Introduction: Choosing Your First Warhammer Army
One of the biggest decisions when starting Warhammer is choosing your first army. With dozens of factions, each with unique models, playstyles, and lore, it can feel overwhelming for beginners.
The good news is that some armies are far more beginner-friendly than others. These armies are easier to build, simpler to paint, and more forgiving to play on the tabletop.
This guide explains what the best Warhammer army for beginners is, how to choose one, and which factions are easiest to start with. Whether you're interested in Warhammer 40,000 or Age of Sigmar, this guide will help you make the right choice.
What Is the Best Warhammer Army for Beginners?
The best Warhammer army for beginners is one that is easy to build, simple to paint, affordable to start, and forgiving to play.
This means beginner-friendly armies typically have:
- Simple model designs
- Low model count or straightforward units
- Flexible playstyles
- Accessible starter sets
Simple definition: A beginner Warhammer army is one that helps new players learn the hobby without unnecessary complexity.
Beginner Explanation: What Makes an Army “Easy”?
Not all Warhammer armies are equal in difficulty. Some require advanced painting skills or complex rules, while others are designed to be accessible.
Key factors that make an army beginner-friendly:
- Ease of building: Fewer small or fragile parts
- Ease of painting: Larger surfaces and simpler colour schemes
- Gameplay simplicity: Straightforward rules and tactics
- Cost efficiency: Fewer models needed to start
Key takeaway: The best beginner army balances simplicity, flexibility, and affordability.
Best Warhammer Armies for Beginners (Overview)
Here are some of the most beginner-friendly armies:
- Space Marines (Warhammer 40K)
- Stormcast Eternals (Age of Sigmar)
- Necrons (Warhammer 40K)
- Orruk Warclans (Age of Sigmar)
- Tyranids (Warhammer 40K)
Each of these factions offers a strong starting point for new players.
Space Marines: The Best Overall Beginner Army
Space Marines are widely considered the best Warhammer army for beginners.
- Durable and forgiving in gameplay
- Simple and clean model designs
- Easy to paint with basic techniques
- Huge range of models and support
Beginner-friendly units include:
If you're unsure where to start, Space Marines are the safest choice.
Stormcast Eternals: Best for Age of Sigmar Beginners
Stormcast Eternals are the Age of Sigmar equivalent of Space Marines.
- Simple and durable units
- Easy-to-paint armour
- Forgiving gameplay style
They are featured in beginner sets like the Age of Sigmar Introductory Set.
Necrons: Easy to Build and Paint
Necrons are another excellent beginner option.
- Simple, repetitive designs
- Easy metallic painting schemes
- Resilient gameplay mechanics
They are often included in starter sets and are great for learning the basics.
Tyranids: Great for Learning the Hobby
Tyranids are a popular beginner army due to their unique style.
- Organic designs make mistakes less noticeable
- Fun and creative painting options
- Flexible playstyle
Example model:
Orruk Warclans: Simple and Fun
For Age of Sigmar players, Orruks are a great choice.
- Bold, simple designs
- Easy painting techniques
- Aggressive and straightforward gameplay
Comparison: Which Army Should You Choose?
Best for Simplicity
- Space Marines
- Stormcast Eternals
Best for Easy Painting
- Necrons
- Tyranids
Best for Fun and Creativity
- Tyranids
- Orruk Warclans
Quick decision guide:
- Want the easiest start? Choose Space Marines
- Prefer fantasy? Choose Stormcast Eternals
- Want creative painting? Choose Tyranids
Best Starter Products for Beginners
Starter sets are the easiest way to begin your army.
These sets include models, rules, and everything needed to start playing.
To learn more, read Warhammer Introductory Set Review.
How to Choose the Right Army for You
When choosing your first army, consider:
- Visual appeal: Pick models you like
- Ease of use: Start simple
- Budget: Some armies cost more than others
- Playstyle: Aggressive, defensive, or balanced
For a deeper breakdown, see Warhammer Factions Explained.
Common Beginner Mistakes When Choosing an Army
- Choosing based only on competitive strength
- Picking overly complex factions
- Ignoring painting difficulty
- Starting with too many models
Quick summary:
- Choose what you like
- Keep it simple
- Start small
How Army Choice Affects the Hobby
Your first army shapes your entire Warhammer experience.
- Determines your painting style
- Influences your gameplay experience
- Affects how quickly you learn
If you're new, start with How to Start Warhammer for a complete beginner roadmap.
FAQ: Best Warhammer Army for Beginners
What is the easiest Warhammer army to play?
Space Marines are widely considered the easiest due to their durability and simple gameplay.
What is the easiest army to paint?
Necrons are among the easiest because of their simple metallic colour schemes.
What is the cheapest army to start?
Starter sets offer the most cost-effective way to begin any army.
Should I choose based on looks or gameplay?
Choose an army you like visually—you will spend a lot of time building and painting it.
Can I change armies later?
Yes, many players expand into multiple armies over time.
Are starter sets worth it?
Yes, they provide excellent value and are designed for beginners.
Conclusion: Start Your Warhammer Journey with the Right Army
Choosing the best Warhammer army for beginners is about finding the right balance between simplicity, enjoyment, and personal preference.
For most beginners:
- Space Marines are the safest starting point
- Stormcast Eternals are ideal for Age of Sigmar
- Necrons and Tyranids offer easy painting options
If you're ready to start, pick up a beginner set like the Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set and begin building your first army.
The most important thing is to choose an army you enjoy—because that’s what makes Warhammer such a rewarding hobby.
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