From Mainstream to as Niche as it Gets
DC is a vast universe spanning Gods, heroes, monsters, and even biblical figures. With that in mind, there are plenty of powerhouses to consider when ranking the most powerful characters. While you may be familiar with some of these heroes, others on these lists have kept their capabilities quiet.
20. Plastic Man
After a dip in some mysterious chemicals, Patrick O’Brian became Plastic Man, making his first appearance in Police Comics #1 in 1941. While he is considered a comedic character who can stretch and reshape his body, in reality, his adaptability means he is virtually unbeatable. Additionally, his body regenerates, making him immortal and invulnerable.
19. Power Girl
Making her first appearance in All Star Comics #58 in 1976, Power Girl is a Kryptonian with experience and ruthlessness. She has similar abilities to Clark, but her heritage and knowledge of Krypton have given her an occasional advantage.
18. The Flash
After first appearing in Showcase #4 in 1956, The Flash has quickly become a bit overpowered. With access to the Speed Force, he is practically able to time travel. Plus, if he ever went evil, it would be all too easy to cause havoc without ever getting caught.
Richie S from Brooklyn, NY, United States on Wikimedia
17. Zatanna
Zatanna first appeared in Hawkman #4 in 1964. What makes her so powerful is undoubtedly her unique ability. Basically, she can manipulate reality and create anything she wants simply by uttering a phrase backward.
16. Batman
Most people consider Batman the most powerful character in the DC universe, and given enough prep time, there’s very little he can't handle. With a record of taking down Gods and fellow heroes alike, there are some characters even he would have trouble with. For instance, prep time isn’t going to help him against the top three on this list.
15. Kyle Rayner
For fans of the Green Lantern, Kyle Rayner is undoubtedly one of the coolest characters around. First appearing in 1994 in Green Lantern #48, Kyle has since harnessed the power of hope and will, using it alongside his creativity to push the limits of possibility.
Rowan Gillette- Fussell on Wikimedia
14. Captain Atom
If the power of an atomic explosion is anything to go by, then it is clear that Captain Atom has all that and more. Fused with nuclear power, he is not only indestructible but can wreak massive havoc across entire countries.
13. Doctor Fate
First appearing in More Fun Comics #55, Dr. Fate quickly rose through the rankings as a unique and powerful sorcerer. Equipped with a helmet that allows him to become the host of Nabu’s spirit, Dr. Fate has vast knowledge and can manipulate time and space.
Amy from United States on Wikimedia
12. Martian Manhunter
Many people think Superman is the most powerful alien around, but in reality, Martian Manhunter has been declared physically stronger. He is also able to shapeshift, read minds, and phase through matter, making him versatile and hard to beat.
ESA & MPS for OSIRIS Team MPS/UPD/LAM/IAA/RSSD/INTA/UPM/DASP/IDA, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO on Wikimedia
11. Superman
However, there’s something integral about Superman’s standing as one of the strongest heroes around. With super speed, invulnerability, strength, heat vision, and enhanced senses, he has been a bridge on Earth. Even if he wasn’t strong enough to face his opponent, his heart and character would ensure he would have allies by his side, ready to turn any tide.
10. Wonder Woman
Entering the realms of Gods, Wonder Woman is the daughter of Zeus and Queen Hippolyta. Even Batman doesn’t have a contingency plan for her, as kryptonite does little to limit her speed, agility, and strength. With the powers of a demigod and ancient artifacts by her side, she’s one of the strongest heroes out there.
9. Darkseid
From this point on, the line between hero and villain is about to blur, but Darkseid is undoubtedly a villain through and through. Both a God and the ruler of Apokolips, he has numerous powerful characters under his control. Additionally, his control over dark forces and his Omega Beams make him one of the toughest opponents for the Justice League.
8. Superman Prime
Most fans know there are multiple variations of our favorite superheroes out there, and Superman Prime, also known as Superman One Million, made his first appearance in 1998 in DC One Million #1. With immense strength and invulnerability, he is considered a god-like version of Superman, and many believe him to be the strongest, especially since he can manipulate reality and energy on a cosmic scale.
7. Dr. Manhattan
For fans of Watchmen, Dr. Manhattan has long been considered the most powerful being on Earth. He made his first appearance in Watchmen #1 in 1986, where a laboratory accident turned him into an immortal and omniscient being. He was able to see the past, present, and future simultaneously, and control matter at a molecular level. He can destroy things with a thought.
Ryan Quick from Greenbelt, MD, USA on Wikimedia
6. The Spectre
The embodiment of God’s vengeance, The Spectre made his first appearance in More Fun Comics #52 in 1940, where he was showcased as a divine entity wielding immense cosmic powers. He is not only omnipotent but can manipulate reality and the very fabric of existence. From this point forward, the characters on this list will be beings on an entirely different level.
5. The Endless
The Endless are a group of siblings that embody core concepts of the world, such as destiny, dreams, and death. First appearing in the iconic and beloved Sandman #1 in 1989, the Endless were showcased as omnipresent beings that shaped and controlled reality itself.
Álvaro Fernández G on Wikimedia
4. Elaine Belloc
Elaine is an interesting character who first appeared in The Sandman Presents: Lucifer #1 in 2000. While her mother was human, her father was the archangel Michael, and if you know anything about DC, it’s that biblical cameos are some of the most powerful characters around. Hence, Elaine is immortal, has God-like control over the universe, and can manipulate everything around her.
3. Lucifer
Another biblical character that has made and destroyed worlds is none other than Lucifer Morningstar. He first appeared in The Sandman #4 in 1989, and the showcase was so successful that he later received his own comic line. When it comes to power, Lucifer is immortal, can reshape the cosmos, and is probably the only baddie God has to worry about.
2. The Overmonitor
The Overmonitor is a cosmic entity that has been observing the multiverse and is responsible for keeping it stable. So essentially, he controls the multiverse and holds authority over existence itself. While he has different variations over the years and even a change in name, the idea stays the same.
1. The Presence
However, when it comes to control, the one actually in charge is The Presence. First appearing in Showcase #79 in 1968, The Presence is the equivalent of an Abrahamic God in DC. With no true physical form, he is the creator of the multiverse and can create or destroy anything at will.
