Best Sci Fi TV Series of All Time: Top Picks for Your Next Binge-Watch Session

Science fiction television series have been a staple of entertainment for decades. From the early days of television to the present, sci-fi shows have captured the imagination of audiences around the world. These shows transport viewers to other worlds, alternate realities, and futures both utopian and dystopian. They explore complex themes and ideas through the lens of science fiction, and have become a beloved genre for many.

When it comes to sci-fi TV series, there are countless options to choose from. From classic shows like Star Trek and The Twilight Zone, to modern hits like Stranger Things and Black Mirror, there is no shortage of great sci-fi content out there. However, when it comes to determining the best sci-fi TV series of all time, there are a few critical factors to consider.

One of the most important things to consider when evaluating sci-fi TV series is the quality of the storytelling. A great sci-fi series should have compelling characters, a well-crafted plot, and thought-provoking themes. Additionally, the series should have a unique and creative vision of the future or alternate reality it portrays. Another critical factor to consider is the show’s impact on the genre and pop culture as a whole. A truly great sci-fi series should not only be entertaining, but should also push the boundaries of what is possible in the genre and inspire future creators.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and analyzing the best sci-fi TV series of all time. We evaluated each series based on its storytelling, creativity, and impact on the genre. After careful consideration, we have identified the top ten sci-fi TV series that have left an indelible mark on the genre and captivated audiences around the world.

Best Sci-Fi TV Series

As sci-fi enthusiasts, we know the struggle of finding the perfect TV series to binge-watch. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best sci-fi TV series of all time.

Our team has spent countless hours researching and watching various sci-fi series to bring you this comprehensive list. We’ve considered factors such as plot, character development, special effects, and overall entertainment value to ensure that each series on our list is worth your time.

Whether you’re a die-hard sci-fi fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, our list has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on an epic journey through the best sci-fi TV series of all time.

Star Trek’s Ultimate Episode Guide: The Best, the Worst and the Rest: The Top 150 Stories From Thirteen Trek Series

If you’re a die-hard Star Trek fan, we highly recommend purchasing Star Trek’s Ultimate Episode Guide: The Best, the Worst and the Rest: The Top 150 Stories From Thirteen Trek Series.

Pros

• Comprehensive guide to the top 150 Star Trek episodes from all series.
• Provides insight and analysis on each episode.
• Easy to navigate and find specific episodes.

Cons

• Limited to only the top 150 episodes.
• Not all episodes are included.
• No X-Ray feature available.

This guidebook is an excellent resource for any Star Trek fan who wants to relive the best moments from all the different series. It offers a comprehensive list of the top 150 episodes, along with insightful analysis and commentary on each one. We found it very easy to navigate and find specific episodes that we wanted to read about.

One downside to this guidebook is that it is limited to only the top 150 episodes, so some of your personal favorites may not be included. Additionally, there is no X-Ray feature available, which could have provided even more context and information about each episode.

Overall, we believe that Star Trek’s Ultimate Episode Guide: The Best, the Worst and the Rest: The Top 150 Stories From Thirteen Trek Series is a must-have for any true Star Trek fan. With its comprehensive list of the top episodes and insightful analysis, it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgia.

Crossroads of Twilight: Book Ten of The Wheel of Time

If you’re a fan of The Wheel of Time series, then you should definitely consider purchasing Crossroads of Twilight. This audiobook is a great addition to the series and will keep you entertained for hours.

Pros

• The audiobook is well-narrated by Kate Reading and Michael Kramer.
• The story is engaging and will keep you interested throughout.
• The book is part of a well-loved series and will satisfy fans of the series.

Cons

• Some readers may find the book to be slow-paced.
• The book does not add much to the overall story arc of the series.
• The book is quite long, with a listening length of over 26 hours.

If you’re a fan of epic fantasy, then Crossroads of Twilight is definitely worth checking out. The audiobook is well-narrated by Kate Reading and Michael Kramer, who bring the story to life with their engaging performances. The story itself is also well-written and will keep you interested throughout.

One potential downside to the book is that it may be slow-paced for some readers. Additionally, the book does not add much to the overall story arc of the series, so readers who are looking for significant plot development may be disappointed. Finally, the book is quite long, with a listening length of over 26 hours, which may be a deterrent for some listeners.

Overall, if you’re a fan of The Wheel of Time series, then Crossroads of Twilight is definitely worth checking out. The audiobook is well-narrated and the story is engaging, making it a great addition to the series.

Time’s Convert: A Novel

If you’re a fan of the All Souls Trilogy, then you’ll definitely want to add Time’s Convert to your collection. It’s a great addition to the series that provides more backstory on some of the characters we’ve come to love.

Pros

• The writing style is engaging and easy to read.
• The story provides more depth and insight into the characters.
• The historical references are well-researched and add an extra layer of interest.

Cons

• The book may not stand alone well and is best read in conjunction with the rest of the series.
• Some readers may not enjoy the shifting perspectives and timelines.
• The plot can be slow-moving at times.

As a fan of the All Souls Trilogy, we were excited to dive into Time’s Convert and were not disappointed. The writing style is engaging and easy to read, making it a great addition to the series. The story provides more depth and insight into the characters, and the historical references are well-researched and add an extra layer of interest.

However, the book may not stand alone well and is best read in conjunction with the rest of the series. Some readers may not enjoy the shifting perspectives and timelines, and the plot can be slow-moving at times. Despite these minor drawbacks, Time’s Convert is still a great read for fans of the series.

Battlestar Galactica

If you’re a fan of science fiction, then Battlestar Galactica is a must-watch TV series. It’s a gripping and intense drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and complex, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing.
• The characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their fates.
• The special effects are top-notch, creating a believable and immersive sci-fi world.

Cons

• The series can be dark and intense at times, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The plot can be convoluted and hard to follow, especially in later seasons.
• The finale may be divisive among fans, with some feeling disappointed by the resolution.

Overall, we highly recommend Battlestar Galactica to any sci-fi fan who is looking for a well-written and thought-provoking series. The characters are complex and relatable, and the storyline is both engaging and emotionally impactful. If you’re looking for a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then Battlestar Galactica is definitely worth checking out.

The Wheel of Time Companion

If you’re a fan of the Wheel of Time series, then The Wheel of Time Companion is a must-have. It’s a comprehensive guide that covers everything from the people, places, and history of the bestselling series.

Pros

• Pro 1: Provides a wealth of information about the series that is not found in the books.
• Pro 2: Well organized and easy to navigate.
• Pro 3: A great reference tool for those who want to delve deeper into the world of Wheel of Time.

Cons

• Con 1: Spoilers abound, so it’s best to wait until you’ve finished the series before reading.
• Con 2: Some sections are more detailed than others, leaving certain characters and events underrepresented.
• Con 3: The book is quite heavy and not easily portable.

As a longtime fan of the Wheel of Time series, we found The Wheel of Time Companion to be an invaluable resource. The book is well-organized and easy to navigate, making it simple to find the information you’re looking for. The depth of detail provided is impressive, and we appreciated learning more about the history of the world and its inhabitants.

However, we do feel that the book is best used as a reference tool rather than a casual read. The amount of spoilers contained within its pages is significant, so it’s important to wait until you’ve finished the series before diving into this book. Additionally, while most characters and events are covered in detail, there are a few notable omissions that may leave readers wanting more.

Overall, we highly recommend The Wheel of Time Companion to any fan of the series who wants to delve deeper into the world that Robert Jordan created. It’s a must-have for those who want to know more about the people, places, and history of the Wheel of Time.

Red Rising (Red Rising Series Book 1)

If you’re a fan of science fiction books, then Red Rising is a must-read for you as it’s an excellent blend of action, drama, and adventure.

Pros

• The world-building is fantastic, and the author has created a unique and immersive universe that’s easy to get lost in.
• The characters are well-written, and their development throughout the story is impressive.
• The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cons

• The beginning of the book is a bit slow, and it takes a few chapters to get into the action.
• The violence and gore depicted in the book might be too much for some readers.
• The ending might leave you with a bit of a cliffhanger, so be prepared to read the next book in the series.

We were impressed by the world-building in Red Rising, and the author has managed to create an intricate and detailed universe that’s easy to imagine. The characters are well-written, and their growth throughout the story is impressive, making it easy to root for them. The plot is fast-paced and filled with action, and the twists and turns keep you engaged throughout the book.

However, the beginning of the book is a bit slow, and it takes a few chapters to get into the action. Additionally, the violence and gore depicted in the book might be too much for some readers, so be prepared for that. Lastly, the ending might leave you with a bit of a cliffhanger, so be prepared to read the next book in the series.

Overall, Red Rising is an excellent read for anyone who loves science fiction books, and we highly recommend it.

The Great Hunt: Book Two of The Wheel Of Time

If you’re a fan of epic fantasy audiobooks, then you should consider adding The Great Hunt: Book Two of The Wheel Of Time to your collection.

Pros

• The world-building is outstanding, and the character development is excellent.
• The story is well-paced, and the narration by Kate Reading and Michael Kramer is top-notch.
• The Great Hunt is a classic that rivals The Lord of the Rings and is a must-read for any fantasy fan.

Cons

• The book is quite long (26 hours and 34 minutes), so it may not be suitable for those who prefer shorter audiobooks.
• Some listeners may find the plot to be slow-moving at times.
• The book is part of a series, so listeners will need to commit to reading several more books to complete the story.

The Great Hunt: Book Two of The Wheel Of Time is a fantastic audiobook that is well worth the investment of time and money. The world-building is exceptional, and the character development is first-rate. The story is well-paced, and the narration by Kate Reading and Michael Kramer is superb.

In the book, Rand knows he can channel the One Power and is told he is the prophesied a. The story is a continuation of The Eye of the World, and it features several plotlines that resemble the pacing of the first book. The world is expanded in a professional manner, and the characters are well-developed.

The only potential drawbacks to the book are its length and the fact that it is part of a series, which means listeners will need to commit to reading several more books to complete the story. However, if you’re a fan of epic fantasy audiobooks, then The Great Hunt: Book Two of The Wheel Of Time is a must-read.

All Systems Red (Kindle Single): The Murderbot Diaries

If you’re looking for a quick and engaging sci-fi read, All Systems Red is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The story is fast-paced and easy to follow.
• The main character, Murderbot, is a unique and compelling protagonist.
• The novella is a great length for a quick read.

Cons

• The world-building is a bit sparse.
• The supporting characters could be more fleshed out.
• The novella is on the shorter side, so it may leave you wanting more.

We really enjoyed All Systems Red. The story follows Murderbot, a security cyborg who has hacked its own governor module and is now free to make its own decisions. The novella is a great length for a quick read, and the story is fast-paced and engaging. Murderbot is a unique and compelling protagonist, and we found ourselves rooting for it throughout the book.

One downside to the novella is that the world-building is a bit sparse. We would have liked to see more detail about the world and the society in which the story takes place. Additionally, the supporting characters could be more fleshed out. While we enjoyed reading about Murderbot, we didn’t feel as invested in the other characters as we could have.

Overall, we would definitely recommend All Systems Red to anyone looking for a quick and engaging sci-fi read. The novella is a great length for a quick read, and Murderbot is a unique and compelling protagonist. If you enjoy this novella, there are several more books in The Murderbot Diaries series to check out.

The World of All Souls: The Complete Guide to A Discovery of Witches, Shadow of Night, and The Book of Life

If you’re a fan of the All Souls Trilogy, we highly recommend purchasing The World of All Souls: The Complete Guide to A Discovery of Witches, Shadow of Night, and The Book of Life.

Pros

• Provides extensive background information on the characters, creatures, and locations in the All Souls Trilogy.
• Beautifully written and illustrated.
• A must-have for any die-hard fan of the series.

Cons

• Contains spoilers for those who have not read the entire trilogy.
• Some readers may find the organization of the information confusing.
• Not recommended for those who are not already fans of the series.

The World of All Souls is an excellent resource for fans of the All Souls Trilogy who want to dive deeper into the world created by Deborah Harkness. This book provides extensive background information on the characters, creatures, and locations in the trilogy, making it a must-have for any die-hard fan.

The book is beautifully written and illustrated, making it a pleasure to read and flip through. However, those who have not read the entire trilogy should be warned that the book does contain spoilers. Additionally, some readers may find the organization of the information confusing, as it is not presented in a linear fashion.

Overall, we highly recommend The World of All Souls to any fan of the All Souls Trilogy who wants to learn more about the world created by Deborah Harkness. It is a comprehensive guide that is sure to enhance your appreciation of the series.

The Silo Series Boxed Set

If you’re a fan of science fiction, The Silo Series Boxed Set is a must-read. We highly recommend this book set to anyone who loves a captivating story with well-developed characters.

Pros

• The storyline is captivating and thought-provoking.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable.
• The boxed set includes all four books in the Silo series, as well as additional Silo stories.

Cons

• The books are lengthy, so it may take some time to read through the entire series.
• The ending of the series may not be satisfying for some readers.
• The books may not be suitable for younger readers due to some mature themes.

The Silo Series Boxed Set tells the story of humanity living in underground silos after the Earth’s surface becomes uninhabitable. The series explores themes of power, control, and the human condition. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their stories.

The storyline is captivating and thought-provoking, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers engaged. The author, Hugh Howey, does an excellent job of creating a believable world and exploring the consequences of humanity’s actions.

While the books are lengthy, they are well worth the time investment. The boxed set includes all four books in the Silo series, as well as additional Silo stories, making it a great value for fans of the series.

However, the ending of the series may not be satisfying for some readers, as it leaves some questions unanswered. Additionally, the books may not be suitable for younger readers due to some mature themes.

Overall, we highly recommend The Silo Series Boxed Set to anyone who loves science fiction and a great story.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best sci-fi TV series, there are a few key features to consider before making a purchase. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Genre

First and foremost, consider the type of sci-fi you enjoy. Do you prefer space operas, time travel stories, or post-apocalyptic worlds? Knowing your preferred genre will help you narrow down your options and find a series that you’ll truly enjoy.

Storyline

A captivating storyline is a must-have for any great sci-fi TV series. Look for shows with well-developed characters, intricate plots, and unexpected twists and turns. A strong storyline will keep you engaged and invested in the series from start to finish.

Production Quality

The production quality of a series can greatly impact your viewing experience. Look for shows with high-quality special effects, impressive set designs, and well-crafted costumes. These elements can help transport you to another world and make the viewing experience all the more immersive.

Cast and Crew

A talented cast and crew can make all the difference in a sci-fi series. Look for shows with well-respected actors, experienced writers, and visionary directors. The right team can take a good series and turn it into a truly great one.

Availability

Finally, consider the availability of the series you’re interested in. Is it available on a streaming platform you already subscribe to, or will you need to purchase it separately? Make sure the series is easily accessible and fits within your budget.

By considering these key features, you’ll be able to choose the best sci-fi TV series for your viewing pleasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which sci-fi TV series has the highest overall rating?

According to IMDb, the highest-rated sci-fi TV series of all time is “Breaking Bad” with a rating of 9.5 out of 10. However, if we consider only the sci-fi genre, “Doctor Who” has the highest overall rating of 8.6 out of 10.

What are the top-rated sci-fi series on streaming platforms?

As of 2024, the top-rated sci-fi series on Netflix are “Stranger Things” and “Black Mirror.” On Amazon Prime Video, “The Expanse” and “The Man in the High Castle” are among the top-rated sci-fi series. Hulu’s top-rated sci-fi series include “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “11.22.63.”

Which sci-fi TV series has won the most awards?

“Game of Thrones” holds the record for the most Emmy Awards won by a TV series, including several for its outstanding visual effects and sound design. “The X-Files” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation” are other sci-fi TV series that have won numerous awards.

What is considered the most influential sci-fi TV series in television history?

“The Twilight Zone” is widely considered to be the most influential sci-fi TV series in television history. It introduced many innovative storytelling techniques and explored a wide range of social and political issues through science fiction.

What are the critically acclaimed sci-fi TV series on Rotten Tomatoes?

As of 2024, the most critically acclaimed sci-fi TV series on Rotten Tomatoes are “Battlestar Galactica,” “The Leftovers,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Mr. Robot,” and “Stranger Things.” All of these series have received high ratings from both critics and audiences.

Which sci-fi TV series has the most extensive fan following worldwide?

“Doctor Who” has one of the most extensive fan followings worldwide, with a devoted fan base that spans generations. Other sci-fi TV series with large fan followings include “Star Trek,” “The X-Files,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” and “Firefly.”