What Is the Highest Honor, MBE or OBE?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 03, 2020

In the classification of the Order of the British Empire, OBE is a higher honor than MBE. OBE stands for Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, whereas MBE stands for Member of the Most Excellent Order.

An OBE is awarded to individuals who have an important local role in various types of activities, especially to those who are known nationally for their contributions. An MBE is usually awarded for those who perform outstanding services to their community and stand out as examples for others. The Order of the British Empire is the most junior order of chivalry and has five classes, which also include GBE, KBE or DBE and CBE.