The 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
Here is a list of the best sci-fi shows and best sci-fi series of all time, as ranked by hundreds of Ranker voters. This list includes long-running sci-fi TV shows like Doctor Who as well as some of the best canceled shows of the genre. Science fiction TV shows have been around for decades, and some of the longest running shows have fallen into this category. Popular shows such as Star Trek have enjoyed several incarnations, and fan-favorite shows like Firefly and The X-Files have made the crossover from TV to the big screen.
Thanks to networks like SyFy, FX, and The CW, new sci-fi TV shows premiere every year. Sci-fi series like The Expanse, Orphan Black, and The 100 continue to raise viewership ratings and grow fan bases. Netflix has also contributed to the science fiction genre with their original series Stranger Things, which was met with rave reviews.
Vote for your favorite science fiction shows to move them to the top of the list, or press re-rank to create your own list of your favorite science fiction series. Be sure to stop by to vote on the best British sitcoms and best current TV shows airing right now.
Are you a sci-fi fan? Check out this list of current sci-fi shows to watch.
- 1Thomas Jane, Steven Strait, Cas Anvar
- Premiered: December 14, 2015
- Network: Syfy, Amazon
- Genres: Adventure,Drama,Fantasy,Science Fiction
Dive into the thrilling adventures of a group of unlikely heroes, as they navigate through a world riddled with political intrigue and technological advancements. Witness humanity's struggle to reclaim the stars while uncovering dark secrets that threaten to shatter the fragile balance of power.
- 2Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk
- Premiered: September 20, 2002
- Network: FOX
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Science Fiction
Experience this cult-favorite space western, with its beloved crew of misfits facing unexpected dangers and fighting for survival in the vast reaches of the galaxy. They might be on the run from powerful forces, but sometimes, finding a place to call home is the greatest adventure of all.
- NEW
- Premiered: October 19, 2023
- Network: HBO Max
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Drama,Science Fiction
- 3Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton
- Premiered: September 28, 1987
- Network: Syndicated
- Genres: Adventure,Drama,Fantasy,Science Fiction
Embark on a galactic journey alongside the crew of the USS Enterprise-D as they explore new worlds, encounter strange aliens, and confront ethical dilemmas. With its iconic captain and awe-inspiring technology, this series remains a benchmark for intelligent and thought-provoking sci-fi storytelling.
- 4Amanda Tapping, Michael Shanks, Christopher Judge
- Premiered: July 27, 1997
- Network: Showtime, Syndicated, Syfy
- Genres: Adventure,Science Fiction
Travel through ancient portals to far-off worlds with an elite team of military and scientific minds as they unlock the secrets of an advanced alien race. This captivating series expertly blends elements of sci-fi, mythology, and military drama, creating an engrossing narrative filled with gripping action scenes and unforgettable characters.
- 5Edward James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, Katee Sackhoff
- Premiered: January 14, 2005
- Network: Syfy
- Genres: Action,Fantasy,Science Fiction
Prepare for an intense, emotion-driven epic as survivors of a decimated human civilization flee from their relentless robotic foes, the Cylons. Razor-sharp writing, complex characters, and a relentless pace propel this tale of hope, betrayal, and redemption, as mankind's last remnants seek a fabled lost colony called Earth.
- 6Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Giancarlo Esposito
- Premiered: November 12, 2019
- Network: Disney+
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Science Fiction
Set in the Star Wars universe, journey alongside a stoic bounty hunter and his adorable, force-sensitive companion as they traverse a galaxy torn apart by conflict. This engaging series draws heavily on the spirit of adventure that made the original films beloved to fans worldwide.
