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Paladin: Draenei with glowing eyes, a large shield and golden armorShaman: Orc shaman with braids, surrounded by lightning

Paladin vs. Shaman

First class

Paladin

Second class

Shaman

Key differences

  • Only the Paladin can tank.
  • The Paladin fights in melee.
  • The Shaman fights in melee or at range, depending on the specialization.
  • The Paladin wears plate, the Shaman mail.
  • The Paladin is more beginner friendly.
  • The Shaman does better solo.
  • More races can play the Shaman (5 instead of 3).

At a glance

At a glancePaladinShaman
RolesTank, Healer, DPSHealer, DPS
ArmorPlateMail
Combat styleMeleeMelee and ranged
Playable races35
Talent treesHoly (Healer), Protection (Tank), Retribution (DPS)Elemental (DPS), Enhancement (DPS), Restoration (Healer)
Beginner friendly4/53/5
Solo play3/54/5

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

Paladin

The Paladin is a sturdy healer and support in plate in WoW Forever. New: with the Undead, the Horde can play Paladins for the first time.

Learn more about the Paladin ›

Shaman

The Shaman is a versatile totem hybrid in WoW Forever that can heal or deal ranged or melee damage. New: with the Dwarf, the Alliance gets Shamans for the first time.

Learn more about the Shaman ›
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Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Paladin or Shaman?

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

What is the difference between Paladin and Shaman?

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

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