Dice hold a special place in the heart of every Dungeons and Dragons player. Far beyond mere instruments for chance, these iconic objects are woven into the very fabric of the game, often shaping one’s fate. Yet, amidst the fascination with their vibrant colours and distinct shapes, an intriguing question often arises: what exactly are D&D dice made of?
In this guide, we'll delve into the most common materials used to create these iconic gaming tools, shedding light on the diverse options adventurers can choose from.
Plastic dice
Most dice on the market are made of plastic, more specifically acrylic or resin. These materials share the advantage of being durable, cost-effective, and relatively easy to manufacture, making them the go-to choice that accompany countless adventurers.
Above: our Astral Sea dice set, an example of plastic D&D dice.
Resin dice and acrylic dice differ primarily in their production processes. Resin dice are crafted by curing and hardening resin through a chemical reaction, resulting in a solid, durable product. On the other hand, acrylic dice are made from a type of thermoplastic that becomes pliable when heated, allowing for versatile shaping. For more information, check out our guide that explains how dice are made.
The choice between resin and acrylic often depends on matters of cost, design, and style, meaning players may not readily discern the difference between the two.
Pros and cons of plastic dice
With plastic dice, their affordability allows for a vast array of designs, offering players a plethora of options to choose from. However, this accessibility has its downside, as they are less rare and unique compared to dice made from other materials like metal or gemstone. Additionally, you should avoid buying plastic dice from less reputable sources, as cheaper manufacturing processes can introduce imperfections like bubbles that might compromise the balance of the dice.
For more help with this, be sure to read our guide that explains what to consider when buying dice.
Metal dice
Metal dice have surged in popularity among tabletop gamers, offering a distinct aesthetic and heft that plastic dice lack. Our guide comparing metal and plastic dice explains the differences in more detail.
Above: our Bronze Hollow Dragon dice set, an example of metal D&D dice.
Zinc alloy is the most common material used, favoured for its ease of manufacturing, affordability, and durability, making it a popular choice for crafting captivating dice sets. Aluminium and brass are other common metals used but are generally more expensive than those made from zinc alloy.
Because of the difference in materials, there are some things you should know about storing and caring for metal dice.
The weight and feel of metal dice add a tactile element to the gaming experience, elevating the excitement of crucial rolls. The distinct clatter as metal dice collide on the tabletop can enhance the dramatic moments in a campaign, making them a preferred choice for many players seeking both functionality and style in their dice sets.
Pros and cons of metal dice
Metal dice offer a satisfying weight and feel in the hand, a quality many players appreciate, along with the delightful jingle they produce when rolled. However, the premium feel comes with a higher price tag compared to plastic dice. While the aesthetic appeal and auditory charm of metal dice are undeniable, they may not be suitable for all players, especially children, due to their weight and potential safety concerns. You’ll also need a D&D dice tray to roll them safely without damaging your gaming surface.
Other materials used to make D&D dice
Aside from plastic and metal, there are lots of other materials used to make D&D dice!
Glass dice
Glass dice, though crafted from the delicate material of glass, defy fragility expectations, proving resilient when handled with care. These dice provide a premium and visually stunning rolling experience that adds an extra layer of sophistication to tabletop gaming.
Above: our Iridis Rainbow dice set, an example of glass D&D dice.
While they may come with a higher price tag akin to gemstone dice, the rarity and alluring aesthetics of glass dice make them an exceptional choice for those seeking a unique and luxurious addition to their collection.
Gemstone dice
Gemstone dice stand as a distinctive category in the realm of dice, deviating from the conventional plastic to showcase the natural beauty of genuine gemstones.
Renowned for their exquisite aesthetics and unique properties, gemstone dice offer a tactile pleasure that elevates the rolling experience. Crafted from specific gem types like quartz, amethyst, or lapis lazuli, each set of gemstone dice becomes a coveted treasure for tabletop gamers and collectors, combining both functional gameplay and visual allure in a singular, captivating package. They do, however, attract some of the highest price tags amongst all the types of dice.
Wooden dice
Wooden dice, as the name suggests, are crafted from different types of wood by skilled artisans, shaping them into the iconic polyhedral forms indispensable in tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons.
The allure of wooden dice lies not just in their functionality but in the diverse aesthetics and properties each wood type imparts. Whether it's the warm hues of cherry wood, the distinctive grain patterns of acacia, the rich tones of mahogany, or the deep elegance of walnut, wooden dice offer a touch of natural craftsmanship to your gaming experience.
What is the best material for D&D dice?
You can use dice made from any material in D&D, so long as they are fair and balanced. The best material depends on personal preferences. Whether it's plastic for variety, metal for weight, or something else, each has its charm. Many dice goblins and dragons keep hoards of different types to keep their rolls diverse.
Explore our range of dice today
If you found this article intriguing, dive into our guide on dice sizes, unravelling the intricacies of dice used in D&D and various tabletop games. Or, if you’re still not sure how these polyhedral agents of chaos work, check out our guide that explains how dice are used in D&D.
At Dice Dragons, we're your allies in the world of tabletop gaming, offering a diverse array of D&D dice sets and tabletop gaming accessories. Don't miss our eyeball-rolling dice, adding a touch of whimsy to your gaming experience!
