Class Comparison · Updated August 2026

Bard vs Monk

Bard deals more damage, while Monk offers more tactical options.

Short answer

Pick Bard for party support, skills, and flexible spellcasting. Pick Monk for mobility, unarmed strikes, and battlefield agility.

Build a Bard Build a Monk

At a Glance

Bard Monk
Hit Die d8 d8
Primary Ability CHA DEX and WIS
Spellcasting Yes No
Party Role Support Striker
Subclasses 4 4
Best Race Human Aasimar

Combat Comparison

Using Human as baseline race for fair comparison.

Level Bard DPR Monk DPR Edge
Level 5 7.8 7.8 Tie
Level 11 10.18 7.15 Bard
Level 17 13.2 7.15 Bard

When to Choose Bard

  • ♦ Strong species-class synergy enhances core abilities
  • ♦ Versatile spellcasting options
  • ♦ Jack of all trades with inspiration and spellcasting

When to Choose Monk

  • ♦ Good armor class and initiative
  • ♦ Flexible build with room for customization

Best Builds for Each

Top Bard Builds

Human Bard 6/10 Aasimar Bard 5/10 Dragonborn Bard 5/10

Top Monk Builds

Aasimar Monk 7/10 Dragonborn Monk 7/10 Tiefling Monk 6/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bard or Monk better for beginners in D&D 5e?
Both work for a first character. Pick Bard for party support, skills, and flexible spellcasting; pick Monk for mobility, unarmed strikes, and battlefield agility.
Bard vs Monk: which deals more damage?
At level 11 the Bard deals more baseline damage (about 10.18 vs 7.15 per round before magic items), though party role usually matters more than raw damage.
Build a Bard Build a Monk