Epic and Enduring: The Most Popular Superheroes in the World

Have no fear, the world's greatest superheroes are here. And just who will you find assembling before your very eyes?

Well, depending on who you ask, the most popular is as subjective as how much milk you want with your cereal and the perfect pillow softness. But, with some superhero math and a little help from entertainment and survey sites like Book Riot and Zavvi, we found these heroes to be among the world's most popular superheroes.

The first superhero that comes to mind? It's not a bird, it's not a plane, it's Superman! Most certainly the first modern superhero, Superman's popularity is thanks to his embodiment of altruism and power. Who can deny the likeability and popularity of Superman, with his god-like abilities in contrast with his humble Midwestern roots?

Like many of us, Batman is a mortal, however, he flies among the gods of the superhero world. Batman is an average, normal human with no superpowers, relying instead on his intelligence, detective skills, technology, and wealth. (Emphasis on the technology and wealth.) His dark and complex character, sometimes moody and bubbling with angst, appeals to many.

Wonder Woman's popularity is no mystery - she's one of the earliest and most iconic female superheroes. She's a symbol of power, wisdom, and hope. A beloved feminist icon and inspiration, she represents a strong and independent woman in a male-dominated superhero landscape.

Many love Spider-Man for his relatable problems and persona. (Although, we're all set on the spider bite, thanks!) Peter Parker is a normal teenager who has to balance school, work, and his own burgeoning social life all while being a superhero. A superhero with spidey-senses!

Tony Stark, the brains, sass, and man, behind Iron Man, is a charismatic and witty character - almost to his detriment. It's no doubt that the modern Iron Man owes his popularity surge to Robert Downey Jr.'s portrayal in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It's no wonder, as people love his genius, ego, and redemption arc. (And Downey Jr's, too.)

It's no coincidence that loveable Chris Evans perfectly portrays Steve Rogers - a symbol of patriotism and moral incorruptibility, who started with so very little. Transforming into a super soldier, ready to right wrongs and defend in an instant, he's a beacon for justice that people have fallen in love with.

Thanks to his super-speed, The Flash handles any and all problems in his own unique way. His association with time travel and different dimensions makes him a standout from the fame, technology, and gadgets of his fellow superheroes. Not to mention, it also adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to his stories.

There's no denying the electricity that Thor brings to the battle. The Norse god of thunder adds a storied and mythological aspect to the superhero genre. One of the most popular heroes, Chris Hemsworth graces the screen in many of Marvel's most popular storylines as Thor.

Once a spy and an adversary to Iron Man, Natasha Romanoff, the Black Widow, quickly became a fan favorite. Her quick wit, sharp mind, and complex backstory have made her a leading superhero Avenger.

T'Challa, also known as the Black Panther, brings diversity to the superhero world. From the African nation of Wakanda, the Black Panther was an instant favorite among fans. His combination of wisdom, wealth, and physical prowess makes him a favorite superhero to cheer for.

Neither a comparison nor foe to Wonder Woman, Carol Danvers, aka Captain Marvel and one of Marvel's strongest superheroes, is undeniably popular due to her empowering representation of women. Of course, her own significant role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe makes her one of the most popular superheroes to boot.

Even with Bruce Banner's struggles with his alter ego, the Hulk, it's his compelling internal conflict that so many relate to and cheer for. The Hulk's raw power and the balance between man and monster only make his superhero character more endearing.

Dazzling the population straight from the sky and beyond the stars, the idea of an intergalactic police force and a ring with power limited only by the user's imagination adds a new touch to the usual superhero genre. This makes Green Lantern an undeniable fan favorite. After all, who among us wouldn't love to own a piece of jewelry like that?

Head below the waves to the kingdom of Aquaman. Its Aquaman's undersea kingdom and unique abilities that make him stand out among all the landlubber characters. With a recent revival of the Aquaman story line, his popularity only continues to grow.

Known for his gruff personality, healing factor, and iconic adamantium claws, Wolverine's multifaceted personality (and have we mentioned his claws?) makes him one of the most beloved and popular superheroes in the X-Men franchise. His complicated past and anti-hero nature only add to his popularity.

So just who is the most popular superhero of all time? While these are undeniably the most popular of the superhero characters, it's tough to say just whether Superman or Batman is the one to take the superhero crown. Both characters continue to influence the superhero genre, and have long been popular decade after decade.

It's this very longevity and enduring appeal that makes not only Superman and Batman, but the above superheroes as well, strong candidates worthy of being known as the most popular superhero of all time.