Quick Answer
The best Warhammer army for beginners is one that is easy to collect, simple to learn, and enjoyable to paint. Many new players start with iconic factions such as Space Marines or Stormcast Eternals because they are beginner-friendly and widely supported with starter sets.
For example, many players begin their first collection with the Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set, which includes miniatures and rules designed specifically for beginners.
What Does “Best Warhammer Army for Beginners” Mean?
When beginners search for the best Warhammer army, they are usually looking for an army that is easy to start collecting, simple to learn in gameplay, and enjoyable to paint.
Different Warhammer factions have different playstyles and model designs. Some armies rely on large numbers of models, while others focus on smaller elite units.
The best beginner armies typically have:
- Simple gameplay mechanics
- Durable units that forgive mistakes
- Starter sets or beginner boxes
- Models that are relatively easy to paint
If you are completely new to the hobby, our guide How to Start Warhammer explains the first steps in building your first army.
Warhammer 40,000 Beginner Armies
Warhammer 40,000 is the science fiction version of the Warhammer universe and contains dozens of factions. Some are easier for beginners than others.
Space Marines
Space Marines are widely considered the best Warhammer 40,000 army for beginners. They are powerful, durable, and easy to understand.
Space Marines use elite units rather than large swarms, which makes them easier to manage during gameplay.
Popular units include the Space Marines Terminator Squad, which represents heavily armoured elite warriors.
Tau Empire
The Tau Empire is a technologically advanced faction that specialises in ranged combat.
Tau armies rely on powerful shooting units and advanced battlesuits.
A good example is the Tau Empire Broadside Battlesuit, a heavy support unit known for its powerful weapons.
Chaos Space Marines
Chaos Space Marines offer a darker alternative to Space Marines. They serve powerful chaos gods and feature corrupted armour designs.
The Thousand Sons faction is particularly popular because of its psychic abilities and distinctive armour.
Units such as the Thousand Sons Rubric Marines represent elite warriors within this faction.
World Eaters
The World Eaters are a melee-focused Chaos faction dedicated to the blood god Khorne.
They are known for aggressive combat and brutal close-range battles.
The World Eaters Khorne Berzerkers are a classic example of this faction’s close-combat warriors.
Tyranids
Tyranids are an alien swarm faction controlled by a hive mind. Their armies consist of biological creatures rather than machines.
Large monsters such as the Tyranids Winged Hive Tyrant act as powerful leaders within Tyranid forces.
Warhammer Age of Sigmar Beginner Armies
Warhammer Age of Sigmar is the fantasy counterpart to Warhammer 40,000 and features magical realms and mythological armies.
Stormcast Eternals
Stormcast Eternals are often considered the best Age of Sigmar army for beginners. They are powerful, resilient warriors created by the god Sigmar.
They are frequently included in beginner boxes such as the Warhammer Age of Sigmar Introductory Set.
Chaos Armies
Chaos factions also appear in Age of Sigmar and feature warriors dedicated to dark gods. These armies often include dramatic models and monsters.
Death Armies
Death factions include undead warriors, skeletons, vampires, and ghostly spirits.
Destruction Armies
Destruction factions include brutal armies such as orruks and giants who focus on raw strength and aggressive combat.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your First Army
Model Design
The most important factor when choosing a Warhammer army is whether you enjoy the appearance of the models.
Painting Difficulty
Some factions are easier to paint than others. Armies with simpler colour schemes can be easier for beginners.
Starter paint kits such as the Warhammer 40,000 Paints and Tools Set help beginners learn miniature painting.
Army Size
Elite armies with fewer models are often easier for beginners to manage.
Starter Sets for Beginner Armies
The easiest way to start a Warhammer army is by purchasing a starter set.
Starter sets include miniatures and simplified rules that help beginners learn the game gradually.
You can read a detailed breakdown in our guide Best Warhammer Starter Sets.
Painting kits such as the Stormcast Eternals Paint Set also help beginners practise painting techniques.
Expanding Your Army
After choosing your first faction, you can gradually expand your army by adding new units.
Many players build their armies slowly over time as they gain experience in painting and gameplay.
If you are unsure how much the hobby costs, our guide Is Warhammer Expensive explains the typical cost of building an army.
FAQ
What is the easiest Warhammer army for beginners?
Space Marines and Stormcast Eternals are widely considered the easiest armies for beginners because they are durable and have straightforward gameplay mechanics.
What is the cheapest Warhammer army to start?
Armies with smaller elite units often require fewer miniatures, making them more affordable for beginners.
Do you need a large army to start Warhammer?
No. Beginners can start with small armies and expand their collection gradually.
Can you switch factions later?
Yes. Many Warhammer players collect multiple factions over time.
How do you choose the right Warhammer army?
The best way to choose an army is to pick one with models you enjoy painting and a theme that interests you.
Conclusion
The best Warhammer army for beginners is one that combines simple gameplay, enjoyable models, and strong support through starter sets and hobby resources.
By choosing a faction that you enjoy painting and learning the basics through beginner sets, you can gradually build an army and explore the Warhammer hobby.
Whether you prefer futuristic battles in Warhammer 40,000 or epic fantasy warfare in Age of Sigmar, there is a Warhammer army that will suit your interests and playstyle.
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