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Shaman: Orc shaman with braids, surrounded by lightningMage: Mage with brown hair casting purple arcane magic

Shaman vs. Mage

First class

Shaman

Second class

Mage

Key differences

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

At a glance

At a glanceShamanMage
RolesHealer, DPSDPS
ArmorMailCloth
Combat styleMelee and rangedRanged
Playable races1526
SpecializationsElemental (DPS), Enhancement (DPS), Restoration (Healer)Arcane (DPS), Fire (DPS), Frost (DPS)
Beginner friendly3/53/5
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

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 ›

Mage

The Mage is the classic ranged caster with arcane, fire and frost magic and big burst damage. It only deals damage, brings portals and food and is fragile in cloth.

Learn more about the Mage ›
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Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Shaman or Mage?

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

What is the difference between Shaman and Mage?

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

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