Top 10 Strongest Saiyans in Dragon Ball History

#1: Goku

Goku, born Kakarot, is arguably the most iconic and powerful Saiyan in the Dragon Ball universe—and for good reason. From his humble beginnings as a low-class warrior sent to Earth, Goku’s transformation from mischievous child to savior of the universe has been nothing short of legendary. Over the decades, Goku has pushed past barriers no one thought possible, continuously redefining the ceiling for Saiyan potential. His early accomplishments included the defeat of tyrants like King Piccolo and Frieza, but it’s in Dragon Ball Super where his power truly transcends the limits of traditional Saiyan evolution. Goku was the first to unlock Ultra Instinct, a divine technique used even by the gods, which allowed him to move and fight without conscious thought. The form represents a culmination of all his training under various masters—Whis, King Kai, and even the Yardrats. Unlike previous forms that emphasized brute strength, Ultra Instinct is about elegance, precision, and speed beyond mortal comprehension. Goku’s character, filled with humility and relentless optimism, contrasts with his overwhelming might. He’s often seen smiling, eating, or treating life-threatening battles as thrilling games, but this lightheartedness masks a fierce warrior spirit. One of the most endearing parts of his journey is his refusal to settle. Even after defeating seemingly unstoppable foes like Jiren and Moro, Goku immediately looks ahead, hungry for a new challenge. He trains not for domination, but for self-improvement. His rivalry with Vegeta continues to be a cornerstone of his development, as both Saiyans propel each other forward through mutual respect and competition. An underrated fact about Goku’s power is that it often rises in direct correlation with his empathy. Many of his greatest transformations come not from rage or pride, but from his desire to protect others—Super Saiyan against Frieza after Krillin’s death, Super Saiyan 3 to stall Buu, and Ultra Instinct while facing Jiren in the Tournament of Power. These emotionally-charged moments showcase the duality of Goku’s strength: part warrior, part protector. Even the gods of destruction have taken note of Goku’s potential, with Beerus himself expressing both admiration and wariness. Appearance-wise, Goku is instantly recognizable with his spiky black hair, orange gi, and later his silver-haired Ultra Instinct form, which exudes a calm, almost transcendent aura. His evolution is symbolic not just in terms of raw power but also in spiritual growth. He’s a martial artist in the truest sense, valuing the process more than the end result. In conclusion, Goku’s placement at the top of this list isn’t just about his unmatched arsenal of techniques or god-tier transformations. It’s about his philosophy, his legacy, and his unbreakable will. As long as there’s a battle to fight and someone stronger out there, Goku will be striving to surpass them—not for glory, but because it’s who he is. And that, more than anything, makes him the strongest Saiyan in Dragon Ball history.

#2: Vegeta

The Prince of all Saiyans, Vegeta has carved his name into the very core of Dragon Ball through pride, perseverance, and power. Originally introduced as a ruthless antagonist during the Saiyan Saga, Vegeta’s transformation into a complex antihero and, eventually, a beloved protagonist is one of the franchise’s greatest character arcs. His combat prowess has always been immense, even before his journey of growth on Earth. Unlike Goku, Vegeta’s motivation to become stronger has long been fueled by pride—both in his royal lineage and his personal ambition to surpass Kakarot. But what makes Vegeta truly formidable is his sheer tenacity; he’s never satisfied, never complacent, and always evolving. Over the years, Vegeta has accessed every major Saiyan transformation: Super Saiyan, Super Saiyan God, and Super Saiyan Blue. However, in Dragon Ball Super, Vegeta begins to branch out from Goku’s path, unlocking Ultra Ego—an ability taught by the God of Destruction, Beerus. Unlike Ultra Instinct, which relies on calm detachment, Ultra Ego feeds off the user’s battle lust and willingness to take damage. It perfectly complements Vegeta’s aggressive fighting style and deep-rooted Saiyan pride. In this form, Vegeta becomes a relentless juggernaut, growing stronger as he absorbs punishment. It’s a risky technique, but it suits him like a second skin. Despite being known for his arrogance, Vegeta has grown emotionally and morally over the years. He’s a family man now, deeply protective of Bulma and their children, and his decision to fight Moro not for glory but to defend Namek speaks volumes about his transformation. Some of his most powerful moments are not battles, but quiet scenes of reflection—like when he bows his head in apology to the Namekians, or acknowledges Goku as someone to aspire to rather than resent. His appearance is iconic: flame-like upright hair, a widow’s peak that can strike fear into any enemy, and battle armor that has changed over the years but always retains a sense of nobility. Whether as a cold-hearted killer or a redeemed warrior, Vegeta’s aesthetic has always screamed royalty and power. His rivalry with Goku is eternal, but no longer bitter. It’s a mutual understanding between two warriors who have walked vastly different paths but ended up side by side, protecting the universe. In the end, Vegeta’s strength comes not just from technique or transformation, but from growth. He’s learned humility without losing pride, found peace without surrendering his edge. His journey is a testament to the idea that power means nothing without purpose, and few in the Dragon Ball universe embody that duality as beautifully as Vegeta.

#3: Broly

Broly is the rawest, most primal force among all Saiyans—a walking weapon of destruction with nearly unlimited potential. First introduced in the 1993 non-canon film Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan, he was reimagined into official canon in Dragon Ball Super: Broly, and the results were breathtaking. Born with an abnormally high power level, even as an infant, Broly was seen as a threat to the Saiyan hierarchy and was exiled to the remote and hostile planet Vampa. There, he grew up wild, training under his father Paragus and bonding only with giant beasts and barren survivalism. The result? A Saiyan whose strength evolved unrefined, untethered by structured training, and deeply connected to his emotions. When Broly is brought to Earth and forced to fight Vegeta and Goku, he proves he’s in a league of his own. Despite having no formal martial arts training, he adapts rapidly mid-battle—matching Super Saiyan God, then Blue, and eventually overpowering both. He evolves as he fights, breaking through limitations almost instinctively. His Legendary Super Saiyan form is a mutation of the traditional transformation, with green-tinted energy, berserker strength, and seemingly endless stamina. He doesn’t just fight—he demolishes. Broly’s personality is surprisingly gentle and childlike when not in combat. Years of isolation made him socially awkward and emotionally raw. His power is more curse than blessing—he doesn’t want to destroy, but can’t always control the hurricane inside him. This duality makes Broly a sympathetic figure, and his friendship with Cheelai and Lemo introduces a new, softer side to his character. His appearance, especially in his Legendary form, is imposing: towering height, bulging musculature, feral green eyes, and a howl that echoes like a force of nature. His rage amplifies his strength exponentially, and there’s no ceiling in sight for what Broly might become with proper training. Even Goku admits Broly might one day surpass both him and Vegeta, making him a wildcard—and potentially the strongest being—in the universe. Broly’s story is only beginning. With Goku taking an interest in his training and growth, the future holds massive potential. If there’s one Saiyan who represents nature over nurture, power without limits, it’s Broly.

#4: Gohan

Gohan, the son of Goku and Chi-Chi, was born with astonishing potential, even surpassing Goku’s power at several key moments. As early as the Saiyan Saga, Gohan displayed bursts of unimaginable strength, driven by emotion. He was the first to push back against Raditz, stunned even Vegeta with his rage-fueled attacks, and later shocked the universe when he defeated Perfect Cell at just 11 years old—making him, briefly, the strongest Z-Fighter. Unlike other Saiyans, Gohan’s power has always been driven by emotion and necessity, not desire. His potential has long been considered frightening, even by Piccolo and Vegeta. After the Cell Games, Gohan’s passion for fighting waned. He preferred study over sparring, and while that made him a disappointment to some fans, it underscored a crucial truth: Gohan is not a warrior at heart. He fights when he must, not when he wants to. But when pushed to the edge, his latent power is overwhelming. In the Buu Saga, he unlocked his Ultimate or Mystic form through Elder Kai’s ritual, shedding the need for Super Saiyan altogether. And in Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, Gohan reached new heights with the introduction of his Beast form—a savage, silver-haired state driven by his love for Pan and echoing the fury he showed against Cell. Gohan’s personality is one of compassion and intelligence. He’s bookish, gentle, and fiercely loyal. He doesn’t crave strength, which is perhaps why his strength is so shocking when it finally erupts. He has been underestimated many times, and that mistake has cost enemies dearly. Visually, Gohan has evolved from timid child to scholarly adult, but his most striking forms—Super Saiyan 2 during the Cell Games and Beast Gohan—are among the most iconic in the franchise. In terms of raw potential, he could very well be the strongest Saiyan of all. His lack of training holds him back, but when the chips are down, Gohan delivers. He’s not just Goku’s son—he’s a force all his own.

#5: Trunks

Trunks, the son of Vegeta and Bulma, stands as one of the most unique and courageous Saiyans in the Dragon Ball universe. Particularly in his Future Trunks incarnation, he represents a perfect blend of Saiyan resilience and human empathy. Raised in a post-apocalyptic timeline ravaged by Androids, Trunks developed strength through necessity. Under the harsh tutelage of Future Gohan, he became a battle-hardened fighter by his late teens. When he traveled back in time to warn Goku about the Android threat, Trunks revealed his Super Saiyan transformation with stunning ease, slicing through Mecha Frieza and King Cold with terrifying efficiency. Trunks’ defining moments came in Dragon Ball Super during the Goku Black arc. Pushed to his limits, he unlocked a form known as Super Saiyan Rage—an emotional transformation driven by desperation and hope. In this form, Trunks was able to battle Zamasu and Goku Black, even managing to wound the seemingly invincible fused Zamasu with a Spirit Bomb-infused sword strike. This feat stunned both Goku and Vegeta, who acknowledged Trunks’ sudden surge in power. Trunks’ personality is one of quiet strength and deep empathy. Unlike his father, he shows emotion freely, fights for others selflessly, and bears the psychological weight of having failed to save his own world. He’s respectful, honorable, and always willing to put himself at risk. His sword, passed down from Tapion in some continuities, is symbolic of his lone-warrior status and emotional intensity. Appearance-wise, Trunks has always stood out with his lavender hair, blue jacket, and signature blade. His forms are less about polish and more about grit, and he often looks battle-worn, yet determined. In many ways, Trunks is the most human of all Saiyans—a tragic, powerful hero shaped by loss. His strength, heart, and unique transformations earn him a rightful place in the top five.

#6: Caulifla

Caulifla is a revolutionary figure in Saiyan lore—a brash, cocky, and wildly gifted warrior from Universe 6 who shattered expectations within moments of her debut. Unlike most Saiyans, Caulifla didn’t require years of training or trauma to unlock her potential. Instead, she ascended to Super Saiyan and Super Saiyan 2 within a matter of hours, purely through instinct and challenge. This rapid growth speaks volumes about the potential of Universe 6 Saiyans, who differ biologically from their Universe 7 counterparts. Caulifla’s fierce confidence and rebellious spirit make her a firebrand both in personality and in combat. During the Tournament of Power, Caulifla went toe-to-toe with Goku in his Super Saiyan God form, something few seasoned warriors have done. Alongside her protégé Kale, she fused to become Kefla—an immensely powerful fighter who pushed Goku into Ultra Instinct territory. Caulifla’s fighting instincts are extraordinary; she learns mid-battle, adapts to new forms quickly, and constantly pushes her limits, much like Goku. Her bold personality and defiant charm set her apart. She’s fiercely loyal to Kale, often acting as her protector, yet encourages her to embrace her strength. Caulifla thrives on combat but carries no malice, seeking strength for the thrill rather than dominance. She radiates raw talent, and many believe she could one day eclipse even her mentors if given proper training. With her spiky black hair and rebellious attitude, Caulifla embodies a new generation of Saiyans—one not burdened by history, but driven by instinct and hunger. She’s proof that Saiyan power is not bound by tradition or time.

#7: Kale

Kale is often underestimated due to her shy demeanor, but beneath her timid surface lies a berserker capable of matching gods. As Caulifla’s closest ally and the second female Saiyan from Universe 6, Kale’s transformation into the Legendary Super Saiyan is explosive and terrifying. Her power parallels Broly’s—she becomes uncontrollable, radiates green energy, and displays strength far beyond her slender frame. In the Tournament of Power, she shocked audiences and opponents alike by overwhelming Goku and tossing aside multiple powerful fighters. What’s fascinating about Kale is her emotional transformation. Her Legendary form manifests when she feels fear, jealousy, or protectiveness—emotions she struggles to control. Over time, however, she learns to harness her abilities with Caulifla’s guidance. Once she gains control over her rage, her power becomes refined and tactical rather than chaotic. Kale’s story is one of acceptance and growth. She’s an underdog, unsure of her place and scared of her power, but finds confidence through sisterhood and battle. Her fusion with Caulifla into Kefla is a testament to their bond and showcases just how formidable she becomes when given support and direction. In terms of raw strength, Kale is a rising star. With proper training and control, her power could rival even the likes of Broly. Her aesthetic—glowing green eyes, wild hair, and surging muscles—evokes primal Saiyan energy. Kale is a gentle giant with the power of a titan.

#8: Cabba

Cabba, another Saiyan from Universe 6, is often overshadowed by Caulifla and Kale, but his contributions are just as significant. As a disciplined warrior under the Sadalan army, Cabba was the first Universe 6 Saiyan introduced in Dragon Ball Super, and his interactions with Vegeta were a major turning point. Vegeta saw in Cabba the spark of pride and potential, and under his stern mentorship, Cabba unlocked the Super Saiyan transformation through emotional provocation. Cabba’s strength lies not just in power, but in character. He’s humble, respectful, and motivated by duty. Unlike the more reckless Caulifla, Cabba seeks structured growth. He later unlocks Super Saiyan 2, showing rapid development and combat intuition. Though he lacks the ferocity of his peers, his trajectory suggests that he could ascend even higher in future arcs. Physically, Cabba resembles a young, slim warrior with a modest uniform and clean-cut look. His personality is that of a noble soldier—calm under pressure and committed to his people. He represents the honorable side of Saiyan evolution, and with continued training under Vegeta, may one day become a major force in the multiverse.

#9: Goten

Goten, the youngest son of Goku, is often overlooked—but his feats speak volumes. He achieved Super Saiyan at an age when most Saiyans were still learning how to fly. His effortless transformation, even as a child, stunned audiences and hinted at genetic evolution within the Saiyan bloodline. Trained alongside Trunks, Goten’s power surged quickly, and together they formed Gotenks—a fusion warrior strong enough to fight Majin Buu. Gotenks reached Super Saiyan 3, showcasing massive power despite the boys’ limited maturity. Though sometimes played for comic relief, Goten’s innate potential is enormous. His only limitation has been lack of serious training or motivation. He prefers fun to fighting, but that doesn’t erase the fact that he has Goku’s genetics and a gentle nature that could one day fuel unimaginable power. In terms of personality, Goten is cheerful, carefree, and loyal—a reflection of his father. He’s innocent yet capable, silly yet deadly when fused. With proper training and motivation, Goten could become a future powerhouse in the Saiyan lineage.

#10: Pan

Rounding out the list is Pan, Gohan’s daughter and the youngest member of the Saiyan family tree to show exceptional promise. Even as a toddler in Dragon Ball Super, Pan exhibited flight and strength well beyond normal human children. In Super Hero, Pan’s potential begins to take shape as she trains under Piccolo and shows early signs of becoming a true martial artist. While she has not yet accessed Super Saiyan, all indicators suggest she is a sleeping giant. What sets Pan apart is her fierce determination. Though small in size, she demonstrates a Saiyan spirit reminiscent of her grandfather Goku. She’s brave, smart, and throws herself into training with genuine joy. Her bond with Piccolo mirrors that of her father, and it’s clear she will play a central role in the next generation of Z Fighters. Pan’s presence on this list is a bet on potential. The groundwork is there: incredible heritage, raw ability, and limitless energy. If nurtured, Pan may one day surpass everyone on this list—and she’s only getting started.