Even decades after its original airing, *Dragon Ball Z* continues to stand as one of the most iconic and beloved anime series of all time. With its high-stakes battles, unforgettable characters, and explosive action, it’s no wonder fans around the world still gravitate toward the epic saga of good versus evil. Who can resist the thrill of watching powerful, larger-than-life heroes clash in battles that determine the fate of the planet—and sometimes the entire universe?
As the Dragon Ball franchise expands with new installments like *Dragon Ball Super* and the recently concluded *Dragon Ball Daima*, it's the perfect moment to take a step back and appreciate the roots of it all—*Dragon Ball Z* and its legendary roster of characters. From ruthless villains to noble warriors, the series has given us some of the most memorable figures in anime history.
In this list, we’ll be counting down the very best characters from *Dragon Ball Z*. Our focus will be solely on DBZ, meaning this ranking does not include characters from the original *Dragon Ball*, *Dragon Ball GT*, *Dragon Ball Super*, or *Dragon Ball Daima*.
10. Piccolo
A fan-favorite among longtime viewers, Piccolo starts off as a villain but quickly evolves into one of the Z Fighters' most dependable allies. His calm demeanor, tactical mind, and strong sense of duty make him an essential part of the team. Whether training Gohan or stepping up to face overwhelming threats, Piccolo consistently proves his worth as both a mentor and protector.9. Krillin
Though he may not have the raw power of some of his Saiyan comrades, Krillin earns his place through sheer heart and determination. One of Goku’s oldest friends, Krillin often finds himself in the thick of danger despite his human limitations. His bravery, humor, and loyalty are what make him such a standout character—even in a cast full of superpowered beings.8. Android 18
Android 18 brings a unique edge to the Z Fighters. Initially introduced as a cold and calculating threat, she eventually becomes a valuable ally with her immense strength and sharp wit. Her evolution from enemy to family-oriented hero adds depth to her character, making her one of the more intriguing figures in the series.7. Trunks (Future)
The tragic warrior from an apocalyptic future, Future Trunks is a symbol of hope and sacrifice. His arrival changes the course of events in DBZ and introduces one of the series’ most compelling story arcs. Despite the darkness of his timeline, Trunks remains a determined fighter who embodies resilience in the face of despair.6. Cell
One of the most sinister antagonists in the series, Cell is the ultimate bio-engineered weapon—crafted to perfection using the DNA of Earth’s strongest fighters. His arrogance, intelligence, and chilling personality make him a truly terrifying foe. The Cell Saga is widely regarded as one of the most intense arcs in DBZ, largely thanks to this deadly villain.5. Beerus
The Destroyer God of Universe 7, Beerus brings a godly level of power and comedic flair to the series. Though he initially appears during the later stages of DBZ, his presence leaves a lasting impact. His rivalry with Whis and unpredictable behavior add a fresh dynamic to the show, while his battle with Goku showcases just how far beyond normal limits the series can go.4. Frieza
The first true galactic overlord in the series, Frieza is the villain who sets the tone for DBZ’s epic scale. Ruthless, cunning, and immensely powerful, Frieza is responsible for the near-extinction of the Saiyan race. His return in later arcs and continued role as a major antagonist only solidify his status as one of the greatest villains in anime history.3. Vegeta
The Saiyan Prince begins as a proud and ruthless killer but undergoes one of the most satisfying character arcs in the series. His journey from villain to reluctant hero to full-on protector of Earth is deeply compelling. With unmatched pride and fierce combat skills, Vegeta remains a fan favorite throughout DBZ.2. Goku
Of course, no list would be complete without the main man himself—Son Goku. As the heart and soul of *Dragon Ball Z*, Goku pushes the boundaries of strength and morality. His relentless pursuit of stronger opponents and unwavering sense of justice make him the ultimate hero. While his choices sometimes raise eyebrows, there's no denying his central role in shaping the series.1. Broly
Topping our list is the Legendary Super Saiyan himself—Broly. Introduced in the movies but later canonized, Broly represents pure, uncontrollable rage and power. His tragic backstory and overwhelming strength make him one of the most captivating characters in DBZ. The way he dominates the battlefield and evokes both fear and sympathy is what cements his place at number one.From heroic Saiyans to menacing villains, *Dragon Ball Z* has delivered a rich tapestry of characters that continue to resonate with fans today. Each of these figures plays a pivotal role in defining the legacy of the series and contributes to its enduring popularity across generations.
