Since the arrival of Super Saiyans, human characters in Dragon Ball have seemed increasingly outmatched over time. With far less potential than Saiyans, Krillin, Yamcha, and Tien Shinhan appear powerless compared to Goku, Vegeta, or Gohan. Even Goten and Trunks seem to surpass them easily in strength.
However, despite falling short of powerful aliens or hybrids, these characters are actually very strong compared to ordinary humans. For example, Krillin is one of the strongest Earthlings in the Dragon Ball universe, as confirmed by Yamcha at the end of the Buu Saga when Krillin could defeat tough opponents.
Krillin Could Easily Defeat the Ginyu Force After the Buu Saga
During the Namek Saga, Krillin had his potential unlocked by the Grand Elder. Considering he grew even stronger later, by the end of the Buu Saga, he could easily defeat the entire Ginyu Force.
At that time, he was stronger than any member of the Ginyu Force except Captain Ginyu himself. So it’s reasonable to assume that with further training, he could beat any of them.
Krillin Could Defeat Early Vegeta
In the Saiyan Saga, Krillin nearly killed Nappa with his Destructo Disc attack. Nappa only survived because Vegeta intervened. Therefore, it’s fair to assume that after unlocking his potential, even without extra training, Krillin could defeat Nappa. Since Nappa was stronger than Raditz, Krillin would also beat Raditz.
Furthermore, Krillin could take on Vegeta from this saga. While he can’t match Vegeta’s current strength, he could defeat early Vegeta, though it would be a tough fight.
Krillin Remains Stronger Than Other Earthlings
This is obvious. Krillin could defeat any “pure Earthling” by the end of the Buu Saga. Yamcha confirmed this, stating clearly that Krillin is the strongest Earthling. So all other Z fighters who aren’t powerful aliens (like Yamcha or Tien) would need extra training to beat Krillin at full strength.
Krillin Easily Beats Classic Dragon Ball Villains
Since Krillin can defeat even some Saiyan warriors (albeit weaker versions), it’s safe to say he could take on any villain from Dragon Ball on his own.
Villains in Dragon Ball Z are much stronger than those in the original Dragon Ball, so it would be an easy fight for Krillin, assuming none of them power up during that time. Even King Piccolo would be easily defeated by Krillin after the Buu Saga.
Krillin Has a Chance Against Androids from the Cell Saga
With his power in Dragon Ball Super, Krillin might be able to defeat some Androids from the Cell Saga. Although they have unlimited energy, DBS Krillin would at least have a chance against earlier versions of Android 17 and Android 18.
Krillin Would Struggle Against Some Forms of Frieza
This is the most debated theory, but Krillin, with unlocked potential and full power, could defeat some weaker forms of Frieza. He would struggle against Frieza at 100% Full Power from the Namek Saga, though he might still give Frieza a tough fight, especially with a surprise attack.
In summary, while Krillin is weak compared to Saiyan warriors, he remains very strong for a human.