Top 10 Best SpongeBob SquarePants Characters

SpongeBob SquarePants has been one of the most loved animated shows on Nickelodeon for years, and it's easy to see why.

Set in the lively and weird underwater world of Bikini Bottom, the series follows SpongeBob, an optimistic, jellyfish-catching, Krabby Patty-flipping sponge, as he stumbles through some of the wildest situations imaginable. From his kooky neighborhood to his oddball job at the Krusty Krab, SpongeBob is surrounded by a group of characters that are as iconic as they are hilarious.

Each character brings a unique vibe to Bikini Bottom, giving fans all sorts of memorable moments, inside jokes, and unforgettable catchphrases.

Whether it's SpongeBob's super chill best friend, Patrick, or the forever grumpy neighbor Squidward, every personality in the show is unforgettable in its own way. Some are obsessed with achieving their dreams (even if it means stealing the Krabby Patty formula). Others just want to be left alone to play their clarinet in peace. And then there's Sandy, the fearless, karate-chopping squirrel from Texas, who's always ready to kick butt and take names.

Together, these characters make up one of the funniest casts ever, each contributing something different to every episode.

So, who are the best characters in SpongeBob SquarePants? Do you prefer the underdog villains, the hardworking friends, or maybe the straight-up weirdos of Bikini Bottom?

1. Squidward Tentacles

   

   Squidward Tentacles is a fictional character voiced by actor Rodger Bumpass in the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants.

   Squidward has a very abrasive attitude, often wanting to be left alone, and he displays a misanthropic nature. He prefers solitude and enjoys playing the... read more

   Even though Squidward is no longer my favorite in SpongeBob SquarePants, I still respect and like him because his personality resonates with me in several ways:

   1. He's uptight, sarcastic, cynical, moody, serious, mature, and ill-tempered.

   2. He can't stand SpongeBob and Patrick due to their excessive mischief.

   3. He despises Mr. Krabs for mistreating him.

   4. He can relate to Mrs. Puff due to their mutual dislike for SpongeBob.

   As I mentioned earlier, Squidward's seriousness is one of the reasons I like him. I prefer serious characters because I can relate to them. I don't like funny characters very much because they irritate me, just as people who claim Squidward is funny do. They are delusional if they think he's funny.

   Since I am similar to Squidward, I sometimes wish I could retaliate against Patrick and SpongeBob for their inconsiderate behavior towards him. I recall being antagonized by bullies who used humor as an excuse to hurt me.

   If anyone asks, all those who dislike Squidward can keep their opinions to themselves. If I were him, I'd stand up to them.

2. Patrick Star

   

   Patrick Star is a fictional character in the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. Created and designed by Stephen Hillenburg, the series' creator, Patrick first appeared in the pilot episode "Help Wanted" on May 1, 1999. He is voiced by Bill Fagerbakke.... read more

   SpongeBob and Patrick's friendship is a friendship that I sometimes strive for. No matter what happens, at the end of the day they still deeply care for each other.

   Sure, they argue. Sure, sometimes they screw up. But at the end of the day, they're best friends forever.

   Please tell me you guys think Patrick is the cutest starfish ever seen. Patrick isn't my only favorite SpongeBob SquarePants character. SpongeBob is also my favorite. I have two favorites on this show. Patrick's silliness is what makes him funny, and his humor is what makes him cute. His cuteness is what makes him popular on this show, and that makes him an adorable starfish most people can't resist. The same goes for SpongeBob. Oh, and SpongeBob is the cutest sponge ever seen. If only I could vote twice.

3. SpongeBob SquarePants

   

   SpongeBob SquarePants is a fictional character and the titular protagonist of the American animated television series of the same name. SpongeBob is known for his bright optimism and naive, childish tendencies. He often gets into trouble in Bikini Bottom.... read more

   I mean, what's not to like about the iconic sponge of nautical nonsense? Even though he's annoying to most people, he always has an upbeat attitude and a love for what he does.

   He wakes up every morning excited for a new day. He gets to blow bubbles with Patrick, go jellyfishing, and most of all, work at the Krusty Krab.

   SpongeBob SquarePants is a lot like your typical adult. He works at a fast-food restaurant, yet he "keeps his head up" and likes to have fun. He is an opposite to Squidward, a cynical, sad, nihilistic squid who also works at a dead-end job. In this way, SpongeBob proves that you can still have fun, be optimistic and innocent while being an adult and having responsibilities.

4. Sheldon J. Plankton

   

   Sheldon James Plankton, commonly called Plankton, is a character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is the owner of the Chum Bucket and the main antagonist to Mr. Krabs. Plankton is known for his schemes to steal the Krabby Patty secret formula.

   Plankton: Ah, come on, kid. You asked me that already. Now quit wasting my time!

   Mable: Hey, you can't talk to my son that way! Who do you think you are?

   Plankton: I'm Plankton, you old hag. And your son smells like boogers.

   Truck Driver: Hey, you can't talk about my wife that way. What do you think this is?

   Plankton: I think it's time for you to lose some weight, fatty. That's what this is.

   Mary: Hey, you can't talk to my grandson like that. Someone ought to put you in a mental hospital.

   Plankton: Someone should put you in a box floating down the river, Grandma!

   Mary: You're probably right.

   I love this scene!

   I love Sheldon J. Plankton. He is hilarious and evil, and he makes me want the Krusty Krab to shut down. I hope one day he does get the formula. He deserves it. He works so hard for it, and Mr. Krabs is a jerk who wouldn't let his best friend share the least bit of credit for his success.

   I just wish he would give a bit more credit to Karen, but other than that, he is amazing. Squidward Quincy Tentacles is my second favorite, and I love him too. It was a hard decision. Squidward's hot! So is Plankton. He just needs more height.

5. Sandy Cheeks

   

   Sandra "Sandy" Cheeks is a fictional character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants.

   After watching episodes like "Texas" and "Prehibernation Week," she's become one of my favorites! I love her positive attitude. I also love how nice, funny, energetic, and smart she is!

   I don't like her as much now that she's become a total jerk (especially in "Squirrel Jelly"), but I still like her. To me, all the characters were great in the older episodes, and later they all (except for Plankton and Squidward, my first and second favorite characters, respectively) became horrible. But Sandy is still a wonderful character!

   Oh, how Sandy Cheeks has become my absolute favorite since the day I watched SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of the Water. Although she was introduced in the 5th season (November 23, 2020), she now ranks at the top of all my favorites. I particularly admire her attitude. She is not mean or rude, but she possesses a big heart. Yet, she is far from being bland, annoying, or boring. Oh, how excited this 11-year-old boy gets whenever she appears on screen! Despite only watching seasons 6 and 7 of SpongeBob SquarePants, where she rarely appears, she still holds the number one spot in my picks. (I do not intend to start a vote-based argument. I simply encourage people to vote for whomever they prefer.) - MiguelEthan

6. Gary the Snail

   

   Gerald "Gary" Wilson Jr. is a fictional character who is a pet snail owned by SpongeBob SquarePants in the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. Gary communicates by meowing like a cat, a trait that is common among snails in the series. He first appeared in the pilot episode, which... read more

   Gary, to me, is such a cool character. He's smart, he's cute, and honestly has one of the most wholesome dynamics with SpongeBob. SpongeBob loves Gary and would do anything for him.

   Gary is great, possibly the cutest thing under the sea. Even though most of his appearances are cameos, you'll need the tissues once he's gone (Have You Seen This Snail?).

   Gary has a personality much like Shaun the Sheep. He's speechless yet highly intelligent, which makes him a fun character to watch.

7. Eugene H. Krabs

   

   Eugene H. Krabs, better known as Mr. Krabs, is a fictional character in the animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. The show was created by marine biologist and animator Stephen Hillenburg. Mr. Krabs is the money-obsessed owner of the Krusty Krab restaurant and is known for his love of wealth... read more

   I can't believe everyone hates Mr. Krabs just because of "One Coarse Meal." Trust me, I dislike him too, but he was good in the pre-movie episodes where he cared for his employees. For example, in "The Suds" he tells SpongeBob to go home and rest. In "Born Again Krabs," he is cheap and sells SpongeBob for 62 cents, but Squidward chews him out for it. When he realizes what he has done, he becomes incredibly upset and learns that people are more important than money, so he begs for SpongeBob back. That's character development, folks! I miss the old Krabs. And if he can receive hate for "One Coarse Meal," then Patrick can receive hate for "Yours, Mine, and Mine" and "The Fish Bowl."

8. Barnacle Boy

   

   Barnacle Boy is a fictional character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is portrayed as the sidekick to Mermaid Man and is voiced by Tim Conway in the main series. Following Conway's retirement from the role in 2012, the character has appeared in non-speaking roles... read more

   I like him better than Mermaid Man because of his similarities to Squidward, who I also like. Since those tall and skinny guys are humorless like me, they're cool in my book. But then again, I like folks with no sense of humor depending on who they are.

   Dude, Batman voiced him! Mermaid Man is completely senile, and Barnacle Boy is like the useless sidekick!

   I love heroes. However, I liked them younger.

9. The Flying Dutchman

   

   The Flying Dutchman is a recurring character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is depicted as a green ghost pirate who haunts Bikini Bottom. The character is based on the legendary ghost ship of the same name from nautical folklore.

   The Flying Dutchman is the best. He embodies subtle hilarity and expresses slight tolerance for the annoying antics of the main characters. Plus, what would the show be without him? Not much different, actually. But there would be no perfume department, no fly of despair, no Davy Jones' locker, no motivational video about "the power within," no howling scene, and more. The Flying Dutchman added more potential for the show to actually be funny.

   He's the only SpongeBob character to not have any terrible episodes yet.

10. Mermaid Man

    

    Mermaid Man is a fictional character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He was voiced by Ernest Borgnine from 1999 until Borgnine's death on July 8, 2012. Mermaid Man is portrayed as a retired superhero and is often accompanied by his sidekick, Barnacle Boy.

    Mermaid Man - Your mother's right, son. Mermaid Man will understand.

    Barnacle Boy - *Flips him off*

The Newcomers
11. ?

    Spot (Plankton's Pet)

    

    I genuinely love the episode that Plankton gets Spot it shows a soft side of Plankton. Plus not to mention Spot is adorable

12. ?

    Squidward's Toilet

The Contenders

13. Mrs. Puff

    

    Mrs. Puff is a fictional character appearing in the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants and both films based on the franchise. She is SpongeBob's boating school teacher and is known for her frequent frustration with his driving. The character is voiced by Mary Jo Catlett.

    It was okay to have her around for a couple of episodes, but now she's essentially what would happen if you stripped Squidward of all unburdened parts. It seems her only purpose is to be eternally tormented by SpongeBob and never get peace. I hope one day SpongeBob just gets his driver's license and she finally can rest in peace.

    She used to get torture episodes, but now I think she's just crazy. I don't think people should hate her because of "Demolition Doofus" since Squidward also tried to kill SpongeBob.

14. Larry the Lobster

    

    Larry the Lobster is a fictional character in the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is a muscular red lobster who often appears as a lifeguard at Goo Lagoon. Larry is known for his fitness obsession and serves as a parody of beach body culture.

    Larry is important too, you know! He actually debuted before Plankton.

    "SpongeBob, you are so righteous. Will you sign my pants?"

    Underrated, in my opinion. This guy needs to be closer to the top.

    He doesn't play a big role in either of the movies. I want him to appear more.

15. Karen Valencia Plankton

    

    She is better than Plankton! She is nicer and smarter than Plankton! Girl, you should have a good long chat with him!

    Pretty well-developed. I like her relationship with Plankton.

16. Patchy the Pirate

    

    Patchy the Pirate is a fictional character who appears in various SpongeBob SquarePants specials and major episodes as the host. He is the self-proclaimed president of the SpongeBob SquarePants Fan Club.

    The character is portrayed by Tom Kenny, who also provides the voice of SpongeBob. Patchy... read more

    I really like Patchy the Pirate! He's pretty much the best part of the show for me. I enjoy seeing him do cool stuff like being in a cave, going on a treasure hunt, and having a fit about SpongeBob.

    I love Patchy! He's funny and makes SpongeBob unique. The only parts I liked about the episode Truth or Square were the Patchy scenes.

    I love Patchy the Pirate! The guy is hilarious and awesome! Plus, he's played by Tom Kenny, the same person who voices SpongeBob.

17. Fred Rechid

    

    Fred Rechid is a background character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is best known for shouting "My leg!" during various episodes. Despite his minor role, the line became one of the show's most iconic running gags.

    Hey all you people, hey all you people, hey all you people, won't you listen to me? I just hurt my leg. It's no ordinary pain, but pain that hurts really, really badly. MY LEG!

    That guy's awesome! He always gets hurt and no one ever sees him. I think in one of the episodes, they should show his appearance. I bet everybody, including me, wants to see him.

    He's better than any of the main or recurring characters. Yes, a mainly background one, is the best. I mean, he's the guy behind "My leg!," "Deuueaugh," "Rev up those fryers," and many more amazing quotes. Plankton and Squidward are my other favorites.

18. DoodleBob

    

    DoodleBob is a fictional character from the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. He appears in the episode "Frankendoodle" as the main antagonist, created when SpongeBob draws him with a magical pencil. DoodleBob is known for his chaotic behavior and limited, gibberish-like speech... read more

    Look at him. He makes me sick just looking at him. Those big bulgy eyes, that square body, those two buck teeth, and that stupid tie. But it looks good on SpongeBob, though.

    He deserves to be number 1. He is the funniest and coolest character in SpongeBob. The only problem is, he only wants to defeat SpongeBob.

    From FrankenDoodle, DoodleBob is a fantastic villain who erases anything and everything in his way. I just wish the new writers would bring DoodleBob back.

19. Man Ray

    

    Man Ray is a fictional character from the Nickelodeon animated series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is portrayed as a classic comic book-style supervillain who often battles the retired superhero duo Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy. Man Ray frequently appears in episodes involving superhero-themed adventures... read more

    He's the arch-nemesis of Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy, who are parodies of Aquaman and Aqualad. You simply cannot go wrong with that!

    One of the best villains. I only like him in that one episode with the tickle belt.

    He is even cooler than most of the Marvel and DC villains. He is underrated. He should be higher up on the list.

20. Squilliam Fancyson

    

    Squilliam Fancyson is a fictional character in the American animated series SpongeBob SquarePants. He is a rival of Squidward Tentacles. He appears as the main antagonist in the episodes Band Geeks and Squilliam Returns. He is voiced by Dee Bradley Baker.

    Yes, Squilliam is a jerk, but he's an antagonist and he's supposed to be a jerk.

21. Tom Smith

    

    Tom Smith is a background character in the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. His most well-known appearance is in the episode "Chocolate with Nuts," where he chases SpongeBob and Patrick while screaming "CHOCOLATE!" The scene became a popular internet meme and is frequently... read more

22. Old Man Jenkins

    

    Old Man Jenkins is a fictional character voiced by actor Dee Bradley Baker in the American animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. The character has appeared in various forms throughout the series, often as a humorous background character. He is part of the recurring cast of Bikini Bottom residents... read more

    "I told you nothing good would come from city folk and their flying machines!" My favorite line!

23. Mindy

    

    I wish Mindy would come back. I thought she was awesome and the whole reason why SpongeBob and Patrick succeeded in their quest! I also think she and Patrick make a cuter couple than SpongeBob and Sandy.

    She was such an awesome character in the movie! Without her, SpongeBob and Patrick would've failed. She's really underrated, and she should get more attention!

24. Patrick Not-Star

    

    Patrick Not-Star is a character who appears in the SpongeBob SquarePants episode "Hide and Then What Happens?" He is a doppelgänger of the main character Patrick Star. The character is featured in a plot twist that adds humor to the episode's storyline.

    If he's Patrick Not-Star, then why is he a star? Shouldn't he be a triangle?

    Awesome character. Really funny!

25. Hoopla Fish

    

    Poor kid dies when he gets hit by a brick.

26. DEUUEAUGH Fish

    

27. Narrator