Top 10 Best DC Comics Characters

DC Comics is one of the most successful American comic book publishers, alongside Marvel. It has created culturally iconic characters such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the Justice League.

DC Comics is a subsidiary of Warner Bros.

The Top Ten

Batman

Batman, also known as Bruce Wayne, is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, and first appeared in Detective Comics #27 in 1939. On film, Batman has been portrayed by Lewis Wilson, Robert Lowery... read more

Batman is the most iconic character of DC Comics, a subsidiary of Warner Brothers and Time Warner. He is possibly the best franchise and character the company has ever dealt with. The dark bat knight with white eyes can sometimes be seen in deeper shades of blue as well. He saves the main city of Gotham from high places, balancing right from wrong as their best hero.
There are many versions of Batman, and the gadgets he invents from the start, through and sometimes otherwise, win the matches as a true caped crusader should. An escape is never far either, as there are methods in any medium that the character may traverse. Truly wonderful, fine, and dandy.
The Flash

The Flash is the name of several superheroes appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Harry Lampert, the original Flash (Jay Garrick) first appeared in Flash Comics #1 in January 1940. The most well-known Flash, Barry Allen, debuted in 1956 and is a founding... read more

He is the man with unimaginable and dangerous powers. The Flash is not just a man or a superhero who runs fast. He is a person with truly responsible superpowers. Without showing off or threatening people like some other superheroes, he does his work very efficiently. His cool personality makes him a better citizen as well as a superhero with positive thinking.
Every superhero has their own personal issues, and they drag the whole world into some of the worst situations where they cannot reset things. But The Flash is the only one who changed the course of history and reset it as it was. As a normal person, for me, The Flash is the only one who cares about the feelings of others. He is a very sensitive person and respects the feelings of people. That's why he is the real superhero.
Superman

Superman is a fictional comic book character and arguably the first powerful superhero of the modern era. The character was created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, who were high school students in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1933. Superman first appeared in Action Comics #1, published by National... read more

Look, I know Superman is a Gary Stu, but just because he is one doesn't necessarily mean his character has an impending doom. Superman is a great hero and has continued to do right even after people were against him. He's perfect? Fine, what's wrong with that? Unrealistic? Of course, it's unrealistic. This is a world where gigantic monsters that suck life force in a single snap exist.
Superman can be relatable in a lot of ways, but most people just choose to ignore that. Batman is my favorite DC hero, but Superman comes a close second for me because he has been through a lot.

I must mention that Superman was originally the people's champion. He was a massive socialist and would face real-world issues, while Batman fought bald maniacs like Hugo Strange. I also need to tell all the Batman fanboys that if it wasn't for Superman, there would be no Batman. Superman was such a success that everyone tried to recreate it. That's why Batman was made.
Seriously, Superman is the superhero archetype. If it wasn't for him, there would be no MCU or X-Men. He is what started it all. Calling Superman a bland excuse to plague comic books is silly. He created comic books. He was the first successful superhero. I don't mean to retread the last line, but it is simply true.
Also, I find it ironic that everyone calls Superman overpowered, yet Batman can beat literal gods while being blindfolded. Seriously, the prep time argument is stupid. I find it interesting that everyone nowadays tries to villainize Superman (Injustice, BvS, etc.). Maybe people don't like the idea of a generally kind person. While I will admit he can be bland in some scenarios, it seems simply wrong to insult the hero who started it all.
The Joker

The Joker is a fictional supervillain created by Bill Finger, Bob Kane, and Jerry Robinson, who first appeared in Batman #1, released on April 25, 1940, by DC Comics. Credit for the Joker's creation remains disputed. Both Kane and Robinson claimed responsibility for his visual design, while Finger is... read more

Joker is the best character in any form of media. Heath Ledger's version was good. The only thing is, I would have rather learned more of his backstory, not two stories about his father. Arkhamverse and Killing Joke Jokers are my favorites, and he comes in first as my favorite comic book character.

The Joker is so awesome. Not only does he make every other villain look inferior in terms of being a good villain and equal opponent for his natural hero, but The Joker is also interesting in all types of media. If any hero or villain were to hurt him, he would just laugh because he would enjoy it too much. He wouldn't kill any hero as they are too much fun. Just like he won't kill Batman, as he feels the two share such a bond that he just doesn't want to.
Green Lantern

Green Lantern is the name of several superheroes appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character first appeared in 1940, and the identity has been held by multiple individuals, including Hal Jordan, John Stewart, and Guy Gardner. Green Lanterns wield power rings that allow them... read more

Green Lantern is just awesome because his story is all about the ability of a human to overcome fear and take action, even when all hope seems lost. Aside from Batman, he is the only true human being in the Justice League. Full of personality and motivation, he's a bigger symbol of hope than Superman ever can be. Add in the fact that he is the most powerful member of the Justice League - Hal Jordan - and you have a character deserving of number one.
In Brightest Day, In Blackest Night,
No Evil Shall Escape My Sight.
Let Those Who Worship Evil's Might,
Beware My Power,
Green Lantern's Light!

If anyone's a hero, it's Hal Jordan. He's all about inspiring others to overcome fear to reach greatness and putting his all into protecting others. Also, he punches Batman in the face. Ultimate props for sticking it to that depressing bastard.
Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman is a fictional superhero created by William Moulton Marston and Harry G. Peter, appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character is a founding member of the Justice League, a goddess, and Ambassador-at-Large of the Amazon people. In her homeland, the island nation... read more

10?! I just came back from seeing the new movie, and she was already my favorite superhero. After seeing Gal Gadot do such a great job portraying her, I love her even more!
By the way, if you are 11 or over, you must see the new Wonder Woman movie. You will not regret it! It is now one of my favorite movies, along with Disney's remarkable Moana! This is the best DC movie yet. Can't wait for the 2020 sequel!

The only true iconic female superhero. Not the only one who is great, but the only one whose fame level is like Iron Man, Batman, Superman, or Thor.
When her film came out, the reaction was like, duh, it was obvious we had to get a Wonder Woman film. She is an icon.
When we knew about a Captain Marvel film, it was like, who is that? And ugh, just stupid feminist propaganda being forced on us.
Deathstroke

Deathstroke is a fictional supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Marv Wolfman and George Pérez. He is a mercenary and assassin who first appeared in The New Teen Titans #2 in December 1980 and has since become one of the most formidable foes... read more

Deathstroke is an awesome character and villain. The only thing I don't like is how his main enemy is a group of teenagers, but whatever.

Deathstroke has become one of my favorite supervillains because he's like Batman: he doesn't need fancy superpowers to be badass.

Deathstroke is a killing machine (literally). He's a dangerous combat veteran and a mentor to Green Arrow. His portrayal in Arrow by Manu Bennett was superb.
Harley Quinn

Harley Quinn is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She was originally introduced as the Joker's sidekick in Batman: The Animated Series before becoming a prominent character in her own right. Over time, she evolved into an antiheroine and has appeared in numerous... read more

Harley is a really fun, interesting, and empowering character. I have loved watching her make a name for herself after finally ending her incredibly abusive relationship with the Joker. Each time she does, she becomes less associated with the Joker. I don't think the Joker's name was mentioned once in "The Suicide Squad."
Not to mention Harley and Poison Ivy's relationship. They're just so fun to watch, and I can't wait until they make their first appearance as a couple on the big screen.

Harley Quinn is just a cool character. We have seen many changes and challenges throughout her journey. Sometimes we want her to lose, and sometimes we want her to win. We all root for Harley Quinn in some capacity or another.
Green Arrow

Green Arrow is a fictional superhero who appears in comic books published by DC Comics. He was created by Morton Weisinger and George Papp, and first appeared in More Fun Comics issue number 73 in November 1941. His real name is Oliver Queen, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist. He uses his... read more

He survived five years on a stranded island, fought his enemies there, then came back home and saved his city. He fought the League of Assassins leader Ra's al Ghul. I don't think anyone can do this much except Batman. Green Arrow should be number 2.

This guy is an awesome character who is not given due recognition. But still, I think giving him more cool and awesome tech and also some more cool villains could increase his popularity.

Billionaire businessman and owner of Queen Industries.
On the other corner... Iron Man, billionaire playboy, and owner of Stark Industries.
This is Deep Thoughts by Lemur...
Nightwing

Dick Grayson, also known as Nightwing, is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. He is commonly associated with Batman and is the original Robin. After growing out of the Robin role, he adopted the Nightwing identity to operate independently.

I like Nightwing the best. He is the best hero in my eyes. He is someone everyone trusts, and he is one of the few people that Batman cares about. He is a great leader with a great team, the Teen Titans.
In contrast, the Justice League is one of the worst teams ever because they lack trust. They cannot work together well, they don't even have an official leader, and people can just join and get kicked out anytime. They are not friends and don't have much respect for each other.
Nightwing is the first Robin, the first child hero, and the first son of Batman. He can move on even if he loses. He did not grow violent when Jason or anyone else died. He created the Dynamic Duo. And he is an inspiration for me. He should be more at the top, at least number seven.

The Newcomers

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Enchantress

Enchantress, also known as June Moone, is a fictional supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by writer Bob Haney and artist Howard Purcell and first appeared in Strange Adventures #187 (April 1966).... read more

She was a supervillain in a few stories, but overall, Enchantress is an anti-hero.
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Klarion the Witch Boy

The Contenders

Martian Manhunter

The Martian Manhunter is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Joseph Samachson and designed by artist Joe Certa, the character first appeared in the story "The Manhunter from Mars" in Detective Comics #225.... read more

One of the most underrated and undeveloped characters in DC, Martian Manhunter is just so powerful. He doesn't always demonstrate his full potential and all his powers. The writers have always written him in a way that downplays his abilities to show how powerful other characters are.
To me, J'onn has always been one of, if not the most, powerful heroes in DC and maybe all comics. If the writers really dive deep into this character, I feel like he could be much more powerful.

How are Wonder Woman and The Flash ahead of this guy? He could take them down in a millionth of a millionth of a second.
Lex Luthor

Alexander "Lex" Luthor is a fictional supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. He is typically portrayed as the archenemy of Superman. Lex Luthor is a brilliant businessman and inventor known for his intelligence and ruthless ambition.
Aquaman

Aquaman is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. He was created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger and made his first appearance in More Fun Comics #73 in 1941. Aquaman is known for his ability to communicate with sea life and for being a founding member of the... read more

I'm going to be honest. Aquaman is not my favorite hero on the list, but this is a list of the top characters. What I take that to mean is whose personality makes for the most interesting solo stories, as well as dynamics while working with or against the other characters on this list. As far as that goes, the number one spot here should go to Aquaman.
The idea of a hero whose primary loyalty is not to the League is very interesting. It's been demonstrated multiple times in the comics that he would gladly go to war with Superman himself for the sake of Atlantis. If his city is ever in danger, he would instantly abandon or even go against the other heroes, because he has a responsibility to protect his ocean kingdom and all of its inhabitants.
There's plenty more to say about his character, but for the most part, that's why I think Arthur Curry deserves first place on this list.
Shazam

Captain Marvel, also known as Shazam, is a fictional superhero featured in comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created in 1939 by artist C. C. Beck and writer Bill Parker. Captain Marvel first appeared in Whiz Comics #2, which was originally published by Fawcett Comics.
Scarecrow

The Scarecrow is a fictional supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. He is commonly portrayed as an adversary of the superhero Batman. Created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger, the character first appeared in World's Finest Comics #3 in 1941.

Agree, Scarecrow deserves better.
Alfred Pennyworth

Alfred Thaddeus Crane Pennyworth is a fictional character in American comic books published by DC Comics. He is best known as Batman's loyal butler and trusted confidant. Alfred is often portrayed as a former British intelligence agent who assists Bruce Wayne with his crime-fighting efforts.
Raven

Raven is a fictional superheroine appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. She first appeared in a special insert in DC Comics Presents #26 in October 1980 and was created by writer Marv Wolfman and artist George Pérez. Raven is a founding member of the New Teen Titans and is known for... read more

She can literally banish and possess most people on this list!

My all-time favorite DC character.
Robin

Robin is the alias used by several fictional superheroes in American comic books published by DC Comics. The character was created by Bob Kane, Bill Finger, and Jerry Robinson. Robin was introduced as Batman's sidekick and has remained a central figure in the Batman franchise.

Nightwing is AMAZING! Red Hood is pretty cool. I know they are the same person, but I just don't like Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, Damian Wayne, or any of the others as Robin. I just see Robin as that tween sidekick that someone as legendary and amazing as Batman just doesn't need.
I do LOVE Nightwing, though.

Depends on which Robin you mean. Dick Grayson was awesome. Jason Todd sucked and was better as Red Hood. Tim Drake is almost as awesome as Dick. I think Stephanie Brown was better as Batgirl than Robin. Damian Wayne was annoying.
Dick Grayson is the best Robin, and Nightwing is my favorite superhero.
Rorschach

Rorschach is a fictional anti-hero who appears in American comic books published by DC Comics. He made his debut in the graphic novel Watchmen, which was released in serialized form between 1986 and 1987. The character was created by writer Alan Moore and artist Dave Gibbons as a complex figure who embodies... read more

By far one of the best on this list. He is the Batman that will never be. He is insane, but very determined to punish the criminals of New York and will stop at nothing to reveal the true mask murderer. He is one of my all-time favorites.

Like Batman, he isn't a mutant and would kick ass. He is also an anti-hero like Venom that would finish his enemies in order to get answers. I definitely think he would be a good character in a DC Ultimate Alliance game.

Yeah, sure, there are greats out there like Batman and The Flash, but I personally love Rorschach! He might even be my favorite fictional character!
Catwoman

Catwoman is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly associated with the superhero Batman.
Catwoman has been featured in numerous media adaptations related to Batman. Actresses Julie Newmar, Lee Meriwether, and Eartha Kitt introduced her to a broad... read more

I hate how with Batman, Superman, and others, people have written about how cool they actually are, but for Catwoman, it's about her looks. She is smart, sophisticated, and actually really strong. I love her character development, especially in Batman Returns, from a shy, awkward woman to a badass cat.
Harley was just added to the animated show because Joker needed a girlfriend, whereas Catwoman dates back to the 1940s. Don't get me wrong, I do love Harley and Ivy. I'm obsessed with the Sirens, but I can't stand those girls who only love Harley because they're like, 'I'm totally a psycho too.' They don't even look into her backstory, or they've only seen Suicide Squad. Catwoman deserves so much more love.
Also, I'm slightly obsessed with Batman x Catwoman!
Riddler

The Riddler is a fictional supervillain appearing in comic books published by DC Comics. He is known for his obsession with riddles, puzzles, and word games. The Riddler is a frequent adversary of the superhero Batman and often leaves clues about his crimes.

Riddle me this: why is the Riddler not in the top 20?
Zatanna

Zatanna Zatara is a fictional character, a comic book superheroine in the DC Comics universe. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Murphy Anderson, Zatanna first appeared in Hawkman #4 in 1964. She is a powerful magician and often casts spells by speaking words backward.

Zatanna is amazing and a magician as well. She should be at the top instead of Nightwing (who she goes out with). Also, she has so many cool abilities unlike Superman.
Darkseid

Darkseid is a fictional supervillain in DC Comics, created by writer and artist Jack Kirby. He made a cameo in Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen #134 and fully debuted in Forever People #1. He is the father of Orion, Kalibak, Grayven, and Grail, and is considered one of the most powerful antagonists in the... read more

Darkseid is just the darkest (pun intended) villain ever! The Joker is a Gotham threat or a threat wherever he is in one or multiple locations. Lex Luthor is a global threat. But Darkseid is a universal and sometimes multiversal threat! His strategic ways will have you wondering what evil he will do next!
Two-Face

Two-Face, also known as Harvey Dent, is a fictional villain in the DC Comics universe. He was once one of Gotham City's most respected district attorneys until half his face was disfigured by acid, an event that triggered his descent into criminality under the name Two-Face. The character has been portrayed... read more
Mr. Freeze

Mr. Freeze, real name Victor Fries, is a fictional supervillain appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly as an adversary of the superhero Batman. He is known for his cryogenic suit and ice-based weaponry. The character first appeared in Batman #121 in 1959.