Objective · To compare the clinical features between different subtype bipolar patients with first mania episode, and to contribute to early identification of bipolar disorder. Methods · This study was based on the database named as National Bipolar Mania Pathway Survey (BIPAS). From November 2012 to January 2013, bipolar patients from 26 mental health facilities in China were enrolled in current study. The clinical features were compared between mania patients of different subtypes, including hypomania (group Ⅰ), mania without psychotic symptoms (group Ⅱ), mania with psychotic symptoms (group Ⅲ ) and mixed state (group Ⅳ ). Results · There was significant difference in the percentage of clinical symptoms between different subtype bipolar patients with first mania episode, especially the mania and anxiety related symptoms. Group Ⅰ , Ⅲ , Ⅳ were further compared with group Ⅱ , which was considered as the typical bipolar disorder. The results showed that the mania related symptoms was significantly higher in group Ⅱ , but anxiety related symptoms was significantly higher in group Ⅰ , Ⅲ , Ⅳ . Moreover, Logistic regression analysis revealed that more eloquent or humor and unusually restless could be in favor of the diagnosis of hypomania; younger and mania or hypomania as first episode might be in favor of the diagnosis of mania with psychotic symptoms; older, national minorities and unusually restless could be in favor of the diagnosis of mixed state. Conclusion · The clinical features between different subtype bipolar patients with first mania episode are various, and analysis of the clinical features can contribute to early identification of bipolar disorder.