Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Disney Princesses have long been celebrated for their empowering narratives, inspiring audiences of all ages to envision brighter futures for themselves and their communities. While some earlier portrayals may have perpetuated outdated stereotypes, Disney has continually evolved its representation to highlight the diversity and strength of these iconic characters and their rich cultural backgrounds.

Each Disney Princess brings a unique personality to the table, influencing how they navigate challenges and support those around them. These traits make each princess a beacon of inspiration, making the task of selecting the top 10 from the official list of 13 a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Here at IGN, we've carefully curated our list, and while we apologize to the three princesses who didn't make the cut, we believe our selections showcase the essence of what makes these characters truly exceptional.

So, without further ado, let's dive into IGN's top 10 Disney Princesses:

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

In Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora, also known as Briar Rose, lives a sheltered life in a forest cottage under the protection of the Three Good Fairies. Despite their efforts to shield her from Maleficent's curse, Aurora falls victim to the spell but is saved by true love's kiss, a narrative that has sparked debate in modern times. Yet, her grace, beauty, and imaginative spirit continue to captivate audiences, symbolizing dreams and resilience.

9. Moana

Moana, the daughter of the chief of Motunui, embodies independence and courage. Her journey to restore the heart of Te Fiti, guided by the ocean and aided by the demigod Maui, showcases her determination and leadership. Her story in Moana and its sequel highlights her as a role model for all, a sentiment echoed by her voice actress, Auli‘i Cravalho. We eagerly anticipate Catherine Laga'aia's portrayal in the upcoming live-action film, hoping she captures Moana's essence.

8. Cinderella

Cinderella's tale of perseverance and kindness amidst adversity in her own château has made her a beloved figure. Despite her passive portrayal in the original film, her ingenuity in enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape from confinement and her iconic transformation by the Fairy Godmother showcase her resilience. Her influence extends to fashion, with her blue dress becoming a symbol of hope and transformation for young audiences.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Ariel's rebellious spirit and yearning for the human world in The Little Mermaid resonate with many. Her journey to become human, despite the risks, and her eventual victory over Ursula with the help of her friends, highlight her bravery and determination. Ariel's role as a mother in the sequel, The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, further cements her as a multifaceted character, breaking new ground for Disney Princesses.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Tiana's story in The Princess and the Frog showcases her as a hard-working, determined woman from Jazz Age New Orleans. Her journey to turn a sugar mill into a restaurant, even after being transformed into a frog, emphasizes her resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. As the first African American Disney Princess, Tiana breaks barriers and inspires with her unwavering commitment to her dreams.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Belle's quest for knowledge and adventure in Beauty and the Beast sets her apart. Her willingness to sacrifice her freedom for her father's safety and her eventual love for the Beast, despite his appearance, highlight her depth and compassion. As a feminist icon, Belle challenges traditional princess roles, prioritizing personal growth and intellectual pursuits over romance.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Rapunzel's journey in Tangled from a secluded tower to the outside world is a testament to her resourcefulness and creativity. Her use of her magical hair for more than just healing, coupled with her determination to see the floating lanterns, showcases her as a modern princess who defies expectations and embraces her destiny with courage.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Jasmine's defiance against traditional marriage laws in Aladdin underscores her progressive views on love and autonomy. Her insistence on marrying for love, not status, and her pivotal role in changing the law to allow her to choose her partner, make her a symbol of female empowerment. As the first West Asian princess, she also brings much-needed diversity to Disney's lineup.

2. Merida (Brave)

Merida's story in Brave is one of self-determination and breaking free from societal expectations. Her refusal to marry and her journey to reconcile with her mother while breaking a spell, highlight her strength and independence. As the first single Disney Princess and a skilled archer, Merida represents a new era of princesses who chart their own paths.

1. Mulan

Mulan's story, rooted in a Chinese folk tale, is one of bravery and defying gender norms. Her decision to impersonate a man to save her father and her subsequent heroism in defeating the Hun army in Mulan showcase her as a symbol of persistence and honor. Disney's recognition of her as a princess, despite not being born into royalty, underscores her role in teaching the importance of breaking free from traditional roles.

There you have it! We extend our apologies to the three Disney Princesses who didn't make our list, but our focus was on their overall personalities and abilities. What are your thoughts on our selections and rankings? We'd love to hear from you in the comments.