Oval vs Round Bases for Wargaming Figures
By Sarissa Precision Ltd – Sarissa Precision Limited | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: Comparisons
Compare oval and round wargaming bases to see which shape suits your miniatures and game system. Learn the trade-offs in footprint, unit cohesion, and modeling flexibility.
Quick answer
Choose oval bases for dynamic, charging poses and easier unit ranking in games like Warhammer 40,000; choose round bases for stable, symmetrical display and classic figure mounting.
Footprint and table space
Oval bases have a longer front-to-back profile that can make units appear more spread out on the table. Round bases offer a compact, equal-radius footprint that fits neatly into movement trays and close-order formations.
If you play a game that measures distances from the base edge, the longer oval shape can give you a slight reach advantage when charging, but it also makes the unit harder to hide behind terrain.
Modeling and posing flexibility
Oval bases naturally suit running, lunging, or flying poses because the elongated shape mirrors the figure's forward momentum. Round bases work well for static, standing, or defensive stances where symmetry matters.
For cavalry or large monsters, oval bases often match the animal's body shape better than a round base, reducing overhang and making basing materials look more natural.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Unit cohesion: Round bases rank tightly in movement trays and keep a uniform frontage. Oval bases leave gaps between models, which can break formation rules in some game systems.
- Dynamic posing: Oval bases let you tilt the figure forward or extend a weapon without the base tipping. Round bases limit dynamic angles because the model's center of mass stays centered.
- Terrain interaction: Oval bases are harder to place on narrow terrain features like walls or ruins. Round bases fit into small gaps more easily, giving you more cover options. Test a few base shapes with your terrain set before committing to a full army.
Product facts
- Oval Bases (GW): Oval Bases are precision laser-cut and available in standard oval and pill sizes commonly used with Games Workshop miniatures. You can choose from 2mm or 3mm MDF as well as clear acrylic, so the base material matches your durability and transparency needs for scenic or tournament play.
Oval Bases (GW)
Which base shape fits your army?
Best for
- Players who want dynamic, action-oriented poses and don't mind a looser unit formation
- Cavalry or monster units where the base shape mirrors the model's natural stance
Not ideal for
- Players who need tight, uniform unit ranks for games with strict coherency rules
- Hobbyists who prefer symmetrical basing for display or diorama work
