Top 10 Best Anime Characters of All Time

Anime fans know that anime is full of amazing stories, stunning visuals, and memorable characters. From the courageous and noble to the sneaky and wicked, anime characters have a special bond with us, making us laugh and cry with their awesome adventures and touching moments.

In this list, you'll be ranking the best anime characters ever, from the old-school legends to the new-school icons. These characters have changed the anime world, each one showing their unique flair and charisma.

The Top Ten

L - Death Note

L Lawliet, known exclusively by the mononym L, is a fictional character in the manga series Death Note. He was created by writer Tsugumi Ohba and illustrator Takeshi Obata. L is a highly intelligent and eccentric detective who takes on the challenge of capturing the mysterious killer known as Kira.

Although one may argue that L is just "another character" in the anime series Death Note, I believe that he is more than that. He is just like all of us, even though we may not realize it. L chooses to use a monotonous voice to hide any possible emotions. L has dealt with pain and suffering for a while, so he decided not to show himself until it was necessary: the Kira case. Light Yagami was truly the closest friend to L, but he knew that he was Kira. This must have hurt his soul to know that his friend was a killer. Throughout the anime, L expresses himself through solving cases, eating sweets, and conversing with various characters. These aspects show a lot of L's emotions, but if only one could see that. We learn that L is funny and pretty smart and, to some, quite attractive. These details lead me to believe that L is one of the greatest anime characters out there in the anime world.
Vegeta - Dragon Ball

Vegeta is a fictional character from the anime series Dragon Ball Z, created by Akira Toriyama. He is the prince of the fallen Saiyan race and initially appears as an antagonist before becoming one of the series' main protagonists. Vegeta is known for his rivalry with Goku and his relentless drive to... read more

Vegeta, the prince of all Saiyans, is the best character of all time. He can push himself to the limit and further because he will not settle for second best. When Frieza took him as a child, his father and a whole army died trying to get him back because he is just that important.
He never gives up and is always ready for a new challenge. He holds onto his pride because he knows he is awesome and taunts his victims because he is not afraid to show it. He always has a witty comeback, like "I did lots of push-ups and sit-ups and drank plenty of juice." So, if you don't like Vegeta, tell me, has a hater like you ever experienced true fear?
Goku - Dragon Ball

Son Goku (Saiyan name Kakarrot) is the main protagonist of the Dragon Ball franchise created by Akira Toriyama in 1984. He possesses many powerful abilities, including super strength, ki control, flight, teleportation, super speed, enhanced reflexes, and Super Saiyan transformations that increase his... read more

Goku. He is the Jesus of Anime and the greatest anime legend of all time. Even now, in the Revival of F, he is above everyone in the entire universe. The only one below him is Vegeta.
I watched every episode in the ENTIRE Dragon Ball series since Dragon Ball Episode 1. I've tried searching for a character who obviously can't be as strong but is as good as he is and haven't found one beating him. I mean, he's a perfect hero: kind-hearted, humorous, never gives up - EVER, defeats guys 10x stronger than himself, saved Earth many times (except, of course, Majin Buu, and GT doesn't count), and always tests the waters of his enemy's transformations, which is bold, but hey, he's a confident dude.
You can see all these badass-looking heroes standing there in the wind, all dreamy and stuff, but Goku doesn't care to be a badass, which is why he is the best there ever was.
Edward Elric - Fullmetal Alchemist

Edward Elric, commonly nicknamed Ed, is a fictional character and the protagonist of the Fullmetal Alchemist manga series and its adaptations created by Hiromu Arakawa. He is a State Alchemist who searches for the Philosopher's Stone to restore his brother's body after a failed alchemical experiment... read more

Edward Elric is, without a doubt, one of my favorite fictional characters within the anime world. He's the epitome of inspiration and respect, in my opinion. Edward is a character with many flaws, but that's what makes him so much more phenomenal and relatable. He feels all the things humans are supposed to feel: love, pity, anger, guilt, sadness, etc. You just name it.
Even though on the surface Edward can seem like a hot-tempered young teenager, he has incredible depth to his character. He goes through so much and endures many perils, growing from them. The character development is immense with Ed. He has a dark, very tragic past, from which his insecurities and guilt originate. But from this, he also gains strength and the determination to take responsibility for his actions.
He makes mistakes, but he's not afraid to stand his ground and deal with the consequences. Ed is also one of the most compassionate characters I've seen, with one of the strongest brotherly bonds I've ever witnessed in anime history. His love for his brother Alphonse, and all of his friends and comrades, is heartfelt and emotional. His dedication and loyalty to those he cares about truly give me so many feels. His willingness to sacrifice so much for the safety and well-being of people is noble and so human of him.
Sometimes, Ed can be impulsive, easily irritated, and short-tempered, but I still love this character because when he has to be serious, he gets down to business. His intellect is beyond me, and he is actually pretty wise for his age and all that he's been through. He has a brave soul and a heart of gold, and it's because of all this that Edward wins my vote.
Naruto Uzumaki - Naruto

Naruto Uzumaki is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the anime and manga series Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto. He first appeared in 1999 in Weekly Shōnen Jump and has since become one of the most iconic characters in anime and manga. Naruto's journey from a mischievous outcast to... read more

Though this might be because I grew up watching Naruto, I voted for him since he really did have a good plot and background information. For those who finished, he had a saddening childhood, yet never gave in to the hate. He always told everyone something similar to, "I'll become the Hokage. Just you wait and see. Believe it!" And as we know, he grows up to be a fine shinobi, conquering his enemies and even turning many into friends and comrades.
Once again, for those who watched from beginning to end, we got to witness as Naruto evolved from a kid into a teen, and then finally into an adult as he achieves his dream of becoming Hokage and even gets married and has kids.
Monkey D. Luffy - One Piece

Monkey D. "Straw Hat" Luffy is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the One Piece manga and anime franchise. He was created by Eiichiro Oda. Luffy is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and seeks to find the legendary treasure known as One Piece to become the Pirate King.

Luffy is one of the most savage characters in anime history. He defeated 50,000 of the fish-men with just his Haoshoku Haki. He never gives up on his friends, and he's also one of the funniest and simplest characters in anime. His silly and idiotic attitude is what anime fans look forward to in One Piece. He influences everyone around him and brings smiles to people's faces.
He even got the most beautiful character in One Piece, Boa Hancock, to love him, which is a win in itself. Plus, there are a ton of memes about him too. He also doesn't hide his feelings, which also makes him a stand-up character in One Piece. He doesn't expect much in return, unlike most characters in One Piece do. All the kid wants is meat for himself. Isn't that enough for the future Pirate King?
Levi Ackerman - Attack on Titan

Levi Ackerman is a fictional character in the manga and anime series Attack on Titan, which is also known by its Japanese title Shingeki no Kyojin. He joins the main characters during the second half of the first season. Levi is especially known among fans for his exceptional combat skills and is often... read more

I couldn't decide between Levi Ackerman, Rin Okumura, Light Yagami, Kiritsugu Emiya, and Archer. There are things I like about all of them. Levi Ackerman's cold hostility and will to defeat Titans make him an excellent soldier and a good person. Rin Okumura's powers as a demon, his short temper, and his amusing and sweet personality, as well as his goal of defeating his father, Satan, are all things I like.
Light Yagami's noble goals and ideals, and the mixture of justice and evil in his personality, appeal to me. Kiritsugu Emiya's ideals of creating a world without tears and the fact that he's a total badass are compelling. Not to mention the losses he's had to experience for the sake of his beliefs and ideals are unreal. And Archer's childish, cynical, and cold personality, built on the fact that his life's work was just a waste knowing that humanity is hopeless and will never be saved, is also compelling. His fighting skills and his power are jaw-dropping as well.
So, I randomly decided on Levi since he was already high up on the list, even though he should be higher. But seriously, guys, L? I mean, L's cool and everything, but Light is so much better.
Itachi Uchiha - Naruto

Itachi Uchiha is a fictional character from the manga and anime series Naruto, which was created by Masashi Kishimoto. He is a member of the Uchiha clan and plays a key role in the series' storyline. Itachi is widely recognized for his complex character and significant influence on the plot.

Before you read this, beware of spoilers. Now, let me start by saying Itachi is a hero hidden in the dark. He shows that no matter what, you need to move ahead and stop feeding on people's praise and what they think of you. I think he's a brilliant creation. I don't know about the majority out there, but he's certainly the best anime character ever crafted and a perfect role model for many.
He defended his village at the cost of his fame and pleasure. He knew he was going to have a tough time but went on with it anyway. He did everything for the greater good, and he loved his brother to the very end. Even after death, when being reanimated, he still wants to protect the village and everyone in it. He's the biggest reason why the war turned in favor of the Allied Shinobi. He's in a class of his own, although he has haters.
He's the most mature, most deserving of all Shinobi but still considers himself inferior to everyone. That's called humility, people. His love was true to the very end, and we see how strong his heart was, not to be shaken by the hatred of the entire village and his dearest brother, Sasuke. However hated he was, he wasn't provoked because he was satisfied deep within and focused on the only thing he had to do: protect his brother. Itachi Uchiha is undoubtedly the only character most near perfection.
Spike Spiegel - Cowboy Bebop

Spike Spiegel is the central protagonist of the 1998 anime series Cowboy Bebop. He is a bounty hunter and former member of the Red Dragon Crime Syndicate. The series, known for its blend of science fiction, western, and noir genres, remains critically acclaimed and influential.

It is absolutely pathetic that Spike sits this low. I like L and Ed, but Spike is a more complex character than either, and Goku and Vegeta are simply not well-written characters, especially not in Z and Super. They are iconic, sure, but simple, underdeveloped, and emotionally shallow. Luffy is actually a good character, but not better than Spike.
But there is nothing more insulting than Naruto Uzumaki sitting at five. What the hell is wrong with people? Naruto is one of the worst-written characters created by a poor character writer. Listen, you can like Naruto. That's totally fine. But what Kishimoto is good at is action and fight scenes, not, in any way, his character work or story. Good God, people.
Ichigo Kurosaki - Bleach

Ichigo Kurosaki is the fictional protagonist of the Bleach manga and anime series created by Tite Kubo. He is a teenager who accidentally obtains Soul Reaper powers and defends the world from ghosts and supernatural threats. The Bleach franchise includes manga, multiple anime adaptations, films, and... read more

Ichigo belongs at least at number 2. He is the hero of Bleach, and the way he shows that is so badass! He will protect his friends at all costs and do whatever he can to stop anyone who threatens them! I believe his speed would be able to keep up with Goku at a very strong level because of just how fast he is. His strength isn't as strong as Goku's, but his powers help push that further.
Ichigo is also inspiring because he won't let anyone knock him down, and if they do, they will pay the price tenfold. He also never gives up and is always there for anyone! Ichigo is really number 1!

He is one of the most sympathetic anime characters ever, even though he can be an ass. He fights to protect. It's just impossible not to root for him.
He is incredibly strong and has a valid reason to be. He is human, Shinigami, and Hollow all at the same time and pretty much carries the fate of the world, but you'll never hear him complain. He is pretty funny too. His interactions with other characters like Rukia, Toshiro, Renji, and Byakuya never fail to amuse me.
And next to all that, he's damn handsome. Ichigo for the win!

The Newcomers

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Takehito Morokuzu - Prison School

The most loyal man in all of anime.
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Yorozu - Jujutsu Kaisen

The Contenders

Kakashi Hatake - Naruto

Kakashi Hatake is a fictional character in the manga and anime series Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto. He serves as the leader and mentor of Team 7, which includes Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno. Kakashi is known for his mastery of the Sharingan eye and his calm, analytical approach... read more

Kakashi Hatake is definitely my favorite anime character. He certainly has an extremely sad childhood, which in itself is an excellent trait in any character, but it's the anticipation that makes it exciting. From about halfway through Naruto, his past has been questioned and hinted at, just enough to get fans excited about it, but not so much that they're tired of it. Pieces of it are shown in Naruto Shippuden episodes, but even after it's revealed, people from his past come back (in some of the biggest plot twists and potential spoilers of the series).
He has a fairly neutral personality, which makes the moments when he shows emotion that much more intense. Despite being a more serious main character than all but Sasuke, he has a lot of funny moments, and he's extremely loyal. He has many character flaws and highlights, but most of them aren't as obvious as with other characters. You need to dig to find them.
Also, he can summon a pug.
Light Yagami - Death Note

Light Yagami is a fictional character and the protagonist of the manga series Death Note, created by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata.e is a high school student who gains the power to kill anyone by writing their name in a supernatural notebook. The story follows his transformation from... read more

Light is simply one of the best characters ever written, and you can't really deny that (in my opinion). He's a normal genius in high school who just happens to be the one to find the "Death Note." It changes his life as he believes he can bring change to the world, making it crimeless. However, like most people in history, he becomes corrupt with power and begins to murder even those who are innocent. His clashes with "L," the greatest detective, were some of the moments that made Death Note intense and amazing overall.
Though some people probably don't enjoy psychological action and prefer just brute fighting scenes (sorry, DBZ, though I'm not saying I don't enjoy the series).
Eren Jaeger - Attack On Titan

Eren Yeager, spelled Eren Jaeger in the Funimation dub, is a fictional character appearing as the protagonist of the manga series Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama. He is a former member of the Scout Regiment and becomes the inheritor of the Attack Titan power. Throughout the series, Eren plays a central... read more

I know a lot of people hate Eren, and so do I. But I voted for him because his personality is just like mine. I can relate so much to everything he says (and yes, I am a loud and noisy b). I get mad easily, I am very reckless, and I always take big risks. I don't like it when people save me or help me out (except my mom, because I need help with that math homework). I suck at teamwork.
These days, you rarely ever see anime characters that trust in themselves and know that they are strong and up to the challenge. Eren is strong, and he knows it.

I love Eren! Unlike DBZ, Naruto, and other god-mode protagonists, Eren feels very real. In other words, he's human! He has his flaws, and he's not afraid to show them.
He feels emotion, and whether it hurts him or makes him stronger, that's what makes him a better character than most of these contenders. Seriously, Kirito? Unrealistic, boring, god-mode Kirito is above him? Come on, everyone, let's make this list better!
Himura Kenshin - Rurouni Kenshin

Himura Kenshin, known as Kenshin Himura in the English-language anime dubs, is a fictional character and the protagonist of the Rurouni Kenshin manga created by Nobuhiro Watsuki. He is a wandering swordsman who has vowed never to kill again after a violent past as the feared assassin Hitokiri Battōsai... read more

He doesn't have superpowers, but he does have agility. His power doesn't come from his ability to kill. It comes from his will to protect everyone, even his enemies. His personality is the best I've ever seen. He is like a living description of the perfect man. And when you watch the last film of the series, you will have a hard time not crying.
He created a legend under the name of Hitokiri Battosai by slaying, then he promised not to kill anymore. Then he started a new life as Rurouni Kenshin Himura and created another legend with this name until he couldn't use a sword. When he gave up using a sword, he started as Shinta and created another legend too.
Killua Zoldyck - Hunter x Hunter

Killua is trying to find what he wants in life and how to do it. Sticking with Gon helped him find those answers and figure himself out.

Okay, so let's start by stating that I am beyond triggered by where Killua stands on this list. First of all, he is a great character who is extremely intelligent despite being so young. He is smart enough to quickly analyze any problem at hand and deal with it properly. Second, he has a quite tragic past but decides to put the assassination training he received to good use in helping Gon.
Also, he somehow overcame his dark past and turned into a character with a great and hilarious personality. In my opinion, Killua is the best character.
Lelouch Lamperouge - Code Geass

Lelouch Lamperouge is the alias used by Lelouch vi Britannia, the protagonist of the anime series Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion created by Sunrise. He is a former prince of the Holy Britannian Empire who seeks to overthrow the oppressive regime using his alter ego, Zero. The series explores themes... read more

Lelouch. Where to even begin? A brilliant strategist. An awe-inspiring leader. Incredibly determined and devoted to his cause, Lelouch is both an amazing friend and a master of deception and lies. He is melodramatic, charming, and charismatic. He's got the best evil grin and a wicked, psychotic laugh. He is the murderer of hundreds of thousands of innocent people, becoming the most despised tyrant on the planet, yet he is still the sweetest, most considerate, caring brother in the whole entire world.
Although he is far from perfect, he makes mistakes because he is still human. And he certainly has some screw-ups of massive proportions (Season 1, Episode 22, anyone?). However, these flaws only serve to strengthen his character as he becomes all the more relatable, dealing with unbelievable amounts of regret, pain, guilt, and responsibility.
And the ending of Code Geass? Beautiful. Heartbreaking. Exquisite. Indescribably, utterly, completely damn awesome.
ALL HAIL LELOUCH.
InuYasha - InuYasha

Inuyasha is sometimes an idiot, especially when he leaves Kagome for Kikyo. But I really like this anime. I love it! The crazy, amazing, dumb, hilarious, tragic, and cute love triangle between Kikyo, Inuyasha, and Kagome - plus Koga! - makes Inuyasha deserving of a spot in the top 10.
Some say that the anime starts off good but becomes boring as it progresses. Well, I think none of the episodes were boring, and I don't regret watching it. Just watch it! All your doubts and questions will be resolved!

The name InuYasha is probably one of the most iconic figures in all of anime/manga. The Queen of Anime, Rumiko Takahashi, outdid herself once again in this tale filled with adventure, romance, and comedy.
Let's put it this way: if you don't like InuYasha, you are clearly not a true fan of anime.
Trunks - Dragon Ball Z/Gt

Trunks is a fictional character in the Dragon Ball Z anime and manga series, created by Akira Toriyama. He is the son of Vegeta and Bulma and is known for traveling back in time to warn the Z Fighters of future dangers. Trunks is one of the series' most prominent characters and appears in several major... read more

He's really handsome, and in his kid form, he's very cute. I like the idea of his friendship with Goten, one of my all-time favorite characters! Also, his voice, both in his kid form and adult form, is really cool!

Why is my single crush so low on this list? He was the one who changed the future, killed the androids, and loved Goku and everyone else.

Trunks is awesome and destroyed Frieza and King Cold within two minutes.
Roy Mustang - FullMetal Alchemist

Roy Mustang is a fictional character in the Fullmetal Alchemist manga series and its anime adaptations, created by Hiromu Arakawa. He is a State Alchemist with the title of Flame Alchemist due to his ability to create fire using alchemy. Mustang is a high-ranking officer in the military and plays a key... read more

He has a couple of flaws, but so does every good character. He shows bravery in the face of danger, and he is so badass that it hurts. He has some of the best qualities out of any character in the show. He has ambitions that you can't help but root for, and he's a lot more compassionate than he shows.

Have you seen this guy? The Flame Alchemist was amazing! Watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and witness the savagery that was his fight against Lust and later, Envy. A strong, but intelligent and sometimes funny character as well. Loved Mustang.
Yusuke Urameshi - Yu Yu Hakusho

I love Dragon Ball Z, I love Naruto, and I've enjoyed countless others from SAO to Death Note to FMA. But Yu Yu Hakusho is a series I've watched since I was a kid and have re-watched many times because no matter how many times I watch it, it is amazing.
Yusuke, being the center of that show, makes my choice obvious. His love for Keiko and his faux apathetic attitude make him not the most complex but a very interesting character. His ability to continually improve despite the odds prevents me from saying anything negative about him. The show is amazing and this character is as well. I'm sad he's not in the top ten, but I'm glad he made the top 15.

Yusuke is a great character and extremely well-made. Unlike most protagonists in an action anime, he has the ability to lose and stick with it, although he does have rematches at different times.
As much as he can be short-tempered, he cares and shows other feelings as well.
Roronoa Zoro - One Piece

Roronoa Zoro, nicknamed "Pirate Hunter" Zoro, is a fictional character in the One Piece franchise created by Eiichiro Oda. He is a master swordsman who uses a unique three-sword fighting style. Zoro is one of the main crew members of the Straw Hat Pirates and serves as their combatant.

He is just AMAZING. I'm not only talking about skill. He acts like an idiot, but when he gets serious, you can tell he knows what the hell he's talking about. He is funny and silly to those he holds dear and treats everyone of any gender, race, or species the same. Not only that, but his devotion to his captain is one you don't see from any other member of the crew. Even though I believe he is just as strong as Luffy, the level of respect he has for him, alongside the level of respect he has for anyone who deserves it, is an extremely appealing characteristic that makes Roronoa Zoro incomparable to any other character around.

His loyalty to Luffy is especially commendable, and I just love how he had gone from initially putting his dream before Luffy to putting Luffy before his dream. He was willing to put his life on the line to save Luffy from Bartholomew Kuma, and that really warmed my heart. His skills are just as great, even more so after the time skip, and it's really cool to watch him in action. Awesome!
Yugi / Yami - Yu-Gi-Oh!

He is super caring and would literally do anything to save... well, anyone! Right there with Naruto, Natsu, Eren, and so many other great characters!

One of the best of the best anime heroes. With Yami's bravery and Yugi's kind heart, they form the best anime hero ever!

I love Yugi. It annoys me when he is called Yu-Gi-Oh or a ten-year-old. He is a short tenth grader. He has the coolest hair ever to be drawn, no doubt. He is adorable and extremely likable. I like all the versions of Yugi. The other characters mean nothing to me.
The original, before they started the card spin-offs, was the best. It makes me want to cry that it cannot be recognized for the brilliance of Season Zero (Yu-Gi-Oh!) and that it was canceled.
Mikasa Ackerman - Attack on Titan

Mikasa Ackerman is a fictional character in the manga and anime series Attack on Titan, also known by its Japanese title Shingeki no Kyojin. Created by Hajime Isayama, she is one of the main characters and serves as a close companion and protector of Eren Jaeger. Mikasa is known for her exceptional combat... read more

She is the best gal in the anime universe. It's admirable how she cares for Eren. A lot of people find it annoying, but I think it shows her caring side for her loved ones, besides how badass she is.
I don't think it's just because of her Ackermann bond. She genuinely cares about Eren. I truly hope she finds happiness in the end of the show. She is my favorite female character of all time.

Everything I have to say about her has been said already.
I didn't even realize it at first, but Mikasa inspires me to become stronger, both physically and mentally. Whenever I see another female character, I compare her to Mikasa to determine how much I like her.
Mikasa is, without a doubt, my favorite female character.
Kurapika - Hunter x Hunter

Kurapika (Japanese: クラピカ) is a main character from the anime and manga series Hunter × Hunter, written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi. Kurapika is the last remaining member of the Kurta Clan (クルタ族, Kuruta-zoku), and wishes to become a Hunter in order to avenge his clan and recover their scarlet-glowing... read more

I like his intelligence and strategic skills mixed with sarcasm and an overall kind heart. Usually, the smart, badass characters aren't sweet and caring, so this was positively unique. I also love how he started off as just a weak, quick-witted teenager and became an incredibly strong force to reckon with, with great character development.
I love watching characters grow, and Kurapika is no exception. His backstory with Pairo and the Phantom Troupe was very well done and utterly heartbreaking. His voice actress in the 2011 remake is great with emotion, and she captures his character so well that I laugh and cry with him. He's absolutely my favorite character in anime.
Gaara - Naruto

Gaara is a fictional character in the Naruto manga and anime series created by Masashi Kishimoto. He is the jinchūriki of the One-Tailed Shukaku and possesses the ability to manipulate sand, which he stores in a large gourd carried on his back. Gaara later becomes the Fifth Kazekage of Sunagakure.

At first, Gaara appealed to me as the "badass" of Naruto, and I never paid special attention to him. However, he progresses very well in the series, and the way the animators exposed this character's true side to the audience was great timing-wise. His childhood was probably the saddest part about Naruto, but it was also one of the most special moments of Naruto.

He went from a cold, hard kid with a backstory that is still, for me, the most heartbreaking part of the entire Naruto series to a Kazekage with a whole circle of friends. He shows a journey from a hated monster to a respected and beloved village leader. His entire character represents a return from darkness, which is something that we can all relate to.