What CR can I polymorph into?

The Polymorph spell transforms a target into a beast whose challenge rating is equal to or less than the target's level (or its own CR if it has no class levels). A 5th-level character can become any beast up to CR 5.

Why does Polymorph only allow beasts?

The spell specifically restricts the new form to a beast, the creature type that includes most animals and dinosaurs. Monstrosities, dragons, and elementals are off the table, which is why the Giant Ape (CR 7) is a frequent high-end pick.

How do hit points work after polymorphing?

You gain the new form's hit points and Hit Dice. When those run out you revert with any leftover damage carrying to your original form, so a big-HP beast like the Giant Ape acts as a large temporary buffer.

What is the best low-level polymorph target?

At CR 1 the Giant Spider and Brown Bear are popular for their reach, grapple, and respectable HP. The Giant Toad can swallow smaller foes. The right pick depends on whether you want damage, control, or mobility.

Does Polymorph keep my mental stats?

Yes. The creature keeps its Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma, alignment, and personality, but takes the beast's physical stats, and cannot cast spells or use features requiring hands or speech while transformed.

D&D Polymorph Stat Block Reference

Picking a Polymorph or true Wild Shape target mid-combat is slow when you have to flip through the Monster Manual. This reference filters a curated list of common polymorph-legal beasts by challenge rating so you can compare hit points, armor class, speeds, and signature abilities at a glance.

How it works

The Polymorph spell restricts the new form to a beast whose challenge rating is at or below a cap — the target’s level for a creature with class levels, or its own CR otherwise. The rule is simply:

beast_CR ≤ cap

Set the cap to your character level (or the CR of the creature you are transforming) and the tool lists every beast in its table that qualifies. You can add a fly- or swim-speed requirement when you need a specific mobility option, since gaining flight or aquatic movement is one of Polymorph’s biggest advantages.

Tips and notes

The new form grants its own hit points as a temporary buffer, so a high-HP beast like the CR 7 Giant Ape effectively shields the original creature. You keep your mental ability scores but lose the ability to cast spells or speak. At low levels the CR 1 Giant Spider and Brown Bear offer reach, grapples, and solid HP, while the Giant Toad can swallow a small enemy whole. Always confirm a candidate is the beast type — monstrosities and dinosaurs that look like beasts are sometimes classified differently, which makes them illegal targets.