Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Every Disney Princess embodies a unique way of empowering girls, women, and everyone to envision brighter futures for themselves and their communities. While earlier Disney Princesses have faced criticism for promoting certain problematic messages and stereotypes, the franchise has continually evolved, enhancing Disney Princess representation and enriching the narratives and cultural backgrounds of these beloved characters.

These princesses boast a diverse array of personalities that shape how they navigate challenges and support those around them. Each one serves as a beacon of inspiration for fans of all ages, making the task of selecting the top princesses a challenging yet rewarding endeavor.

Here at IGN, we've curated a list of the top 10 Disney Princesses from the official roster of 13. We regret leaving out three enchanting princesses, but the selection process was anything but simple!

So, let's dive into IGN's selection of the 10 best Disney Princesses.

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

In Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora, also known as Briar Rose, lives a secluded life in a forest cottage under the care of the Three Good Fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, who protect her from Maleficent's curse. Despite their efforts, Aurora is ultimately enchanted by Maleficent and falls into a deep sleep, only to be awakened by true love's kiss, thanks to Merryweather's blessing.

Aurora is celebrated for her grace and beauty, but her true charm lies in her vivid imagination and her dreams of a hopeful future, which she shares with her woodland companions. However, the narrative of her curse being broken solely by true love's kiss has sparked modern critique.

9. Moana

Moana, daughter of the chief of Motunui, embarks on a quest far removed from traditional princess tales. Chosen by the ocean as an infant, she sets out as a teenager to restore the heart of the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti, threatened by the blight of Te Kā. Her journey with the demi-god Maui to return the stolen heart leads to the revelation that Te Kā is Te Fiti's corrupted form, and restoring the heart heals the ocean and her island.

Moana is lauded for her independence, courage, and unwavering determination, traits that define her as a modern role model for everyone. Her voice actor, Auli‘i Cravalho, emphasized Moana's universal appeal. We eagerly anticipate Catherine Laga'aia's portrayal in the upcoming live-action Moana film.

8. Cinderella

Cinderella endures mistreatment from her stepmother and stepsisters, turning her into a maid in her own home after her father's death. Despite this, she remains compassionate and kind, caring for the animals around her. When barred from the royal ball, Cinderella's Fairy Godmother transforms her, enabling her to attend. Her glass slipper becomes her key to marrying the Prince, showcasing her resilience and ingenuity.

Initially criticized for passivity, Cinderella demonstrates agency by instructing her animal friends to aid her escape. Her iconic ballgown and glass slippers have made her a fashion icon, and Disney's decision to alter her dress color to baby blue reflects a thoughtful approach to character representation.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Ariel embodies the spirit of youthful rebellion, yearning to explore the human world despite her father King Triton's prohibitions. Her collection of human artifacts and her rescue of Prince Eric from a shipwreck fuel her desire to become human. Ariel's deal with Ursula to gain legs and a chance to win Eric's love leads to a battle against the sea witch, culminating in her marriage to Eric.

In The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, Ariel becomes a mother to Melody, marking her as the first Disney Princess to do so. Her story highlights her bravery and the lengths she goes to pursue her dreams.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Set in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana's dedication to hard work drives her to save for her dream restaurant, a promise to her late father. Her life takes a magical turn when she kisses Prince Naveen, turning them both into frogs. Their journey to reverse the curse teaches Naveen responsibility, while Tiana remains steadfast in her values, rejecting shortcuts to her dreams.

The Princess and the Frog introduces Tiana as the first African American Disney Princess, celebrated for her entrepreneurial spirit and feminist values.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Belle, an intellectual and independent young woman, yearns for more than her provincial life offers. Her journey begins when she trades her freedom for her father's, imprisoned by the Beast. As she learns of the curse that can only be broken by mutual love, Belle's compassion and love transform the Beast back into a prince.

Belle challenges traditional princess stereotypes with her love for reading and her rejection of Gaston's superficial advances, making her a feminist icon and a symbol of modern princess ideals.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Rapunzel, confined to a tower by Mother Gothel, who uses her magical hair to maintain her youth, dreams of freedom. Her chance comes when Flynn Rider stumbles into her tower, leading to an adventure to see the floating lanterns of Corona. Rapunzel's journey reveals her true heritage and her ability to use her hair for more than just healing.

Rapunzel's popularity stems from her resourcefulness, creativity, and strength, making her a beloved figure in the Disney Princess lineup.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Jasmine challenges the traditional expectations of marriage, seeking a partner based on character rather than status. Her defiance against the law forcing her to marry a prince by her next birthday underscores her feminist stance. Her relationship with Aladdin, who learns to value authenticity, leads to a change in the law, allowing her to marry for love.

As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine brings diversity to the franchise and stands as a symbol of female empowerment.

2. Merida (Brave)

Merida's story in Brave revolves around her desire to control her own destiny, rejecting the arranged marriage her mother, Queen Elinor, insists upon. Her actions lead to a spell that transforms Elinor into a bear, prompting Merida to seek a resolution that respects individual choice.

As the first Pixar Disney Princess and the first to remain single, Merida breaks the mold of the damsel in distress, showcasing her skills in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding.

1. Mulan

Mulan, inspired by a Chinese folk tale, defies gender norms by disguising herself as a man to take her father's place in the army. Her strategic mind and bravery lead to the defeat of the Hun army, and despite her deception being uncovered, she saves the Emperor, earning honor for her family and China.

Although not born into royalty, Mulan's inclusion as a Disney Princess highlights themes of persistence, family honor, and breaking free from traditional gender roles, making her a powerful symbol of empowerment.

There you have it! We apologize 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? Share your opinions in the comments section below.