D&D 5e Point Buy Calculator
Build your ability scores using the official 5e point buy system. Set each base score from 8 to 15, optionally add racial/species bonuses, and the calculator will instantly show spent points, remaining points, final scores, and modifiers.
Default is 27 points (official standard), but you can use custom budgets for homebrew campaigns.
| Ability | Base Score (8-15) | Bonus | Point Cost | Final Score | Modifier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | 0 | 8 | -1 | ||
| Dexterity | 0 | 8 | -1 | ||
| Constitution | 0 | 8 | -1 | ||
| Intelligence | 0 | 8 | -1 | ||
| Wisdom | 0 | 8 | -1 | ||
| Charisma | 0 | 8 | -1 |
What is Point Buy in D&D 5e?
The point buy system in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition lets you build ability scores in a balanced, predictable way. Instead of rolling dice, every player gets a point pool (usually 27 points) and spends those points to raise scores from a base of 8. This creates fair starting stats across the table and makes character planning much easier.
A point buy 5e calculator helps you avoid math mistakes and quickly compare different builds. It is especially useful when you are optimizing for a class like Paladin, Wizard, Monk, or Bard, where multiple high abilities can compete for your limited budget.
Official 5e Point Buy Cost Chart
The calculator uses the official Player's Handbook cost progression:
| Score | Cost | Score | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 0 | 12 | 4 |
| 9 | 1 | 13 | 5 |
| 10 | 2 | 14 | 7 |
| 11 | 3 | 15 | 9 |
Notice that higher scores become more expensive at 14 and 15. That steep jump is intentional and keeps builds from starting with too many elite stats.
How to Use This Point Buy 5e Calculator
1) Set your budget
Leave the default 27 for standard 5e rules, or use a custom amount if your Dungeon Master allows it.
2) Enter base ability scores
Set each base score between 8 and 15. The tool automatically totals the point cost.
3) Add bonuses (optional)
Use the bonus column for species/racial bonuses, feats, or campaign adjustments. Bonuses do not affect point cost, but they do update final score and modifier.
4) Review legality
If remaining points are negative, the array is over budget. If remaining points are zero or positive, your spread is legal for that budget.
Practical Build Tips
- Prioritize your primary stat: Most classes want one key score at 15 before bonuses.
- Protect Constitution: Better HP and concentration saves matter on nearly every character.
- Don’t overspend on dump stats: Going too low can create painful skill or save weaknesses.
- Plan for odd/even breakpoints: Ability modifiers increase on even numbers, so 16 is often more valuable than 15 after bonuses.
Example 27-Point Arrays
Balanced Caster
STR 8, DEX 14, CON 14, INT 10, WIS 12, CHA 15 (cost: 27). Great for Sorcerer, Warlock, or Bard frameworks.
Frontline Martial
STR 15, DEX 10, CON 15, INT 8, WIS 12, CHA 8 (cost: 27). Efficient for Fighter or some Paladin starts.
Skill-Focused Hybrid
STR 8, DEX 15, CON 14, INT 10, WIS 14, CHA 10 (cost: 27). A strong base for Ranger or Monk variants.
Common Point Buy Mistakes
- Forgetting that 14 to 15 costs two extra points, not one.
- Mixing rolled stats with point-buy assumptions.
- Ignoring saving throw coverage and only maximizing attack stats.
- Failing to account for bonus sources before finalizing an array.
FAQ
Can I go above 15 with point buy?
Not in base score spending. Point buy purchases only up to 15. Bonuses can raise final starting stats above 15.
Can I go below 8?
Not with the standard system. Point buy begins at 8 for all abilities.
Do I have to spend all 27 points?
No. You can leave points unspent, though most players use the full budget for efficiency.