Point Buy Calculator
Presets
Point Buy Rules
- Base cost: 8-13 costs 1 point per increase
- 14-15 cost 2 points per increase
- Minimum attribute: 8
- Maximum attribute: 15 (before racial bonuses)
Character Summary
| Attribute | Value | Modifier | Point Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | 8 | -1 | 0 |
| Dexterity | 8 | -1 | 0 |
| Constitution | 8 | -1 | 0 |
| Intelligence | 8 | -1 | 0 |
| Wisdom | 8 | -1 | 0 |
| Charisma | 8 | -1 | 0 |
| Total Points Spent | 0 | ||
Note: This calculator follows the standard D&D 5e point buy rules. Racial bonuses are not included.
Optimize D&D 5e character creation with our Point Buy Calculator. Distribute 27 points across abilities following official rules. Perfect for balanced RPG characters.
What is it?
The D&D 5e Point Buy Calculator is a digital tool that helps tabletop RPG players legally distribute ability scores (Strength, Dexterity, etc.) using the official point-buy system. It ensures balanced character creation while preventing overpowered/underpowered builds.
Core Formula
Ability Cost = (Score ≤ 13) ? (Score - 8) : 5 + (Score - 13)*2
Total must sum to ≤27 points with all scores between 8-15.
How to Use
- Allocate Points: Click +/- buttons to adjust each ability
- Monitor Budget: Real-time tracking of remaining points
- Apply Presets: Use class templates (Fighter/Wizard/etc.)
- Finalize: Export values for character sheet integration
Key Terminology
- Point Buy: System replacing random dice rolls with controlled allocation
- Ability Modifier: Derived from score (Mod = ⌊(Score-10)/2⌋)
- Racial Bonuses: Additional +2/+1 (calculated post-point-buy)
- MMORPG Standards: Balanced benchmarks for class builds
Formula Sources
- D&D 5e Player’s Handbook (2014, p.13)
- Sage Advice Compendium (2023 update)
- Dungeon Masters Guild balancing guidelines
- Critical Role house rule adaptations
FAQs
Q: Why can’t I set scores above 15?
A: Official rules cap pre-racial scores at 15 to maintain game balance.
Q: How are modifiers calculated?
A: Modifiers use the formula: ⌊(Ability Score - 10)/2⌋ (rounded down)
Q: Can I use this for Pathfinder?
A: This follows D&D 5e rules - Pathfinder uses 20-point buy with different cost tables.
Critical Notes
❗ Pre-Racial Basis: All calculations exclude racial bonuses
❗ No Rollback: Changes apply immediately - refresh to reset
❗ Mobile Warning: Touch devices may need zoom for precise adjustments
❗ DM Discretion: Final approval always rests with your Dungeon Master
Best Practices
- Prioritize your class’ primary ability (e.g. Strength for Fighters)
- Never dump Constitution (affects HP)
- Balance mental/physical scores for versatile characters
- Consult your DM before finalizing exotic builds