Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring and empowering audiences of all ages to envision brighter futures for themselves and those around them. While past portrayals of Disney Princesses have occasionally conveyed problematic messages and stereotypes, Disney has actively worked to enhance Disney Princess representation and messaging, allowing these characters and their diverse cultures to shine more authentically.

Disney Princesses showcase a broad spectrum of personalities, each tackling challenges and supporting others in distinctive ways. These iconic figures serve as inspirations to both young and old, making it challenging to select the very best among them.

Here at IGN, we've narrowed it down to our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official list of 13 characters. We apologize to the three magical Princesses who didn't make the cut, as choosing was incredibly difficult!

Without further ado, here are IGN's picks for the 10 best Disney Princesses.

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Image: DisneyIn Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora spends much of her life in a forest cottage with the Three Good Fairies—Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather—who call her Briar Rose to shield her from Maleficent's curse. Despite their efforts, Aurora falls victim to the curse and pricks her finger, but instead of dying, she falls into a deep sleep until awakened by true love's kiss, thanks to Merryweather's blessing.

Aurora is celebrated for her grace and beauty, but her vivid imagination and dreams of a future shared with woodland friends highlight her endearing qualities. However, her reliance on true love's kiss to break the curse has been a point of contention among critics.

9. Moana

Image: DisneyAs the daughter of Motunui's chief, Moana embarks on a mission chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti. Her journey begins when a blight threatens her island, leading her to seek the help of the demi-god Maui, who had stolen the heart centuries ago. Moana's determination and bravery shine as she discovers Te Kā is actually the corrupted form of Te Fiti, and by returning the heart, she restores balance to the ocean and her home.

Moana's independence and empowerment make her a role model for all, a sentiment echoed by her voice actor Auli‘i Cravalho. Fans eagerly anticipate Catherine Laga'aia's portrayal of Moana in the upcoming live-action adaptation.

8. Cinderella

Image: DisneyAfter her father's death, Cinderella endures mistreatment from her stepmother and stepsisters, yet remains kind-hearted and humble. When barred from attending the royal ball, the Fairy Godmother transforms her with a stunning gown and glass slippers. Cinderella's resourcefulness is evident when she instructs her animal friends to aid her escape, showcasing her agency beyond waiting for a prince's rescue.

Initially perceived as passive, Cinderella has evolved into a fashion icon, her blue dress a deliberate choice by Disney to appeal to young audiences. Her story underscores perseverance and kindness amidst adversity.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Image: DisneyAriel epitomizes teenage rebellion, yearning to explore the human world. Her fascination leads her to collect human artifacts and ultimately save Prince Eric from drowning. Driven by love, she trades her voice to Ursula for legs, navigating the challenges of the human world to defeat the sea witch with Eric's help.

In The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, Ariel becomes the first Disney Princess to become a mother, furthering her legacy of breaking boundaries.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Image: DisneySet in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana embodies diligence and ambition, working tirelessly to open her own restaurant. Her life takes a magical turn when she kisses Prince Naveen, turning into a frog. Together, they navigate their journey, with Tiana teaching Naveen responsibility and rejecting Dr. Facilier's tempting but morally dubious offers.

As the first African American Disney Princess, Tiana's story in The Princess and the Frog celebrates hard work and integrity, making her a feminist icon and a beacon of determination.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Image: DisneyBelle's thirst for knowledge and adventure sets her apart in her provincial French village. When her father is captured by the Beast, Belle offers herself in his place, gradually learning to see beyond the Beast's exterior to the prince within. Her love ultimately breaks the curse, showcasing her compassion and intelligence.

Belle's preference for books over suitors like Gaston challenges traditional princess stereotypes, cementing her status as a feminist icon in Beauty and the Beast.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Image: DisneyLocked in a tower by Mother Gothel, who covets the healing power of Rapunzel's hair, she yearns for freedom and the chance to see the floating lanterns on her birthday. When Flynn Rider stumbles into her tower, Rapunzel seizes the opportunity to escape and discover her true heritage.

Rapunzel's resourcefulness and creativity make her a beloved figure in Tangled, inspiring audiences with her journey of self-discovery and resilience.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Image: DisneyJasmine challenges the traditional expectations of marriage, insisting on choosing a partner based on character rather than status. Her defiance against arranged marriages and her advocacy for personal choice resonate powerfully in Aladdin.

As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine's story introduces much-needed diversity to the Disney Princess lineup, emphasizing female empowerment and self-determination.

2. Merida (Brave)

Image: DisneyMerida's story in Brave is one of self-assertion and breaking free from societal expectations. She rejects the notion of marrying for political alliances, instead seeking to control her own destiny. Her archery skills and determination to mend her relationship with her mother, Queen Elinor, highlight her strength and independence.

As Pixar's first Disney Princess and the franchise's first single princess, Merida stands out as a symbol of autonomy and courage.

1. Mulan

Image: DisneyBased on a Chinese folk tale, Mulan defies gender norms by disguising herself as a man to take her father's place in the army. Her bravery and strategic mind lead to the defeat of the Hun army, and even after her true identity is revealed, she continues to protect her country and honor her family.

Mulan's story in Mulan is a testament to perseverance and breaking gender stereotypes, making her an enduring symbol of empowerment and courage.