Size Matters (Sometimes): Small vs. Medium in D&D 5E

The world of Dungeons & Dragons is filled with fantastical creatures of all shapes and sizes. When creating your character, one of the first decisions you’ll make is race, and with that comes a pre-determined size category: most commonly Medium or Small. But what does that actually mean in terms of gameplay?

The primary difference between Small and Medium creatures in D&D 5E boils down to physical dimensions and the impact those dimensions have on certain game mechanics. Medium creatures are generally considered to be between 4 and 8 feet tall, encompassing the vast majority of playable races like humans, elves, dwarves, and dragonborn. Small creatures, on the other hand, fall between 2 and 4 feet tall, including races such as halflings and gnomes. This difference in size affects things like weapon usage, carrying capacity, maneuverability, and even the kinds of mounts you can ride.

Key Differences Explained

Let’s break down the key differences between Small and Medium creatures in D&D 5E, providing examples to illustrate how these differences can manifest in your game.

1. Weapon Restrictions: The Heavy Weapon Conundrum

This is perhaps the most significant mechanical difference. Small creatures suffer disadvantage on attack rolls when using heavy weapons. What constitutes a heavy weapon? Simply put, it’s a weapon with the “heavy” property listed in the Player’s Handbook. Examples include greatswords, greataxes, and heavy crossbows.

• Why this matters: A Small barbarian might dream of wielding a mighty greataxe, but the disadvantage on attack rolls makes it a significantly less appealing option compared to a Medium barbarian. This limitation forces Small characters to consider other weapon choices, potentially impacting their combat effectiveness.

2. Carrying Capacity: Size and Strength

While Strength is the primary determinant of your carrying capacity, size also plays a role. Larger creatures can carry more. The rules state that for each size category above Medium, a creature can carry double the amount. However, this rule is more relevant for Large or Huge creatures, as there are no official player races smaller than Small.

• Why this matters (indirectly): While a Small character’s base carrying capacity is determined by their Strength score, they won’t benefit from any increase due to being a larger size. This is more relevant when considering mounts or allies carrying a character, as a Medium creature could potentially carry a Small character more easily than another Small creature.

3. Mounts: Choosing Your Steed

The size of your character dictates the size of the mount you can ride. A creature can serve as a mount only if it is at least one size larger than the rider. This means Medium characters typically ride Large mounts like horses.

• Why this matters: Small characters gain access to a different range of potential mounts. Instead of a horse, a Small character could ride a Large dog, a giant goat, or even a dire wolf (depending on the setting and DM’s rulings). This opens up unique roleplaying and tactical possibilities.

4. Space and Maneuverability: Squeezing Through

While not always explicitly defined, a Small creature can often squeeze through smaller spaces than a Medium creature. In tight corridors or dungeons, this can be a significant advantage.

• Why this matters: Imagine navigating a narrow tunnel. A Medium character might have to squeeze, moving at half speed and incurring disadvantage on attack rolls and Dexterity saving throws. A Small character, however, might be able to move through the same space without penalty. The text says, “Small creatures can function normally in small spaces. This is very helpful if you’re trying to clear out a well-set-up kobold den.”

5. Flanking: Tactical Advantages

The rules for flanking in D&D 5E are optional, but if your group uses them, the size of your character can influence your ability to flank enemies. Larger creatures occupy more space, making it easier to position themselves to create flanking opportunities. However, Small creatures can sometimes use their size to their advantage, hiding behind larger allies or squeezing into positions that Medium creatures can’t reach.

• Why this matters: This is situational but can be relevant in tactical combat scenarios.

Beyond Mechanics: Roleplaying Implications

The difference between Small and Medium isn’t just about mechanics; it also impacts the roleplaying aspect of your character. Being Small can influence how other characters perceive you, how you interact with the world, and the types of challenges you face.

• Social Interactions: A Small character might be underestimated or dismissed by others, but they can also use their size to their advantage, appearing harmless or unassuming.
• Environmental Challenges: Reaching high shelves, climbing obstacles, or even just wading through deep water can present unique challenges for Small characters.

Making the Right Choice

Ultimately, the “best” size category in D&D 5E depends on your personal preferences and the type of character you want to play. Medium offers a balanced and versatile experience, while Small provides unique advantages and roleplaying opportunities. Consider the mechanical implications, the roleplaying possibilities, and your overall vision for your character when making your decision.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a Small character use a longbow?

No, a longbow is a heavy weapon, and Small creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls with heavy weapons.

2. Can a Small character wield a versatile weapon in two hands to avoid the heavy weapon penalty?

No, the disadvantage is specifically tied to the “heavy” property, not the number of hands used to wield the weapon.

3. Are there any feats that negate the disadvantage on attack rolls with heavy weapons for Small creatures?

There are no official feats in the Player’s Handbook or other core D&D 5E rulebooks that explicitly negate this disadvantage. A DM might allow a homebrew feat, but this would be up to their discretion.

4. Can a Small character ride a Medium creature?

The rules state the mount must be at least one size larger than the rider. This means a small creature needs to ride a large or bigger creature.

5. Do Small characters have disadvantage on Strength checks and saving throws?

No, being Small does not inherently impose disadvantage on Strength checks or saving throws. These are determined by the character’s Strength score, not their size.

6. Can Small creatures wear armor designed for Medium creatures?

The general assumption is that armor must be appropriately sized for the wearer. A Small creature would need armor specifically designed for Small creatures.

7. Does being Small affect my speed?

Typically, small races get 25′ movement instead of 30′ — but that’s not explicitly tied to their size, just something that tends to go along with it.

8. What are some advantages of playing a Small character?

Some potential advantages include squeezing through smaller spaces, riding unique mounts, and potentially benefiting from certain racial abilities that are balanced around their size.

9. Are there any monsters that are specifically vulnerable to Small creatures?

No, there are no monsters with specific vulnerabilities based solely on the size of the attacker.

10. Does size affect grapple checks?

Size can affect grapple checks. Being larger grants advantage.

11. Can a Small character use a shield effectively?

Yes, a Small character can use a shield effectively, assuming they meet any Strength requirements for the shield. The size of the shield is typically proportional to the size of the character.

12. Are there any races larger than Medium available as playable characters?

While not in the Player’s Handbook, some supplements and Unearthed Arcana materials introduce races that can be Large, such as goliaths and centaurs. These are often subject to DM approval and may have specific limitations.

13. How does size interact with the “Wind Wall” spell?

Small flying creatures (or smaller) can’t pass through the “Wind Wall” spell.

14. Does being Medium offer any distinct advantages over being Small, other than weapon usage?

Being Medium offers a more “average” D&D experience, avoiding the limitations on weapon choices and mount options that Small creatures face. It also provides more flexibility in terms of character builds and roleplaying opportunities.

15. Can a Small creature move through an enemy’s space?

The general rule is that a creature can move through the space of a creature that is at least two sizes larger or smaller than it. Thus, a Small creature may be able to move through the space of a Huge creature but not always a Medium creature.