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Hunter: Night elf woman with long blue hair and face markings in green armorShaman: Orc shaman with braids, surrounded by lightning

Hunter vs. Shaman

First class

Hunter

Second class

Shaman

Key differences

  • Only the Shaman can heal.
  • Both fight in melee or at range, depending on the specialization.
  • Both wear mail.
  • The Hunter is more beginner friendly.
  • The Hunter does better solo.
  • More races can play the Hunter (26 instead of 15).

At a glance

At a glanceHunterShaman
RolesDPSHealer, DPS
ArmorMailMail
Combat styleMelee and rangedMelee and ranged
Playable races2615
SpecializationsBeast Mastery (DPS), Marksmanship (DPS), Survival (DPS)Elemental (DPS), Enhancement (DPS), Restoration (Healer)
Beginner friendly5/53/5
Solo play5/53/5

These ratings help you pick a class. They are not a DPS ranking, and balance shifts with every patch. How we rate ›

The classes in short

Hunter

The Hunter is a ranged fighter with an animal companion and is widely seen as the easiest class in WoW, especially as Beast Mastery. It can only deal damage but is extremely strong solo.

Learn more about the Hunter ›

Shaman

The Shaman uses totems and elemental magic and can play ranged damage (Elemental), melee damage (Enhancement) or healing (Restoration). It brings Bloodlust and lots of group utility.

Learn more about the Shaman ›
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Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Hunter or Shaman?

Neither class is better in general. The Hunter is more beginner friendly. The Hunter does better solo. In the end, what matters is which playstyle you enjoy more.

What is the difference between Hunter and Shaman?

Only the Shaman can heal. Both fight in melee or at range, depending on the specialization. Both wear mail.

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