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Rogue: Worgen in dark armor, crouching in the shadowsShaman: Orc shaman with braids, surrounded by lightning

Rogue vs. Shaman

First class

Rogue

Second class

Shaman

Key differences

  • Only the Shaman can heal.
  • The Rogue fights in melee.
  • The Shaman fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization.
  • The Rogue wears leather, the Shaman mail.
  • The Shaman is more beginner friendly.
  • Both do similarly well solo.
  • More races can play the Rogue (26 instead of 15).

At a glance

At a glanceRogueShaman
RolesDPSHealer, DPS
ArmorLeatherMail
Combat styleMeleeMelee and ranged
Playable races2615
SpecializationsAssassination (DPS), Outlaw (DPS), Subtlety (DPS)Elemental (DPS), Enhancement (DPS), Restoration (Healer)
Beginner friendly2/53/5
Solo play3/53/5

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

Rogue

The Rogue is a melee fighter with stealth, poisons and lots of crowd control. It only deals damage, is strong in PvP and rewards experience, but it is more demanding for beginners.

Learn more about the Rogue ›

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: Rogue or Shaman?

Neither class is better in general. The Shaman is more beginner friendly. Both do similarly well solo. In the end, what matters is which playstyle you enjoy more.

What is the difference between Rogue and Shaman?

Only the Shaman can heal. The Rogue fights in melee. The Shaman fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization. The Rogue wears leather, the Shaman mail.

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