Disney Princess Rankings: Top 10 Revealed

Every Disney Princess inspires girls and women—people of all ages, really—to envision brighter futures for themselves and their communities. While earlier portrayals included outdated stereotypes, Disney has significantly evolved, enhancing representation and storytelling to celebrate diverse cultures authentically.

Each princess brings distinct strengths and perspectives to overcome challenges while uplifting those around them. Choosing favorites among these universally inspiring characters proves challenging, but after careful consideration, IGN has narrowed it down to our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official lineup of 13. Apologies in advance—omitting three remarkable royals wasn’t an easy decision!

Without further delay, here are IGN’s picks for the greatest Disney Princesses.

The Definitive Disney Princess Rankings

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10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Raised as Briar Rose by three protective fairies to evade Maleficent’s deadly curse, Aurora epitomizes grace under pressure. Though her enchantment culminates in a deep sleep broken by true love’s kiss—a trope modern audiences scrutinize—her poetic imagination and kindness toward forest creatures reveal depths beyond her iconic beauty.

9. Moana

Chosen by the ocean to restore balance to her archipelago, Moana shatters expectations by prioritizing her people’s survival over romance. Her tenacity in confronting the fiery Te Kā—revealed as the corrupted goddess Te Fiti—showcases leadership that inspires across genders. Auli‘i Cravalho rightly calls her "a role model for everyone."

8. Cinderella

Despite enduring cruelty, Cinderella maintains compassion—befriending mice and outsmarting her stepfamily by safeguarding the glass slipper that proves her identity. While criticized initially for passivity, her quiet resilience and iconic fashion legacy cement her cultural impact (right down to Disney’s strategic costume color change).

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

This defiant mermaid’s thirst for adventure drives her to bargain her voice for humanity, challenging patriarchal rules beneath the waves. Though Ursula manipulates her sacrifice, Ariel’s bravery culminates in defeating the sea witch alongside Eric—and later making history as Disney’s first princess-turned-mother in the sequel.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

New Orleans’ hardest-working princess balances two jobs to fund her dream restaurant, embodying perseverance. Her rejection of Dr. Facilier’s shortcuts—while teaching Naveen accountability—reinforces her status as Disney’s pioneering African American princess and a self-made business visionary.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

A bookish trailblazer who values intellect over appearances, Belle’s defiance of provincial norms (and Gaston’s objectification) revolutionized princess narratives. Her capacity to love the Beast despite his exterior makes her Disney’s most literarily sophisticated heroine.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

After 18 years isolated by Gothel, Rapunzel’s ingenuity shines—using her magical hair creatively while proving herself resourceful beyond her tower. Her artistic spirit and clever negotiations with Flynn Rider showcase why she’s become a modern fan favorite.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Agrabah’s progressive princess rejects antiquated marriage laws, declaring autonomy with her iconic line: "I am not a prize to be won!" As Disney’s first West Asian princess, Jasmine paved the way for greater cultural representation while standing firm against patriarchal constraints.

2. Merida (Brave)

Pixar’s fiery Scottish archer defies arranged marriage altogether, rewriting tradition through her reconciliation with Queen Elinor. As Disney’s first unmarried princess, Merida empowers girls to define their own paths—preferably while mastering archery and swordplay.

1. Mulan

Disney’s revolutionary warrior disguises herself as a soldier to save her father and China, outsmarting the Hun army through strategy and sacrifice. By rejecting restrictive gender norms entirely—without relying on royal ties or romance—Mulan earns her title as Disney’s most groundbreaking princess.

That concludes our ranking! While three official princesses didn’t make the cut, we prioritized character depth and inspirational qualities. Share your thoughts—did we capture your favorites?