Which Round Base Size Is Right for Your 40K Models?
One of the most common questions new Warhammer 40K players ask is: "What size base does this model need?"
Whether you're building your first Combat Patrol or rebasing an old army for 11th Edition, getting the right round base size matters — for gameplay, for painting, and for how your army looks on the table.
Here's a quick reference covering every standard round base size, which models use them, and where to find high-quality bases that don't break the bank.
25mm — The Infantry Standard
The 25mm round base is the workhorse of 40K. It fits most basic infantry models across nearly every faction.
Common models:
- Astra Militarum Guardsmen
- Ork Boyz (older kits)
- Cultists, Gaunts, and most swarm units
- Skitarii Rangers / Vanguard
Why it matters: A solid 25mm base gives your infantry stability without taking up too much space when you're piling 30+ models onto an objective marker. MDF and plastic are both great options here — MDF for bulk savings, plastic for durability.
32mm — The New Standard for Power Armor
Games Workshop has been gradually shifting Space Marines and similarly-sized models to 32mm bases. If you're building Primaris or updating older tactical marines, this is the size you want.
Common models:
- Primaris Intercessors, Assault Intercessors
- Chaos Space Marines Legionaries
- Necron Immortals
- Most newer Space Marine character models
Pro tip: Swapping old 25mm marines onto 32mm bases instantly modernizes your army. Just make sure your local gaming group is fine with the rebase — most are.
40mm — Heavy Infantry & Light Monsters
When a model is bigger than a standard trooper but not quite a vehicle, it usually sits on a 40mm base.
Common models:
- Terminators (all flavors)
- Nobz, Meganobz
- Tyranid Warriors
- Most Space Marine characters in Gravis armor
The extra surface area on a 40mm base is also great for scenic basing — cork, texture paste, and small bits fit comfortably without crowding the model.
64.5mm — Bikers, Dreadnoughts & Big Creatures
This size is where things get serious. 64.5mm bases anchor larger models that dominate the battlefield visually and mechanically.
Common models:
- Outriders and most Space Marine bike units
- Dreadnoughts (non-Redemptor)
- Tau Crisis Battlesuits
- Most mid-sized monsters (Carnifexes, etc.)
80mm & 100mm — Centerpiece Models
For the big stuff — Daemon Primarchs, Knights, and massive centerpiece kits — you're looking at 80mm or 100mm round bases. These are less commonly bought in bulk, but having a reliable source for them is key when you need one.
Quick Reference Table
| Base Size | Best For | Popular Factions |
|---|---|---|
| 25mm | Standard infantry, swarm units | Guard, Orks, Tyranids |
| 32mm | Power armor infantry | Space Marines, Chaos, Necrons |
| 40mm | Heavy infantry, light monsters | Terminators, Tyranid Warriors |
| 64.5mm | Bikes, dreadnoughts, large beasts | Outriders, Crisis Suits |
| 80mm+ | Centerpiece models, Knights | Daemon Primarchs, Imperial Knights |
One Last Thing
Base size doesn't just affect rules — it affects how your models feel on the table. A well-weighted, properly sized base makes models easier to handle, less likely to tip over, and gives you room to express yourself with basing details.
Browse our full range of precision-molded round bases in every size at Wargame Base World. From 25mm to 130mm, we've got your army covered.
Disclaimer: This article is an independent hobby resource. Wargame Base World is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Games Workshop Group PLC. Warhammer, Warhammer 40K, and all associated names and imagery are trademarks or registered trademarks of Games Workshop Limited. All product names and faction references are used for descriptive and informational purposes only.
Ready to upgrade? Shop our Round Bases collection now.
