Let’s not deny it, anime popularity contests are guilty pleasure for most of the fans, especially when it comes to their favorite characters. Knowing that the anime character you adore is one of the most popular, and is loved and respected by many is something that gives you a sense of joy.

Keeping that in mind we have come up with a list of 50 most popular anime characters of all time. While the list given by MAL is a good place to start with to know anime character popularity, we decided to go above and beyond.

Along with MAL’s reference, we also went through search data, Google Trends and other metrics (which includes fan sentiments and our own intuitions) for over last 5 years that were available publicly to get a better idea of who really makes it to the list of most popular anime characters.

Without further ado, lets dive right in!

Most popular anime characters of all time:

50. Hinata Hyuga:

Hinata Hyuga is one of the cutest female characters from the anime Naruto. She’s a kind soul and a shy ninja from the Hyuga clan, popularly known for their powerful eye technique, the Byakugan.

Hinata’s journey begins as timid and lacking in confidence, often struggling to prove herself. However, her determination to overcome her fears and prove herself drives her to grow as a ninja.

She has always admired Naruto, and her feelings for him become a source of motivation. Despite her introverted nature, she is known to be brave and willing to face challenges to protect her friends at any cost.

The character development of Hinata, both in skills and self-confidence, is a focal point in the series. Her gentle spirit, determination, and firm loyalty make her a beloved and independent waifu for Naruto fans.

49. Bulma Briefs:

Bulma Briefs is a central character from the anime Dragon Ball. She’s one of the brilliant scientists and inventors with a sharp mind and a bold attitude. She is well-known for her character as she was the one who first discovered the Dragon Balls, powerful artifacts that can grant any wish.

She’s an adventurous and fearless kind of character, who often loves to take risks and is always on the side of Goku and the other Z Fighters.

Even though she is the smartest of all, she can be impulsive and impatient sometimes. She dresses up well and loves to go shopping.

Throughout the series, Bulma’s intelligence and clever mind help the team overcome challenges, and her firm loyalty towards her friends make her one of the most important characters in the world of Dragon Ball.

48. Yugi Muto:

Yugi Muto is our popular and cool main protagonist with iconic red and yellow spiky hair from the anime “Yu-Gi-Oh!” His journey begins as not the coolest type of boy and as a timid high school student.

He was often bullied because of his small-size body. But soon, we get to know that he is not an ordinary boy and also possesses a unique artifact, the Millennium Puzzle, which gives him access to a mysterious switch to his overall personality known as Yami Yugi.

His journey soon starts as a smart main protagonist in the series. You will always see him solving various puzzles, facing opponents in intense card battles, and discovering the secrets of ancient relics.

“Yu-Gi-Oh!” gained popularity because of its super unique concept of card battles. Yugi, as the show’s hero, played a vital role and won hearts around the world.

47. Guts:

Guts is a well-known character from the anime “Berserk.” He’s a wild and ruthless warrior with a dark past. Born from a hanged corpse and raised by mercenaries, Guts endures a childhood in a brutal environment, facing a life filled with hardships.

Guts’ popularity might have waned in recent times, but he was at his peak while Miura was still serializing Berserk. He is still riding on that popularity wave to an extent and manages to be included in our list of most popular anime characters.

As he grows up, he wields an enormous sword and seeks revenge against the demonic forces responsible for his suffering. He is also proficient in combat skills, and his persistent determination has earned him respect for being a fearsome and solitary fighter.

Even though he may seem like a rude and uncaring person, he has a few companions who are like his own family, and he wants to protect them at any cost.

46. Okabe Rintarou:

The self-proclaimed ‘Mad Scientist,’ Okabe Rintarou, is the main protagonist of the anime “Steins Gate.”

The series is known for its mysterious time travel theme and the complexity that arises in each episode, which hooks you up to watch it till the end. Okabe’s journey starts when he accidentally discovers time travel. His life takes a dramatic turn as he changes the past, leading to a series of consequences faced by our protagonist.

He has developed a somewhat weird persona in his personality known as Hououin Kyouma, which makes him an eccentric character.

Under this so-called persona, Okabe adopts a theatrical speaking tone, often adding unique dramatic gestures and theatrical phrases to his speeches. He uses Hououin Kyouma as a way to express his unconventional views on science, time travel, and the universe around him.

I’m sure this character sounds really inquisitive, but that’s what makes him worth being the protagonist of the show “Steins Gate.”

45. Zero Two:

One of the most popular characters known for her boldness and complex personality. Her character undergoes significant development from start to end. Her expressions and actions are influenced by her past, which is later restored by our main protagonist, Hiro, who is also her beloved partner, known as 002.

She might come across as crazy, but her unique abilities help her overcome many difficult situations. Her appearance is undoubtedly appealing, with her distinctive pink hair and red horns that make her stand out from all the characters in the anime.

One of my favorite catchphrases she uses most of the time in the anime is addressing her beloved partner as “darling,” which adds a compassionate touch. Overall, it’s really admirable to witness her character evolve from the beginning to the end and see how she changes while moving forward. Watching her journey is truly worth it.

44. Makise Kurisu:

Next up is Makise Kurisu, known to be a rival of Okabe, the main protagonist of the show “Steins Gate.” We know how smart Okabe is, as we discussed, but if there is someone who can match the eccentric nature of Okabe, it’s none other than Makise.

Other than being a rival of Okabe, she is a brilliant neuroscientist (trust me when I say brilliant) with a strong academic record and a no-nonsense attitude. Kurisu’s expertise and research in neuroscience make her an idol figure in her field.

Her journey involves exploring themes of identity, time travel, and the consequences of scientific discoveries, and that’s what makes her worth watching.

43. Chika Fujiwara:

A cute girl with a pink face who never fails to make you laugh with her actions. Yes, I’m talking about the most popular and joyful character, Chika Fujiwara, from the anime “Kaguya-sama: Love is War.” You will always see her dancing and creating funny moments in the show, making it really wonderful to watch. Her cute appearance will make your heart pound.

She is a very close friend of the main characters and often seems to try to become involved in their schemes to make each other confess their true feelings. Her innocent and cheerful personality goes really well with the serious romantic situations in the series.

42. Lelouch:

Lelouch is one of the most popular anti-heroes, from “Code Geass” franchise. He’s really smart (in the same wavelength as Light Yagami) and he gets his hand on a power called Geass that lets him control others.

His only mission is to make the world better for his sister Nunnally, who is blind and always moves around on wheelchair. As the story progresses, he becomes “Zero” and leads a team to fight against the evil Holy Britannian Empire.

He’s very adept at making strategies and taking decisions in the battlefield. He has a caring side for his family and wants to make things fair for everyone. You will find this character very interesting because he has big missions to accomplish, and it will be amazing to see how he overcome his difficulties in the anime.

41. Sukuna:

One of the legendary and ruthless sorcerers who became a Cursed Object after his death. He’s an unforgettable antagonist of one of the most popular new-gen anime, “Jujutsu Kaisen.”

He is renowned for his immense strength and exceptional combat abilities. He is particularly famous for having 20 fingers, each of which contains a fragment of his power. These fingers are highly sought after by sorcerers and cursed spirits due to the immense evil power they contain.

His first impression in the show was really mind-blowing, as he is one who’s fond of creating chaos and loves to watch the show unravel. His presence itself drives the plot forward, leading to intense battles and confrontations in the show. He is one of the most popular anime characters out there right now.

40. Gon:

Gon is the main protagonist in the anime Hunter x Hunter (chibi Goku, yes). He’s a happy-go-lucky type of character. He lives on Whale Island, and his only mission in life is to become a Hunter like his father. Even though he looks like a kid, he’s a talented fighter and a quick learner.

The best part about him ss that he is always loyal towards his friends, and he often puts others’ needs before his own. Throughout the series, Gon’s determination to fulfill his goals is showcased as he faces many challenges and grows in strength.

However, his obsession with finding his father most often leads him into absurd situations. Gon’s blend of innocence, determination, and an adventurous spirit makes him a lovable and relatable character within the diverse world of Hunter x Hunter.

39. Hisoka:

I bet if you have watched “Hunter x Hunter” even for a few episodes, you would have admired Hisoka’s cool personality; he is almost unbeatable in any fight. He is one of the coolest and most intriguing antagonists on our list.

Even though the superstars of the show are Killua and Gon, Hisoka’s role is something not to be ignored. He was definitely worth the hype. Despite being an antagonist, there are fans around the world who love him more than the main protagonist of the show.

38. Rem:

Rem, the name itself, is so popular among anime fans that if you haven’t watched the anime “Re:Zero,” you will still remember her for her mesmerizing beauty (for me, she’s the prettiest waifu I’ve ever seen). Her cuteness, charm, and care for her loved ones are indescribable.

Even though she has such a wonderful presence in the series, it feels really sad because she didn’t get what she deserves (to know about it, you have to watch the anime because I bet you will definitely cry after seeing that episode).

So, overall, her personality as one of the most popular character and waifu is irreplaceable.

37. Madara Uchiha:

Madara Uchiha is one of the best villains to have emerged from the anime Naruto. He’s a legendary icon and one of the most powerful ninjas in history. He is also one of the co-founders of the hidden village of Konoha, and he was once friends with Hashirama Senju.

Despite their differences leading to conflict, Madara became an antagonist as the story progresses. He’s renowned for his unbeatable combat skills, advanced Sharingan abilities, and his desire to pursue an ideal world under his rule. His impact on the Naruto series is enormous and cannot be forgotten by Naruto fans.

36. Mikasa Ackerman:

Mikasa Ackerman is one of the main characters in Attack on Titan and also one of the most popular anime characters around (we’re getting to Levi, wait). She is brawns supporting the brains of Eren and the Survey Corps. A skilled fighter, Mikasa is often identified among fans with her unhealthy ‘Eren’ obsession.

That said, she has a tragic past as she lost her family and now sees Eren’s family as her own. The obsession I mentioned above could partly be because she doesn’t want to lose anyone else she is close to. Mikasa never gives up and stands strongly against Titans.

Even though she acts tough, she really cares about Eren and her companions. She’s a combination of being tough in battles and caring about people, which makes her one of the coolest female characters of all time.

35. Killua:

Killua Zoldyck is one of the most amazing characters in the anime Hunter x Hunter. He comes from a family renowned as deadly assassins but runs away to live his life on his own terms. He is skilled in combat and has been trained to be incredibly strong (as expected from a person belonging to a family of merciless assassins).

He doesn’t like to share his feelings and tries to be reserved and emotionless due to his upbringing, but as he spends time with his friend Gon, he soon started to open up about his feelings.

Despite his tragic past, Killua tries to find his own path and values his friendships above all. His character development from a hardened assassin to a caring and dependable friend adds more excitement and complexity to Hunter x Hunter, making Killua a fascinating character.

34. Dio Brando:

A WIN FOR JOJO MEMES!!!!! One of the cunning and power-thirsty antagonists shown in one of the most epic Shounen anime, “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.” Despite being an evil character, he has a charismatic aura around him.

His journey starts as a young boy who becomes an adopted member of the Joestar family, but his true intentions are yet to be revealed.

He is an unforgettable enemy in the show. He can transform himself into a vampire with the help of a mysterious stone mask and seeks immortality. His ability to manipulate people around him creates formidable adversaries. And who can forget his iconic catchphrase ‘Muda Muda’ and his iconic pose? He is an unforgivable figure in the show.

33. Taki & Mitsuha (Your Name):

Here come one of the most popular couples from one of the most beloved anime movies, Taki & Mitsuha from the anime movie “Your Name.” They are almost inseparable in the series and even in the minds of their fans.

Your Name has become synonymous with many fans as one of the best anime movies ever, so there was never a doubt regarding the popularity this leading couple.

Their story is basically about a mysterious yet unbelievable phenomenon where they swap their bodies intermittently, creating a unique and heartfelt connection between them.

Taki is a high school boy living in Tokyo, and Mitsuha is a girl living in a rural village. Suddenly, their souls get exchanged, and they experience each other’s lives, gradually forming a very deep bond. Despite the challenges they face, they try their best to navigate each other’s worlds, feelings, and sorrows. They strive to understand and support one another.

The movie is a rollercoaster of emotions, and the animation is top-notch. It’s a romantic story between our main characters, Taki & Mitsuha, who go to great lengths to fight with their fate to be together.

32. Astro Boy:

One of the classical anime characters, renowned as Tetsuwan Atom in Japanese. His character was illustrated by Osamu Tezuka, who introduced Astro Boy as a humanoid robot with advanced artificial intelligence and incomparable abilities.

His journey starts in a modernistic world where robots coexist with humans. He was created by Dr. Tenma after the loss of his own son. He possesses superhuman strength, flight, and the ability to imitate human emotions. He uses his powers to fight against evil forces and protect humanity like any other superhero.

The anime raises questions about whether artificially created humans should be treated like humans or not. Even though our hero gets involved in this debate, he never gives up and remains committed to protecting human beings at any cost.

31. Howl (from Howl’s moving castle):

Howl is the good-looking and smartest wizard in the anime film “Howl’s Moving Castle,” directed by Hayao Miyazaki. We often praise beauty with brains, and he’s someone who can be called handsome with brains. He lives in a magical moving castle that can walk and fly, expressing his mysterious yet complex personality.

Despite his dashing appearance, Howl is known to be dramatic and somewhat eccentric. He is caring and compassionate, qualities he hardly shows to anyone. He has a fear of losing his own humanity and often transforms into a bird-like creature to escape the reality of his life.

As the story progresses, Howl’s journey explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the impact of war. Most of the part of his character development centers around his relationships with Sophie and his internal struggles. His transformation from a self-involved magician to a character willing to confront his fears and fight for what he believes in adds a good depth to the story, making him one of the characters that fans can admire.

30. Kaneki Ken:

Kaneki is one of most popular characters not just in Tokyo Ghoul but the anime fandom in general. His journey begins as a quiet college student but his life changes when he turns into a half-human, half-ghoul after a terrifying encounter on his first date.

As he is now also a Ghoul who eats humans, and he has to deal with this change within himself (Kafka’s Metamorphosis intensifies). Kaneki has a hard time figuring out who he is now and what he should do as being a half-ghoul. Eventually, he feels his only purpose is now to keep his friends safe while dealing with his new, more inhumane side.

As series the progresses, Kaneki gets stronger and learns to handle himself and danger around him. His philosophical outlooks and character arc is one of the best in animanga history and rightly deserves a place in this list.

29. Chainsaw Man (the character):

One of the most anticipated anime of all time, fans were crazy for its premiere, and who can forget the show’s first episode breaking the internet record with its release? But for this article, we will talk about our oddly crazy main protagonist, Denji, who is Chainsaw Man.

To be honest, it is Denji’s Chainsaw Man form that is more famous, as it was used by even the Ukrainian government and the Real Betis football club in its promotion activities.

As we said, he is oddly crazy, but he is also one of the most intriguing protagonists with a unique power and a tragic background. His journey begins as a struggling devil hunter burdened with debts left behind by his deceased father (trust me, his life was miserable until that time).

But one fateful encounter changed his life; he merges with his trusty chainsaw demon, Pochita, gaining unique powerful abilities when he was about to die.

His journey takes a new track after that, making him become a Devil Hunter for the government, facing off against formidable adversaries in his universe.

His personality seems a bit off, and he easily gets fooled by people around him, but still, he has formed some strong bonds overall. As the main protagonist of the popular show, he does a pretty good job.

28. Ryuk:

It’s still hard for many fans to understand whether Ryuk is an antagonist or protagonist of the show. Despite this question, he is the heart of the anime. Fans often admire Light Yagami or L in the series because of their unforgettable clashes, but the story wouldn’t have started if Ryuk hadn’t existed in the show.

So, basically, he is a shinigami, known as the God of Death. Yes, you heard it right. His personality can be characterized by his nonchalant and detached attitude, and he is intrigued by the consequences of the Death Note and the actions of its users, particularly Light Yagami.

He follows orders, or you can say he acts in a way Light dictates because he loves to witness Light’s tactics and chaotic situations arising around it that never fail to amuse him (basically, Light is like a toy for him). Overall, his mysterious appearances in the show and his conversations with Light add a nice spice to the show’s intriguing plot.

27. Usagi (Sailor Moon):

Usagi, also called our beloved Sailor Moon, is a warrior or protector of the Sailor Guardians. She is a young high school girl, cheerful and always eager to help others.

Her journey in the show starts off with her being a seemingly ordinary and clumsy schoolgirl. However, her life changes dramatically when she discovers a talking cat named Luna and receives the ability to transform into Sailor Moon.

As the series progresses, she fully embraces her role as a protector of Earth and fights against various forces of evil. The show’s theme portrays a supergirl narrative, which was quite unique for its era when the anime was released. She’s one of the most loved supergirls within the anime community. And who can forget her catchphrase, “In the name of the Moon, I will punish you!”? This catchphrase alone has made her a memorable character in the hearts of anime fans.

26. Edward Elric:

Edward Elric, popularly called Ed, is the main protagonist of the anime “Fullmetal Alchemist.” He is often billed as one of the best protagonists to ever exists, and so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that he is in the top 30 of our most popular anime characters.

His personality is rough due to his short temper and his constant motivation to help others.

Edward is also a talented young alchemist with a distinctive automail arm and leg. He lost his arm, leg, and even his brother’s body in a dangerous alchemical experiment (watch anime to know more). From there, his true journey starts to bring back his brother as he was and to find out the answers about what exactly alchemy can do and how destructive it is to humanity.

His journey encompasses themes of sacrifice, morality, and the consequences of human desires that can never be fulfilled. His unwavering resolve to right his past deeds and protect those he cares about makes him a relatable and beloved character in the world of anime.

25. Light Yagami:

Light Yagami is the main protagonist from Death Note, one of the most popular anime that is out there. I know you are wondering why he is not the most popular character out there.

He is an ambitious high school student who gets his hands on a notebook, dubbed the Death Note, which allows him to kill people just by writing their names in it.

In the beginning of the series, he wanted to use a notebook to kill criminals, but he gets carried away, developing a god complex.

We witness his character development as the plot progresses, with Light becoming obsessed with power and starting to kill people who don’t obey him or fit his ideology. He’s always in a gruesome mind game with L, who’s trying to catch him red handed. Light Yagami’s journey from being a hero of humanity to a power-hungry person, makes him a really mind-blowing character in the anime world, and also one of the most popular.

24. Sakura Haruno:

She might be widely hated, but she is quite popular you know! Sakura Haruno is one of the popular characters in the anime fandom. Her journey was a bit off as she was kind of an airhead and not very good at communicating with others (except Sasuke).

She often get overshadowed by her more skilled teammates, Naruto and Sasuke. However, as time passes by, Sakura’s focus on becoming skilled grows, leading her to undergo rigid training and growth in the anime.

She is also renowned for her exceptional intelligence and medical skills. Eventually, she becomes a skilled medic-ninja in a future arc.

Sakura, as a character, has faced much criticism for her attitude towards Naruto and her simping for Sasuke. Still, there are fans who like Sakura, ignoring her flaws and understanding her as a person. Her remarkable growth in her personality has made her an overall very popular character among the fans.

23. Kakashi:

Kakashi Hatake is one of the most beloved sensei in the anime Naruto. He is a skilled ninja renowned for his one-eyed Sharingan and his goofy yet disciplined attitude. He is the leader and mentor of Team 7, which also includes Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. Other than the one-eyed Sharingan, he is also famous for his “Copy Ninja” title, as he can replicate and use other ninja techniques as well.

He is often seen as calm, reserved, and frequently masks his emotions with his face-covering headband. He values teamwork and always protects his students from any danger like an ideal sensei.

Despite his unresponsive nature, he is a loyal friend and a formidable ally in battle. Kakashi has a very complex personality, a tragic past, and his role in shaping the growth of Team 7 makes him a respected and ideal character in Naruto.

22. Ichigo Kurosaki:

Ichigo is the main protagonist of the anime Bleach. He’s a high school student who has a unique ability to see ghosts. After accidentally getting his hands on the powers of a Soul Reaper, he is given the responsibility of defending humans from evil spirits called Hollows.

He Is focused, overprotective, and often jumps into danger to help others. Even though he looks tough, he has a soft side for his family and friends. Ichigo’s development from an ordinary teenager to a powerful Soul Reaper is a central theme of the series, and his journey to protect the living world from supernatural threats is a major plotline of the anime.

His combination of personality traits such as determination, empathy, and growing strength makes Ichigo a most memorable and heroic character in Bleach.

21. Itachi Uchiha:

Itachi Uchiha is one of the most powerful characters from the anime Naruto. He is worshipped as a God in the Naruto fandom, and this anime character’s popularity mainly stems from there. They would also argue that should have been the top 10 characters in this list!

He has a complex and mystic personality and is well-known for his exceptional skills as a ninja and his most dramatic past.

In the past, he was a member of the Uchiha clan, and to prevent a seizure of power, he was compelled to wipe out his own clan, leaving only his younger brother, Sasuke. His past actions made him a villain in the eyes of many, including his younger brother Sasuke.

Despite his villainous image in front of all, his true intentions remained hidden until later in the series. His complex character, along with duty, sacrifice, and an unsettling love for his brother, adds in-depth emotions in the anime, making Itachi a memorable and emotionally driven figure in Naruto.

20. Nezuko Kamado:

Nezuko Kamado is one of the central characters in the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. She’s a kind-hearted girl who becomes a demon after surviving an attack that brutally killed her entire family.

Despite this transformation, Nezuko tries to retain her humanity and compassion, hoping to protect her brother Tanjiro. She always tries to resist her demonic instincts or hunger. Nezuko is often admired for her relationship with Tanjiro, and undoubtedly she is one of the best sisters shown in the anime.

Their deep bond and firm support for each other make it very unique and wholesome to watch. She always seems to struggle to find her place between the human and demon worlds, even though most people accept her, including the Hashira, for her determination not to hurt humans.

19. L (Lawliet):

L, whose real name is Lawliet, doesn’t need any particular introduction. Once again, he is a character from the beginner pack of anime, Death Note, one of the most popular there is. He’s undoubtedly super smart, but he also has a strange demeanor, which is in fact very alluding for his fans.

His only goal in the anime is to figure out who the mysterious killer’s identity “Kira” or “Light Yagami” really is.

As I mentioned, L’s personality is a little odd, as he acts differently from the other characters you have watched in any anime series. L is a also a socially awkward person (super relatable?), and his first friend was his only rival, Light.

You will always see him munching on sweets while doing research or any work.

Even though he’s not good at communicating with others, he’s really smart and tried his best to prove Light is Kira. L’s unique personality and strong sense of justice make him a really crucial character in the anime world.

18. Anya Forger:

What a surge in popularity this anime character has had, and all thanks to her cuteness. A small, little girl with unique abilities to read the minds of people lives with her adopted father, who is a mysterious spy, and her mom is an assassin. Yes, I’m talking about the most popular and one of the cutest, relatable characters, Anya Forger. I think the anime “Spy x Family” itself is popular because of this cute little girl.

Her aura is almost unbeatable. When she was first introduced in the show, fans all over the world couldn’t stop cosplaying as her; she was all over the internet. Until now, her popularity as the youngest character in the show is unbelievable, and her cute gestures can make anyone’s day.

Only time will tell if this popularity wave is here to stay or not, but in today’s time, she indeed is one of the most popular character around the globe!

17. Gojo Satoru:

Gojo Satoru is one those anime character who has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity in recent times. He’s definitely powerful and a magnificent sorcerer who also stands out for his personality.

Being one of the strongest characters, he was compared immediately to the likes of Goku and Saitama, which in turn increased his popularity among multiple fandoms. Also, his similarity in looks to Kakashi also helped his case (though his looks were inspired by a totally different character).

He is well known for his skill, the Limitless Cursed Technique. He’s a most unique character, confident, laid-back, and often playful, even in serious situations. He is a mentor to Yuji Itadori, Megumi and Yuta Okkotsu.

Even though he appears as a comical character in the anime, he never ignores the safety of his students and is always ready to face any threats to protect them.

His combination of incredible power, carefree attitude, and dedication to his responsibilities makes Gojo one of the most popular characters out there.

16. Eren Jaeger:

Eren Yeager, the name itself, is so hyped up in the anime world of Attack on Titan. His journey begins at a very young age, and as the story progresses, he has witnessed something very gruesome: the destruction of his town by giant humanoid creatures called Titans.

Eren is driven by vengeance and a burning desire for freedom, and as the series progresses, his motivations and his overall personality change, and he becomes a member of the military to fight back against the Titans.

His character undergoes a drastic change, transforming from a determined but impulsive youth into a complex and morally ambiguous figure.

His determination, willingness to question authority, and his impact on the story’s themes of freedom and humanity make Eren the most intricate character in Attack on Titan.

15. Izuku Midoriya:

Izuku Midoriya, popularly known as ‘Deku,’ is the main protagonist in the anime My Hero Academia.

His story begins as a quirkless kid in a world where most people have superpowers like superheroes. Despite this, he’s incredibly focused and passionate about becoming a hero like his idol, All Might.

Deku is smart, super kind-hearted, and always ready to help his friends. When he inherits All Might’s powerful quirk ‘One For All,’ he starts training himself to become strong and control his power as his own. He is basically an underdog who has a never-give-up attitude, often putting himself in danger to save others.

Deku’s journey from a quirkless kid to a strong hero-in-training is really admirable, and sometimes it will make you cry (like it did for me). His pure-hearted nature and strong sense of justice make him a beloved and renowned character in the anime world.

14. Sasuke Uchiha:

Sasuke Uchiha is one of the crucial characters in the anime Naruto. He begins his journey as a skilled and talented ninja from the legendary Uchiha clan.

However, his life takes a tragic turn after witnessing the mass slaughter of his clan by his older brother, Itachi. Driven by revenge, Sasuke’s only goal is to get stronger to defeat his own brother.

His chase for power leads him to take a very difficult path, including leaving behind his village and friends.

His complex journey involves inner conflict and redemption. As the story progresses, he learns the importance of bonds and teamwork. Sasuke’s adventure and character development, along with tragedy and growth, make him a memorable and distinctive figure in the Naruto series.

13. Saitama:

The second character in the most popular anime characters list, who was mainly propelled by the power of memes and jokes and also ‘Can he beat Goku’. Often regarded as a gag character, Saitama is the main protagonist of the anime “One Punch Man.”

He (we affectionately call him baldy) is a superhero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch (and I mean it anyone with just a single blow), which might sound exciting and amazing to watch but consequences of it is that he has left him bored and unsatisfied, even though he is so powerful.

Despite his incredible strength, Saitama suffers from a lack of challenge and is on a mission to find a worthy rival.

He’s depicted as bald and ordinary-looking, but his deadpan comedy and relatable personality make him one of the most popular anime characters. His journey to find excitement and meaning in his life, while dealing with the boring days, makes Saitama an amazing and comical character in the anime.

12. Vegeta:

Vegeta is one of the most epic characters in the anime Dragon Ball. He is also proud to be a Saiyan warrior and the only prince of the Saiyan race. At the beginning, Vegeta arrives on Earth as a cruel villain, on a mission to collect Dragon Balls to become immortal and undefeatable.

However, his personality gradually changes by joining forces with the Z Fighters and becoming one of Earth’s defenders. He is strong-willed, competitive, and often struggles with his pride. His only wish is to surpass Goku (the main protagonist in the series) in a fight.

Even though he looks tough and rude, he still cares deeply for his family and loves his wife Bulma and their children. Vegeta’s change of heart from a heartless antagonist to a complex and heroic figure, along with growth, sacrifice, and the balance between pride and humility, makes him an iconic and legendary character in Dragon Ball.

11. Zoro:

Now, Zoro has the tendency to get lost often, however, he has managed to rightly make to our list of most popular anime characters without any issues.

Zoro is one of the most iconic characters in the anime One Piece. He is a skilled swordsman and a crucial member of the Straw Hat Pirates, led by Monkey D. Luffy. He has a goal of becoming the world’s greatest swordsman, and he has dedicated his life to achieving his only dream. He is also popular for his three-sword fighting style and his unbeatable strength.

Even though he looks tough, he always values his friends and is willing to put his life on the line to protect them. His loyalty, unshakable determination, and desire for personal excellence make him a beloved and respected character in the diverse world of One Piece.

10. Totoro (from My Neighbor Totoro):

Totoro is one of the most lovable and iconic characters from the anime film “My Neighbor Totoro.” Not only is Totoro used as a mascot for Ghibli movies, he has become a pop culture icon in Japan and many other countries. Even if people don’t recognize which anime he is from, the character itself is well know. This popularity is only set to skyrocket with the opeinig og Ghibli parks and cafes

He is a friendly forest spirit known for his large size, fuzzy appearance, and joyful personality. He lives in a giant camphor tree in the enchanted forest, as shown in the series.

His presence brings wonder and magic to the lives of two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei. He also helps them navigate challenges and discover new and amazing things within their new rural home.

His role portrays imagination, friendship, and the connection between humans and nature in a unique way. His warm and welcoming behavior, along with his iconic representation of the wonders of the natural world, has made Totoro a heartwarming and beloved character in the world of anime.

9. Conan Edogawa (Detective Conan):

Surprised to see him here? Well you really shouldn’t be. Conan Edogawa, renowned as Detective Conan among the fans, is the Sherlock Holmes of anime universes. No one can beat his popularity as being one of the best and smartest characters shown in the anime “Detective Conan.”

The series is also popularly known as “Case Closed,” and it’s one of the Shounen anime that still captivates hearts around the world through its movies.

The story begins with the introduction of the main protagonist as a high school student named Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant young detective known for solving cases that are a mystery for many. However, during his investigation in one case, he was exposed to an experimental poison that transformed him into a child. To hide his true identity, he adopts the name Conan Edogawa.

The anime itself is mysterious and full of thrills as our main protagonist, in his child form, tries to discover a treatment wherever he goes and gets himself involved in cases to solve. This keeps the show from ever being boring. He is one of the iconic and charismatic characters in the anime universe.

8. Tanjiro Kamado:

The insane popularity of Demon Slayer anime (particularly its animation) has made sure that this anime character would be in the top 10 of any popularity list you create. Serioulsy, the school kids in Japan adored him more than their parents.

Tanjiro Kamado is the main protagonist in the anime ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.’ He’s a determined and kind-hearted young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is brutally slaughtered by demons, and his sister Nezuko is turned into one.

Tanjiro is one of the most caring people you will ever see in the anime. He even cares for his oppoents. He always tries to look out for others and is determined to save his sister and bring her back as a human. He is a skilled fighter and becomes even stronger through intensive training.

Tanjiro’s journey is driven by his love for his family and his determination to make his sister human again. His firm spirit, empathy, and dedication make him one of the most unique and beloved protagonists in the fascinating world of ‘Demon Slayer.

7. Levi:

SIMP HARD!!! Levi Ackerman, often called “Captain Levi,” is one of the coolest characters in the anime Attack on Titan. He is a skilled soldier and the captain of the elite Special Operations Squad. He is renowned for his exceptional combat skills, particularly his flexibility and precision with his vertical maneuvering equipment. He is calm, composed, and often seen as serious with a stubborn personality.

Levi holds high standards for himself and his team, always aiming for perfection in their fight against Titans.

Despite his tough appearance, he cares deeply for his friends and comrades. His tragic past and experiences have made him sensitive and sometimes cynical, but his steadfast determination to protect humanity, along with his complex personality, make him a unique character in the dark world of Attack on Titan.

6. Naruto:

Naruto Uzumaki is the main protagonist and the most popular character in the anime world of Naruto. He is a ninja with the sole dream of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. He is well-known for his determination, passion, never-give-up attitude, and humor.

He is introduced as an orphan who grew up facing loneliness and rejection due to having a powerful Nine-Tails fox spirit sealed inside him (which was unknown until revealed later in the series).

Despite this, he never loses hope and remains determined to prove his worth and gain the respect of his friends. His journey involves hard training, forming strong bonds, and proving himself as a hero. He is also well-known for his signature move, the Rasengan, and his hidden ability to make friends wherever he goes.

Naruto’s adventure, his struggle to overcome challenges, and his ultimate goal of becoming Hokage make him an iconic and motivational character in the diverse world of anime.

5. Luffy:

Monkey D. Luffy is the most popular main protagonist in the anime universe of “One Piece. He is a free-spirited and adventurous young boy with a dream of finding the legendary One Piece treasure and becoming the ultimate Pirate King. His ability to stretch like rubber after eating a Devil Fruit is fantastic. He is a carefree soul, energetic, and is often seen with a big smile on his face. He values friendship more than anything and is well-known for forming close bonds with his crew members, the Straw Hat Pirates.

He is on a mission to protect his friends and achieve his dream, even if it means facing fearless enemies or encountering incredibly challenging situations. His enthusiasm, bravery, and his journey to explore the Grand Line in search of adventure and treasure are everything that makes him a beloved and iconic character in the world of anime.

4. Ash Ketchum:

Ash Ketchum is one of the most beloved characters from the anime Pokémon. He’s a determined and adventurous young Pokémon Trainer from Pallet Town.

From start to end, his only dream is of becoming a Pokémon Master. He travels from region to region, capturing and training Pokémon to compete in battles and tournaments. And who can forget his iconic cap and unforgettable bond with his first Pokémon, Pikachu.

Throughout his journey, Ash learns important lessons about everything related to friendship, teamwork, and perseverance. His endless passion for Pokémon and his desire to achieve his dream make him a unique and most memorable character in the world of anime.

3. Doraemon:

Doraemon is a super friendly character in the anime Doraemon. He is essentially a robotic cat from the future who travels back in time with his time machine to help a young boy named Nobita. He has a special pocket from which he pulls out various futuristic gadgets to help Nobita out of any troubles. He is kind-hearted, wise, and has a playful personality.

He cares deeply for Nobita and Is always ready to support him at any cost, even if it means getting into adventurous situations. His ability to see the future and prevent disasters using his gadgets often leads to ambiguous situations.

Doraemon’s charm, his friendship with Nobita, and his mesmerizing stories have made him an enduring and cherished character of all times.

2. Goku:

Goku is the main protagonist and legendary character from the anime Dragon Ball. He is a strong and always seen carefree Saiyan warrior, who loves to go on adventure and have combat with others. His journey begins as a child who’s trained in martial arts by his adoptive grandfather, and he later discovers his true Saiyan heritage. He is renowned for his iconic spiky hair and his stiff determination.

His aim of becoming the strongest in the universe leads him through epic battles, intense training, and forming imperishable friendships.

He is kind-hearted, confident, and often sincere, but his love for his friends and family is incomparable. His character development from being a simple boy into a powerful hero and his resolve to protect Earth is a symbol of hope, which makes him a beloved and legendary character in the world of anime

1. Pikachu:

Pikachu is well known for being an iconic character and the mascot of the Pokémon franchise. He is an Electric-type Pokémon popular for his cute appearance, including his lightning bolt-shaped tail. He is the first Pokémon and the beloved partner of Ash Ketchum, the main protagonist in the anime series.

He is energetic, lightning-fast, and has a strong bond with Ash. Pikachu’s signature move is “Thunderbolt,” and he often assists Ash in Pokémon battles and challenges.

Despite his small size, his determination and bravery shine through, and he is always there to support his friends and fight alongside them. His unparalleled popularity makes him loved by fans of all ages around the globe.

Final thoughts:

In the world of anime, characters play an incredibly influential role in capturing our imaginations, evoking our emotions, and leaving lasting impressions. From fearless warriors to cheerful companions, each character brings a unique essence to their respective stories.

Throughout the journey of exploring the top 30 best characters from the anime world, we’ve encountered numerous heroes who overcome challenges, as well as complex antagonists with motivations that stir our curiosity. These characters possess inspiring personalities that have left an indelible mark on our hearts.

These characters have taken us on exciting and thrilling adventures that delve into the depths of human emotions, offering valuable life lessons through their narratives. Whether wielding swords, casting spells, or simply standing by their friends, these characters continue to motivate, entertain, and leave an unquestionable legacy within the universe of anime.