer models to play.
Is Space Marines a good beginner army?
Yes. Space Marines are one of the best beginner armies due to their balance of affordability, availability, and ease of use.
Should I start with a full army?
No. It is better to start with a small force or starter set and expand gradually.
Are starter sets cheaper than buying units separately?
Yes. Starter sets bundle multiple units together at a lower cost than buying each item individually.
Can I switch armies later?
Yes. Many players start with one army and later build additional forces.
For more answers, visit Warhammer Beginner FAQ.
Conclusion: Start Small and Build Smart
The cheapest Warhammer army to start is one that balances low cost with ease of learning. Elite armies like Space Marines or Stormcast Eternals offer the best entry point for beginners who want to minimise spending.
By starting with a budget-friendly army and expanding gradually, you can enjoy the hobby without feeling overwhelmed.
Warhammer is not about buying everything at once—it is about building your collection over time.
If you are ready to begin, explore starter sets and take your first step into the Warhammer universe.
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