The Greatest Villains In DC Comics, Ranked

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Latest additions: The Batman Who Laughs, Mortimer Kadaver
Most divisive: Mr. Mxyzptlk

Here are the best DC villains ranked best to worst by comic book fans. These popular bad guys in DC Comics are the best of the worst supervillains and they're all listed here. The top DC villains on this list of baddies may not have been around too long as we've added new DC villains for you to vote on.

For over 80 years, DC Comics has been publishing some of the best comic book villains of all time, including the Joker, Lex Luthor, the Riddler, Deathstroke, Bane, Darkseid, and Brainiac. From Batman enemies to Superman's toughest foes, this ranking of the greatest DC villains features violent psychopaths, mad scientists, and omnipotent beings. 

Who is the best DC comic book villain? Who is the best DC superhero nemesis? Who are the top DC supervillains? Who deserves a better DCEU version?Vote on this list of the greatest DC villains and find out! If you think one of these super villains isn't worth a match-up with the Justice League, vote them down. If your favorite DC bad guy isn't on the list, add them so they can compete for the title of the greatest DC villain.

Ranked by
  • Joker
    1
    8,218 votes
    Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Batman: The Animated Series, Fight Batman Fight!

    The Joker, with his maniacal laughter and unpredictable nature, stands as the epitome of chaos in the DC universe. His twisted sense of humor and sadistic games make him a truly captivating villain, constantly challenging Batman's moral compass and pushing him to his limits.

  • Darkseid
    2
    6,065 votes
    DC Universe

    Darkseid, the ruler of Apokolips, exudes an aura of pure power and malevolence. With his god-like strength and ability to manipulate reality itself, he poses a formidable threat to the entire Justice League. Darkseid's relentless pursuit of the Anti-Life Equation makes him an antagonist that demands our attention.

  • Lex Luthor
    3
    5,428 votes
    Smallville, Superman: Brainiac Attacks, Batman vs. Superman

    Lex Luthor, the brilliant billionaire with a vendetta against Superman, represents the embodiment of human intellect and ambition gone awry. His unmatched intelligence combined with his vast resources make him a formidable adversary for not only the Man of Steel but also for anyone who dares to stand in his way.

  • Deathstroke
    4
    6,046 votes
    Teen Titans, Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths, DC Universe

    Deathstroke, also known as Slade Wilson, is a deadly assassin with unparalleled combat skills and tactical brilliance. His enhanced physical abilities and mastery of various weapons make him a force to be reckoned with. As an anti-hero at times, Deathstroke's complex morality adds depth to his character and keeps fans guessing about his next move.

  • Bane
    5
    4,742 votes
    Justice League: Doom, The Dark Knight Rises

    Bane, known for his immense strength and cunning tactics, is a physically imposing villain who broke Batman's back in one of their most iconic confrontations. His strategic mind coupled with Venom-enhanced abilities creates an intimidating presence that strikes fear into the hearts of heroes and readers alike.

  • Riddler
    6
    4,193 votes
    Batman, Batman: Under the Red Hood, Batman

    The Riddler, Edward Nygma, challenges Batman's intellect with complex puzzles and riddles that keep readers engaged in solving mysteries alongside the Dark Knight. With his narcissistic personality and obsessive need for validation, The Riddler adds an element of intellectual intrigue to Gotham City's rogues' gallery.