Ranking the Top 40 Strongest Characters in Naruto Series

Since its inception in 1999, the Naruto series has introduced fans to a vast array of memorable characters, each possessing unique powers and abilities. With over 70 manga volumes and 700+ animated episodes, determining the strongest among them is a challenging task. Here’s a definitive ranking of the 30 most powerful Naruto characters based on franchise lore and head-to-head battles.

40. Kimimaro

Kimimaro possessed unique abilities that set him apart in the Naruto series. His power lay in the ability to manifest bones from his skin, utilizing them as formidable weapons in combat. Additionally, Kimimaro exhibited exceptional hand-to-hand combat skills. However, a significant portion of Kimimaro’s presence in the Naruto storyline was marked by an undisclosed illness, severely hampering his ability to endure in battle.

39. Sasori of the Red Sand

Sasori, renowned as “Sasori of the Red Sand,” was a master puppeteer, making puppetry one of the most unique and unusual specialties in the Naruto series. His proficiency in controlling puppets for battle set him apart as possibly the most powerful puppet master in the Naruto universe. The moniker “Sasori of the Red Sand” pays homage to the blood spilled by his deadly puppets in combat.

38. Jūgo

Jūgo, a shinobi hailing from an undisclosed clan, was once confined to Orochimaru’s Northern Hideout. Seeking a remedy for his uncontrollable rages, he willingly approached Orochimaru, hoping for a solution to his affliction. Subsequently, Jūgo became a vital member of Sasuke Uchiha’s group, originally named “Hebi” upon its formation, later rebranded as Taka.

37. Sai Yamanaka

Sai Yamanaka, a prominent figure in Konohagakure’s Yamanaka clan, holds the esteemed position of Anbu Chief. Before assuming this role, he served as a member of Root. Trained under the rigorous regimen of Root, Sai underwent emotional conditioning, resulting in challenges in forming connections with others. Joining Team Kakashi as a substitute for the rogue Sasuke Uchiha, Sai embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Through genuine bonds and a quest to rediscover the emotions he was taught to suppress, Sai begins to unravel the complexities of human feelings and strives to develop his own personality.

36. Hinata Uzumaki

Initially the heiress of the Hyūga clan, she relinquished her position due to being deemed unfit for leadership. Undeterred, Hinata drew inspiration from Naruto Uzumaki and, as a member of Team 8, aspired to grow stronger and undergo personal transformation. Following the Fourth Shinobi World War, she joined the Uzumaki clan through her marriage to Naruto.

35. Kabuto Yakushi

Kabuto Yakushi, a skilled medical ninja, evolves into a master manipulator aligned with Orochimaru’s ambitions. His use of medical jutsu, resurrection techniques, and strategic mind make him a formidable adversary and a catalyst for significant events.

34. Hidan The Immortal Butcher

Hidan, the immortal butcher, stands out as a relentless and fanatical member of the Akatsuki. His unique ability to cheat death through gruesome rituals, coupled with his unyielding dedication to his faith, makes him a distinctive and formidable opponent.

33. A (Fourth Raikage)

A, also known as the Fourth Raikage, hails from Kumogakure and is the son of the Third Raikage of Kumo. Widely celebrated for his exceptional speed, A emerged as a prominent figure in the shinobi world. In the Fourth Shinobi World War, he assumed the pivotal role of the supreme leader of the Allied Shinobi Forces. Notably, he formed a close bond with Killer B, becoming both a brother and tag-partner to the latter during his childhood.

32. Kisame Hoshigaki

Kisame Hoshigaki, known as the Monster of the Hidden Mist, played a formidable role as a villain in the Naruto series. Initially serving as a guard, circumstances led him to betray those he protected to prevent the leakage of vital information. Shockingly, he discovered that the one who pushed him to commit such acts had deceived him all along, selling information to enemies.

31. Shikamaru Nara

Shikamaru Nara, known for his intelligence and strategic mind, rises from a laid-back attitude to a key player in critical missions. His mastery of shadow manipulation and tactical brilliance make him an invaluable asset to the Hidden Leaf.

30. Rock Lee

Rock Lee defied early doubts about his shinobi potential due to the absence of ninjutsu or genjutsu skills. Focusing on taijutsu, Lee’s relentless determination propelled him to become one of Konoha’s strongest ninjas.

29. Neji Hyūga

Hailed as Konoha’s most formidable student, possessed the extraordinary Byakugan eyes, granting him a remarkable field of vision extending up to 800 meters. This unique ability allowed him to discern enemy vulnerabilities and even see through obstacles. Fueled by his mastery of the Byakugan and exceptional Taijutsu prowess, Neji wielded the Gentle Fist fighting style with deadly precision. His technique, the Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms, enabled him to swiftly incapacitate opponents by targeting their chakra pathways and inflicting severe internal damage.

28. Yamato

Yamato, also known as Tenzo, is a skilled ninja with the ability to manipulate Wood Style techniques. His role in training Naruto and bridging gaps between generations adds a layer of complexity to his character.

27. Fifth Mizukage Mei Terumī

Mei Terumī, the Fifth Mizukage, commands respect with her mastery of the Lava and Boil Release. Her leadership and formidable jutsu contribute to the strength of the Hidden Mist Village, making her a noteworthy character.

26. Third Tsuchikage Ōnoki

Ōnoki, the Third Tsuchikage, showcases the power of Dust Release and serves as a pillar of strength for the Hidden Stone Village. His determination and contributions during pivotal battles solidify his place in the Naruto universe.

25. Sakura Haruno

Sakura Haruno evolves from a seemingly ordinary ninja to a powerhouse of strength and medical expertise. Her journey from relying on teammates to standing her ground in battle reflects her growth, making her a significant character in the series.

24. Fifth Hokage Tsunade

Tsunade Senju, the Fifth Hokage, combines exceptional strength with advanced medical skills. Her role as a leader, the creator of the Strength of a Hundred Seal, and her resilience in the face of adversity establish her as a formidable character.

23. Deidara

Deidara, a member of the Akatsuki, gains recognition for his explosive clay-based techniques. His artistic approach to combat and clashes with various characters make him a memorable and dynamic presence.

22. Fifth Kazekage Gaara

Gaara, initially introduced as a formidable adversary, undergoes a transformation from a feared jinchūriki to the Kazekage of the Sand Village. His control over sand-based jutsu and the journey of redemption contribute to his compelling character arc.

21. Eight-Tails Jinchūriki Killer Bee

Killer Bee, the host of the Eight-Tails, stands out with his unique personality and mastery of the Seven Swords Technique. His unconventional approach to life and rap-style dialogue contribute to his memorable presence in the series.

20. Legendary Sannin Orochimaru

Orochimaru, a former member of the Hidden Leaf, delves into forbidden jutsu to pursue immortality and ultimate power. His cunning intellect, mastery of snake-related techniques, and complex motives make him a captivating antagonist in the series.

19. God’s Angel Konan

Konan, known as “God’s Angel,” possesses remarkable paper-based jutsu. Her loyalty to the Akatsuki and determination to protect her homeland add depth to her character, making her stand out among other members.

18. Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, exemplifies wisdom and leadership. His proficiency in a wide range of jutsu, including the iconic Reaper Death Seal, showcases his strength as a ninja and his dedication to protecting the village.

17. Jiraiya: The Toad Sage

Jiraiya, a legendary ninja and mentor to Naruto, combines unparalleled skill with a quirky personality. His mastery of the Rasengan and sage techniques, along with his contributions to the Hidden Leaf, solidify him as a pivotal figure in the Naruto universe.

16. Fourth Hokage Minato Namikaze

Minato Namikaze, celebrated as the “Yellow Flash,” is renowned for his incredible speed and space-time jutsu. As the Fourth Hokage and father of Naruto, his legacy extends through the creation of the Rasengan and his pivotal role in sealing the Nine-Tails.

15. Leaf’s Noble Green Beast Might Guy

Might Guy, an exponent of taijutsu, captivates audiences with his dedication and the awe-inspiring Eight Gates technique. His unwavering spirit and the iconic battles against formidable foes establish him as one of the most memorable characters.

14. Itachi Uchiha

Itachi Uchiha, a complex and tragic figure, stands as one of the most powerful characters in the Naruto universe. A prodigious talent of the Uchiha clan, Itachi is burdened with the responsibility of making difficult choices for the sake of peace.

13. Second Hokage Tobirama Senju

Tobirama Senju, the Second Hokage, contributes significantly to the development of the Hidden Leaf Village. His creation of key jutsu, including the Shadow Clone Technique and the Flying Thunder God Technique, showcases his impact on ninja techniques.

12. Nagato (Pain)

Nagato, also known as Pain, wields the Rinnegan and seeks to bring about peace through drastic measures. His devastating Six Paths of Pain technique and the philosophical depth of his character add complexity to the narrative.

11. Copy Ninja Kakashi Hatake

Kakashi Hatake, known as the Copy Ninja, gains recognition for his mastery of various jutsu and the Sharingan. His enigmatic persona, strategic brilliance, and role as a mentor to Team 7 make him a fan-favorite character.

10. Indra & Asura Ōtsutsuki

Indra and Asura Ōtsutsuki, sons of Hagoromo, represent the eternal conflict between power and love. Their legacy shapes the destinies of the Uchiha and Senju clans, laying the foundation for the complex history of the Hidden Leaf.

9. Toneri Ōtsutsuki

Toneri Ōtsutsuki, hailing from the lineage of Hamura Ōtsutsuki, stands as the last remaining member of the Ōtsutsuki Clan’s branch family on the Moon.

8. Hamura Ōtsutsuki

Hamura Ōtsutsuki, born to Princess Kaguya‎‎ and the fraternal twin of Hagoromo, was among the first to inherit the extraordinary gift of chakra. As the progenitor of the Hyūga clan, he played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of the shinobi on the Moon.

7. First Hokage Hashirama Senju

Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage, stands as a symbol of strength and unity. His mastery of Wood Release techniques and the creation of Konoha contribute to the foundation of the Hidden Leaf Village.

6. Obito Uchiha

Obito Uchiha, a complex character with a tragic past, evolves from a seemingly ordinary ninja to the mastermind behind significant events. His journey, marked by loss and manipulation, adds layers to the narrative, making him a compelling figure.

5. Sasuke Uchiha

Sasuke Uchiha, driven by a quest for vengeance, undergoes significant transformations in pursuit of power. His mastery of the Sharingan, evolution into the Rinnegan, and complex relationships with other characters contribute to his central role in the series.

4. Naruto Uzumaki

Naruto Uzumaki, the titular character, rises from an outcast to the hero of the Hidden Leaf. His journey, marked by determination and the quest for acceptance, culminates in becoming the Seventh Hokage. The mastery of Sage and Tailed Beast powers solidifies his status as a legendary ninja.

3. Madara Uchiha

Madara Uchiha, a legendary figure, plays a pivotal role in shaping the history of the Hidden Leaf. His unparalleled skill, the creation of the Uchiha clan’s Sharingan, and the wielding of the Ten-Tails make him a formidable force.

2. Sage of the Six Paths Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki

Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki, also known as the Sage of the Six Paths, is a mythical figure surrounded by tales of bravery and kindness. Born alongside his twin brother Hamura, both inherit the powerful chakra of their mother, Princess Kaguya. Hagoromo’s significance reaches legendary proportions as he becomes the first jinchūriki, sealing the formidable Ten-Tailed beast within himself with the aid of Hamura. His wisdom shapes the destinies of clans like the Uchiha, Senju, and Uzumaki, descendants of his sons Indra and Asura. Hagoromo’s influence extends across the Naruto universe, solidifying him as one of the most powerful and wise ninjas.

1. Kaguya Ōtsutsuki

Kaguya Ōtsutsuki, hailed as the “Mother of Chakra,” emerges as the ultimate evil in the Naruto universe. Consuming the forbidden fruit from the God Tree, Kaguya becomes the first wielder of chakra, possessing unparalleled abilities. Her powers include the manipulation of space and time, telepathy, and unmatched visual prowess. Kaguya’s god-like status places her beyond the reach of ordinary ninjas, making her the most powerful character in the series. Despite her formidable nature, Kaguya faces strong opposition from the likes of Naruto, Team 7, and her own sons, Hagoromo and Hamura, adding depth to the narrative.

The revolutionary nature of the Naruto series lies in its extensive cast, where each character’s unique abilities reflect their personalities and unwavering determination to fight. This intricate tapestry of characters and their stories contributes to the enduring impact of Naruto on the world of manga and anime.

This article presents a ranking of Naruto characters based on personal opinion. The rankings reflect subjective assessments and preferences and may not align with broader community opinions. The evaluations are not intended to be definitive or conclusive, and individual perspectives on character strength and significance may vary. Additionally, this article exclusively focuses on characters from the Naruto series, excluding any characters introduced in the Boruto series.