50+ Most Popular Anime Characters of All Time

Surprised. What are the most popular anime characters of all time? Here are the top 50 popular anime characters and Manga characters of all time in the anime universe.

“Why do we have to grow up? I know more adults who have the children’s approach to life… They are not afraid to be delighted with simple pleasures, and they have a degree of contentment with what life has brought — sometimes it isn’t much, either.” ~Walt Disney

The global anime character market size was valued at USD 24.80 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% in 2030

Key market players in anime are implementing cutting-edge technologies such as 3D, blockchain, machine learning, AI, and virtual reality to provide an immersive experience to their audiences and gain a competitive advantage. Advances in these cutting-edge technologies are also helping businesses to experiment with novel storyboarding processes while lowering production costs.

For example, Masterpiece Studio, a 3-dimensional creation and animation software platform supplier, released a free edition of Masterpiece Studio Pro in November 2021. The advanced platform would provide artists and indie creators a complete VR creative suite for deploying 3-dimensional props and characters in animations, games, and the metaverse. The platform can be used independently or with other 3D modeling VR and desktop programs. 

Some of the most well-known anime players on the field are:

• Bones Inc.
• Kyoto Animation Co., Ltd.
• MADHOUSE Inc.
• Production I.G
• TOEI Animation Co., Ltd.
• My Hero Academia is the most popular anime in the US.

Watch Anime Vs. Read Manga

If you aren’t a bibliophile you would surely enjoy watching anime over reading manga. Manga is basically black-and-white graphic novels or comics. They are released chapter-wise or in volumes. Anime is the movies or TV series mostly the animated versions of manga titles and characters. 

Related Post: Top Manga Reader Apps for Android and iOS Devices

So if you are wondering what are the most popular anime characters or the best anime character, here we list out not just the top 10 anime but the top 50+ popular anime characters of all time. Let’s get started.

50+ Most Popular Anime Characters Everyone Loves!

1. Armin Alert (Attack on Titan)

Armin Arlert is the current commander in Attack On Titan and one of the most popular anime characters. He’s knowledgeable and his strategic thinking abilities are quite extraordinary. He’s the type of person who comes up with a plan when things get out of hand.

2. Levi Ackerman (Attack On Titan)

And he simply drinks tea and enjoys how it feels. 

Yes, Captain Levi Ackerman is the most popular anime character ever. He is slaying on the internet with his two swords and exceptional skills. TBH people, “Humanity’s Strongest Soldier” is loved in Japan and worldwide. Although Eren Yeager is the lead anime character, Levi is no less. He has been single-handedly driving the major part of the storyline with his personality and attitude. The best part is that the creators affirmed that the strength of Levi’s character does not overpower or steal the screen time of other famous anime characters. Four seasons and this man has not even once disappointed us. He is strong-willed, stern, and has one of the harshest badass personalities ever.

3. Kaguya Shinomiya (Kaguya Sama: Love Is War)

Yes, here we have a strong female anime character that everyone loves. Following the recent trends, in Kaguya Shinomiya, creator Aka Akasaka defines the greatness of the character. No matter how low their numbers, strong female characters are actually defining the new era of anime, and Kaguya Shinomiya is loved by all equally.   

It is not the physical strength we are talking about, but how mindful and intellectual a female is when tackling everyday life. Kaguya Sama: Love is War is a beautiful story set up in senior high school. She is a rich elite child with a tough childhood and is yet to tackle the harsh reality of life and confront her problems with her parents. 

4. Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

And here, next in the list of most popular anime characters, we have the cute anime character from one of the most popular manga turned anime, My Hero Academia. A heartthrob Shoto Todoroki is one of the most handsome characters in the anime arena. An elite student at U, he is the son of Endeavor, the 1st ranked here, and has had a strong foundation since his childhood. A man of few words, he reflects prowess in his combats and has a very charming personality that speaks for him. He is the dream guy that one can fight for <3

5. L Lawliet (Death Note)

The next in line is L Lawliet from one of the most popular animes 2021, Death Note. Our boy has been deserving of all the love and admiration he gets. From standing against Light Yagami to questioning the concept of the antagonist, our hero has a strong influential personality. Sometimes while enjoying your tea you would have tried copying him (For Sure).

His presence on the screen is magic and he adds great value to the franchise. No Death Note fan can even imagine the series without the presence of L in the story. If you are an anime fan, then you know the sound of Death Note lives in our charming L Lawliet.

6. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter X Hunter)

Making a place for himself on the number 6 spot, we have Killua Zoldyck. Despite his young age, Killua managed to grasp the attention of all Hunter x Hunter fans without breaking a sweat. After all, this man is one of the main anime characters of this series, he is bound to get so much attention.

But unlike many other characters, Killua is worthy of all the love and appreciation he receives within the anime community. His contribution to the overall narrative and his presence on screen is nothing less than fabulous. Seeing this young kid fight horrible monsters and other hunters with his incredible strength and charismatic attitude is satisfying to the next degree. We don’t see his nature as a friend and a Hunter often in anime characters. And that is why Killua is in the 6rd spot.

7. Zoro Roronoa From “One Piece”

Personally, I’m a sucker for swordfighters. Zoro is the epitome of how cool a swordsman can get. He has the swagger of a prince, the power of a beast, and the heart of a kind. However, you can’t go on bossing him around. Zoro has the overall vibe of a monster if you mess with him. Being the second protagonist, Zoro has been doing many cool things throughout the series. His three-katana fighting style blew everyone’s minds.

If you’ve been watching Zoro in action, you will probably like him. But on the other hand, his will to surpass everyone is unreal too! You can’t expect Zoro to stay the same. The guy will change with time and become the favorite one too many, making him one of the most popular anime characters of all time.

8. Kurisu Makise From “Steins Gate”

The prodigy protagonist of Steins Gate is in a research University. She is also known to be one of the most genius anime characters ever. As she was a girl, many of the boys in the series were envious of her genius. The best part about Makise is that she never shows any weakness; in a sense, she is the ideal role model for all female fans.

Being a thunder, a lot of people love her. And I’m not saying it in any weird way. Because apparently, tsundere receive a lot of love when it comes to being a popular anime character. Beauty with brains is probably the main reason why Makise has the type of popularity that she gained. Fans love her. This might be a little biased by she has been my favorite anime Waifu of all time too.

9. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood)

When we talk about protagonists, we tend to look at someone who would always end up as the star of the episode, no matter the other characters’ efforts. However, Edward Elric, from Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, is the man who will show you what an amazing protagonist actually does.

Despite being known as the short dude, Edward is the one who tends to be the most mature out of the bunch of popular anime characters in the series. He doesn’t take up all the screen time from the episode. Instead, he shows up when the time is right and lets the other characters also have their share.

This balance of presence and his ideas within the series are so good that I can’t imagine him any lower. Our short alchemist might not be the most adorable anime character, but he is definitely the most reliable.

10. Sasuke Uchiha (Naruto)

Ay! On our list is an emo Uchiha. You’re missing out on a lot if you don’t know who Sasuke is. It took 700 episodes for the dude to realize how naive he was. That was the part when I was joking. So, Sasuke is quite the character. He’s also one of the most well-liked members of the anime community.

Apart from the memes, he’s a lot cooler than many other anime characters in the series. And, thanks to the recent Boruto series, he’s grown even more. Because of his fierce demeanor and attractive appearance, he is adored by many females. Throughout the series, Sasuke had a lot on his plate. I’m sad about many things, from becoming the best to having a mental breakdown.

11. Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

Many people refer to Mikasa Ackerman as the Waifu. She is regarded as the toughest anime female character ever created. That isn’t to imply she isn’t attractive. Take a look at the photo; she’s both adorable and tough. Mikasa’s responsibility is to keep Eren safe. She loses her wits if one step goes wrong. Mikasa also has some impressive fighting talents, making her one of the most well-known anime characters ever.

She is also considered one of the most powerful anime characters in Attack on Titan due to her excellent fighting skills! Her style is unique and not cookie-cutter. She’s simply awesome. Even when I was a kid. Mikasa had the strength to kick a couple of men. She was a brilliant woman.

12. Kurosaki Ichigo (Bleach)

The anime has proved itself to be one of the most popular anime in the industry and the popularity of its main protagonist knows no limits. Ichigo has magnificence and charm added to his character and this man is admirable AF. The series reflects the constant growth of his character that makes him one of the most popular anime characters in today’s time.

 13. Sebastian Michaelis (Black Butler)

No lies here, we all love Sebastian Michaelis, the butler of the Phantomhive household. This badass butler takes care of a to z of the mansion and his cuteness has no comparison. A lot of girls went drooling about him when the series was first out. The demon in him makes his character a little more adorable and appealing. Plus, there is nothing that our butler can’t do.

14. Zaya Orihara (Durarara)

Selling information as a hobby is one of the best things, isn’t it? Orihara is one of the most loved characters in the anime universe. Those who love to enjoy Durarara, cannot question the skill sets he has and how his choice of weapons turns things in his favor. With an easy-going badass character, it is easier for people, in general, to connect with his personality. The way he handles the situation makes everyone fall in love with him each time he is on screen. This is why zaya is one of the most famous anime characters.

15. Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)

How could someone possibly not like Totoro? This titular character from the show is legit. Although the show is lowkey, I would say it is a must-watch. Smile a little harder as you enjoy the cute characters and their activities. It is Love!

16. Yuno Gasai From “Mirai Nikki”

Yeah, the epitome of the woman we all want to be, Yuno Gasai. She is incredible and has a character that suits her personality. She’s beautiful, smart, and strong. Her character makes her the most popular girl in the school and she is well aware of how and when of the situations.

She may come out as a sweet little girl, but when the time comes, she can take a troll on anyone making them powerless in a few moments.

17. Taiga Aisaka (Toradora!)

And another in the list of popular anime characters we are talking about here is my favorite Taiga Aisaka. Watch Toradora and know what makes her so special. Abiding by the rules and regulations, the girl is one of the most amazing class presidents. The upfront attitude and strict understanding of the world make things sorted. Unlike sugar-coated nice girls, she is ruthless when it comes to spitting facts.

She is Cute and Everything Nice
But If She is Annoyed, 
She is Rageful and Everything Spice.

18. Yui Hirasawa From “K-On!!

K-On!!! Another anime that is driving the world crazy. Call her kiddush, call her insane but she is extremely cute. Her love for music and cake isn’t hidden from the world and adds a charm to her cute personality. 

19. Izumi Miyamura (Horimiya)

The one character who has those heroic killing looks with all those tattoos and different piercings. Ahhh! The soft looks are as deceptive as they could be. He is ready to take an emotional toll on everyone with his delinquent persona. Izumi Miyamura is one of the smartest and most popular anime characters you wish were real.

20. Yuu Ishigami (Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War)

And the heroic side character, as smart as he could be, is the school council’s treasure. This young lad adorns headphones with his school uniform, carrying his own swag. Although he has dull eyes and very unexpressive features, he is one of the most talked-about characters in the anime universe.

One of the self-involved strong characters who love to work from home without much assistance. A smart and rich guy is a strong blend to resist.

21. Usui Takumi From “Kaichu Wa Maid Sama”

Mr. Flirtatious, as we can call him.

The king of the flirting kingdom, Usui Takumi is setting up new standards for anime characters. His persona is tsundere, where he gets the viewers’ attention a lot. He shares a love-hate relationship with viewers for his arrogance and beauty. This is a well-crafted character that grows with time really strong.

22. Guts (Berserk)

Guts surely get a place in the list of all-time favorite anime characters. Although he has a rough life, he never left hope. This tall, intimidating guy is one of the most loved characters in the anime arena and has been on every anime lover’s list.

If you haven’t watched anime yet, you are actually wasting a major part of the fun in your life. Guts rose to popularity with the release of the manga.

23. Lisa Lisa (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure)

Lisa Aka Elizabeth Joestar is one of the most talked-about female characters in the anime. This ripple master is the mentor of caesar and is brace and beautiful.

24. Baki Hanma (Baki)

The protagonist from one of the most-watched anime, Baki, is reckless and carefree. He is very charming and his ignorance makes him adorable. Physically a strong body can knock anyone anytime.

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25. Kira Yoshikage (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure)

Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is one of the shows that has changed the scenario for anime these days. Yeah, the guy is obsessed with hands and loves to collect them. Yoshikage seems to be a confusing character with a shade of grey to his personality.

26. Tohru (Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid)

Another popular anime is that we can look for strong characters.  Tohru the dragon main often hides her tail with a long black dress. Available for everyone’s assistance, this dragon is adorable and strong. Loved by all and appreciated by more. Loved by all and appreciated by more.

27. Shinya Hiragi (Seraph Of The End)

Another gentleman on the list who has been creating magic on the screen with his personality. He seems to impact the audience strongly with silver hair and a quiet personality. Even in the toughest situations he would not lose his cool and handle it in his favor.

28. Kenma Kozume (Haikyuu)

And we all know the whole cast of Haikyuu deserves a spot here. Kenma Kozume is one of the cutest anime characters on the screen. Adding quirk and joy to the anime universe, this character has revealed exceptional problem-solving skills and is brilliant in discussing cuteness. The short fellow with expertise in volleyball, this man gets a plus for his short blond hair with black or brown roots. 

Sounds like someone to look up for? Yes, he is!

29. Rin Tohsaka (Fate)

A very competitive anime character who likes to go all-in when fighting with someone, Rin Tohsaka is our next pick. Not a very bubbly outgoing person, she is smart and less interactive. She is definitely one of the strongest female anime characters on the list. 

30. Norman (The Promised Neverland)

One thing that is way beyond looks and charm is intellect. Another intellectual character on the list is charming the audience with his wits. Definitely impressive and highly competitive he is the hero of our anime universe. Norman showcases extraordinary skills and is winning hearts. 

31. Erza Scarlet (Fairy Tail)

Another waifu on the list who is slaying it all in the anime universe. A lot of us have found the love of our life in Erza. Her red hair adds fury to her character and her fierce personality drives the world crazy. This badass woman is attractive and crushes on so many people. The charm she reflects on the screen is what makes Erza Scarlet the most popular female character on the list.

32. Mai Sakurajima (Rascal Doesn’t Dream Of Bunny Girl Senpai)

This girl on the list is the love of anime fans and she has won hearts around the globe. The perfect body, perfect looks, perfect features, and whatnot. She is an angel. Normal people cannot see her, but her popularity never ceases to grow.

33.  Tanjro Kamado (Demon Slayer)

Ever since the anime was released, Tanjro Kamado is the real slayer. Tanijro has been killing the demons to save his people from them. Unfortunately, his family was eaten by them and then things become complicated. Empathy is a trait you would identify him with.

34. Rintarou Okabe (Steins Gate)

The MAD SCIENTIST! The PRODIGY! The GENIUS!

For sure our favorite grey character in has made it to the list. Intellectual and popular are the adjectives that define him. He gives a mysterious vibe and is confused with the villain. The best part is the pressure he puts on others when they are talking to him. Dumb, smart, or confused, whatever he is, this is one character that can not be explained in mere words.

35. Chika Fujiwara From “Kaguya Sama: Love Is War”

This is the most relatable character on the list. Chika Fujiwara is a bubbly, dumb, and cute girl. Like any girl of her age, she’s always smiling and obsessed with the idea of love. And that makes her a famous anime character.

36. Meliodas from “Seven Deadly Sins”

Meliodas from the Seven Deadly Sins might easily become irritated at any time. He has yellow hair and a purple-ish mark on his forehead, which makes him incredibly popular. Meliodas is portrayed as snarky and harsh.

37. Trevor Belmont from “Castlevania”

Trevor Belmont is a professional basketball player from the United States. Castlevania’s Trevor Belmont is a macho man. He’s a warrior in every sense of the word. He is unafraid of taking on any challenge. You can’t make me change my opinion about Trevor being one of the most badass anime characters.

38. Orochimaru from “Naruto”

Orochimaru is one of Naruto’s enemies. He’s said to be highly dangerous. So, if you see him anyplace, you should flee immediately. He exudes a highly poisonous aura that may be used to control anyone.

39. Armin Arlert From “Attack On Titan”

In Attack On Titan, Armin Arlert is the current commander. He’s a brilliant thinker with exceptional strategic thinking talents. When things get out of hand, he’s the type of person who devises a strategy.

40. Jolyne Kujo From “Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure”

Jolyne Kujo, who appeared in the most recent installment of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, is becoming increasingly popular. Her features, charisma, and badass power have made her a celebrity. She truly won many men’s and women’s hearts all across the world.

41. Kaguya Shinomiya From “Kaguya Sama: Love Is War”

Kaguya is known for her tsundere personality in Kaguya Sama: Love is War. She’s a pleasant and warm-hearted individual. When it comes to admitting it, though, she prefers the other person to take the initiative. HEHE!

42. Nobara Kugisaki From “Jujutsu Kaisen”

Nobara Kugisaki is another well-known character from Jujutsu Kaisen. This girl appears to be average, but if you haven’t seen the episode of JJK where she went insane, you haven’t seen anything! It’s incredible how pumped up she became!

43. Sakura From “Naruto”

Naruto’s Sakura is also well-known. She was the ideal girl for many young men and women. Right? She’s one of the waifus who’s been around the longest. This girl has been cosplayed by many individuals all around the world. Her pink hair really makes her stand out!

44. Sailor Moon From “Sailor Moon”

Sailor Moon is one of the most well-known and well-known anime characters of all time. Everyone knows who she is. She’s enchanted, attractive, and gracious. She occasionally loses her mind and has her heart broken, but that’s okay since she gets back on her feet soon.

45. Vegeta From “Dragon Ball Z”

Vegeta or should I say VEGETAAAA!

 He’s one of the worst anime characters ever. His tsundere persona has made him immensely popular. “I don’t care,” he says at first, but soon comes to care about everyone. After all, Vegita is a former royal, so I understand why he’s the way he is.

46. Monkey D Luffy From “One Piece”

Maybe not right now, Luffy, the pirate king. He is one of the most well-known anime characters ever. However, there is a reason for this. One Piece is considered to be a classic. It is, nevertheless, still operational as of this date. If you want to see something that is at the top of its class, I recommend One Piece.

It’s not easy to be a pirate. Luffy is fully aware of this, so he has gathered a crew of pirates to accompany him. Luffy is simple-minded, but it is his simplicity that distinguishes him from others.

47. Reigen Arataka (Mob Psycho 100)

Some of you may be surprised to learn that I have always believed in my boy Reigen Arataka. If you didn’t know, Reigen is one of the main characters in Mob Psycho 100, and he has had a huge impact on the franchise. When the second season of Mob Psycho 100 debuted, Reigen’s popularity skyrocketed. This season had a specific character arc that highlighted Reigen’s complexity as a character.

On the surface, he may appear to be a typical scam artist. He is, nonetheless, a man of will, strength, and confidence who can face down even the most powerful adversaries with a smile on his face.

48. Osamu Dazai (Bungou Stray Dogs)

Incoming ladies and gentlemen are Dazai Osamu Fangirl’s favorites. Dazai Osamu is one of the coolest anime characters in the Bungou Stray Dogs anime series. And he’s well-known in the anime community for his bizarre and surreal personality, which sets him apart.

He is a brilliant detective who can use his wits to solve any problem. However, it appears that my man does not enjoy living and, as a result, he attempts suicide on occasion. As a result of his unique appearance, he is well-known in the anime community as a fan favorite of that series.

49. Hikigaya Hachiman (OreGairu)

Hikigaya Hachiman, considered by many to be the greatest anime protagonist of all time, is a typical high school student with a clear perspective on life. He claims that the butterfly youth’s dream is just that: a fantasy and that life is far more cruel and terrible in reality. Our admiration for him would rise if we saw him encounter the true meaning of life and see him contradict his ideals formed by his prior experiences. He’d make you doubt your adolescence by asking you questions to which you’d have no replies.

50. Roy Mustang (Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood)

In Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, he is without a doubt one of the most badass anime character names. Without a doubt, one of the cool anime characters in the series, this guy is the pinnacle of entertaining in style. Roy Mustang is a man who prioritizes his values and ideals over everything else, and he will never abandon them.

This is what makes him such a fascinating figure. Apart from his motivating approach, Roy is a powerful alchemist who can burn you down in a matter of seconds. When it comes to his loved ones, he is as soft as a gummy bear but as tough as steel when it comes to villains.

Keep a look out for this MAN if you ever watch Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood!

Conclusion – The Top Anime Characters

These are the most popular and top anime names in the anime universe, creating magic and inspiring the generation to do better. More than entertainment, they show character and strength, making building a better world easier!

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FAQs about the Top Anime Characters