The Akatsuki in Naruto stand out as some of the most memorable antagonists in anime history, with their members being among the most powerful characters in the series. This notorious organization, one of the longest-lasting villainous factions in the Naruto universe, was established by rogue ninjas who turned their backs on their villages.
As the narrative unfolded, the objectives of the Akatsuki evolved, unfortunately leading to dire consequences for Naruto’s allies, as their ambitions often revolve around widespread havoc and devastation.
Originally intended to serve as a solution to prevent larger nations from overpowering smaller ones, the Akatsuki transformed into an antagonistic organization when its leader concluded that the only path to halt this chaos was through domination of humanity.
Despite its limited membership, the Akatsuki stands as one of the most formidable factions in the Naruto universe. The members possess the capability to challenge the most skilled ninjas and even control the immensely powerful Tailed Beasts.
All Akatsuki Members Ranked By Strength
17. Karin
Karin was brought into Team Taka by Sasuke, and they eventually became part of the Akatsuki for a brief period. Throughout the series, she played a largely supportive role. Her healing capabilities and sensory skills made her a valuable member of the team.
It became evident that Sasuke primarily kept her around for his own gain, as she was crucial for his recovery from serious injuries. During their mission with the Akatsuki to capture the Eight-Tails, Karin utilized her Mind’s Eye of the Kagura technique to locate Killer Bee’s hiding spot. When Sasuke faced grave injuries, she was able to transfer her chakra to help him heal rapidly.
Although her abilities were significant for a shinobi, she often struggled to defend herself in critical situations. Karin’s infatuation with Sasuke mirrored the obsession that fans had already seen with Sakura, leading to a perception that her character development was somewhat lacking.
16. Suigetsu
Suigetsu Hōzuki, a product of Orochimaru’s experiments, was selected by Sasuke to be part of Team Taka with the goal of defeating Itachi. His true motivation for joining the team, however, was his desire to face Kisame and obtain his sword, Samehada. Over time, Suigetsu demonstrated his loyalty while also pursuing his own interests.
He possessed impressive combat abilities, including the unique skill of water manipulation, which enabled him to alter his body into water. Suigetsu was among the first to challenge Killer Bee during the mission to capture the Eight Tails for the Akatsuki. Although he was quickly overpowered, he managed to protect Sasuke from Killer Bee’s attack.
Additionally, Suigetsu opposed Sasuke’s choice to reanimate Orochimaru, as he had a complicated history with him, being one of the many subjects of Orochimaru’s experiments, confined within a lab.
Throughout his journey, Suigetsu showcased not only his formidable fighting skills but also his capacity for growth within Team Taka. His ability to manipulate water proved advantageous in various encounters, allowing him to adapt to different combat situations.
15. Jugo
Jugo was involved in the experiments conducted by Orochimaru, similar to Suigetsu. He later allied himself with Sasuke, dedicating his loyalty to protect him from any threats. At first glance, Jugo appeared to be a gentle soul, but his true potential was revealed through his abilities to harness natural energy and undergo a powerful transformation known as Sage Transformation.
Jugo yearned for a sense of belonging and purpose. During an encounter with Killer Bee, he demonstrated his formidable strength, although he found it challenging to match the power of the Eight-Tails Jinchuriki. His ability to morph parts of his body into weapons makes him a valuable asset in battle.
However, since he absorbs natural energy, he risks losing control if he exceeds his limits, which worries Karin. Despite his capabilities, he holds a lower rank compared to the other members of the Akatsuki.
14. Yahiko
The Akatsuki in Naruto was originally established by Yahiko, Konan, and Nagato, who envisioned a better world free from conflict and suffering. Much like Naruto, Yahiko’s values revolved around creating lasting peace amidst the chaos of their surroundings. Tragically, Yahiko’s untimely death had a profound impact on their mission.
He was a skilled shinobi known for his empathy and had mastered fire, water, and wind-style techniques, even learning ninjutsu under the guidance of Jiraiya. Despite his limited presence in the series and the circumstances of his demise, Yahiko remains an important figure, though he ranks lower on the list of powerful Akatsuki members due to the emergence of stronger allies.
Following his passing, his friend Nagato became a more formidable force, while the ideals Yahiko had championed faded away, leaving Konan and Nagato to navigate a dark path devoid of hope.
In the end, Yahiko’s legacy is a poignant reminder of the potential for goodness that can be overshadowed by tragedy. The evolution of the Akatsuki in Naruto reflects the complex nature of its characters, illustrating how loss can alter one’s ideals and drive them toward a different destiny.
13. Zetsu
Zetsu stands out as one of the most cunning figures in the Naruto series. As a creation of Kaguya Otsutsuki, he dedicated countless years to orchestrating her revival. He played a crucial role in inscribing prophecies on the Uchiha Stone, which ultimately triggered the emergence of the second iteration of the Akatsuki.
However, what truly set him apart were his manipulative strategies and schemes. Zetsu possessed the unique ability to generate countless clones of himself and merge with others. In his White Zetsu form, he could summon a vast army of replicas, swiftly overpowering opponents.
Meanwhile, Black Zetsu had the power to attach itself to formidable individuals, even playing a pivotal role in Madara’s downfall by catching him off guard with a decisive attack. Nevertheless, this outcome left many fans feeling let down, as Madara, a character renowned for his immense strength in Naruto, was ultimately defeated by someone perceived as weak like Zetsu.
12. Deidara
Deidara possessed a unique set of abilities that stood out among the shinobi in the Naruto universe. Initially, he was part of the Explosive Corps in his village and provided his explosive talents as a mercenary to different warring factions.
Once the Akatsuki became aware of his exceptional skills, they recruited him, though it seems this decision may not have been entirely voluntary. As the youngest member of the Akatsuki, he first worked alongside Sasori until Sasori’s demise, after which he teamed up with Tobi until his own tragic end.
Deidara had a unique ability, featuring a mouth on each of his hands that could craft a variety of explosive devices when supplied with clay. His stealth skills were exceptional, allowing him to confront some of the most formidable characters in Naruto.
He battled Gaara and Sasuke, managing to overpower Gaara effortlessly and nearly defeating Sasuke as well, showcasing his impressive combat abilities. However, when considering the overall strength of every Akatsuki in Naruto, Deidara’s power doesn’t quite match that of some other members in the organization.
11. Sasori
Sasori, hailing from the Hidden Sand Village, was known for his dual talents as a puppet craftsman and a skilled assassin prior to his affiliation with the Akatsuki. One of his most notable feats was the assassination of the Third Kazekage, whom he subsequently converted into a puppet.
Over the years, Sasori transformed numerous individuals into puppets, including his own parents and ultimately, himself. His exceptional skills in puppetry made him a formidable adversary, a fact that became evident when Sakura and Lady Chiyo, Sasori’s grandmother, faced him in battle.
Sasori, one of the notable members of the Akatsuki in Naruto, transformed himself into a puppet during his youth, which allowed him to maintain the appearance of a young boy. He mastered chakra control to an extraordinary level, surpassing that of typical ninjas, enabling him to manipulate up to a hundred puppets simultaneously.
Additionally, Sasori had the ability to coat his weapons with deadly poison and unleash countless tiny homing projectiles in battle.
10. Kakuzu
Kakuzu became a part of the Akatsuki with the intention of increasing his wealth, and he was notorious for being one of the most avaricious individuals in the world of shinobi. Throughout his journey, he managed to defeat several Jinchuriki, such as Fuu and Yugito, and single-handedly annihilated entire villages without the assistance of his partner Hidan.
His reputation was marked by a blend of intimidation and shrewdness, especially when it came to self-defense. To overcome Kakuzu, Naruto had to rely on his strategic skills to devise a plan for victory.
Kakuzu achieved a form of immortality by housing five hearts within his body, each represented by a mask that harnessed different chakra types. His resilience was such that even powerful opponents like Matatabi and Kakashi struggled to inflict damage on him under typical conditions. As a formidable ninja, Kakuzu stood out as one of the most powerful members within the Akatsuki.
9. Hidan
Many fans recall Hidan for the significant impact he had on the narratives of Shikamaru Nara and Asuma Sarutobi. Despite not being the most formidable member, his immortality set him apart as one of the most intriguing and complex figures within the Akatsuki.
Hidan’s deep spiritual bond with Jashin granted him immense power, contributing to his arrogance and reckless demeanor. This dangerous combination ultimately led to him defeating Team 10’s leader, Asuma Sarutobi.
Due to his ability to live forever, Hidan doesn’t necessarily need to be the strongest fighter in a confrontation; he simply has to outlast his adversary. Shikamaru had to devise elaborate strategies and employ creative tactics to put an end to Hidan’s terror, and ultimately, he merely buried him alive.
In the vast expanse of the Narutoverse, Hidan remains entombed, plotting and seething over the perceived injustice of his defeat. This alone secures his place among the formidable members of the Akatsuki, though there are certainly others who surpass Hidan in strength.
8. Konan
Konan stands out as one of the few Akatsuki members who made it through the initial formation of the group. Her position within the organization is notably high, despite the members’ belief in their equal status.
As an advisor to both Yahiko and Nagato during their leadership, her intelligence and strategic thinking were greatly appreciated by them. Konan demonstrated a fierce loyalty to Yahiko and Nagato, skillfully wielding her abilities with both cunning and strength.
Throughout her time in the Akatsuki, she was not only a vital asset but also an integral part of the team’s dynamics. Her resourcefulness and protective nature played a significant role in the group’s endeavors, showcasing her dedication to her comrades.
7. Kisame Hoshigaki
Kisame Hoshigaki was a character characterized by numerous shark-like traits. Under the guidance of Fuguki Suikazan, a former member of the Seven Deadly Swordsmen and the original owner of the sword Samehada, Kisame’s life took a dark turn.
After uncovering that Fuguki was betraying him by selling secrets to rival ninja villages, Kisame killed his master and claimed Samehada as his own. This pivotal moment marked his rise as one of the notable figures among every Akatsuki in Naruto.
Revered as the “Tailless Tailed Beast” by both friends and foes, Kisame possessed immense chakra reserves and strength comparable to that of a Tailed Beast, solidifying his role as one of the most formidable members of the Akatsuki in Naruto.
His combat style involved continuously siphoning the chakra of his adversaries, which allowed him to gain the upper hand in battles, including a fleeting victory over Killer B. Kisame made his initial appearance alongside Itachi as they infiltrated the Leaf Village with the goal of capturing the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki.
6. Orochimaru
Orochimaru journeyed across the entire Shinobi World and is often regarded as one of the most learned ninjas, rivaling even Hagoromo, famously known as the Sage of Six Paths, when it comes to the mysteries of ninjutsu.
Despite his malevolent tendencies, many acknowledge him as one of the most powerful shinobi in history. He became a member of the Akatsuki to delve into their techniques, ultimately aiming to achieve true immortality and gain mastery over all forms of jutsu.
Among the various members of the Akatsuki in Naruto, Orochimaru stood out due to his formidable techniques. One of his most notorious abilities was Edo Tensei, which enabled him to resurrect powerful shinobi, including former Hokage, to battle his foes.
Additionally, Orochimaru possessed the unique skill of shedding his skin, allowing him to evade danger and transfer his consciousness into a new body. He could also summon Manda, a colossal snake, to eliminate adversaries.
His exceptional intelligence combined with his talents made him a master strategist, allowing him to outmaneuver almost every opponent he encountered, even managing to cheat death on several occasions.
5. Sasuke Uchiha
Sasuke’s victory over Orochimaru was so decisive that it highlighted Orochimaru’s unexpected weakness. Following this confrontation, Sasuke assembled a team named Taka, consisting of Suigetsu, Karin, and Jugo, with the intention of joining the Akatsuki. His primary aim was to confront and eliminate his brother, Itachi.
To gain the power necessary for this mission, Sasuke left Konoha, seeking to enhance his strength and speed. The group’s objective was to capture Killer Bee, the host of the Eight Tails, as they moved closer to fulfilling Sasuke’s vendetta against Itachi.
This intense rivalry reached a climax during their significant battle, which had a profound impact on the overall narrative of Naruto. In a twist, Itachi allowed Sasuke to claim victory, simultaneously eradicating the remnants of Orochimaru within him. Ultimately, Sasuke succeeded in vanquishing his brother and realizing his long-held ambition.
4. Obito Uchiha
Obito, who masqueraded as Madara Uchiha, established the third iteration of the Akatsuki. Once a student of Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, he was thought to have died by his teammates during the latter part of his life.
Rescued by Madara Uchiha, the older shinobi manipulated Obito into following his orders, which included betraying his own village. Despite this, Obito’s true strength was enhanced by the power of the Ten-Tails, yet he was not always recognized as a formidable character within the series.
Obito Uchiha’s mastery of genjutsu surpassed even that of Kotoamatsukami, allowing him to manipulate Yagura for an extended period without the awareness of any other shinobi. He possessed the Rinnegan, unlocked his Mangekyo Sharingan, and had Hashirama’s cells within him, which enabled him to briefly take control of the Ten-Tails.
Had it not been for the united efforts of the Allied Shinobi Forces, he would likely have triumphed over every Akatsuki in Naruto’s storyline. Despite his unredeemable nature, he ultimately made peace with his past and allied with Kakashi in the end.
3. Itachi Uchiha
Itachi Uchiha stands out as one of the most powerful figures within the Akatsuki, largely due to his extensive experience as an undercover agent, which allowed him to remain undetected by his peers.
Years before the storyline of Naruto unfolds, he was compelled to eliminate his entire clan as part of the Uchiha Clan’s scheme to topple the Hokage. Despite this tragic duty, Itachi couldn’t bring himself to end the life of his younger brother, Sasuke, ultimately choosing to spare him. This act of mercy led him to join the Akatsuki, where he would continue to gather intelligence on the group from the inside.
Itachi was known for his exceptional eye techniques within the Akatsuki, showcasing some of the most powerful ocular jutsu in the series. Among his abilities was the Tsukuyomi, a genjutsu that allowed him to manipulate all aspects of reality—matter, space, and time.
Additionally, he wielded the Susanoo technique, along with the Izanagi and Izanami, highlighting his prowess as one of the elite members of the Uchiha Clan. Itachi stands out as one of the most beloved and formidable figures in the Akatsuki, capable of easily overpowering opponents with his genjutsu skills.
2. Nagato Uzumaki
Pain stands out as one of the most formidable antagonists in the Naruto series. Alongside Yahiko, he played a crucial role in establishing the original Akatsuki, but it was Nagato who ultimately led the organization.
the power of his Rinnegan, Nagato was able to manipulate the Six Paths of Pain, a feat that enabled him to not only take the life of Jiraiya but also to obliterate the entire Hidden Leaf Village.
Yahiko, originally the leader of the second iteration of the Akatsuki, found himself under Nagato’s remote influence. The deep sorrow from losing his friend led Nagato to utilize Yahiko’s body, as he, Yahiko, and Konan were the original architects of the Akatsuki’s vision.
Nagato, a prominent figure among every Akatsuki in Naruto, possessed extraordinary abilities that enabled him to manipulate gravity through techniques like Shinra Tensei and Chibaku Tensei.
He also wielded the powers of the Six Paths, granting him the ability to summon formidable creatures, invoke the God of Death, extract souls, transform his body into a cybernetic form, and utilize numerous other powerful techniques. Had his body not been deteriorating from years of relentless use, even Sage Mode Naruto would have struggled to emerge victorious against him.
1. Madara Uchiha
In the hierarchy of powerful characters, Nagato holds the title of the strongest among every Akatsuki in Naruto. However, Madara Uchiha was the first significant figure that Zetsu engaged with in his scheme to bring Kaguya Otsutsuki back to life. Interestingly, Madara was one of the few individuals who could potentially challenge Kaguya’s immense power.
He possessed formidable techniques such as the Infinite Tsukuyomi, Izanagi, Izanami, and numerous abilities associated with the Rinnegan. Even after his demise, Madara instilled fear and was brought back to life during the Fourth Shinobi War.
While fans may have desired a different conclusion, it was unfortunate that Zetsu was responsible for his death, especially since Madara, the most formidable of the Akatsuki, was ultimately taken down by the weakest member of their ranks.
Madara Uchiha advanced his Susanoo technique further than any other character in the Naruto series, and through the use of clones, he easily defeated the Five Kage. As the jinchuriki of the Ten-Tails, his strength was comparable to that of Hagoromo Otsutsuki, establishing Madara as not only the most formidable member of the Akatsuki but also arguably the most powerful shinobi throughout history.
While he wasn’t an official member of the Akatsuki in the traditional sense, his influence significantly shaped the organization’s direction. With his exceptional ninja skills and manipulative nature, it’s clear that he stands out as the strongest among every Akatsuki member in Naruto.
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source: Gamerode