Top Disney Princess Rankings Unveiled

Every Disney Princess carries a unique message of empowerment, inspiring generations of girls and women—and people of all ages—to envision brighter futures. While earlier portrayals sometimes included outdated stereotypes, Disney has progressively enhanced princess representation to better highlight these characters' cultural backgrounds and strengths.

Each Disney Princess displays a distinct personality that shapes how they face challenges and uplift others. Whether through kindness, courage, or perseverance, they all serve as role models, making it incredibly tough to select the absolute best.

After much deliberation, we've narrowed it down. Here are IGN's top 10 Disney Princesses from the official lineup of 13. Apologies in advance to the three deserving princesses who didn't make the cut—this was no easy decision!

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

Best Disney Princesses

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10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Most of Sleeping Beauty sees Aurora living as Briar Rose in a forest cottage with three fairy guardians to protect her from Maleficent's curse. Despite their efforts, she ultimately falls under the spell but is saved by true love's kiss.

While known for her grace and beauty, Aurora also possesses a vivid imagination, sharing dreams with woodland creatures. Her dependence on true love's kiss has sparked modern debate, but her elegance remains unforgettable.

9. Moana

Unlike traditional princesses, Moana seeks adventure, not romance. Chosen by the ocean to restore Te Fiti's heart, she defies expectations with her determination and resourcefulness, proving leadership isn't about gender.

Moana's self-reliance and connection to her heritage make her a standout. Auli‘i Cravalho, her voice actress, praises how Moana inspires everyone to embrace their calling.

8. Cinderella

Despite her hardships, Cinderella maintains kindness and hope. While critics once called her passive, her resilience—along with clever moments like having mice free her—show quiet strength. Plus, her iconic ballgown elevated Disney’s fashion game.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Ariel defies rules for her dreams, proving a woman’s voice matters—even without one. Her curiosity leads to growth, showing the cost of choices while celebrating self-discovery.

In the sequel, she further breaks the mold as Disney’s only princess who becomes a mother.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Disney’s first Black princess is a hardworking entrepreneur navigating race, class, and ambition in Jazz Age New Orleans. She teaches important lessons about perseverance and integrity—without shortcuts.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Belle redefined princesses by valuing intellect over looks and independence over conformity. Her love of books and rejection of shallow suitors made her a feminist trailblazer.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Trapped but resourceful, Rapunzel proves captivity can't crush creativity. She uses her signature hair cleverly while reclaiming her identity—showing growth from innocence to confidence.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Jasmine boldly challenges traditions, refusing to be bartered like property. Her demand—"I am not a prize to be won!"—resonates as a declaration of autonomy, making her a symbol of feminist resistance.

2. Merida (Brave)

The first Pixar princess rewrites the rules: no romance needed. Her archery skills and defiance of arranged marriage spotlight self-determination, proving a princess’s worth isn’t tied to matrimony.

1. Mulan

Mulan shatters expectations by disguising herself as a soldier to save her father and China. Her bravery and strategic brilliance prove heroism knows no gender, making her Disney’s ultimate warrior princess.

Though not royal by birth, Mulan earns her place by challenging stereotypes and proving that courage defines greatness.

Who is the best Disney Princess?

AuroraBelleJasmineArielSnow WhiteCinderellaPocahontasMulanTianaRapunzelMeridaMoanaRayaA non-official princess (let us know who in the comments)

Answer | See Results

There you have it! While ranking these iconic characters was challenging, we focused on their personalities and impact. Do you agree with our list? Share your thoughts below!