Hippopotamus vs Nile Crocodile
Quick answer
In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Hippopotamus would most likely come out on top in a close contest, thanks to its a more favorable balance of size, strength, and weaponry. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.
This is a hypothetical, educational comparison based on typical size, strength, and natural weaponry. In the wild these animals rarely meet, and most encounters end without a fight.
Mammal
Vulnerable
Reptile
Least ConcernHippopotamus vs Nile Crocodile compared
| Attribute | Hippopotamus | Nile Crocodile |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1.5 t | 410 kg |
| Length | 4 m | 5 m |
| Top speed | 30 km/h | 30 km/h |
| Strength | 88/100 | 85/100 |
| Deadliness | 90/100 | 88/100 |
| Intelligence | 50/100 | 25/100 |
| Lifespan | 45 yr | 80 yr |
Hippopotamus vs Nile Crocodile: common questions
Who would win in a fight, a Hippopotamus or a Nile Crocodile?
In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Hippopotamus would most likely come out on top in a close contest, thanks to its a more favorable balance of size, strength, and weaponry. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.
Which is bigger, the Hippopotamus or the Nile Crocodile?
The Hippopotamus is heavier, weighing around 1,500 kg compared with the other's 410 kg.
Which is faster, the Hippopotamus or the Nile Crocodile?
The Hippopotamus is faster, reaching about 30 km/h versus 30 km/h.
Which lives longer, the Hippopotamus or the Nile Crocodile?
The Nile Crocodile typically lives longer, up to around 80 years compared with 45 years.
Sources & references
Conservation status follows the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; size, weight, speed, and lifespan figures are drawn from Animal Diversity Web (University of Michigan Museum of Zoology) and Nowak, Walker’s Mammals of the World (Johns Hopkins University Press), cross-checked against each species’ own guide. Compare full profiles for habitat, diet, and behaviour:
- Hippopotamus — full guide
IUCN Red List (Vulnerable, Hippopotamus amphibius)
- Nile Crocodile — full guide
IUCN Red List (Least Concern, Crocodylus niloticus)
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Animal Diversity Web — University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Life-history, morphology, and measurement data for Hippopotamus and Nile Crocodile.
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Nowak, R. M. (1999). Walker’s Mammals of the World (6th ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press.
Standard reference for body size, weight, and life-span ranges.
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Global Animal Guide editorial standards
How we research, source, and review wildlife comparisons.
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