Warhammer 40K Starter Set Guide 2026: Best Combat Patrols and What to Add After

Ready to jump into the Warhammer 40,000 tabletop game, but not quite sure where to begin? With so many factions, it’s hard to choose the right one when you’re just starting out. In today’s guide I’m going to be evaluating all the currently available Warhammer 40K starter sets in 2026 (aka Combat Patrols) and ranking them. A Warhammer 40K starter set can be an expensive purchase, although in many cases they are a great way to get started playing the game and building your collections. That said, you don’t want to throw good money into mediocre or bad products and waste money on units you probably won’t use as you progress deeper into the hobby.

If you’re just getting started into the Warhammer 40K universe, I recommend checking out my post about Starting a Warhammer 40K Army first. With that said, let’s get into it.

Ranking the Warhammer 40K Starter Sets for 2026

Before we get into the rankings, it is worth explaining how these Warhammer 40K starter sets were evaluated.

First, cost is not a major factor here, outside of noting when there may be better options available. In general, Combat Patrol boxes are priced fairly well for what you get. From a pure value standpoint, the contents usually justify the cost. That said, a box can still be a weaker buy if it includes units you are less likely to use once your collection expands, especially when compared to other units you would rather own long term.

The main factor in these rankings is long-term usability. In other words, how useful are the units once you move beyond your first purchase and start building toward larger games? Some Combat Patrols include units that quickly fall out of your lists as your collection grows. Others give you a strong foundation, with units that remain relevant and continue to see play well beyond the Combat Patrol format. More than anything else, that is what drives the grades here.

The second major factor is duplication. Some Combat Patrols are excellent to buy more than once because the contents scale well into a growing collection. Others include unique Character models, such as Epic Heroes, that you can only field once in an army. That makes repeat purchases much less appealing and lowers the box’s value as a collection-building tool.

So, the rankings here are based primarily on three things:

• How much impact the box has in actual games of Warhammer 40K
• How useful the units remain once you move into larger battles
• How easy the box is to duplicate as your collection grows

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Imperium Combat Patrols

Space Marines Combat Patrol

The Space Marines are the flagship property of the Warhammer 40,000 brand. They are seen throughout marketing and advertising campaigns, video games, animations and more. They are the bread and butter of the Warhammer 40K universe.

The Space Marines Combat Patrol comes with a Captain in Terminator Armor, a Librarian in Terminator Armor, 5 Space Marine Terminators and 5 Infernus Marines. The sad reality is that for most Space Marines players, these units are just not very good and see little to no use in larger scale battles. It is, in my opinion, one of the poorer entries into the Warhammer 40K universe. While the models themselves look amazing, of course, you will find that as you expand your collection and play bigger games, all of these units will be sitting comfortably on your shelf rather than on your game table.

Space Marines: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Rather than expanding this Combat Patrol, you are probably better off collecting more useful units to begin your collection such as Intercessors, Ballistus Dreadnoughts, and the Company Heroes set. Sadly the Space Marines Combat Patrol is one of the weaker of all the Warhammer 40K Starter Sets.

Space Marines Combat Patrol Final Grade: D

Space Wolves Combat Patrol

Do you like your Space Marines with a particularly Viking aesthetic? Do you want your heroes telling sagas that will span generations on the tabletop? Do you like crashing into your opponent with primal aggression in glorious combat? Then the Space Wolves might be right up your alley.

The Space Wolves Combat Patrol comes with a Wolf Guard Battle Leader, 5 Wolf Guard Terminators, 5 Wulfen and 10 Blood Claws. It is a solid starting point for a Space Wolves army featuring units that are a useful and solid foundation to build your Space Wolve army from. It is unlikely you would ever need more than 2 of these boxes, but if you did decide to expand your force, the Space Wolves Combat Patrol is pretty decent as far as redundancy goes to filling out your collection.

Space Wolves: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Beyond the contents of the Combat Patrol you’re probably going to want to pick up some Thunderwolf Cavalry as they are a core unique unit to Space Wolves. And what kind of heroic Viking force would be complete without some epic heroes to lead them such as Logan Grimnar, Ragnar Blackmane or Bjorn the Fell-Handed? Headtakers are also an excellent unique Space Wolves unit you’ll want to include as well.

Space Wolves Combat Patrol Final Grade: B

Blood Angels Combat Patrol

The Blood Angels are one of the Imperium’s most noble Space Marine chapters. With a long legacy of heroics tracing back deep in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, they are one of the greatest of all Space Marines chapters. On the table, they value fast moving jump pack infantry units who hit incredibly hard in combat.

The Blood Angels Combat Patrol contains a Blood Angels Captain, 6 Sanguinary Guard and 10 Assault Intercessors. This is a fantastic Combat Patrol if you’re looking to start a Blood Angels army. All of these units are useful and impactful and make a great core to build around as you expand your collection. This Combat Patrol is lacking in redundancy however as you probably won’t ever need more than 9-12 Sanguinary Guard in a list as you expand your collection. That said, this is a solid entry point for the faction as most of these units will be usable as your collection grows.

Blood Angels: Beyond the Combat Patrol

You’re most certainly going to want to include some Death Company Marines with Jump Packs in your army as you expand. And what Blood Angels force would be complete without arguably the Imperium’s greatest hero Commander Dante? Other units you’ll want to pick up include the Captain with Jump Pack and probably a Baal Predator or two.

Blood Angels Combat Patrol Final Grade: A

Dark Angels Combat Patrol

Dark Angels are a flexible Space Marine faction that can lean into durable elite infantry, hard-hitting melee threats, or disciplined shooting depending on how you want to build them. They tend to reward measured, methodical play rather than reckless aggression, giving you a force that can absorb pressure, hit back hard, and control the pace of the game. They are a strong fit for players who want a tough, well-rounded army with several different ways to compete.

The Dark Angels Combat Patrol comes with a Captain in Gravis Armour, 3 Bladeguard Veterans, 5 Hellblasters, 10 Intercessors, and 2 DA upgrade sprues. While this is actually a pretty decent generic Space Marines starter set, for Dark Angels specifically, it falls a little short of the mark. Most Dark Angels builds focus heavily on units like Deathwing Knights and Ravenwing Command Squads. There’s not much room for the Captain with Gravis Armour and you’re not likely to use more than one single squad of Intercessors.

Dark Angels: Beyond the Combat Patrol

As mentioned above, you’re going to want a couple of squads of Deathwing Knights as they really are the anvil this army is usually built around. Of course, the Dark Angels Primarch Lion El’Jonson is a great addition to your force as well. Hellblasters with Azreal are another hot unit to lean into. And of course you’re going to want a squad of Inner Circle Companions to round out the melee threat level.

Dark Angels Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Black Templars Combat Patrol

Black Templars are an aggressive Space Marine faction built to get in your face, apply pressure, and win through durable melee threats. They reward direct, forward-leaning play, but still have enough toughness and support pieces to keep fighting once the game gets messy. They are a great fit for players who want an army that feels relentless, straightforward, and dangerous in combat.

The Black Templars Combat Patrol includes an Emperor’s champ, 3 Bladeguard Veterans, 5 Sword Brethren, and 10 Crusaders. Overall this is a great way to kickstart a new force of Black Templars. Units like Sword Brethren and Crusaders are staple pieces in a Black Templars army. The Emperor’s Champion is an iconic Black Templars Character unique to the faction, but you’ll find you’re probably opting to take other Characters in the range instead, reducing the redundancy value of this box set a bit.

Black Templars: Beyond the Combat Patrol

While the Combat Patrol box offers a nice entry into the faction, you’re going to want to supplement with decent transport and shooting options to carry those Sword Brethren around in. Repulsor Executioners make a great choice here along with the iconic Land Raider Redeemer. Additionally you’ll want some good leader support which comes in the form of High Marshal Helbrecht, regular Marshals and Castellans.

Black Templars Combat Patrol Final Grade: B

Grey Knights Combat Patrol

Grey Knights are an elite, high-skill army built around mobility, precision, and hitting the right target at the right time. They do not usually win by overwhelming the table with bodies. They win by using strong movement tools, durable elite units, and efficient damage to stay in control of the game. They are a great fit for players who want a force that feels technical, flexible, and rewarding to master.

The Grey Knights Combat Patrol contains Catellan Crowe, 10 Strike Squad Marines (which can alternatively be built as Interceptors, Purifiers, or a Purgation Squad), 5 Terminators (which can also be built as Paladins), and 1 Venerable Dreadnought. This Combat Patrol is a decent starting point for a Grey Knights army, however it loses some value with the Venerable Dreadnought, a unit that is unlikely to see play once you expand your collection. Further Castellan Crowe is an Epic Hero, meaning you can only take one per army, making this not very valuable as a repeat purchase to build your forces.

Grey Knights Beyond the Combat Patrol

Grey Knights are a super-elite army with very expensive units to field and thus will usually have a low model count. The Nemesis Dreadknight is the iconic unique unit for Grey Knights and most builds have at least 2-3. Purgation and Strike Squads are also useful scoring pieces. You’ll probably want to pick up a Brotherhood Librarian or two as well to fill out your force.

Grey Knights Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Adeptus Custodes Combat Patrol

The elite warriors of the Imperium. Forged by the Emperor of Mankind to protect Terra and the Imperial Palace, these golden warriors stand at the peak of humanity’s martial prowess. Adeptus Custodes are an ultra-elite, durable and hard-hitting combat army capable of taking on the toughest threats on the tabletop.

The Adeptus Custodes Combat Patrol contains a Blade Champion, 3 Allarus Custodians, 5 Custodian Guard, 5 Custodian Wardens. As far as Combat Patrols go, this one packs a tremendous value. All of these units are anchors for a solid Adeptus Custodes army. Blade Champions remain the best Character units in the faction and the infantry are staples in just about all Adeptus Custodes builds. This box also has great redundancy value so purchasing multiple sets is a great way to get an army on the tabletop.

Adeptus Custodes: Beyond the Combat Patrol

As you expand your collection you’ll probably want to pick up Trajan Valoris, the leader of the Adeptus Custodes. You may even consider a Land Raider to drive those golden super-soldiers around in as well. Additionally if you’re looking for solid cheap infantry to support them, the Sisters of Silence make a great choice for early game chaff.

Adeptus Custodes Combat Patrol Final Grade: A

Astra Militarum Combat Patrol

The forces of the Astra Militarum are composed of humanity’s mortal defenders against those forces, both of Chaos and alien, that seek to destroy the Imperium. Do you want to drive swathes of infantry foot soldiers at the enemy while blasting them with a barrage of supporting tank fire? Then Astra Militarum may be the army for you.

TheAstra Militarum Combat Patrol comes with a Cadian Command Squad, 10 Kasrkin Infantry, and 10 Attilan Rough Riders. This serves as a nice core to start with to build your Astra Militarum force with. In fact, this is a good example where multiple purchases of a Combat Patrol can help grow your army as all of these units are useful and seen quite often in games of Warhammer 40K as you get into larger games. Redundancy is a big selling point here for this one, but this makes a great starter set if you’re thinking of picking up Astra Militarum.

Astra Militarum: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Of course, once you start building your Astra Militarum forces up you’ll want to get some tanks for that punishing support fire. I recommend Rogal Dorn and Leman Russ tanks as a great way to supplement your Astra Militarum Infantry. Further Tempestus Scions make great elite trooper additions to any Astra Militarum force.

Astra Militarum Combat Patrol Final Grade: A

Adeptus Sororitas Combat Patrol

Adeptus Sororitas are a flexible, aggressive Imperial faction that blends short-ranged firepower, melee punch, and strong trading pieces. They tend to reward players who can manage positioning well, apply pressure at the right time, and make the most of their army’s momentum. If you like the idea of nuns with gun zealots devoted to the Emperor, then the Adeptus Sororitas may be the right fit for you.

The Adeptus Sororitas Combat Patrol contains a Canoness, 5 Celestian Sacresants, 10 Battle Sisters, and 10 Arco-Flagellants. It’s a solid core for an Adeptus Sororitas force. In fact you’ll find you will use many of these models if not all of them as you progress into your collections. This makes it a pretty decent redundant purchase for buying multiples to fill out your force.

Adeptus Sororitas Beyond the Combat Patrol

No Adeptus Sororitas army would be complete without the hero, Morvenn Vahl. Naturally you’ll want to grab some Paragon Warsuits to escort her around. Retributor Squads with Multi-Meltas also make great shooting compliments to the army. And of course you’ll want something to transport the nuns around in. Immolators make a great option to get those Battle Sisters and Retributors in place to blast the opponent.

Adeptus Sororitas Combat Patrol Final Grade: B

Adeptus Mechanicus Combat Patrol

Adeptus Mechanicus, the cult of Mars, are a technical, synergy-driven faction that leans on layered buffs, specialized units, and efficient firepower to get the job done. They tend to reward players who think a turn ahead, manage positioning carefully, and understand how to stack their tools for maximum effect. It is a faction that feels precise, calculated, and very rewarding when piloted well.

The Adeptus Mechanicus Combat Patrol contains a Tech-Priest Manipulus, 3 Serberys Sulphurhounds(which can alternatively be built as Raiders) 5 Pteraxii Sterylizors (which can alternatively be built as Skystalkers), 10 Skitarri Vanguard (which can alternatively be built as Rangers). This is a pretty good starting point for Adeptus Mechanicus. This is probably the most expensive Warhammer 40K faction to build monetarily, and this combat patrol has a lot of value to get your army going and has some great redundancy if you want to purchase multiple Combat Patrols to build up your collection.

Adeptus Mechanicus: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Of course you’re going to pick up Belisarius Cawl to lead your forces. Picking up some Sicarian Ruststalkers and Infiltrators is also a good addition. Ironstrider Ballistarii are a great pick-up for some ranged firepower and decent durability as well.

Adeptus Mechanicus Combat Patrol Final Grade: B

Imperial Agents Combat Patrol

Imperial Agents are a toolbox-style faction built around utility, disruption, and flexible support pieces rather than raw power. They tend to reward players who understand mission play, value trading pieces correctly, and know how to use a wide range of specialist units to create problems for the opponent.

The Imperial Agents Combat Patrol contains a Ministorum Priest, Eversor Assassin, 6 Inquisitorial Agents, 20 Vigilant Squad, 2 Cyber-Mastiffs and 2 Nuncio-aquilas. Imperial Agents are unique faction in that they represent a lot of odd units put together throughout the Warhammer 40K line. Additionally you can supplement them with Astartes forces via the Deathwatch and Grey Knights as well as Adeptus Sororitas. They are a very weird smattering of units that can come together in some very interesting ways. Although they lack in many areas, not being particularly durable nor having a lot of great damage output, they still make a pretty interesting and flavorful force.

Imperial Agents: Beyond the Combat Patrol

You can’t really go wrong with a strong Inquisitorial leader and Inquisitor Draxus is one of the best in the game. As far as units go, Rogue Trader Entourages pair quite well with Imperial Navy Breachers. And of course you definitely want a Callidus Assassin for some good scoring utility.

Imperial Agents Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Chaos Combat Patrols

Chaos Space Marines Combat Patrol

Do you prefer your power armored Space Marines a little bit more on the dark side? The Chaos Space Marines represent those Space Marines that have fallen to the forces of Chaos. From those forces led by Abaddon the Despoiler like the Black Legion to more recently fallen Renegade Warbands, the Chaos Space Marines represent the greatest threat to the Imperium in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.

The Chaos Space Marines Combat Patrol includes a Master of Possession, 5 Possessed, 10 Legionaries, and 10 Chaos Cultists. This makes for a great starting force for any Chaos Space Marines aspirant. While the Master of Possession isn’t a unique Epic Hero, you probably won’t ever field more than one of them (if that even), but the rest of the contents of this box set make an incredible core to build upon. The inclusion of the Master of Possession here makes the redundancy purchases of this box a little off-putting, but this is still a great way to get started building a Chaos Space Marines army and makes for a great starter set.

Chaos Space Marines: Beyond the Combat Patrol

While this is a great start to any Chaos Space Marines force, you’re going to want to supplement this army with reinforcements beyond the starter set. Abaddon the Despoiler is a great place to start along with Chosen and Forgefiends. Of course you’ll need some transports to roll those infantry squads around in so you’ll want to pick up a Chaos Rhino or two as well. And of course, there is the forthcoming Defiler that is inbound and should be hitting shelves soon as well.

Chaos Space Marines Combat Patrol: B

Death Guard Combat Patrol

The Death Guard represent the fallen Space Marines devoted to Nurgle from the period in the lore known as the Horus Heresy. As the legions of Space Marines fractured, many turned to the Chaos gods and betrayed the Emperor of Mankind and humanity. The Death Guard are one such legion. They are known for there slow but highly durable resilience on the tabletop while using aura debuffs to weaken the enemy and make them easier to dispatch.

The Death Guard Combat Patrol is actually a great entry point for starting this faction. It contains a Lord of Virulence, Tallyman, Chaos Rhino transport, 3 Deathshroud Terminators, and 7 Plague Marine models. As a collector of Death Guard you will find that all of these are a staple in your army to build upon and you will likely use all of these models well beyond your Combat Patrol purchase. If you’re thinking of starting a Death Guard army then this Combat Patrol is the right place to start.

Death Guard: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Once you’ve started getting your stinky bois on the table, you’re probably going to want to supplement them with some other forces. Poxwalkers, Foetid Bloat Drones, and of course more Plague Marines and Deathshroud Terminators are great units to continue building your collection beyond the Combat Patrol.

Death Guard Combat Patrol Final Grade: A

Thousand Sons Combat Patrol

One of the original Space Marines legions that fell during the Horus Heresy, the Thousand Sons have spent 10,000 years in the warp plotting their revenge on the Imperium of mankind. Known for their psychic prowess in battle they weave the webs of destiny as devout followers of the Chaos God Tzeentch. If you’re into space wizards conjuring magic bullets at the opponent then you’ll love the Thousand Sons.

The Thousand Sons Combat Patrol includes a Daemon Prince, Tzaangor Shaman, 3 Tzaangor Enlightened, and 10 Rubric Marines. This is a great starter set to kick off your Thousand Sons collection. All of these units are staples in the faction. You’re unlikely to need more than one or two Daemon Princes, but this is a great starter set for multiple purchases to fill out your forces as you grow your collection.

Thousand Sons: Beyond the Combat Patrol

No proper Thousand Sons army would be complete without their Daemon Primarch Magnus the Red, one of the most powerful units in the game. You’re going to need some space wizards to lead your forces of course so grabbing a box of Exalted Sorcerers is a great pick-up as well. Scarab Occult Terminators are also a nice inclusion for a Thousand Sons army being fairly durable with amazing damage output.

Thousand Sons Combat Patrol Final Grade: A

World Eaters Combat Patrol

One of the original Space Marine Legions that turned traitor during the Horus Heresy, the World Eaters relish close combat above all. They are ferocious super-soldiers who launch incredibly fast assaults on the enemy. While they don’t have much in the way of shooting firepower, if you like fast aggressive pressure melee armies then World Eaters is probably the faction for you.

The World Eaters Combat Patrol contains a Daemon Prince, Master of Executions, 10 Khorne Berzerkers, and 10 Jackhals. As far as Combat Patrols go, this is a pretty good start to a World Eaters army, although you’re unlikely to field a Daemon Prince or even a Master of Executions in your army as your collection grows, Khorne Berzerkers and Jackhals are core units in World Eaters armies.

World Eaters: Beyond the Combat Patrol

World Eaters are absolutely a pressure army and of course you’re going to want Khorne Berzerkers as your core infantry. Exalted Eightbound are more elite combat units that are unique to World Eaters and make a great addition. Forgefiends provide great fire support as well in an army that doesn’t really use much shooting. And of course you want to pick up Kharn the Betrayer and probably Lord Invocatus as well to lead your forces. World Eaters have a Daemon Primarch as well with Angron, however he is not often taken in World Eaters builds. He makes an amazing centerpiece model nonetheless.

World Eaters Combat Patrol Final Grade: B

Emperor’s Children Combat Patrol

Emperor’s Children are a Chaos faction defined by excess, obsession, and the pursuit of perfection taken to a horrific extreme. In the lore, they are arrogant, corrupted warriors who long ago abandoned restraint in favor of sensation, spectacle, and cruelty. On the table, they tend to feel aggressive, elite, and dangerous, with an emphasis on speed, pressure, and punishing combat power.

The Emperor’s Children Combat Patrol includes a Lord Exultant, 6 Flawless Blades, and 10 Infractors (which can alternatively be built as Tormentors). This is a pretty great start to an Emperor’s Children force. Although Flawless Blades are hardly taken, they remain the army’s elite melee threat. That being said, Infractors and Tormentors also pack a heck of a punch as well and the Lord Exultant is a Character you often see in Emperor’s Children lists. This box probably doesn’t have a great redundancy factor because of the Flawless Blades and the fact that you’re probably not ever going to need more than 6-9 of them if any at all, but the value is still good for what you’re getting.

Emperor’s Children: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Bottom line, beyond this box set you’re going to want Daemon Princes. Probably three of them. They remain the optimal choice for Emperor’s Children players because of their speed, ability to deliver mortal wounds, and devastating combat attacks. Beyond that Noise Marines are an excellent choice to give you some strong anti-elite infantry firepower. If the army lacks anywhere it is having decent ranged threats beyond Noise Marines, but that dilemma is solved with the forthcoming Defiler model. You’re probably going to want at least one of them if not two as they are fantastic in an Emperor’s Children force. Of course there’s always the Daemon Primarch Fulgrim as well, which makes for a nice army centerpiece but is not often taken in Emperor’s Children armies due to his very large base size and prohibitive points cost.

Emperor’s Children Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Red Corsairs Combat Patrol

The Red Corsairs are a Chaos Space Marines Renegade Warband. They fell to the ruinous powers long after the Horus Heresy. They do not claim devotion to any particular Chaos God and instead forge piratical raids across the Imperium led by their Chaos Lord Huron Blackheart. The Red Corsairs model range is brand new in 2026 and features a unique aesthetic for your Chaos Space Marines forces.

The Red Corsairs Combat Patrol comes with a Red Corsairs Reave-Captain, 1 Chaos Rhino, 5 Red Corsairs Raiders, and 10 Fellgor Ravagers. As far as Combat Patrols go, this one is nice in that it features the new models in the Red Corsairs range specifically the Reave-Captain and the Red Corsairs Raiders, however the inclusion of the Fellgor Ravagers is a bit of a miss as they are generally one of the worst units in the entire game. You’re much better off supplementing your Red Corsairs forces with Chaos Cultists. As far as Combat Patrols go, this one is not great other than the opportunity to get the newly released models.

Red Corsairs: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Beyond the addition of more Red Corsairs Raiders, you’re going to want Huron Blackheart and his Masters of the Maelstrom retinue. They are great force multiplier and really ramp up the efficiency of your units. Beyond that you’ll want the standard fair for Chaos Space Marines units including Chosen (great to attach Huron and his retinue to) and a good fire support base like Forgefiends or Vindicators.

Red Corsairs Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Xenos Combat Patrols

Tyranids Combat Patrol

Tyranids are the hive menace from deep space hellbent on devouring the Imperium of mankind of all biomass. These massive hive fleets consume and attack Imperium planets devouring them of all life. They cannot be reasoned with. They cannot be bargained with. They exist soley to consume. So, if you’re into hordes of bug aliens or big alien monsters that love to wreck everything in their path, then Tyranids may be for you.

The Tyranids Combat Patrol comes with a leader known as the Parasite of Mortrex, as well as a squad of 3 Tyrant Guard (which can also optionally be built as a separate unit called Hive Guard), a Biovore, 3 Spore Mines, and 10 Genestealers. Ultimately, this is an ok entry point into Tyranids and the Genestealers and Biovore will be useful units as you expand your forces, however you are probably unlikely to use Tyrant or Hive Guard as your collection expands and unlikely to use the Parasite of Mortrex either. Overall, it’s an ok entry into the faction, however.

Tyranids: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Tyranids are a faction presented as one that drowns the opponent in hordes of insect-like aliens, but the reality for the faction is that most of its strength comes in the form of big scary monsters. Units like Exocrines and Malceptors are a staple in most every Tyranids build while units like Neurotyrants and Lictors make great utility scoring pieces.

Tyranids Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Aeldari Combat Patrol

The Aeldari are one of the oldest factions in the game, both in the lore and in the tabletop game itself. They have been a core faction for Warhammer 40,000 for well over three decades. Do you prefer to play very fast mobile armies that hit like a truck? The Aeldari are elusive and evasive and their strength relies primarily on outmaneuvering the enemy and crushing it under effective devastating firepower and assault.

The Aeldari Combat Patrol features a Spiritseer, 5 Wraithblades (which can be built as Wraithguard also), 5 Warp Spiders and 10 Dire Avengers. Unfortunately this is one of the few starter sets that really fails to deliver. Most of these units are mediocre in the game’s current state and in fact most are hardly ever used or taken at all. The exception here are the Warp Spiders who are seen in just about every Aeldari list as you progress into larger games. If you’re just starting out and want to play Aeldari you’re better off just buying boxes individually and building up your force as most of these units are never or hardly ever seen in play.

Aeldari: Beyond the Combat Patrol:

While this Combat Patrol is mostly a dud, the better place to start is by picking up units like Fire Dragons, Warp Spiders, Dark Reapers and Guardians. The Phoenix Lords like Fuegan, Lhykhis and Jain-Zar are also great investments. For leaders you’re going to wanting to pick up a Farseer or two and definitely some Warlock Conclaves to fill out your forces. Wave Serpents also make great utility transports for the faction as well. Aeldari have no shortage of great units, they just aren’t really present in the Combat Patrol

Aeldari Combat Patrol Final Grade: D

T’au Empire Combat Patrol

The T’au Empire is a relative upstart Xenos race in the Warhammer 40,000 universe and while they pose no grave threat to the Imperium, they are of course aliens so must be purged. If you’re into big mech robot suits and blasting units away with powerful shooting, then T’au Empire might be your faction.

The T’au Empire Combat Patrol contains a Commander that can be built as either an Enforcer or Coldstar, 1 Devilfish transport, 10 Pathfinders and 10 Breachers or Strike Team. It also comes with a ton of drone models you’ll never use because they’re just tokens and for the most part don’t really matter much. This is an ok starter set and features units you’re more than likely going to build upon. It has some decent redundancy as you very well may run more than one Commander and more Pathfinders, Breachers and transports are never bad. Overall it’s a pretty good entry into the T’au faction.

T’au Empire: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Once you’ve picked up the Combat Patrol you’re going to want to pick up the most iconic unit in the entire faction; the Riptide. In fact, you’re probably going to want 3 of these as most T’au lists for the test of time have used triple Riptide. The Twin Lance is a new unit but a great one to pick up as well as you expand your collection. Stealth Suits are a staple T’au unit as well. And what T’au army wouldn’t be complete without the a great leader? Shadowsun is a great choice to lead your T’au army as you expand.

T’au Empire Combat Patrol Final Grade: B

Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol

The Leagues of Votann are the newest faction in Warhammer 40,000 having been introduced in 9th edition. As such, their model range is small but growing. Votann may best be compared to the “dwarves” of the Warhammer 40,000 universe and as far as playing on the tabletop, the best way to put them is “just honest Warhammer.” There’s not tricks. No frills. There’s nothing flashy about them, which is just as they should be really. They are just solid and good at what they do.

The Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol contains 1 Einhyr Champ, 3 Brokhyr Thunderkyn, 5 Einhyr Hearthguard, and 10 Hearthkyn Warriors. This presents a very solid foundation for a Leagues of Votann army. Because the model range is somewhat limited, just about everything in the range is useful so this is a solid pickup if you’re looking to start a Votann force and one you can easily build upon and get gameplay out of for years.

Leagues of Votann: Beyond the Combat Patrol

As you expand your Votann forces you’re going to want to pick up the amazing Hekaton Land Fortress for some serious vehicle firepower. Hernkyn Pioneers make a great addition to your Votann army giving you some solid speed with efficient shots as well. And no Votann army is complete without a couple of Sagitaurs to drive those stubby boys around in.

Leagues of Votann Combat Patrol Final Grade: A

Drukhari Combat Patrol

Drukhari are a fast, ruthless faction built around speed, precision, and cruelty. They excel at striking hard, picking apart weak points, and overwhelming opponents with fragile but deadly units that reward aggressive, calculated play. In Warhammer 40K lore, they are raiders from the dark city of Commorragh who survive by inflicting suffering on others, giving the army a sinister style both on the table and in the setting. Unlike their Aeldari kin, they do not utilize Psykers in an attempt to remain unseen by the Chaos God Slaanesh, who was birthed when the Aeldari empire fell due to their own hedonistic ways.

The Drukhari Combat Patrol comes with a Hamonculus, 2 Cronos (that can alternatively be built as a Talos), and 10 Wracks. As far as Combat Patrols go, this one is mostly a dud and most of these units you won’t use much in your armies beyond the Combat Patrol. That said, it doesn’t mean they will be bad forever as the Drukhari faction generally sees waves of utility with various different units. That being said, there are probably better options to start your Drukhari collection than this Combat Patrol.

Drukhari: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Most Drukhari builds in 2026 are centered around using Wyches and Hellions with Raiders and Venoms as the main transport option. Scourges make great anti-tank options with Dark Lances as well. If you’re starting a Drukhari army it’s better to focus on The Maelstrom Drukhari Battalion as an optional starter set. It contains one Succubus, 10 Wyches, 5 Hellions, 3 Reaver jetbikes, and 2 Venoms and makes a great optional starter instead.

Drukhari Combat Patrol Final Grade: D (The Maelstrom Battalion is an A however)

Orks Combat Patrol

Aye laddy, ya lookin’ to do some propa krumpin’ on some Humee skulls? Of course ya are. The Orks are a brutal green-skinned Xenos race that prides pure strength and power over…well everything. In fact, the more skulls they crack, the larger they grow. If you’re into zany alien warriors who love to throw space pigs at enemies and charge into their lines, the Orks may just be for you.

The Orks Combat Patrol comes with a Beastboss, 4 Squighog Boyz, 20 Beast Snagga Boyz. While honestly this isn’t a terrible starter set, it’s also not the greatest and with Orks in their current state you’re unlikely to use many of these units at all as you expand your collection. Orks generally are centered around Warbosses, Kommandos and hordes of regular Ork Boyz. As far as Combat Patrols go, this one is fun, but mostly a miss as you expand what will inevitably become your ‘uge Orks collection.

Orks: Beyond the Combat Patrol

As I noted above you’re really going to want to focus on units like Warbosses, Boyz and Kommandos along with Gretchin for holding objectives. In fact, it may be better to hold out for the upcoming 11th Edition Armageddon starter set as it’s going to contain new Ork models which are sure to be great out of the gate with an update to the Ork Boyz models.

Orks Combat Patrol Final Grade: D

Necrons Combat Patrol

Necrons are an ancient army of living machines built on durability, efficiency, and raw staying power. On the table, they win by absorbing punishment, controlling space, and steadily grinding opponents down while key units keep coming back. They have a very methodical feel, making them a great fit for players who want a faction that is tough, reliable, and punishing over the course of a game.

The Necrons Combat Patrol contains 1 Overlord with tachyon arrow, 1 Conoptek Doomstalker, 3 Skorpekh Destroyers, 10 Warriors, and 3 Canoptek Scarab Swarms. Sadly, this Combat Patrol misses the mark for the most part when it comes to a good foundation to build upon. The Necron Warriors and Skorpekh Destroyers are useful units, but the Doomstalker and Scarabs hardly see play as you grow your collection beyond the Combat Patrol. Sadly this one is a bit of a miss.

Necrons: Beyond the Combat Patrol

Necrons have a pretty deep Codex now and have a variety of solid builds to choose from. Whether you’re looking to rock C’tan star-god monsters like The Nightbringer or The Void Dragon, or you want blobs of Necron Warriors that keep coming back, there are various units you can invest in to grow your Necrons army and many of them are viable. And of course you’re going to eventually want The Silent King to lead these merciless robot warriors into battle.

Necrons Combat Patrol Final Grade: C

Genestealer Cults Combat Patrol

Genestealer Cults are a tricky, high-skill faction built around board control, ambush pressure, and forcing your opponent into bad decisions. They do not win by brute force, but by flooding key areas, trading efficiently, and hitting from angles that are difficult to screen or prepare for. It is a faction that rewards planning, precision, and players who enjoy controlling the flow of the game.

The Genestealer Cults Combat Patrol includes a Jackal Alphus, Achilles Ridgerunner, 5 Atalan Jackals, 10 Hybrid Metamporphs (which can also be built as Acolyte Hybrids). This makes a pretty solid start to a Genestealer Cults army, although it is unlikely that you’re going to buy more than one of these as you expand your forces. Acolyte Hybrids are the core unit for Genestealer Cults and Achilles Ridgerunners are very good complimentary pieces. Overall this is a really great starter set if you’re looking to start a Genestealer Cults army.

Genestealer Cults: Beyond the Combat Patrol

As you expand your Genestealer Cults army you’re going to want plenty of Acolyte Hybrids and Neophyte Hybrids. This army is all about spamming tons of infantry models that can Deep Strike or use Cult Ambush to really deliver devastating blows to the enemy and they rely heavily on strong board control. More Atalan Jackals are also a good unit to pick up as well and of course you’re going to want some Characters and the Benefictus and Reductus Saboteur make great options.

Genestealer Cults Combat Patrol Final Grade: B