Are you looking for the best manga to read right now? Whether you’re into action-packed battles, emotional dramas, romance, or dark psychological thrillers, this ultimate list of the top manga series has something for every type of reader.
Manga isn’t just Japanese comics — it’s storytelling at its finest. From legendary classics to modern masterpieces, these series have captured millions of fans worldwide and continue to dominate charts, anime adaptations, and online discussions.
After digging deep into the most popular, highest-rated, and most talked-about titles, we’ve curated this list of the 20 best manga you should start reading ASAP.
If you’re searching for your next obsession… you’re about to find it.
Let’s dive in.
New & Trending Manga You Should Check Out (2024–2026)
Kagurabachi
Okay, this one kind of exploded out of nowhere. At first people were hyping it almost as a joke, but once the chapters started dropping, it became clear it actually has real potential. Dark revenge story, cool sword abilities, and that serious tone that keeps you hooked.
Still early, but definitely one to keep on your radar if you like action-heavy manga.
Gokurakugai
Honestly, the art alone makes this worth checking out. It has that clean, stylish look, plus the story mixes supernatural crime investigation with action in a pretty smooth way. The characters have personality, and the setting feels fresh compared to typical shonen stuff.
Feels like a sleeper hit if it keeps the momentum.
Dandadan
This manga is pure chaos… but in a fun way. Aliens, ghosts, romance, comedy, ridiculous fights — everything thrown together somehow works. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which makes it super entertaining to read.
Also getting massive anime hype lately, so expect this one to stay popular.
Sakamoto Days
Imagine the world’s deadliest assassin retiring just to run a convenience store and live peacefully with his family… except trouble never leaves him alone. That’s basically Sakamoto Days.
Great action scenes, funny moments, and surprisingly wholesome vibes. Easy binge read.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
This one hits differently. Instead of focusing on the big adventure, it shows what happens after the hero’s journey ends. It’s quieter, more emotional, and sometimes nostalgic in a way that sneaks up on you.
Not pure action, but really beautiful storytelling.
20. Sekai Saikou no Ansatsusha, Isekai Kizoku ni Tensei suru
Author: Sumeragi, Hamao (Art), Rui Tsukiyo (Story)
Genres: Action, Fantasy
There are many isekai manga series where the main character gets transported into another world, but this one easily stands out as one of the best manga to read — especially if you enjoy strategy and smart protagonists.
The story follows a man who used to be one of the greatest assassins in history. After realizing there is more to life than just completing missions, he is betrayed and killed. However, a goddess gives him another chance — he is reborn into a world of swords and sorcery with one clear objective: eliminate the Hero who could bring the end of the world.
Now known as Lugh Tuatha Dé, he must use his past-life experience, intelligence, and deadly skills to survive in this new fantasy world. Things aren’t simple though — powerful enemies, magic users, and unexpected emotional connections constantly challenge him.
If you’re into isekai stories with:
Smart and calculated main characters
Strong fantasy world-building
Action mixed with strategy
A little bit of romance and tension
Then this manga is definitely worth checking out
19. Boukensha Ni Naritai To Miyako Ni Deteitta Musume Ga S Rank Ni Natteta
Author: Mojikakiya
Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Shounen
Another good manga to read, especially if you enjoy wholesome adventure stories with an emotional touch.
The story revolves around Belgrieve, a former adventurer who had his dream taken away from him after losing a leg during a dangerous quest. Instead of giving up on life completely, he retires to the countryside and lives quietly — until fate brings a little girl into his life.
He names her Angeline and raises her as his own daughter. As she grows older, Angeline becomes an incredibly skilled adventurer and eventually reaches S-Rank status. Despite her strength and success, she never forgets the man who raised her and gave her a reason to believe in herself.
What makes this series special isn’t just the action — it’s the emotional father-daughter bond that drives the story. It mingles fantasy adventure with heartfelt moments, making it one of the most touching manga series on this list.
If you like:
- Fantasy adventure worlds
- Strong emotional relationships
- Wholesome character development
- Overpowered but humble characters
Then this is definitely worth reading.
18. Namaikizakari
Author: Miyuki Mitsubachi
Genres: Romance, School, Shojo, Sports
If you’re looking for a romance manga to browse with strong chemistry and playful tension, Namaikizakari is a great pick.
The story follows Machida Yuki, the eldest child in a big family who is used to being responsible and hiding her true feelings. She becomes the basketball club manager mainly to stay close to her crush — but things don’t go as planned when Shou Naruse enters the picture.
Naruse is talented, confident, and very straightforward about his feelings. Unlike the typical shy romance dynamic, he doesn’t hesitate to tease Machida or openly show interest in her. Even though she tries to ignore him at first, his persistence slowly breaks through her walls.
What makes this shojo manga stand out is the constant back-and-forth between the two main characters. Their chemistry feels natural, funny, and sometimes intense — especially with Naruse’s bold personality.
If you enjoy:
- School romance stories
- Strong male leads
- Basketball or sports settings
- Slow-burn relationships with tension
Then this manga is definitely worth adding to your reading list.
17. Dragon King Of The World
Author: Bo Yi Chong
Genres: Fantasy, Martial Arts, Webtoon
Spanning genres of fantasy, martial art, big world-building, and intense power progression, Dragon King Of The World is a manhwa that definitely worth checking out.
The story takes place in a world full of uncertainty, where chaos, powerful clans, demons, and ancient forces constantly clash. Strength decides everything here, and even ordinary people can rise to incredible heights if fate gives them the chance.
What makes this manga interesting is how it mixes traditional martial arts elements with fantasy mythology. Dragons, ancient witchcraft, immortals, and rival factions all play a role in shaping the story, creating a setting that feels huge and unpredictable.
There are plenty of battles, training arcs, and character growth moments, but the real appeal comes from watching how characters evolve in such a dangerous world.
If you like:
Martial arts fantasy stories
Power progression plots
Large world-building
Action-heavy manga with mythology vibes
Then this Manhwa deserves a spot on your reading list.
16. To You, The Immortal
Author: Yoshitoki Ōima
Genres: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Shonen, Supernatural
As a manga reader, I honestly think To Your Eternity is one of those manga series you should read ASAP, especially if you enjoy emotional stories with deep character development.
The story follows an immortal being sent to Earth with the ability to take the form of dying creatures or people. At first, it doesn’t understand emotions, relationships, or even what it means to be human. But through different encounters — sometimes happy, sometimes heartbreaking — it slowly begins to learn about life, loss, and connection.
One of the strongest points of this manga is its emotional impact. Every arc introduces new characters and experiences that shape the immortal being’s growth, making the journey feel meaningful rather than just another fantasy adventure.
It mixes:
Adventure and fantasy elements
Emotional storytelling
Character-driven drama
Philosophical questions about life and identity
If you want a manga that goes beyond action and really makes you feel something, this one is absolutely worth your time.
15. I Became A Legend A Decade Later After Telling My Comrades To Leave Everything To Me And Retreat First
Authors: Deecha, Ezo Gingitsune
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Supernatural
Everyone loves fantasy manga with heroic sacrifice and powerful comeback stories, so this one is definitely a good manga to check out.
The story starts with a group of heroes facing overwhelming demons. Realizing the team would be wiped out, the strongest member chooses to stay behind and fight alone, telling his comrades to retreat and survive. It’s one of those moments that immediately hooks you because you know something big is coming.
Years later, his legacy grows into a legend. What makes the manga interesting isn’t just the action, but the emotional weight behind that decision and how it affects the characters long-term.
You’ll find:
Fantasy action battles
Heroic sacrifice themes
Strong character growth
Epic comeback energy
If you enjoy stories where the main character carries heavy responsibility and slowly builds a legendary reputation, this manga is definitely worth checking out.
14. Vagabond
Author: Takehiko Inoue
Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical, Samurai, Seinen
Vagabond is honestly one of those must-read manga series that every fan should experience at least once. Written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue, it’s loosely based on the life of legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi.
The manga isn’t just about sword fights — although those are beautifully drawn — it’s more about personal growth, philosophy, and finding one’s path in life. Musashi starts as a wild, impulsive warrior but gradually matures as he searches for meaning beyond just becoming stronger.
The artwork alone makes this series special. Every panel feels detailed and expressive, which really adds weight to the story and characters.
What you can expect:
Deep character development
Stunning artwork
Historical samurai atmosphere
Emotional and philosophical storytelling
If you enjoy mature manga with strong character journeys and realistic struggles, Vagabond is definitely one of the best manga to read.
13. Lookism
Author: Park Tae-joon
Genre: Drama
Lookism is definitely one of those unique manhwa series that really makes you think while still being entertaining. If you’re looking for a drama comic to read with social themes, this one stands out.
The story follows a student who suddenly gains the ability to switch between two completely different bodies — one considered unattractive and overweight, the other tall, handsome, and socially accepted. Through this experience, the manga explores how society treats people differently based purely on appearance.
What makes Lookism interesting isn’t just the concept, but how it tackles real issues like bullying, self-confidence, social pressure, and identity. At times it can be emotional, funny, or even intense depending on the arc.
You can expect:
Realistic social themes
Strong character development
Emotional and relatable moments
A mix of drama, comedy, and life lessons
If you enjoy Korean manhwa that go deeper than surface-level storytelling, this one is definitely worth adding to your favorited list.
12. The Mythical Realm
Authors: Wu Zui, Liao Jia Le
Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Martial Arts, Manhua
If you want a fantasy manga with martial arts energy and big power progression, The Mythical Realm is honestly a fun one to get into. It’s the kind of series where the world feels dangerous from the start — strength matters, and if you’re weak, survival isn’t guaranteed.
The story follows Ye Yun, a character who’s obsessed with proving himself as the strongest. And yeah, that might sound like a classic setup, but the way his journey unfolds keeps it interesting. He goes through insane battles, deals with demons, divine-level enemies, and constantly pushes past his limits.
What I liked most is how unpredictable the world feels. One minute you’re dealing with martial arts rivalries, the next you’re thrown into supernatural chaos. That mix keeps the pacing lively without getting boring.
If you enjoy:
Power-up heavy fantasy stories
Martial arts mixed with mythology
Big worlds with lots of factions
Characters chasing strength no matter the cost
Then this one is definitely worth adding to your reading list.
11. Nobeless
Author: Son Jae-Ho
Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, School, Supernatural
Honestly, Nobeless is one of those series that surprised me more than I expected. I first got into it because of the anime adaptation, but if you really want the full experience, the manhwa version is way better and more complete.
The story follows Rai, a powerful noble who wakes up after being asleep for more than 800 years. Instead of jumping straight into epic battles, he ends up in a modern high school trying to live a normal life — which obviously doesn’t stay normal for long.
What I personally liked is how the manga balances humor, school life, and supernatural action. Rai looks calm and almost emotionless most of the time, but when things get serious, you realize just how insanely powerful he actually is.
Also, the dynamic with Frankenstein (his loyal servant) adds a lot of personality to the story. Their relationship gives the series both comedy and emotional depth without forcing it.
If you enjoy:
Overpowered main characters
School + supernatural mix
Stylish action scenes
Characters with hidden pasts
Then this one is definitely worth checking out.
10. Spy x Family
Author: Tatsuya Endo
Genres: Action, Comedy, Shounen
Spy x Family is honestly one of the most fun manga series to dive into right now, especially if you like a mix of action, comedy, and wholesome family moments. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its charm.
The story follows Twilight, a top spy who suddenly has to create a fake family for a mission. Sounds simple… except his adopted daughter turns out to be a telepath, and his wife secretly works as an assassin. None of them know each other’s true identities, which leads to some hilarious and surprisingly emotional situations.
What makes this manga stand out isn’t just the action — it’s the chemistry between the characters. Anya alone carries so many funny moments, but at the same time, you get genuine heartwarming scenes that balance everything out.
If you enjoy:
Action mixed with comedy
Found-family type stories
Lighthearted but emotional manga
Characters with hidden identities
Then Spy x Family is definitely a must-devour.
9. Moshi Fanren
Author: Amazing Works
Genres: Action, Horror, Shounen, Supernatural, Manhua
All fans enjoys dark series like Tokyo Ghoul, and yeah there’s a good chance that fans will really like Moshi Fanren. It’s one of those zombie apocalypse manga that mixes action, survival tension, and emotional moments pretty well.
The story follows Zuo Tianchen, who finds himself in a city completely overrun by zombies. Just when everything seems hopeless, something unexpected happens — his soul returns to the past, right before the outbreak started. Now he has a second chance to protect the people he cares about and hopefully change his fate.
What makes this series interesting is the mix of survival drama and time-reset elements. It’s not just about fighting zombies — it’s about learning from mistakes, dealing with fear, and trying to do things differently the second time around.
If you’re into:
Zombie apocalypse stories
Dark action manga
Time-reset or second chance plots
Survival tension and emotional stakes
Then this one is definitely worth picking upt.
8. Boys Run The Riot
Author: Gaku Keito
Genres: Drama, School, Slice of Life, Psychological, Seinen
Boys Run The Riot is honestly one of those manga that hits differently compared to typical school stories. It’s not about action or fantasy — it’s more grounded, emotional, and surprisingly relatable.
The story follows Ryo, a transgender teen who struggles with expectations, identity, and feeling out of place in everyday life. What really gives him an outlet is street fashion. Through that passion, he starts finding confidence, connection, and a sense of direction he didn’t have before.
What I personally like about this manga is how real it feels. It doesn’t try to be overly dramatic or preachy — it just shows the challenges and small victories in a very human way. The fashion element also adds something fresh compared to most slice-of-life manga.
If you like:
Character-driven stories
Realistic school drama
Identity and self-discovery themes
Slice-of-life manga with emotional depth
Then this one will inspire readers all over the world!
7. Days On Fes
Author: Oka Kanato
Genres: Music, Slice of Life
Music-themed manga aren’t always the most popular compared to action or fantasy, but Days On Fes is honestly one of those underrated series that deserves more attention.
The story follows Otoha Yamana, whose life changes after attending a rock festival. What starts as a simple outing quickly turns into a deeper passion for music, concerts, and the whole festival culture. From there, you get a relaxed slice-of-life vibe mixed with moments of excitement and personal growth.
What makes this manga enjoyable is how chill it feels. It doesn’t rely on big dramatic twists — it’s more about atmosphere, friendship, music discovery, and those small moments that stick with you.
If you like:
Music-focused manga
Slice-of-life stories
Relaxed pacing
Stories about passion and hobbies
Then Days on Fes is your next manga that worth checking out.
6. Blue Flag – Unrequited High School Love
Author: KAITO
Genres: Romance, School, Shonen
If you’re into romance manga that actually feels emotional and realistic, Blue Flag is honestly a great one to read. It’s not just about cute moments or simple love stories — it dives deeper into friendships, insecurities, and complicated feelings during high school.
The story follows Taichi, Futaba, and Toma, whose relationship becomes more complex as graduation approaches. What starts as a simple crush situation slowly turns into something much more layered, with misunderstandings, emotional tension, and personal growth along the way.
One thing I really appreciate about this manga is how genuine it feels. The characters aren’t perfect, and their emotions don’t always make sense — which honestly makes it more relatable. Some scenes can hit pretty hard emotionally.
If you enjoy:
Realistic romance stories
School drama with emotional depth
Character-driven plots
Manga that can actually make you feel something
Then Blue Flag is definitely worth checking out.
5. Mousou Telepathy
Author: NOBEL
Genres: Comedy, Romance, School, Super Power
Okay, this one is honestly just fun. Not deep, not super intense — just a chill romantic comedy manga that’s easy to binge when you don’t want something heavy.
The main girl, Ayako, can read minds… which sounds cool until you realize how awkward that gets. Especially because this one guy in her class basically has zero filter in his thoughts about her. Some moments are straight-up embarrassing, but that’s exactly what makes it funny.
I liked how simple it stays. No crazy drama, no forced twists — just everyday school life, awkward romance vibes, and that weird telepathy angle making everything more chaotic than it should be.
It’s one of those manga you read to relax, laugh a bit, and not overthink stuff.
Definitely worth checking out if you want something light between bigger series.
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4. Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku
- Author: Yuji Kaku
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Supernatural
Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku is a great manga that will pulls you in fast. Dark atmosphere, intense fights, and a story that keeps getting more interesting the deeper you go.
The story follows Gabimaru, a highly skilled assassin who ends up sentenced to death after being betrayed. Just when things seem over for him, he gets one last chance at survival — travel to a mysterious island and find the legendary elixir of immortality. Sounds simple, but of course it’s anything but that.
What makes this manga great is the mix of brutal action, psychological tension, and a strange almost surreal world. It’s not just fights — there’s mystery, emotional moments, and a constant feeling that something dangerous is always around the corner.
If you enjoy:
Dark fantasy manga
Strong assassin-type protagonists
Mystery mixed with action
Stories with intense survival vibes
Then Hell’s Paradise gonna be your best choice.
3. Fire Punch
Author: Tatsuki Fujimoto
Genres: Action, Drama, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller
Fire Punch is not your typical manga — and that’s exactly why it stands out. It’s dark, sometimes uncomfortable, and definitely not something you read casually, but if you like intense stories, it really hits.
The story follows Agni, a guy cursed with eternal flames that constantly burn his body but never kill him. After losing everything, he basically keeps moving forward driven by revenge and survival. It sounds simple, but the manga gets pretty deep emotionally and psychologically.
What I liked most is how unpredictable it feels. One chapter can be action-heavy, the next philosophical or emotional. It’s messy in a good way — raw and very different from mainstream shonen.
If you enjoy:
Dark psychological manga
Revenge-driven stories
Emotional but brutal narratives
Something different from typical action manga
Then this one is actually worth checking out.
2. Chainsaw Man
- Author: Fujimoto Tatsuki
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Demons, Shounen
Author: Tatsuki Fujimoto
Genres: Action, Adventure, Demons, Shounen
Chainsaw Man is honestly one of those manga that just hits differently. At first it looks like another action shonen, but once you get into it, you realize it’s way crazier, darker, and sometimes even emotional in unexpected ways.
The story follows Denji, a broke guy barely surviving life until he merges with his chainsaw demon dog, Pochita, and basically becomes Chainsaw Man. Sounds wild — and it is. From there, it turns into a mix of devil hunting, chaotic fights, weird humor, and surprisingly heartfelt moments.
What I personally liked is how unpredictable it feels. One chapter can be pure action, another completely absurd, then suddenly something emotional hits you out of nowhere. Fujimoto really doesn’t follow typical manga rules.
If you enjoy:
Action manga with dark humor
Unpredictable storytelling
Over-the-top fights
Characters that actually feel messy and human
Then you need Chainsaw Man for an epic ride.
1. Solo Leveling
Author: Chugong
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Solo Leveling is one of the best Korean action/that almost every fan ends up reading at some point — and for good reason. It’s hype, addictive, and just super satisfying if you enjoy power-progression stories.
The story follows Sung Jin-Woo, a hunter considered the weakest in a world where portals open to monster-filled dungeons. After a near-death experience, he suddenly gains a mysterious ability that lets him level up like a game character — something no one else can do.
What makes it fun is watching that slow rise from weakest to insanely powerful. The fights look cool, the pacing stays exciting, and there’s always that “one more chapter” feeling when you read it.
If you enjoy:
Level-up / progression fantasy
Dungeon and monster fights
Strong main character journeys
Fast-paced action with hype moments
Then Solo Leveling is worth the number 1 spot which makes it a must-read.
You can read all of these manga series on the popular manga site: Manhwatoread
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