Yes, generally speaking, Goku is stronger than Vegeta, though the gap in power fluctuates throughout the Dragon Ball series.
While Vegeta consistently strives to surpass Goku, Goku has achieved higher levels of power and maintained a slight edge for most of the Dragon Ball Z and Super arcs.
Here's a breakdown:
- Early Dragon Ball Z: Goku initially stronger due to Kaioken and Spirit Bomb.
- Saiyan Saga to Frieza Saga: Vegeta closes the gap, but Goku surpasses him with Super Saiyan transformation.
- Cell Saga: Both achieve Super Saiyan, Super Saiyan Grade 2, and Super Saiyan Grade 3. Goku masters Super Saiyan Full Power while Vegeta struggles. Goku is stronger.
- Buu Saga: Both achieve Super Saiyan 2. Goku reveals Super Saiyan 3 which Vegeta never attains. Goku is stronger.
- Dragon Ball Super: Both achieve Super Saiyan God and Super Saiyan Blue (SSB).
- Tournament of Power: Vegeta attains Super Saiyan Blue Evolution, temporarily closing the gap. Goku achieves Ultra Instinct, surpassing Vegeta again.
- Granolah Arc: Vegeta achieves Ultra Ego, a form comparable to Goku's Ultra Instinct Sign. The series suggests they are approaching near parity, but Goku's continued mastery of Ultra Instinct likely gives him the edge.
Therefore, while Vegeta often catches up and even surpasses Goku at certain points, Goku consistently finds new transformations and techniques that place him slightly ahead.
