Warhammer 40K Starter Set:
Which Box Should You Buy First?
Compare the three starter boxes by what is inside, how you can play with them, and what you still need to buy. Then pick the box that fits your budget and the army you want to paint.
Pick the box by your goal, not the box art
Three questions decide most first purchases. What is in the box? Do you need paints and tools too? How do you want to play your first game?
If you want to paint right away, the box should include paints and a brush. If you want to play right away, the box should include two complete armies and a rulebook. If you want the most in one box, look for a battlefield and guides.
The three Warhammer 40K starter boxes compared
Each card lists what the box includes and who it suits best. Box contents change between releases, so check the official listing before you buy.
Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set
Warhammer 40,000 Starter Set
Warhammer 40,000 Ultimate Starter Set
Note: Box contents change between releases and editions. Confirm what is included on the official Warhammer listing or the retailer listing before you buy.
Check what is in the box before you add paints and tools
A starter box is only a complete start if it covers your first hobby goal. Look for paints, brushes, cutting tools, and a play area before you assume you can start straight away.
The Introductory Set lists paints and a brush in the box. For the Starter Set and the Ultimate Starter Set, check the listing for paints and tools before you buy, and budget for any items that are not listed.
Check current prices before you buy
Prices change often and vary by retailer and region. Check the official Warhammer listing or an authorized retailer for current pricing before you buy. This page does not list prices.
Common questions about Warhammer 40K starter sets
01.Can I play straight out of the box?
Starter boxes are built for two players, so you will need a second player and a starter box or a matching army to play a full game. Check the listing for the rulebook, dice, a ruler, and any gaming boards or mat, because those are the items you need to play.
02.Do I need to buy paints separately?
Only if the box does not include them. The Introductory Set lists five Citadel Colour paints and a brush. For other boxes, check the listing before you buy and budget for paints if they are not included.
03.Where should I play my first game?
Use the gaming boards or mat included in the box if it has one. If it does not, choose a table large enough for the models and the play area in the rulebook.
04.Which box should a new hobbyist choose first?
If you want to paint and play, start with the Introductory Set. If you already know you want to play battles right away, choose the Starter Set. If you want a battlefield and guides, look at the Ultimate Starter Set.
05.Do box contents change?
Yes. Contents change between releases and editions, so confirm what is included on the official listing before you buy.
06.Where can I read more about getting into Warhammer 40K?
Start with the Warhammer 40K guide on One Nerdy Dad, then use the paint, brush, and primer guides to fill in what the starter box leaves out.
Ready to choose your first box?
Start with the Warhammer 40K guide on One Nerdy Dad. It walks through the rules, the factions, and the next purchases after your first box.
Trusted advice for miniature painters and tabletop gamers.
Check out our Primer for miniatures guide to get started correctly.
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One Nerdy Dad. Miniature painting, 3D printing, airbrushing, dioramas, and tabletop gaming.