The Akatsuki are often treated like a checklist of monsters. One by one, they show up, dominate entire arcs, and force the strongest ninja in the world to adapt or die. Because of that reputation, a common belief has formed among fans: every Akatsuki member was Kage-level.
But is that actually true? Or is it one of those Naruto myths that sounds right until you slow down and really look at the characters?
The answer is a little more interesting than a simple yes or no.
What “Kage-Level” Actually Means in Naruto
In Naruto, being a Kage doesn’t automatically mean you’re the strongest person alive. It means you’re strong enough to protect a village, lead it, and survive constant threats. Some Kage are overwhelming powerhouses, while others rely more on experience, tactics, or politics.
Because of that, fans use “Kage-level” as shorthand for someone who can realistically fight — or defeat — a Kage in battle. It’s not an official ranking, but it’s useful when comparing strength across the series.
With that definition in mind, the Akatsuki weren’t meant to be equals. They were designed to be specialists, each dangerous in very different ways.
Pain (Nagato)
Pain is the easiest case to make. With the Rinnegan and control over the Six Paths, Nagato demonstrated power on a scale few characters ever reached. He destroyed Konoha almost single-handedly and forced Naruto into one of the most desperate battles of the series.
Pain wasn’t just Kage-level — he was far beyond the average Kage, operating more like a god than a shinobi.
Verdict: Undeniably Kage-level and above.
Itachi Uchiha
Itachi’s strength doesn’t come from overwhelming force, but from precision. His genjutsu, tactical mind, and Mangekyō Sharingan made him deadly in almost any situation. Even elite ninja rarely realized they had already lost until it was too late.
What makes Itachi even more impressive is that he was holding back for most of the series due to illness and personal restraint.
Verdict: Kage-level through intelligence and technique, not raw power.
Obito Uchiha
Once Obito steps out from the shadows, his place becomes clear. Space-time ninjutsu, Hashirama cells, and later the Rinnegan put him on a level very few characters could match. His ability to control the battlefield made him nearly untouchable for much of the story.
Obito wasn’t just a fighter — he was a strategist who shaped the entire conflict.
Verdict: Kage-level, pushing into god-tier territory.
Kisame Hoshigaki
Known as the “Tailed Beast without a Tail,” Kisame had massive chakra reserves, overwhelming water-style techniques, and Samehada to drain opponents dry. He fought jinchūriki head-on and thrived in prolonged battles where others would collapse.
In terms of endurance and battlefield control, Kisame stands among the strongest members of the Akatsuki.
Verdict: Solidly Kage-level.
Deidara
Deidara’s strength lies in destruction. His explosive clay techniques gave him unmatched range and killing power, and he successfully defeated the Kazekage, Gaara, in battle. That single feat alone places him firmly within Kage-level discussions.
While his arrogance sometimes worked against him, his offensive power was undeniable.
Verdict: Kage-level, especially in large-scale combat.
Sasori
Sasori was less about raw power and more about inevitability. His puppets, poisons, and army of human weapons made him nearly impossible to fight using normal tactics. One scratch could mean death, and his preparation made every battle a nightmare.
His defeat required specific knowledge, teamwork, and perfect counters.
Verdict: Kage-level through lethal specialization.
Kakuzu
Kakuzu is often overlooked, but his abilities were terrifying. Multiple hearts, mastery over several chakra natures, and extreme durability made him incredibly difficult to kill. He survived battles that would have ended most shinobi instantly.
While he lacks the overwhelming presence of Pain or Itachi, his versatility makes him a serious threat to any Kage.
Verdict: Borderline Kage-level, depending on matchup.
Konan
Konan’s strength came from preparation and creativity. Her paper techniques allowed her to control space, overwhelm enemies, and even nearly kill Obito under the right conditions. However, without preparation time, her power drops noticeably.
She shines brightest when she controls the battlefield, not in sudden encounters.
Verdict: Situationally Kage-level.
Hidan
Hidan is dangerous, but not dominant. His immortality and ritual-based abilities make him terrifying if he gets what he needs. However, his lack of speed, versatility, and defense makes him vulnerable in prolonged or high-level fights.
He thrives in surprise and teamwork, not solo dominance.
Verdict: Not truly Kage-level.
Zetsu (Black and White)
Zetsu was never designed to be a frontline fighter. His value came from information gathering, manipulation, and long-term planning. Measuring him by combat strength misses the point of his role in the story.
He was dangerous in influence, not in battle.
Verdict: Not Kage-level by combat standards.
So, Was Every Akatsuki Member Kage-Level?
No — but most of them didn’t need to be.
The Akatsuki were effective because they weren’t all the same. Some dominated through raw power. Others through intelligence, preparation, or psychological warfare. Together, they covered every weakness the shinobi world had.
That balance is what made the Akatsuki feel unstoppable — and why they remain one of anime’s most iconic villain groups.
