Haste 5e: How to Use the Best Buff Spell

Haste is a 3rd-level transmutation spell that turns one character into a combat blender. Doubled speed, +2 AC, advantage on Dex saves, and an extra action each turn.

For one slot and concentration, Haste transforms the target into a superior combat unit.

The Spell

• Level: 3
• Casting Time: 1 action
• Range: 30 feet
• Components: V, S, M (a shaving of licorice root)
• Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
• Classes: Sorcerer, Wizard

Effect

Choose a willing creature within range. They gain:

• Doubled speed.
• +2 AC.
• Advantage on Dexterity saving throws.
• Extra action each turn (limited to Attack, Dash, Disengage, Hide, or Use an Object).

The Lethargy Catch

When Haste ends, the target can't move or take actions until after their next turn. A single turn of loss.

This is why you time Haste carefully:

• Boss fights. Cast on turn 1. End on turn 10 (if the fight's over).
• Planned ambushes. Cast before combat starts. Let it run its full minute.
• One-round burst. Cast, target hits hard, you drop concentration next turn on your terms (avoid the full minute).

If Haste ends mid-fight unexpectedly (concentration break), the lethargy hits at a bad time.

Best Targets

Martial Classes

Fighters, Barbarians, Paladins benefit most. The extra Attack action doubles their damage output.

Fighter 5 with Extra Attack: normally 2 attacks per turn. With Haste: 3 attacks per turn (original action = 2 attacks + Hasted action = 1 attack).

Monks

Monks benefit from doubled speed and extra attack.

Ranged Characters

Rangers, Rogues, gunslingers. Double speed + extra action = mobility and burst.

When Not to Haste

• Spellcasters. The Hasted action limits to Attack, Dash, Disengage, Hide, or Use an Object. You can't cast spells with it. Hasting a Wizard is pointless.
• Short fights. If the fight ends in 2 rounds, the concentration + lethargy tradeoff isn't worth it.

Twinned Haste

Sorcerer Metamagic can Twin Haste on two targets. Cost: 3 Sorcery Points + 3rd-level slot. Two party members (or yourself + 1 other) get Hasted for the same action.

This is one of the most potent Sorcerer combos. A Sorcerer with 6+ Sorcery Points can Twin Haste early fights.

Solo Haste

Self-Haste is great:

• Double your damage output for a minute.
• +2 AC and advantage on Dex saves for defense.
• Extra action each turn.

The concentration requirement means you're not casting other concentration spells (Spirit Guardians, Hex, Hunter's Mark). But the burst is worth it for a solo character.

The Endlessness and Haste

Our AI Dungeon Master handles Haste's effects: doubled speed, AC bonus, save advantage, extra action with limited options. When Haste ends, the AI applies the lethargy penalty on the following turn.

For related reads, our sorcerer guide, wizard guide, and concentration rules cover more.

Final Takeaway

Haste is the best buff spell in the game. Cast it on a martial character, watch them double their output.

Start a Sorcerer on The Endlessness and learn to Twin Haste.