The definitive Warhammer 40,000 starter guide, and why now's the best time to start hobbying

Warhammer 40,000 is bigger than ever in 2026, but it’s such a daunting hobby to start if you have no idea what you’re doing.

Fortunately, I’m a bit of an expert in the subject nowadays, and there’s arguably no better time to jump in than right now, especially with so many excellent starter sets available or coming soon.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive, beginner-friendly guide on how to get involved with one of my favourite hobbies. It should also be useful for any early Christmas shopping you’re currently doing.

Why now is a good time to get into Warhammer 40,000

There’s arguably no bad time to get into Warhammer, but those who jump in now will be off to a better start than most.

As stated before, Warhammer 40,000 has entered its 11th edition and there have been so many changes so far. A lot of it is still in flux too as Games Workshop listens to player feedback.

So from a gameplay perspective, new players are going to benefit from dozens of refined and simplified rules. Long-time players are having to adjust to the changes, but for those new to the hobby, it’ll be easier to pick up.

There have also been loads of new models released so far and there are likely many more on the way.

Overall, those who jump in now while the 11th edition is still getting somewhat started will be in good stead for the next three or four years, when the next edition is expected.

The definitive Warhammer 40,000 starter sets

Before diving into a Battleforce or Combat Patrol, I’d always recommend picking up a small starter kit first. Warhammer 40,000 recently entered its 11th edition so its starter products have been refreshed and refined for new hobbyists.

The poster boys of the new edition are Space Marines (big surprise) and Orks, and the starter sets for them are broken down into different sizes. The best thing about these kits is they require no glue to build the models. They’re all push-to-fit so you’ll have them built in no time at all.

Space Marines: Intercessors + Paints/Orks: Boyz + Paints - £23.50

These are as basic as you’ll get. Both boxes contain a handful of miniatures, brushes and a minimal amount of paint to make them look ready for war, or ‘battle-ready’ as it’s called in the game.

I’d recommend this for those who are interested in painting miniatures, but are less bothered about the game. This kind of set is how I got started with Warhammer 40,000 and I’d easily recommend it.

Warhammer 40,000 Introductory Set - £49.00

Out of all of the products on this list, I’d likely recommend this product the most, as it’s got value for those on the fence about whether Space Marines or Orks are the way to go.

It includes models from both armies, paints, dice, and some terrain to hold your own miniature version of the game. It’s the kind of demo you’d get if you visited one of the many Warhammer shops around the world.

For a new hobbyist, it’s a decent starter set if you’re keen to check out both armies, as the experience of painting and playing them is very different. Space Marines are more ornate and metallic whereas Orks are more messy, and fleshy.

Warhammer 40,000 Getting Started with Space Marines/Getting Started with Orks - £109.00

Going a level up are the Getting Started boxes. These are pricier, but they contain a more varied selection of models and paint. You even get some vehicles, which often feel like a heftier, but more fulfilling project.

There’s just enough in each box to start a 500 point army too, so you’ll have the option of playing the game in its most basic form.

Warhammer 40,000 Starter Set - £160.00

Finally, we have the official Warhammer 40,000 Starter Set. This is the priciest box in the range and while I wouldn’t recommend it for one hobbyist, it’s an excellent box if you split it with a sibling/friend who’s also interested in trying it out.

It’s essentially a combination of the last two products. You get two 500 points armies for Space Marines and Orks, paint, dice and terrain. Everything you’d need is here.

Which Warhammer 40,000 Starter Set is for you?

Ultimately, everyone is going to be different here. If your goal is to simply test the waters and do a bit of pleasant painting one evening, the Space Marines: Intercessors + Paints/Orks: Boyz + Paints set is for you.

Those who are interested in actually playing a game and building an army will want to consider the Getting Started boxes, or the Warhammer 40,000 Starter Set for the best value for money.

If you’re still reluctant to get into the physical hobby, perhaps one of the video games will give you the nudge you need.