The Superhero Database Classification number, or SHDB Class, is a number that represents the overall 'power' of a character. All traits of a character are used for calculating the Classification.
What it DOESN'T mean
This doesn't mean that a higher class would always beat a lower class character. But the bigger the difference in Class is, the more obvious it is who'll win in a fight.
How is this calculated
( INT^1.3 + (STR*0.5 )^2 + (SPE*0.5)^2 + DUR^1.6 + (POW + (SPS*SPL))^2 + COM^1.8 ) ^ TIER
Super Power Score and Level
Every Super Power has a score (SPS) that is used to calculate the Class. Each Super Power also has 3 levels (SPL). The level is set when connecting that Super Power to a character. The level determines the final score, of the Super Power, being used in the calculation.
Tier 6 Aquaman?
held his own against Despero
https://imgchest.com/p/n87wr3elzyx
Fights and overpowers the Olympian
mgchest.com/p/na7kw6doq78
who defeats Martian Manhunter
https://imgchest.com/p/m9yxgwmj34q
Aquaman could defeat Imperiex Drone
https://imgchest.com/p/6eyrdpe564p
which could take on several JLA members
https://imgchest.com/p/ljyqdnw6k72
Was able to survive the same attack that KO’d Orion
https://imgchest.com/p/md7ojnewdyp
smacked Superman
harmed Darkseid even piercing his skin.
https://qph.cf2.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-7c7ea29700e4e0113cadd8b904f4dacf-lq
his trident has magic in it, imbued by the old gods and Poseidon