Gnome 5e
Gnomes are small, intelligent humanoids with a boundless energy for living. Standing 3 to 4 feet tall, gnomes are recognizable by their love of invention, exploration, and discovery. They delight in all forms of investigation and learning. A gnome's life is a series of adventures and investigations, filled with curiosity about how things work and why things happen.
At a Glance
Ability Scores
+2 Intelligence
Size
Small
Speed
25 ft.
Languages
Common, Gnomish
Source
Player's Handbook
Racial Traits
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Darkvision | You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. |
| Gnome Cunning | You have advantage on all Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic. |
| Small | Your size is Small. Small creatures have disadvantage with heavy weapons. |
Subraces
| Subrace | Bonus |
|---|---|
| Forest Gnome | +1 Dexterity. Natural Illusionist: You know the Minor Illusion cantrip. Intelligence is your spellcasting ability for it. Speak with Small Beasts: Through sounds and gestures, you can communicate simple ideas with Small or smaller beasts. |
| Rock Gnome | +1 Constitution. Artificer's Lore: Whenever you make an Intelligence (History) check related to magic items, alchemical objects, or technological devices, add twice your proficiency bonus. Tinker: You have proficiency with artisan's tools (tinker's tools). Using those tools, you can spend 1 hour and 10 gp worth of materials to construct a Tiny clockwork device (AC 5, 1 hp). |
| Deep Gnome (Svirfneblin) | +1 Dexterity. Superior Darkvision: Your darkvision has a radius of 120 feet. Stone Camouflage: You have advantage on Stealth checks to hide in rocky terrain. |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting Gnome Cunning applies to ALL mental saves against magic (very powerful)
Common Mistake
Not tracking Tinker device limits (only 3 active at once)
Common Mistake
Thinking Small size prevents you from using weapons (only heavy weapons have disadvantage)
Common Mistake
Forgetting Forest Gnomes can only communicate simple ideas with small beasts
Common Mistake
Not using Stone Camouflage when playing Deep Gnomes in appropriate terrain
DM Tips
DM Tip
Gnome Cunning makes them very resistant to spellcasters - excellent for high-magic campaigns
DM Tip
Forest Gnomes make great illusionists and tricksters
DM Tip
Rock Gnomes are perfect for artificers or inventive characters
DM Tip
Deep Gnomes work well in Underdark campaigns
DM Tip
Encourage creative uses of Tinker - wind-up toys can be useful distractions
DM Tip
Gnomish communities often value innovation and curiosity
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- Gnome — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD race text
- Gnome — D&D Beyond — Official race reference
- Gnome Handbook — RPGBOT — Race optimization guide