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Warrior: Orc warrior with a grim look in heavy, spiked plate armorShaman: Orc shaman with braids, surrounded by lightning

Warrior vs. Shaman

First class

Warrior

Second class

Shaman

Key differences

  • Only the Warrior can tank.
  • Only the Shaman can heal.
  • The Warrior fights in melee.
  • The Shaman fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization.
  • The Warrior wears plate, the Shaman mail.
  • The Warrior is more beginner friendly.
  • The Warrior does better solo.
  • More races can play the Warrior (26 instead of 15).

At a glance

At a glanceWarriorShaman
RolesTank, DPSHealer, DPS
ArmorPlateMail
Combat styleMeleeMelee and ranged
Playable races2615
SpecializationsArms (DPS), Fury (DPS), Protection (Tank)Elemental (DPS), Enhancement (DPS), Restoration (Healer)
Beginner friendly4/53/5
Solo play4/53/5

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

Warrior

The Warrior is a sturdy plate melee fighter that can deal damage (Arms, Fury) or tank (Protection). It is easy to learn and ideal for beginners who want melee without a spellbook.

Learn more about the Warrior ›

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 ›
⚔ Let them fight in the arenaClass Quiz

Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Warrior or Shaman?

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

What is the difference between Warrior and Shaman?

Only the Warrior can tank. Only the Shaman can heal. The Warrior fights in melee. The Shaman fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization. The Warrior wears plate, the Shaman mail.

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