Gaming & Hobby

5e Point Buy Calculator

Allocate ability scores using the D&D 5th edition point buy system and track your remaining points.

Point Pool

Ability Scores

STR

Strength

8

Mod

-1

DEX

Dexterity

8

Mod

-1

CON

Constitution

8

Mod

-1

INT

Intelligence

8

Mod

-1

WIS

Wisdom

8

Mod

-1

CHA

Charisma

8

Mod

-1

Points Spent

0 / 27

Points Remaining

27

Ability Score Spread

This is an independent fan-made calculator for the D&D 5th edition point buy system and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Wizards of the Coast.

How the 5e Point Buy Calculator Works

Point buy lets you customize your six ability scores by spending a shared pool of points instead of rolling dice or using the standard array. Raise or lower each score between 8 and 15 using the +/- controls, and the calculator tracks how many of your points are spent and shows your live ability modifiers on a radar chart.

Formula

Each score from 8 to 15 costs points according to the standard 5e table: 8=0, 9=1, 10=2, 11=3, 12=4, 13=5, 14=7, 15=9 points. Ability modifier = floor((score - 10) / 2).

Example

Raising a score from 13 to 14 costs 2 more points (7 - 5), while raising it from 14 to 15 also costs 2 more points (9 - 7), showing why scores above 13 get progressively more expensive.

Limitations

This calculator uses the standard 27-point buy range of 8-15 before racial or other bonuses, as published in the D&D 5th edition Player's Handbook. Some tables or editions use a different point pool or scoring range as a house rule, which this tool also supports through the point pool selector.

How to use the result responsibly

  1. Check that every input uses the unit and time period shown beside the field.
  2. Compare the result with the worked example and formula above.
  3. For financial, tax, health, or legal decisions, confirm current rules with a qualified professional or the relevant authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many points do I get in standard 5e point buy?

The standard rule gives 27 points, with each ability score starting at 8 and able to be raised up to 15 before racial bonuses.

Why does raising a score above 13 cost more?

Scores of 14 and 15 cost 2 points per increase instead of 1, to keep very high starting scores balanced against the rest of the party.

Is this an official Wizards of the Coast tool?

No. This is an independent fan-made calculator for the D&D 5th edition point buy system and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Wizards of the Coast.

Editorially reviewed September 22, 2026. Read our calculation methodology and editorial policy.