So, what is the best spec in the MoP DPS tier list right now? For Phase 5 (Siege of Orgrimmar) in Mists of Pandaria Classic, Affliction Warlock is the clear number one in the sources we checked. After that, several specs sit close together, so the order is not fixed. Last updated: October 14, 2026, so you can see how fresh this guide is.
Also, this MoP DPS tier list shows the current Phase 5 ranking, a check against raid log data, and tips for choosing a spec. Because sources disagree, we explain where they differ instead of hiding it.
MoP DPS Tier List for Phase 5
First, here is the Phase 5 ranking. According to EpicCarry (updated October 3, 2026), the tiers are:
| Tier | Specs |
|---|---|
| S | Affliction Warlock |
| A | Balance Druid, Feral Druid, Arcane Mage, Fire Mage, Windwalker Monk, Combat Rogue, Demonology Warlock, Fury Warrior |
| B | Beast Mastery Hunter, Survival Hunter, Retribution Paladin, Shadow Priest, Assassination Rogue, Subtlety Rogue, Elemental Shaman, Enhancement Shaman, Destruction Warlock, Arms Warrior |
| C | Frost Death Knight, Unholy Death Knight, Marksmanship Hunter, Frost Mage |
The page also says every spec can clear Phase 5 content, but lower tiers make it harder. So, a B or C tier spec is not unplayable.
MoP DPS Tier List Check: Raid Log Rankings
Next, we compare that list with real raid data. According to Warcraft Tavern (updated August 28, 2026), which uses Warcraft Logs data for Heroic Siege of Orgrimmar, the top specs are:
- Affliction Warlock
- Windwalker Monk
- Demonology Warlock
- Fire Mage
- Balance Druid
- Feral Druid
- Combat Rogue
- Arcane Mage
Also, all of these specs are in A tier or higher in the EpicCarry list, so the two sources agree on the top group. However, they disagree on some specs. The full raid log ranking has 23 specs, and Arms Warrior is last, while EpicCarry puts it in B tier. Meanwhile, Retribution Paladin is ninth in the raid logs but B tier in EpicCarry.
S Tier in the MoP DPS Tier List
Affliction Warlock is the only S tier spec in the EpicCarry list, and it is first in the Warcraft Tavern data too. According to EpicCarry, it reaches about 602,000 DPS in Heroic Siege of Orgrimmar. So, if you want the highest damage and you enjoy the class, it is the safest pick. However, a raid usually does not want many of the same spec, so check what your group needs.
Best MoP DPS Specs for Raiding
For raiding, the top group is Affliction Warlock, Windwalker Monk, Demonology Warlock, Fire Mage, Balance Druid, Feral Druid, Combat Rogue and Arcane Mage. Also, Icy Veins explains that a tier also reflects how many of a spec a raid wants. For example, it says the first Balance Druid is very valuable, and later ones are worth much less. Also, it says you will rarely want more than one of a spec in a 10-man raid.
Why Is the MoP DPS Tier List Different Between Sources?
The sources use different data and different dates. Icy Veins last updated its list on December 5, 2025 for Phase 3, when Arcane Mage, Subtlety Rogue and Destruction Warlock were S tier. However, the game has moved to Phase 5, and the newer sources rank them lower. So, always check the date and the phase on a tier list. Also, one page we checked is titled October 2026 but was published in November 2025, so a title alone can be misleading.
How to Choose From the MoP DPS Tier List
- First, decide if you want to raid, or just play with friends.
- Next, choose a spec from S or A tier that you enjoy.
- Then, ask your guild which specs they already have, because raids prefer variety.
- Finally, learn your rotation and gear, since good play matters more than a small tier gap.
MoP Classic DPS Tier List: Which Specs Fell?
Several specs moved down in Phase 5. According to EpicCarry, Unholy Death Knight went from S to C, and Frost Death Knight went from A to C. Also, Beast Mastery Hunter, Survival Hunter and Destruction Warlock all fell from S to B. So, a guide from earlier phases may now give you the wrong advice.
MoP DPS Tier List vs PvP Rankings
This list is for PvE raiding, so it does not tell you which specs are best in PvP. For current retail rankings, see our WoW PvP tier list. However, remember that Classic and retail use different rules, so those rankings do not carry over.
Common MoP DPS Mistakes
- Using an old tier list. Check the phase and date before you pick a spec.
- Ignoring group needs. A raid does not want many of the same spec.
- Chasing the top spot only. A spec you enjoy usually performs better than one you dislike.
- Skipping gear and practice. Rankings assume good gear and a well-played rotation.
MoP DPS Tier List FAQ
What is the best DPS in MoP Classic?
Affliction Warlock is first in both the EpicCarry tier list and the Warcraft Tavern raid log ranking for Phase 5.
Which phase does this MoP DPS tier list cover?
It covers Phase 5, Siege of Orgrimmar.
Can lower tier specs still clear raids?
Yes. EpicCarry says every spec can clear Phase 5 content, although lower tiers make it harder.
Why does the list change between phases?
Each phase adds a new raid, and a spec’s damage can change with new gear and fights. So, rankings move with every phase.
Is Arms Warrior good in MoP Classic?
Both sources we checked rank it low in Phase 5, with B tier on EpicCarry and last place in the raid log ranking.
Final Thoughts on the MoP DPS Tier List
The MoP DPS tier list for Phase 5 puts Affliction Warlock at the top, followed by a close group of A tier specs. However, sources disagree on many placements, so treat the order as a guide. Finally, pick a spec you enjoy, check what your raid needs, and update your choice when the next phase arrives.
Sources: because rankings change, the placements on this page come from EpicCarry, Warcraft Tavern and Icy Veins. Also, you can check the game on the official World of Warcraft site.
