For decades, Dragon Ball has stood as one of the most iconic and influential anime franchises of all time. What began as a lighthearted martial arts journey has exploded into a multiverse-spanning saga filled with jaw-dropping fights, god-level transformations, and unforgettable character arcs. But beyond the energy blasts and world-ending stakes, it’s the characters that have truly defined Dragon Ball’s legacy. From brave heroes and cunning villains to wise masters and scientific geniuses, each character brought something unique to the story—whether it was Goku’s unrelenting optimism, Vegeta’s fierce pride, or Bulma’s sharp intellect. These are the figures who shaped generations of anime fans, each leaving a mark that’s impossible to erase. This list celebrates the ten greatest Dragon Ball characters of all time—the legends who made the series what it is and who continue to inspire fans across the globe.
#10: Future Trunks
Future Trunks brought something Dragon Ball had never seen before: a true post-apocalyptic hero. When he arrived and effortlessly defeated Frieza with his sword, fans knew they were witnessing something special. But Trunks wasn’t just powerful—he was also a deeply emotional character carrying the trauma of a destroyed world and the hope to change it. His connection with Gohan, Vegeta, and Bulma added layers of humanity to his time-traveling warrior persona. With his blend of tragic past, samurai-like resolve, and unstoppable drive, Future Trunks became one of the series’ most beloved and iconic figures.
#9: Android 18
Android 18 broke the mold of what it meant to be a villain in Dragon Ball. Cold and deadly upon introduction, her dry wit and rebellious streak made her instantly intriguing. But what truly cemented her as a fan favorite was her evolution—especially her surprising relationship with Krillin. She became more than a killer machine; she became a symbol of redemption, motherhood, and quiet strength. Her fierce combat skills, cool demeanor, and unshakable loyalty to her family made her one of the strongest—and most interesting—female characters in the franchise.
#8: Beerus
When Dragon Ball Super introduced Beerus, the God of Destruction, it felt like a bold expansion of the series’ mythos. A sleepy, food-loving cat god who could erase planets on a whim? Instantly iconic. But Beerus isn’t just a comedic foil—he’s a constant reminder of how far the Z Fighters still have to go. His fight with Goku in the Battle of Gods arc showed us the beginning of divine power scaling in Dragon Ball, and his dynamic with Whis, Goku, and Vegeta added a layer of charm and danger. Beerus is equal parts silly and terrifying, and that balance made him unforgettable.
#7: Gohan
Gohan’s arc from timid child to cell-crushing prodigy still stands as one of the most emotionally satisfying in anime. As the son of Goku, he was never meant to follow in his father’s footsteps—but his latent power and kind heart made him a standout. His explosive transformation into Super Saiyan 2 during the Cell Games is legendary, cementing his status as one of the franchise’s most powerful and emotional characters. While later sagas softened his warrior role, Gohan remains beloved for his blend of brains, brawn, and heart.
#6: Frieza
Frieza redefined villainy in Dragon Ball. Elegant, cruel, and endlessly arrogant, he was the first enemy who made Goku truly struggle on a cosmic level. His destruction of Planet Vegeta and genocide of the Saiyan race laid the foundation for Dragon Ball Z‘s most important themes. Frieza’s return in later arcs—especially in Resurrection ‘F’ and the Tournament of Power—only added to his legacy, showing he could evolve and stay relevant without losing his icy charm. He’s the perfect villain: unforgettable voice, terrifying power, and a smugness that makes every punch against him satisfying.
#5: Piccolo
Piccolo started as a demon, became a mentor, and ended up one of the series’ moral centers. His transformation from Goku’s enemy to Gohan’s surrogate father is still one of the best redemption arcs in anime history. Piccolo brings a calm, strategic presence to the often chaotic Dragon Ball roster. He may not always be the strongest, but his intellect, technique, and loyalty have kept him vital through every saga. In many ways, he’s the heart of the team—stoic, wise, and deeply honorable. Without Piccolo, Dragon Ball wouldn’t have the soul that grounds all its epic battles.
#4: Bulma
The unsung genius of Dragon Ball, Bulma may not fight with energy blasts, but her impact is immeasurable. She invented the Dragon Radar, founded Capsule Corp tech used by the Z Fighters, and even talked down gods. Bulma is brilliant, brave, and unapologetically herself. She started the Dragon Ball journey with Goku, and her presence has been key to nearly every major arc. Whether as a comic relief, an emotional anchor, or a scientific miracle-worker, Bulma proves that in a world of warriors, brains and boldness matter just as much as brawn.
#3: Vegeta
From merciless Saiyan prince to proud protector of Earth, Vegeta’s journey is the richest in the series. Initially introduced as a villain hell-bent on destruction, Vegeta slowly evolved—through rivalry, fatherhood, and sheer grit—into a hero in his own right. He never lost his pride, but learned to temper it with love and loyalty. His redemption arc, his constant push to surpass Goku, and his emotional milestones (like his sacrifice against Majin Buu) have made him one of the most complex characters in anime. Vegeta isn’t just a rival—he’s a reflection of the Dragon Ball journey itself: struggle, change, and honor.
#2: Goku
The face of Dragon Ball and one of anime’s most iconic characters, Goku is pure energy—literally and spiritually. His insatiable thirst for strength and challenge has driven the franchise for decades. But what makes Goku so enduring is his heart. He fights not out of hatred, but for the thrill of pushing limits and protecting others. From his humble beginnings as a monkey-tailed boy to battling gods across universes, Goku’s optimism and resilience remain unmatched. He may not always be the most emotionally complex, but he is the symbol of hope, power, and never giving up.
#1: Master Roshi
Yes, Goku and Vegeta may steal the spotlight, but it’s Master Roshi—the perverted old hermit with a turtle shell—who set it all in motion. He was Goku’s first real teacher, the originator of the Kamehameha, and a living legend who reminded everyone that skill and wisdom matter as much as raw power. Roshi brought humor, heart, and philosophy to Dragon Ball. And when he stepped back into battle in Dragon Ball Super, fans were reminded just how mighty the old master still is. He’s more than comic relief—he’s the foundation of everything.
Dragon Ball has evolved from a simple martial arts adventure to a cosmic showdown of gods, universes, and immortals—but at its core, it’s always been about its characters. These ten legends represent everything the franchise stands for: growth, strength, loyalty, and spirit. Whether you’re watching Goku go Ultra Instinct or Vegeta finally smile, every Dragon Ball fan knows it’s these characters—and their journeys—that keep us coming back for more.
