Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Disney Princesses have long been icons of empowerment, inspiring individuals of all ages to envision brighter futures for themselves and those around them. While Disney has faced criticism for some past portrayals and stereotypes, the company has made significant efforts to enhance Disney Princess representation and messaging, allowing these characters and their diverse cultures to truly shine.

Each Disney Princess brings a unique personality to the table, influencing how they navigate challenges and support others. This diversity makes every Disney Princess a source of inspiration for both young and old, making it a tough task to rank them. However, at IGN, we've taken on the challenge and selected our top 10 from the official list of 13 characters. We apologize to the three magical princesses who didn't make the cut; it was a difficult decision!

Best Disney Princesses

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10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

In Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora, also known as Briar Rose, spends much of her life in a forest cottage with the Three Good Fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, who protect her from Maleficent's curse. Despite their efforts, Aurora falls victim to the curse on her 16th birthday, pricking her finger and falling into a deep sleep until awakened by true love's kiss. While Aurora is celebrated for her grace and beauty, her vivid imagination and dreams of the future set her apart. Critics have debated the implications of her story, particularly the reliance on true love's kiss to break the curse.

9. Moana

As the daughter of the chief of Motunui, Moana embodies independence and courage. Chosen by the ocean as an infant to restore the heart of the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti, she embarks on a quest as a teenager to save her island from a blight caused by Te Kā's darkness. With the help of the shapeshifting demi-god Maui, Moana discovers that Te Kā is Te Fiti's corrupted form and restores her, saving the ocean and her island. Moana's determination and bravery make her a role model for all, as noted by her voice actor Auli‘i Cravalho. We're excited to see how Catherine Laga'aia will portray Moana in the upcoming live-action film, and we can't wait for Moana 2.

8. Cinderella

After her father's death, Cinderella faces abuse from her stepmother and stepsisters, yet remains kind and humble. When forbidden from attending the royal ball, Cinderella receives magical help from her Fairy Godmother, transforming into a dazzling presence in a ballgown and glass slippers. Despite initial criticisms of passivity, Cinderella demonstrates resourcefulness by enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape. Her iconic style, including the baby blue dress (changed from silver to avoid resembling a child bride), has made her a fashion icon.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Ariel, the rebellious teenage mermaid, dreams of the human world, collecting human artifacts in her grotto. After rescuing Prince Eric and falling in love, she makes a deal with Ursula to gain legs, risking her voice and freedom. Ariel's journey to defeat Ursula, with the help of Eric, Sebastian, and Flounder, leads to her marriage and becoming the first Disney Princess to have a child, Melody, in the sequel The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Set in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana is a hardworking woman with a dream to open her own restaurant. After turning into a frog due to a kiss with Prince Naveen, she embarks on a journey to break the curse, teaching Naveen responsibility along the way. As the first African American Disney Princess, Tiana's determination and business acumen highlight her as a feminist icon in The Princess and the Frog.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Belle, a curious and independent young woman, yearns for more than her provincial life. She trades her freedom for her father's, living in the Beast's enchanted castle. Over time, Belle learns to see beyond the Beast's appearance, eventually breaking the curse with her love. Her love for learning and rejection of Gaston's superficial advances make her a feminist icon in Beauty and the Beast.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Locked away by Mother Gothel, Rapunzel dreams of seeing the floating lanterns on her birthday. With the help of Flynn Rider, she escapes her tower and discovers her royal heritage. Rapunzel's ingenuity and strength, using her hair for more than just healing, have made her a beloved figure in Tangled, showcasing her as a clever and educated princess.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Jasmine challenges traditional marriage norms by seeking a partner based on character rather than status. Her defiance against being treated as a prize culminates in her father changing the law to allow her to marry Aladdin, who values authenticity. As the first West Asian Disney Princess in Aladdin, Jasmine symbolizes female empowerment and diversity.

2. Merida (Brave)

Merida refuses to marry for political gain, seeking to control her own destiny. Her conflict with her mother, Queen Elinor, over these expectations leads to a spell that transforms Elinor into a bear. Through her journey in Brave, Merida not only breaks the spell but also empowers other firstborns to choose their own paths. As Pixar's first Disney Princess and the first to remain single, Merida breaks the mold of the damsel in distress.

1. Mulan

Mulan, the first Chinese Disney Princess, defies gender norms by joining the Imperial Chinese Army in her father's place. Her strategic mind and bravery lead to the defeat of the Hun army and the rescue of the Emperor. Despite not being born into royalty, Mulan's story in Mulan teaches the values of persistence, family, and honor, challenging traditional gender roles and earning her the title of princess.

There you have it! We regret not being able to include all Disney Princesses, but our focus was on their unique personalities and abilities. What are your thoughts on our selections and rankings? Share your opinions in the comments section below.