Arcane Trickster - When to multiclass?

[Lyracian]

Magic initiate or ritual caster may be better for you than a one level wizard dip. A single level of fighter doesn't really get you too much unless it's your first level so I wouldn't bother with it.

I was looking at Ritual Caster and agree I think it is a better way to get some utility spells without a Wizard dip. You also get the advantage of getting higher level rituals such as Water Breathing and Telepathic Bond.

On the other hand, if you are a melee rogue wanting to use a shield and single handed weapon then you could take dueling or defensive fighting styles along with the shield proficiency so it becomes a bit more worthwhile.

That was my thinking +3 AC for melee is quite a big bonus. The only other thought would be Moderately Armored if I started with an odd Dex.

In your case, wizard 1 boosts your spell progression, adds cantrips and give you access to first level rituals. If you happen to be a melee rogue (and an elf/half-elf depending on the DM) then bladsinger wizard offers some decent additional abilities for a melee rogue.

I thought about Divination Wizard but taking a two level dip means giving up level 4 spells (even if they do not come along until level 19). If we were only planning to get to Tier 3 then we kind of have the same with giving up Level 3 spells.

Thank you for the replies everyone. I think Ritual Caster for spells and a possible Fighter dip after Level 13 if I find myself getting hit too much in Melee is the route I will take.