Hexblade vs. Path of the Beast

I'm new to D&D I'm about to start my first campaign. We're starting at level 1 but I like to think ahead. When I reach level 5 I was thinking about multiclassing. I'm planning on using an Echo Knight once I get to level 3. I've narrowed it down to two choices, Hexblade Warlock or a Path of the Beast Barbarian. What should I decide on, I've heard that Hexblade might be a little difficult for beginners but looks like it's up to my alley. If anyone could help that would be great.

I strongly recommend not multiclassing until you hit 6th level if you're starting as Fighter (or Barbarian, or any other class that gets Extra Attack).  The second attack is a huge boost in power.

As far as Hexblade or Beastbarian is concerned, the barbarian will be easier to multiclass into because Fighter and Barbarian have extremely similar focuses on stats (Strength and Constitution) so there's excellent synergy there.  Though remember that as a Barbarian, most of your class features can't be used while wearing heavy armor.  The other issue with the Beastbarian is that it focuses on growing natural weapons to use while raging, which isn't going to stack with the weapon you'd have been using as an Echo Fighter.

The Hexblade is a strong class but doesn't particularly well with Fighters.  It's all about using Charisma for all its primary abilities, including weapon attacks.  Since Fighters don't have any subclasses that use Charisma, that's not a great match: you're going to be either have to pump Charisma up in anticipation of getting the class (which means nerfing yourself until you get there) or buffing your Strength or Dex before you reach Hexblade and be consequently stuck with high stats that are no longer useful.

As a new player, I'd recommend staying single class, especially since many D&D games don't even make it much past 5th level (if they even get there in the first place), and focus instead on getting a feel for the game.  Especially since you're starting at 1st level there isn't a lot of reason to commit to anything yet (aside from the need to boost Charisma if you want to go Hexblade).  Just focus on being a fighter for now and when you get up to 5-6th level you can reevaluate and see if you really want to multiclass at that point.

Thank you for this. I'm probably going to stay single class but we'll see.