Top 50 Best Smart Cartoon Characters of All Time

Cartoons are often a great way to entertain and educate children. Smart cartoon characters have gained a lot of popularity in recent times.

However, there are some cartoons that are smarter and more complex than the average cartoon. These cartoons often explore heavier topics and use more sophisticated humor. They can be a great way to entertain as they include cute male and female cartoon characters.

Note: This was only edited, not originally written, by Cody Perez. This post may not necessarily reflect the views of Cody.

While they may be entertaining, many of these cartoons also have life lessons that can be grasped by all.

This is because the creators of these cartoons often put a lot of thought into their characters and the messages they want to send.

Top 50 Smart Cartoon Characters of All Time

1. Dexter

Dexter is the protagonist of the popular cartoon series Dexter's Laboratory. He is a child prodigy who has a secret laboratory where he constructs and finances his inventions.

In the laboratory, his intellect is put to full use in developing powerful creations such as dimensional portals, giant robot mechs, and an unbelievable dream machine that can help prevent one from having nightmares.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Dexter
Cartoon Name	Dexter’s Laboratory
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.9

2. Chancellor Palpatine

Chancellor Palpatine, also known as Darth Sidious, is one of the most cunning and intelligent villains in Star Wars.

He was able to orchestrate the fall of the Jedi Order and bring about the reign of the Sith without anyone ever suspecting his true intentions. He is a master of deception and manipulation and is truly a genius when it comes to scheming.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Chancellor Palpatine
Cartoon Name	Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.4

3. Batman

Batman is a superhero who takes control of Gotham City during the night. He has an alter ego that takes control of Gotham City during the day and is able to dedicate himself to saving the masses.

Batman is a tragic hero because he can never have a normal life outside of his work.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Batman
Cartoon Name	Batman: The Animated Series
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	9

4. Stewie Griffin

Stewie Griffin is one of the most iconic cartoon characters and is known for his quick wit, sharp tongue, and general mischievousness.

He has been featured on the show Family Guy since its debut in 1999. The show is not appropriate for children due to its humor and often irreverent jokes, but it has gained a large following over the years.

He is a baby who has a very high IQ and delves into complex topics, including physics and time travel. He is also known to have a sharp tongue and often makes biting comments about the other characters on the show.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Stewie Griffin
Cartoon Name	Family Guy
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.1

5. Donatello

Donatello is one of the four Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and is considered to be the smartest of them all. He is known for his inventive mind and his ability to create gadgets and machines from scratch.

He is often responsible for creating devices that help his brothers in battle, and he is also very resourceful, being able to find valuable items in even the most unlikely places.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Donatello
Cartoon Name	Tennage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	5.8

6. Phineas Flynn

Phineas Flynn is an incredibly intelligent, innovative, and determined personality. He always knows what to do and when and is an incredibly optimistic individual.

He is one of the two titular characters of the cartoon show, Phineas and Ferb. He is an optimistic individual who not only sees the bright side of things but also hopes to make every single day better by engaging in something productive

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Phineas Flynn
Cartoon Name	Phineas and Ferb
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.1

7. Mr. Peabody

Mr. Peabody is a cartoon character who first appeared on the show Rocky and Bullwinkle in 1959. He is a headstrong and no-nonsense mentor to a young Sherman.

However, his most recent appearances, including that in an animated flick released in 2014, go on to demonstrate that the loving dog can also be a trusted and overprotective father figure when he wishes to be.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Mr. Peabody
Cartoon Name	Peabody’s Improbable History
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.0

8. Susan and Mary Test

Susan and Mary Test are 13 years old and they are twins. They are both very intelligent and have been known to outsmart even the smartest adults.

They are known for their intelligence and often use it to outsmart their brother Johnny. They are characters on the show Johnny Test.

They are well-known within their niche audience for their impressive engineering skills. The sisters use their brains to solve complex problems and help others in need.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Susan and Mary test
Cartoon Name	Johnny Test
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	5.1

9. Jimmy Neutron

Jimmy Neutron is a boy genius who often finds himself in difficult situations. He is very resourceful and often uses his intelligence to get out of jams.

He is similar to Dexter from the cartoon Dexter's Laboratory, in that they are both highly intelligent and able to think on their feet.

He is also very intelligent and resourceful, able to solve complex problems with relative ease.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Jimmy Neutron
Cartoon Name	The Adventures Of Jimmy Neutron, Boy Genius
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.7

10. The Brain

The Brain – Pinky and the Brain is a spin-off from the equally gleeful and entertaining Animaniacs.

The story of this cartoon follows two mice who can talk, plan and plot. While Pinky is not as smart, Brain often dreams about conquering the world. This is precisely because he thinks that he can do a better job than the so-called leaders of the world.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	The Brain
Cartoon Name	Pinky and the Brain
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.8

11. Velma Dinkley

Velma Dinkley is one of the most beloved characters in the history of cartoons. She is often considered the “brain” of the much-loved group and is a genius who is often seen deciphering the codes, understanding clues, and solving mysteries.

She can be very competitive if she stumbles upon someone who seems to be as smart as she is.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Velma Dinkley
Cartoon Name	Scooby-Doo Where Are You?
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	7.9

12. Gadget Hackwrench

Gadget Hackwrench is a character from the Chip ‘n' Dale: Rescue Rangers cartoon. She is a quirky inventor who uses her intelligence and creativity to solve problems that others may have overlooked.

Her fearlessness and ingenuity make her stand out from the crowd and make her an admirable character.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Gadget Hackwrench
Cartoon Name	Chip ‘N’ Dale: Rescue Rangers
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	7.7

13. Daria Morgendorffer

Daria Morgendorffer is one of the smartest cartoon characters of all time. She is the series' eponymous protagonist and is shown to evolve quite brilliantly in the series.

She is inherently intelligent and comes across as cynical, but this only makes her more determined and insightful.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Daria Morgendorffer
Cartoon Name	Daria
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	6.7

14. Dr. Gallio

Dr. Gallio is a character from the cartoon show Snorks. He is a helpful and friendly snork who is known for his careful workmanship.

He often helps others fix things or build things, and he is always willing to lend a hand. Dr. Gallio is a highly intelligent snork and is greatly appreciated for his willingness to help others.

Gallio has made significant contributions to the field of marine biology and is always one step ahead when it comes to solving complex problems.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Dr. Gallio
Cartoon Name	Snorks
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.4

15. Bugs Bunny

Bugs Bunny is one of the most iconic cartoon characters of all time. He first gained popularity during the Golden Age of American Animation and has since won hearts around the world.

He is a trickster who can turn into a bona fide troublemaker at will and outsmart anyone who tries to antagonize him. Bugs Bunny is thrilling and entertaining to watch, making him one of the smartest cartoon characters ever created.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Bugs Bunny
Cartoon Name	Looney Tunes
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.9

16. Grey Matter

Grey Matter is a character from the animated series “Rick and Morty”. He is an alien who the Galactic Federation once captured. He is one of the most valuable characters in the show because of his intelligence.

He is short and slightly frog-like in appearance, which often leads to him being underestimated by others. Despite his small size, he is one of the most feared aliens in the show because of his intelligence and ability to outsmart others.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Grey Matter
Cartoon Name	Ben 10
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.1

17. Tintin

Tintin is a young adult who is well-read and never compromises on his ethics. He is an athletic individual who wishes to get done with every task that he undertakes.

He is very inquisitive and always looks for ways to learn more about the world around him. This makes him a very interesting and engaging character.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Tintin
Cartoon Name	The Adventures of Tintin
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.8

18. Professor Ludwig von Drake

Professor Ludwig Von Drake is a character from the Walt Disney animated series, Wonderful World of Color.

He is an eccentric lecturer, scientist, and psychiatrist who is multi-talented. He often appears in the show to offer his expertise on various topics or to dispense wisdom to the other characters.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Professor Ludwig Von Drake
Cartoon Name	Walt Disney's Wonderful World Of Color
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.4

19. Road Runner

Road Runner is a recurring character in the Looney Tunes franchise. He is best recognized by his signature sound, “Beep beep.”

While one may associate Road Runner with speed, one cannot deny the fact that he is exceptionally smart and always a step ahead of his rival, Wile E. Coyote.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Road Runner
Cartoon Name	The Road Runner Show
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.9

20. Jerry Mouse

Jerry Mouse is a cartoon character who appears in the Tom and Jerry cartoons. He is often seen using his wits and courage to outsmart Tom, the cat.

Jerry Mouse is one of the most popular and loved cartoon characters of all time. He comprises two of the most liked cartoon characters in animation history.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Jerry Mouse
Cartoon Name	Tom And Jerry
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	9.0

21. Blossom

Blossom is the main protagonists of the blockbuster animated series, titled The Powerpuff Girls.

Along with her other two sisters, namely Bubbles and Buttercup, she has sworn to fight crime and for the freedom of every man, woman, and child in her town.

Blossom seems to be in control of the situation most of the time; she is levelheaded and intelligent which often gives her an edge over her opponents.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Blossom
Cartoon Name	The Powerpuff Girls
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	6.5

22. Professor John i.q. Nerdelbaum Frink jr.get

Professor John I.Q. Nerdelbaum Frink Jr., more commonly known as The Professor, is a brilliant scientist and nerdy professor who appears in the animated television series The Simpsons.

He is a powerful ally to have on your side in times of need and is an entertaining recurring character in the show.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Professor John I.Q. Nerdelbaum Frink Jr.Get
Cartoon Name	The Simpsons
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.1

23. Gyro Gearloose

Gyro Gearloose is an anthropomorphic chicken from the animated television series, DuckTales.

He is considered to be Duckburg's most sought-after inventor and has a knack for always coming up with new and creative ideas, even though not all of them work out in the way he wants them to.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Gyro Gearloos
Cartoon Name	DuckTales
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.5

24. Cyborg

Cyborg is a certified genius because of his wealth of scientific knowledge and mastery over his work. He is a founding member of Teen Titans and is a technological expert. He is half-cybernetic and half-man, which gives him unique abilities in the world of science and technology.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Cyborg
Cartoon Name	Teen Titans
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.2

25. Doraemon

Doraemon is one of the most admired cartoon characters and is known for his intelligence, caring personality, and funny antics.

Doremon is a robotic cat who travels back in time from the future to help Nobita Nobi, a young boy who struggles in school. Doraemon is always there to help others and uses his smarts to get himself and others out of tricky situations.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Doraemon
Cartoon Name	Doraemon
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.0

26. Nigel ‘Numbuh 1' Uno

Nigel Uno, also known as Numbuh 1, is the son of the first KND agent and a tactical genius in his own right.

He is highly paranoid and leaves no stone unturned when it comes to completing his missions. However, this attention to detail has earned him the respect of many of his peers. He is considered one of the smartest cartoon characters of all time.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Nigel ‘Numbuh 1’ Uno
Cartoon Name	Codename: Kids Next Door
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.2

27. Mojo JOJO

Mojo Jojo is the main antagonist of the Cartoon Network animated series, The Powerpuff Girls.

In addition, Mojo Jojo is a supervillain who possesses enhanced intelligence and the will to defeat his foes. Mojo is one of the most intelligent characters in the show and has often been able to outsmart the Powerpuff Girls.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Mojo Jojo
Cartoon Name	The Powerpuff Girls
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.5

28. Professor Hubert J. Farnsworth

Professor Hubert J. Farnsworth is a fictional character from the admired American animated television series, titled Futurama. Professor Hubert J. Farnsworth is a brilliant scientist and inventor, as well as the founder and CEO of Planet Express.

He has created many incredible devices, such as the Smell-O-Scope and the What-If Machine. His work is reflected in his keen interest in science and technology.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Professor Hubert J. Farnsworth
Cartoon Name	Futurama
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.5

29. Ferb Fletcher

Ferb Fletcher is a character from the popular Disney animated show Phineas and Ferb. He is the big executioner of ideas and designs that come from Phineas Flynn.

His role is to take ideas and turn them into reality. Ferb is shy at first glance, but he is actually very quiet because he does not have a lot to talk about.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Ferb Fletcher
Cartoon Name	Phineas And Ferb
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.1

30. Professor Utonium

Professor Utonium is one of the most intelligent cartoon characters of all time. He created and took care of the Powerpuff Girls and his conversations with the girls at home are endearing.

He is the creator of the Powerpuff Girls and is excellent at his job. He uses science to create superheroes and always has the plan to save the day.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Professor Utonium
Cartoon Name	The Powerpuff Girls
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.5

31. Princess Bonnibel “Bonnie” Bubblegum

Princess Bubblegum is a great scientist and inventor. She developed her laboratory and created the Candy People to live in her realm.

Though she is highly intelligent, her inventions do not always turn out as she originally intends them to. For example, in one episode she creates a candy that causes people to become zombies.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Princess Bonnibel “Bonnie” Bubblegum
Cartoon Name	Adventure Time
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	8.6

32. Skips

Skips is one of the most beloved characters on Regular Show. He is often one of the more sensible characters on the show and tries to help keep everyone in line.

He may come across as modest when you first catch him on the screen, but Skips has his share of preaching and wisdom to impart to others.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Skips
Cartoon Name	Regular Show
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.5

33. Lisa Marie Simpson

Lisa Marie Simpson is the middle child of The Simpsons clan and is blessed with a high IQ.

She is undeniably cute, and occasionally, while dealing with personal issues, she does require adult intervention.

Lisa Marie Simpson is the most accomplished and often the most misunderstood member of the family.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Lisa Marie Simpson
Cartoon Name	The Simpsons
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	8.7

34. Joker

Joker is one of the smartest supervillains of all time. He's as merciless as he is shrewd and as intelligent as he is manipulative.

He's been depicted both in the animated television series and in the motion pictures that have been released since the success of the said animated series.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Joker
Cartoon Name	Batman: The Animated Series
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	9.0

35. Professor Pat Pending

Professor Pat Pending is a character in the cartoon series, Wacky Races. He is credited with developing the Convert-a-car, a remarkable vehicle that he is seen driving himself. He is one of the most intriguing characters in the show and always manages to outsmart his opponents.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Professor Pat Pending
Cartoon Name	Wacky Races
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.5

36. Leonardo

Leonardo is a recurring character in the vintage American animated television series titled The Alvin Show.

Leonardo is a genius inventor and was often seen whispering ideas in the scientist's ears. He is a recurring character in the vintage American animated television series titled The Alvin Show

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Leonardo
Cartoon Name	The Alvin Show
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.2

37. Phineas J. Whoopee

Phineas J. Whoopee is a cartoon character who is considered to be “The Man With All The Answers.” He is shown to have a 3D blackboard with the help of which he can educate one about any topic that they would wish to learn of. Phineas J. Whoopee is a polymath in the true sense of the word and is quite knowledgeable.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Phineas J. Whoopee
Cartoon Name	Tennessee Tuxedo And His Tales
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.7

38. Robert “Bob” II

Robert “Bob” II, more commonly known as Bob the Builder, is among the most popular 90s cartoon characters from the animated television series of the same name.

He is known to be the most sensible character on the show and is often seen encouraging others to focus on their work. He takes pride in his work and is known for being a hard worker.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Robert “Bob
Cartoon Name	Bob the Builder
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	5.5

39. Dr. Noreen “Nora” Wakeman

Nora Wakeman is a brilliant scientist and the mother of Jenny Wakeman. She is responsible for the creation of her daughter and has always been a supportive figure in her life.

Nora is highly intelligent and possesses vast knowledge in many scientific fields. She is also a skilled engineer and has created many amazing devices over the years.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Dr. Noreen “Nora” Wakeman
Cartoon Name	My Life As A Teenage Robot
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	8.2

40. Egghead Jr.

Egghead Jr. is a character from the Looney Tunes cartoons. He is a master of physics, applied sciences, and chemistry, and has a large head that is unquestionably indicative of his intelligence.

He is often underestimated by other characters in the cartoons, but he always manages to outsmart them in the end.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Egghead Jr.
Cartoon Name	Looney Tunes
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.9

41. Linus Van Pelt

Linus van Pelt is well-intentioned and always looking forward to solving problems among his people. Linus is a middle child in the Van Pelt family and is known for his intelligence. He often uses his smarts to get out of trouble or to help his friends.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Linus Van Pelt
Cartoon Name	The Charlie Brown And Snoopy Show
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.4

42. Tracy the Gorilla

Tracy the Gorilla is a character from the popular 1980s TV series, “The Real Ghostbusters.” He is an animated gorilla who cannot speak but can convey what he thinks or feels by drawing sketches or through a game of charades.

Tracy the Gorilla is also credited with creating some of the team's newest anti-ghost gadgets.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Tracy The Gorilla
Cartoon Name	Ghostbusters
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.3

43. Spider-Man

Spider-Man is one of the most intelligent superheroes among Disney characters. He uses his intelligence and bravery to fight crime.

He can outsmart his opponents and come up with strategies on the fly. Interestingly, Spider-Man's alter ego, Peter Parker is also someone who is shown to be somewhat nerdy.

In the comics and movies, he is often portrayed as a science geek and possesses above-average intelligence. This makes him a perfect match for his crime-fighting persona and helps him outwit his enemies.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Spider-man
Cartoon Name	Spider-man: The Animated Series
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.4

44. Benjamin Kirby “Ben” Tennyson

Benjamin Kirby “Ben” Tennyson is popularly known as Ben Tennyson and is known for his role as the protagonist in the TV series Ben 10. The Omnitrix is a watch-like device that enabled Ben to turn into ten different aliens at will.

These aliens gave him superhuman abilities and he used them to help people. Ben Tennyson had an inherent desire to help people and this is seen in his role as the protagonist in the TV series Ben 10.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Benjamin Kirby “Ben”
Cartoon Name	Ben 10
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	8.7

45. Aimee Brightower

Aimee Brightower is a popular student and earned both a scholarship and a space car through good grades. Aimee Brightower is considered a nerd by her classmates and is often the butt of their jokes.

However, she is one of the smartest students in her class and has a knack for solving complex problems.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Aimee Brightower
Cartoon Name	Galaxy High
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	7.2

46. Iron Man

Iron Man is a powerful character in the animated television series, Iron Man: The Animated Series. He is able to use his strong side to get things done effectively.

He is also a smart character who is able to use his intelligence to help him get through difficult situations.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Iron Man
Cartoon Name	Iron Man: The Animated Series
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.6

47. Big Ears

Big Ears is one of the most likable characters from Noddy's Toyland Adventures. He is a kind and wise old toad who has a long white beard and can be seen in a red and pointy cap.

He is one of the smartest characters on the show and resides on a toadstool near Toytown. He is often called upon to help solve problems and figure out complex puzzles.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Big Ears
Cartoon Name	Noddy’s Toyland Adventures
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	6.0

48. Rick Sanchez

Rick Sanchez is from Rick and Morty, an animated program that adults might end up enjoying more than kids.

Its zany humor and audacity to cast a light on the precarious issues in life often take precedence in its storytelling.

Rick Sanchez seems to have been inspired by the character of Doc Brown from the classic ‘Back to the Future franchise of feature films.

Things to Know	Details
Name of Character	Rick Sanchez
Cartoon Name	Rick and Morty
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	9.2

49. Gretchen Priscilla Grundler

Gretchen Priscilla Grundler is a character from the popular animated TV show ‘Recess'. She is arguably the most intelligent member of the ‘Recess' squad and might also possibly be smarter than everyone else residing in her town, including her well-read teachers.

Gretchen Priscilla Grundler is a lover of knowledge and books and takes great pride in her intelligence.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Gretchen Priscilla Grundler
Cartoon Name	Recess
Gender	Female
Cartoon IMDb	7.9

50. Dr. Benton C. Quest

Dr. Benton C. Quest is the genius father of the titular character of the animated television series, titled Jonny Quest. He is also the second most important character of the Jonny Quest franchise.

Dr. Benton C. Quest is a science expert who just so happens to work for the government of the United States of America as a secret agent and scientist.

Things to know	Details
Name of Character	Dr. Benton C. Quest
Cartoon Name	Jonny Quest
Gender	Male
Cartoon IMDb	7.8

Conclusion

The 50 cartoon characters on this list are some of the smartest and most iconic characters in history. They are perfect for teaching children important life lessons, such as the importance of hard work and perseverance.

They are also a great way to help children learn new vocabulary. Finally, these characters can help children develop a lifelong love for cartoons.