Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

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

Each Disney Princess brings a distinctive personality to the table, influencing how they navigate challenges and support others. This diversity makes every Disney Princess a source of inspiration for fans of all ages, making it a challenging task to rank them. However, we at IGN have managed to compile our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official list of 13 characters. We regret not including three wonderful Princesses, but the selection was a tough one.

Without further ado, here is IGN's selection of the 10 best Disney Princesses.

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Image: DisneyIn Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora spends most of her life in a secluded forest cottage under the care of the Three Good Fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, who call her Briar Rose to shield her from Maleficent's curse. This curse, which would have led to her death upon pricking her finger on a spinning wheel on her 16th birthday, was altered by Merryweather to a deep sleep that could be broken by true love's kiss. Despite the fairies' protective measures, Aurora falls victim to the curse but is ultimately awakened by Prince Phillip's kiss.

Aurora is celebrated for her grace and beauty, but she is also admired for her vivid imagination and her dreams of a hopeful future, which she shares with her woodland companions. However, her reliance on true love's kiss to break the curse has sparked some debate among modern audiences.

9. Moana

Image: DisneyMoana, the daughter of Motunui's chief, embodies independence and determination. Unlike many princesses, her journey in Moana is not about finding a prince but about restoring the heart of Te Fiti, a task she was chosen for by the ocean itself. With the island threatened by a blight caused by Te Kā's darkness, Moana seeks out the demi-god Maui to help her return the heart stolen by him centuries ago. Her bravery and problem-solving skills lead her to realize that Te Kā is the corrupted form of Te Fiti, and by returning the heart, she restores balance to the ocean and her home.

Moana's independence and courage make her an inspiring figure for all, as noted by her voice actor, Auli‘i Cravalho. We eagerly anticipate how Catherine Laga'aia will bring Moana's spirit to life in the upcoming live-action adaptation.

8. Cinderella

Image: DisneyDespite enduring mistreatment from her stepmother and stepsisters, Cinderella remains a symbol of kindness and resilience. In her own château, she cares for the animals and maintains her optimism, even when denied the chance to attend the royal ball. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella attends the ball in a stunning gown and glass slippers, capturing the Prince's heart. Her proactive approach, such as enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape, showcases her resourcefulness.

Cinderella's initial portrayal as somewhat passive has been reevaluated over time, recognizing her strength and the subtle ways she takes action. Her iconic fashion, particularly the baby blue dress, also distinguishes her as a style icon.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Image: DisneyAriel's yearning to explore the human world in The Little Mermaid embodies teenage rebellion. She collects human artifacts and rescues Prince Eric, eventually trading her voice to Ursula for a chance to be with him. Her journey, filled with challenges and betrayals, culminates in her defeating Ursula with the help of her friends and marrying Eric.

Ariel's story continues in The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, where she becomes the first Disney Princess to have a child, further highlighting her growth and legacy.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Image: DisneyTiana from The Princess and the Frog embodies hard work and determination. Set in Jazz Age New Orleans, she juggles multiple jobs to fulfill her dream of opening a restaurant. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she is transformed into a frog after kissing Prince Naveen. Together, they navigate challenges, teaching each other valuable lessons about responsibility and perseverance.

Tiana's story marks her as the first African American Disney Princess and a feminist icon, admired for her unwavering pursuit of her dreams.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Image: DisneyBelle's thirst for knowledge and adventure sets her apart in Beauty and the Beast. She trades her freedom for her father's, becoming a guest in the Beast's enchanted castle. Through her compassion and understanding, she helps the Beast learn to love, breaking the curse that had befallen him and his household.

Belle's preference for books and learning over traditional pursuits of love and marriage marks her as a modern and feminist Disney Princess, challenging stereotypes and inspiring audiences.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Image: DisneyRapunzel's story in Tangled showcases her resilience and creativity. Kept in a tower by Mother Gothel, who uses her magical hair to maintain her youth, Rapunzel yearns for freedom and the chance to see the floating lanterns. Her encounter with Flynn Rider provides her the opportunity to escape and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Rapunzel's ingenuity and resourcefulness, using her hair for more than just healing, make her a beloved and empowering character, defying the limitations imposed by her captor.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Image: DisneyJasmine's determination to choose her own path in Aladdin highlights her as a feminist icon. She rejects suitors based solely on their royal status, seeking a partner who values her for who she is. Her relationship with Aladdin, who learns to be true to himself, underscores her progressive views on love and marriage.

As the first West Asian Disney Princess, Jasmine brings diversity and a strong message of female empowerment to the franchise.

2. Merida (Brave)

Image: DisneyMerida's refusal to conform to traditional expectations in Brave makes her a groundbreaking Disney Princess. She rejects the idea of an arranged marriage, instead seeking to forge her own destiny. Her journey to reverse a spell that turns her mother into a bear teaches her valuable lessons about family and leadership.

Merida's skills in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding, combined with her independence, make her a powerful symbol of female autonomy and strength.

1. Mulan

Image: DisneyMulan's story, inspired by Chinese folklore, breaks away from traditional princess narratives. In Mulan, she disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army, showcasing her bravery and strategic thinking. Her actions not only save China but also challenge gender norms, earning her a place as a Disney Princess.

Mulan's journey emphasizes the importance of persistence, family, and honor, making her a powerful symbol of empowerment and defiance against patriarchal constraints.