Mage Armor

Support

Level & School
1st-level abjuration
Casting Time
Action
Range
Touch
Components
V, S, M (a piece of cured leather)
Duration
8 hours
Classes
Sorcerer, Wizard

You touch a willing creature who isn't wearing armor. Until the spell ends, the target's base AC becomes 13 plus its Dexterity modifier. The spell ends early if the target dons armor.

Level & School
1st-level abjuration
Casting Time
Action
Range
Touch
Components
V, S, M (a piece of cured leather)
Duration
8 hours
Classes
Sorcerer, Wizard

You touch a willing creature who isn't wearing armor, and a protective magical force surrounds it until the spell ends. The target's base AC becomes 13 + its Dexterity modifier. The spell ends if the target dons armor or if you dismiss the spell as an action.

Mage Armor 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences

Both versions have the same duration, classes, and effect. The 2024 version explicitly states the spell ends early if the target dons armor, whereas the 2014 version states it ends if the target dons armor or if you dismiss it as an action. No significant mechanical differences.

Spells similar to Mage Armor

  • Shield of Faith, 1st-level abjuration

    Like Mage Armor it’s a low-level protective spell that raises a target’s defensive capability for a limited time.

  • Barkskin, 2nd-level transmutation

    It also sets a creature’s base armor value instead of adding a bonus, making it a functional analogue at a slightly higher level.

  • Warding Bond, 2nd-level abjuration

    This spell provides a sustained protective effect to a touched ally and is used when you want long-lasting defense through magic.

  • Armor of Agathys, 1st-level abjuration

    Although it adds temporary hit points and retaliation, it’s a 1st-level self-protection option often chosen for defensive play like Mage Armor.

  • Shield, 1st-level abjuration

    A short-duration, immediate defensive abjuration that players pick for boosting AC in danger, making it a close tactical cousin.