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Warlock: Hooded figure with glowing red eyes, chains and spikesDemon Hunter: Demon hunter with horns, a glowing blindfold and green fel fire

Warlock vs. Demon Hunter

First class

Warlock

Second class

Demon Hunter

Key differences

  • Only the Demon Hunter can tank.
  • The Warlock fights at range.
  • The Demon Hunter fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization.
  • The Warlock wears cloth, the Demon Hunter leather.
  • The Demon Hunter is more beginner friendly.
  • Both do similarly well solo.
  • More races can play the Warlock (26 instead of 3).

At a glance

At a glanceWarlockDemon Hunter
RolesDPSTank, DPS
ArmorClothLeather
Combat styleRangedMelee and ranged
Playable races263
SpecializationsAffliction (DPS), Demonology (DPS), Destruction (DPS)Havoc (DPS), Vengeance (Tank), Devourer (DPS)
Beginner friendly3/54/5
Solo play4/54/5

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

Warlock

The Warlock is a ranged caster with curses and demon companions. It only deals damage but is very tough for a cloth class and comfortable to play solo.

Learn more about the Warlock ›

Demon Hunter

The Demon Hunter is the most mobile class in WoW. Havoc deals melee damage, Vengeance tanks, and the new Devourer spec from Midnight fights with Void magic from mid-range.

Learn more about the Demon Hunter ›

Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Warlock or Demon Hunter?

Neither class is better in general. The Demon Hunter 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 Warlock and Demon Hunter?

Only the Demon Hunter can tank. The Warlock fights at range. The Demon Hunter fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization. The Warlock wears cloth, the Demon Hunter leather.

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