Class Comparison · Updated September 2026

Cleric vs Paladin

Cleric deals more damage, while Paladin offers more spellcasting versatility.

Short answer

Pick Cleric for healing, buffs, and divine versatility. Pick Paladin for burst Smite damage and party-protecting auras.

Build a Cleric Build a Paladin

At a Glance

Cleric Paladin
Hit Die d8 d10
Primary Ability WIS STR and CHA
Spellcasting Yes Yes
Party Role Support Defender
Subclasses 4 4
Best Race Aasimar Aasimar

Combat Comparison

Using Human as baseline race for fair comparison.

Level Cleric DPR Paladin DPR Edge
Level 5 7.8 7.8 Tie
Level 11 10.18 7.15 Cleric
Level 17 13.2 7.15 Cleric

When to Choose Cleric

  • ♦ Versatile spellcasting options
  • ♦ Flexible build with room for customization

When to Choose Paladin

  • ♦ High hit points for frontline durability
  • ♦ Strong melee damage output
  • ♦ Divine Smite provides burst damage

Best Builds for Each

Top Cleric Builds

Aasimar Cleric 8/10 Dwarf Cleric 6/10 Dragonborn Cleric 5/10

Top Paladin Builds

Aasimar Paladin 10/10 Dragonborn Paladin 10/10 Dwarf Paladin 8/10

Head to Head

Choosing between a Cleric and a Paladin comes down to whether you want to master divine magic from afar or channel it directly through a blade on the frontlines. Clerics are Wisdom-based, primary spellcasters utilizing a d8 hit die, excelling in versatile support roles and battlefield control. In contrast, Paladins act as martial-focused Defenders using Strength and Charisma, supported by a d10 hit die for maximum frontline durability and survivability.

While both classes thrive when choosing the Aasimar race, their mechanical execution is completely different. The Cleric offers an incredibly flexible build with diverse domain options, giving players a massive toolbox of versatile healing and utility spells. Meanwhile, the Paladin trades this spellcasting variety for superb frontline durability and explosive melee burst damage through Divine Smite. If you want to command the battlefield with a vast library of miracles, choose the Cleric; if you prefer to lead the charge as an indomitable knight, the Paladin is your ideal match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cleric or Paladin better for beginners in D&D 5e?
Paladin is generally better for beginners. Their straightforward, martial playstyle relies on clear-cut options: hit things with a sword and use Divine Smite for massive burst damage. Managing a d10 hit die makes survival easier on the frontline. While Clerics are incredibly versatile, their massive spell list and complex preparation system can easily overwhelm a new player. Paladins offer an easier entry point to divine magic.
Cleric vs Paladin: which deals more damage?
While Paladins are famous for explosive single-target burst damage via Divine Smite, Clerics actually hold the advantage in sustained output. At level 11, a Cleric averages 10.18 DPR (damage per round) through area-of-effect spells like Spirit Guardians, outperforming the Paladin's 7.15 DPR in typical encounters. However, for deleting a single boss monster in a single turn, the Paladin's melee smites remain unmatched.
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