OSRS Who Should I Train On Best Monsters for Combat Training

OSRS Who Should I Train On Best Monsters for Combat Training

Training combat in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a core part of the game, whether you’re aiming to become a PvM master, a PvP legend, or just want to tackle quests with ease. Choosing the right monsters to train on can make or break your experience, balancing XP rates, profitability, and fun. This guide dives into the best monsters to train on for different combat levels and playstyles, helping you maximize efficiency and enjoyment. Whether you’re a free-to-play (F2P) player, a member (P2P), or an Ironman, we’ve got you covered with actionable tips and strategies.

In OSRS, not all monsters are created equal. Some offer high XP rates but low loot, while others are profitable but slow to kill. Your choice depends on your combat level, account type, and goals—whether it’s fast XP, AFK training, or earning gold. Picking the right monster saves time, reduces costs, and keeps you motivated. This section breaks down key factors to consider and top monster recommendations for various scenarios.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Monsters

  • Combat Level: Ensure the monster’s level matches your stats to avoid being overwhelmed or wasting time on weak foes.
  • XP Rates: Higher HP monsters often yield better XP, but check if they’re worth the effort.
  • Loot Potential: Some monsters drop valuable items, offsetting training costs.
  • Location: Accessibility matters, especially for Ironmen or F2P players with limited teleports.
  • AFK Potential: For casual players, low-aggression monsters allow semi-AFK training.

Best Monsters for Low-Level Combat (1–40)

Early-game combat training is about building a foundation. Low-level players need monsters that are easy to kill, accessible, and offer decent XP. Here are the best options for levels 1–40, ideal for F2P and new P2P players.

Chickens (F2P)

Chickens are the quintessential starter monster. Found in Lumbridge and Falador, they’re perfect for levels 1–20.

  • Combat Level: 1
  • XP/Hour: ~10–20k (depending on stats)
  • Loot: Feathers (stackable, sellable), raw chicken (for Cooking).
  • Why Train Here: Safe, crowded but spacious, great for F2P.

Tip: Use the Lumbridge chicken coop near the castle for quick banking or cook raw chickens on-site to train Cooking simultaneously.

Cows (F2P)

Cows in Lumbridge’s cowfield are a step up, ideal for levels 10–30.

  • Combat Level: 2
  • XP/Hour: ~15–25k
  • Loot: Cowhides (sell for ~150–200 GP each), raw beef.
  • Why Train Here: Profitable for F2P, easy to access.

Tip: Bank cowhides at Lumbridge Castle to fund early gear like mithril or adamant armor.

Giant Frogs (P2P)

For P2P players at levels 20–40, Giant Frogs in the Lumbridge Swamp are excellent.

  • Combat Level: 13
  • XP/Hour: ~20–30k
  • Loot: Big bones (for Prayer training).
  • Why Train Here: Low defense, high HP, F2P-friendly for Prayer.

Tip: Bury big bones for Prayer XP if you’re training Prayer early, or sell them for profit.

Best Monsters for Mid-Level Combat (40–70)

Mid-level players have more options, especially with P2P access. These monsters offer better XP and loot, preparing you for endgame content.

Moss Giants (F2P/P2P)

Moss Giants in the Varrock Sewers or Crandor are great for levels 40–60.

  • Combat Level: 42
  • XP/Hour: ~30–50k
  • Loot: Mossy keys (for Bryophyta), runes, herbs.
  • Why Train Here: Safespot available, decent drops.

Tip: Use the alcove near Bryophyta’s Lair to safespot and conserve food.

Rock Crabs (P2P)

Rock Crabs on Rellekka’s coast are a P2P favorite for levels 40–70.

  • Combat Level: 13
  • XP/Hour: ~40–60k
  • Loot: Minimal, but high HP boosts XP.
  • Why Train Here: AFK-friendly, high HP, low aggression.

Tip: Reset aggression by running a short distance if crabs stop attacking.

Sand Crabs (P2P)

Sand Crabs on Hosidius are similar to Rock Crabs but more accessible for levels 50–70.

  • Combat Level: 15
  • XP/Hour: ~50–70k
  • Loot: Minimal, focus on XP.
  • Why Train Here: No quest requirements, multi-combat areas.

Tip: Use the three-spot areas for maximum efficiency, but expect crowds.

Best Monsters for High-Level Combat (70+)

High-level players can tackle tougher monsters for top-tier XP and loot. These are ideal for mains and Ironmen aiming for 99s or bossing prep.

Ammonite Crabs (P2P)

Ammonite Crabs on Fossil Island are the best for levels 70–99.

  • Combat Level: 25
  • XP/Hour: ~70–100k
  • Loot: Fossils, numulites.
  • Why Train Here: High HP, AFK-friendly, Fossil Island access.

Tip: Complete Bone Voyage quest for access and use fossils for Prayer XP on Ironman accounts.

Dust Devils (P2P)

Dust Devils in the Catacombs of Kourend are great for Slayer and combat training at 70+.

  • Combat Level: 93
  • XP/Hour: ~80–120k (with Slayer task)
  • Loot: Alchable items, herbs, runes.
  • Why Train Here: Profitable, multi-combat for burst spells.

Tip: Use Ice Burst for Magic training to stack kills and boost XP.

Nechryaels (P2P)

Nechryaels in the Catacombs are top-tier for 80+ players.

  • Combat Level: 115
  • XP/Hour: ~100–150k (with Dinh’s Bulwark on task)
  • Loot: Rune boots, alchables, death spawns.
  • Why Train Here: Best Melee XP with alt accounts.

Tip: Use Dinh’s Bulwark special attack to hit multiple death spawns for insane XP rates.

Training for Specific Account Types

Different account builds require tailored strategies. Here’s how to approach training for Pures, Ironmen, and F2P accounts.

Pures

Pures avoid training Defence to keep combat levels low. Focus on monsters like Sand Crabs or Ammonite Crabs for Strength and Attack XP without accidental Defence gains. Use low-Defence monsters like Moss Giants for Ranged or Magic training.

Ironmen

Ironmen need self-sufficiency. Train on monsters with useful drops, like Dust Devils for herbs or Nechryaels for alchables. Early on, safespot Giant Frogs or Moss Giants to conserve food. Combine with Slayer for efficiency.

F2P Players

F2P players are limited but can thrive on Chickens, Cows, and Moss Giants. Giant Frogs are a hidden gem for Prayer and combat XP. Use safespots to save food and prioritize profitable drops like cowhides.

Comparison of Top Training Monsters

To help you choose, here’s a table comparing key monsters based on XP, loot, and accessibility.

Monster Combat Level XP/Hour Loot Value Access P2P/F2P
Chickens 1 10–20k Low (feathers) Lumbridge F2P
Cows 2 15–25k Moderate (cowhides) Lumbridge F2P
Rock Crabs 13 40–60k Low Rellekka P2P
Ammonite Crabs 25 70–100k Low (fossils) Fossil Island P2P
Nechryaels 115 100–150k High (alchables) Catacombs P2P

Final Thoughts: Your choice of training monster in OSRS depends on your goals, combat level, and account type. Start with Chickens and Cows for F2P or low levels, progress to Rock or Sand Crabs for mid-tier efficiency, and aim for Ammonite Crabs or Nechryaels for high-level training. Combine with quests and Slayer for optimal progress, and always check the OSRS Wiki for detailed monster stats. Happy training, and may your XP gains be ever in your favor!