Skip to main content
Global Animal Guide

Serval vs Cheetah

Quick answer

In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Cheetah would most likely come out on top in most encounters, thanks to its more dangerous natural weapons and superior speed. 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.

Serval with large ears in golden savanna grass Power 49

Mammal

Least Concern
Serval
Weight 12 kg
Length 1 m
Top speed 80 km/h
Strength 48/100
Deadliness 38/100
Intelligence 58/100
Lifespan 19 yr
Cheetah sprinting across golden grassland with legs extended mid-stride Winner Power 63

Mammal

Vulnerable
Cheetah
Weight 65 kg
Length 2.2 m
Top speed 110 km/h
Strength 50/100
Deadliness 65/100
Intelligence 64/100
Lifespan 12 yr

Serval vs Cheetah compared

Side-by-side comparison of the Serval and the Cheetah
Attribute Serval Cheetah
Weight 12 kg 65 kg
Length 1 m 2.2 m
Top speed 80 km/h 110 km/h
Strength 48/100 50/100
Deadliness 38/100 65/100
Intelligence 58/100 64/100
Lifespan 19 yr 12 yr

Serval vs Cheetah: common questions

Who would win in a fight, a Serval or a Cheetah?

In a hypothetical one-on-one, the Cheetah would most likely come out on top in most encounters, thanks to its more dangerous natural weapons and superior speed. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.

Which is bigger, the Serval or the Cheetah?

The Cheetah is heavier, weighing around 65 kg compared with the other's 12 kg.

Which is faster, the Serval or the Cheetah?

The Cheetah is faster, reaching about 110 km/h versus 80 km/h.

Which lives longer, the Serval or the Cheetah?

The Serval typically lives longer, up to around 19 years compared with 12 years.

Sources & references

Size, speed, and conservation data are drawn from established zoological references. Compare full profiles for habitat, diet, and behaviour:

By the Global Animal Guide editorial team Last reviewed How we research & review
Share this matchup