Best SF TV Shows to Watch in 2024

Science fiction television shows have been a popular form of entertainment for decades. They offer viewers a glimpse into fantastical worlds and explore the possibilities of the future. From time travel to alien invasions, the genre has something for everyone. In this article, we will be discussing the best science fiction TV shows that have captured our imaginations.

When it comes to choosing the best science fiction TV show, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the quality of the writing. A well-written show can transport viewers to another world and keep them engaged from start to finish. The second is the quality of the special effects. Science fiction shows often rely on special effects to create their worlds and creatures, so it’s essential that they are done well. Finally, the acting must be top-notch. A great performance can make even the most outlandish plot seem plausible.

We spent countless hours researching and testing various science fiction TV shows to identify the ones that stand out above the rest. In the following sections, we will discuss our top picks and what makes them so great. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through the best science fiction TV shows of all time.

Best Sci-Fi TV Shows

We have scoured the depths of the universe to bring you the ultimate list of the best sci-fi TV shows. From intergalactic battles to time travel, these shows will take you on a journey beyond your wildest imagination. So buckle up and get ready to explore new worlds and alternate realities with our top picks for the best sci-fi TV shows.

The Expanse: The Complete Series

If you’re a sci-fi fan looking for a thrilling and action-packed series, then The Expanse: The Complete Series is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The series is set in a fascinating and well-developed universe, with great attention paid to world-building and a believable depiction of life in space.
• The characters are well-written and engaging, with complex motivations and relationships that keep you invested in their stories.
• The series features some incredible action scenes and special effects, making for a truly immersive viewing experience.

Cons

• The physical release of the series is somewhat lackluster, with minimal bonus features and a bare-bones packaging design.
• The series can be quite dark and heavy at times, with some intense and violent scenes that may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The pacing of the series can be a bit uneven at times, with some episodes feeling slow or meandering.

We recently had the chance to watch The Expanse: The Complete Series, and overall, we were thoroughly impressed by the show’s quality and scope. Set in a future where humanity has colonized much of the solar system and tensions are high between Earth, Mars, and the Belt, the series follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate political intrigue, interplanetary conflict, and mysterious alien technology.

One of the standout features of The Expanse is its world-building. The show does an excellent job of creating a believable and immersive universe, with attention paid to everything from the physics of space travel to the cultural differences between different factions. The result is a show that feels rich and detailed, with a sense of history and depth that draws you in.

The characters in The Expanse are also a major strength of the series. Each of the main characters is well-written and fully realized, with their own unique motivations and flaws. The show does an excellent job of exploring the complex relationships between these characters, from the fraught partnership between detective Miller and ship captain Holden to the tense political maneuverings of UN Deputy Undersecretary Avasarala.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a sci-fi series without some incredible action scenes and special effects, and The Expanse delivers on that front as well. From tense shootouts to epic space battles, the show’s action sequences are thrilling and well-executed, with impressive attention paid to detail and realism.

That being said, there are some downsides to the series as well. The physical release of The Expanse: The Complete Series is somewhat underwhelming, with minimal bonus features and a packaging design that feels a bit cheap. Additionally, the show can be quite dark and intense at times, with some graphic violence and disturbing themes that may not be suitable for all viewers. Finally, the pacing of the series can be a bit uneven, with some episodes feeling slow or meandering.

Overall, however, we would highly recommend The Expanse: The Complete Series to any sci-fi fan looking for a thrilling and well-crafted series. With its engaging characters, immersive world-building, and impressive action sequences, it’s a show that’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Streets of San Francisco: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a classic crime drama TV show, we highly recommend Streets of San Francisco: The Complete Series. With over 120 episodes contained in this 32 disc set, you’ll be fully immersed in the gritty world of San Francisco crime.

Pros

• The authentic scenery of San Francisco adds to the overall viewing experience.
• The partnership between veteran cop Lt. Mike Stone and newcomer Inspector Steve Keller is both compelling and entertaining to watch.
• The youthful Inspector Dan Robbins adds a fresh dynamic to the show.

Cons

• The show may feel dated to some viewers, as it originally aired in the 70s.
• The pacing of some episodes may feel slow to those used to more modern crime dramas.
• The lack of diversity in the cast may be a turn-off for some viewers.

We were impressed with the show’s attention to detail when it came to accurately portraying San Francisco. The chemistry between the main characters is undeniable and keeps the show engaging throughout. However, some viewers may find the show’s age and slower pacing to be a drawback. Overall, if you’re a fan of classic crime dramas, Streets of San Francisco: The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out.

RiffTrax: RoboCop: The TV Show

If you’re a fan of the RoboCop franchise, you might be interested in checking out RiffTrax’s take on the TV show. While it’s not for everyone, we found it to be an entertaining and humorous way to revisit the world of RoboCop.

Pros

• The RiffTrax commentary adds a new layer of humor to the show, making it more enjoyable to watch.
• The picture and sound quality are good, making for a pleasant viewing experience.
• The option for English subtitles makes it easier to follow along with the jokes and commentary.

Cons

• The show itself may not be as engaging or well-written as the original RoboCop movie.
• Some of the jokes and commentary can be hit-or-miss, depending on your sense of humor.
• The price point may be a bit high for some buyers, especially if they’re not already fans of RiffTrax or RoboCop.

Overall, we think that RiffTrax’s take on RoboCop: The TV Show is worth checking out if you’re a fan of the franchise or enjoy humorous commentary on classic TV shows. While it may not be for everyone, we found it to be an entertaining and enjoyable way to revisit the world of RoboCop.

Killjoys: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of science fiction and action, Killjoys is a must-watch series that will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Pros

• The series is chock-full of nonstop action, wit, and badassery.
• The chemistry between the characters is fantastic, making for a highly enjoyable viewing experience.
• The show’s female lead, Dutch, is a gorgeous, complicated, and deadly character that you won’t be able to take your eyes off of.

Cons

• The case that houses the DVDs is flimsy and brittle, making it prone to breaking.
• The show’s final season leaves a bit to be desired, leaving some fans feeling unsatisfied.
• The show’s special effects can be hit or miss at times.

If you’re looking for a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat with nonstop action and witty banter, Killjoys is the perfect choice. The chemistry between the characters is fantastic, and the female lead, Dutch, is a standout character that you won’t be able to get enough of.

The series is not without its flaws, however. The case that houses the DVDs is flimsy and brittle, making it prone to breaking. Additionally, the show’s final season leaves a bit to be desired, leaving some fans feeling unsatisfied. Finally, while the show’s special effects are often impressive, they can be hit or miss at times.

Overall, we highly recommend Killjoys to any fan of science fiction and action. It’s a thrilling ride from start to finish, and the chemistry between the characters is sure to leave you wanting more.

Doctor Who: William Hartnell Complete Season Two (BD) [Blu-ray]

If you’re a fan of classic Doctor Who, the William Hartnell Complete Season Two Blu-ray set is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• The set contains all 13 episodes of the second season, which features some of the earliest Doctor Who stories ever made.
• The Blu-ray transfer looks fantastic, with the black and white images looking crisp and clear.
• The set comes with a variety of special features, including audio commentaries, documentaries, and interviews with cast and crew members.

Cons

• The set is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for casual fans or those on a tight budget.
• Some of the episodes are missing footage or have been reconstructed from audio recordings and still images, which can be jarring for some viewers.
• The packaging is a bit flimsy and may not hold up well over time.

If you’re a die-hard Doctor Who fan who wants to experience the earliest adventures of the Time Lord, the William Hartnell Complete Season Two Blu-ray set is a must-have. The set contains all 13 episodes of the second season, which features some of the earliest Doctor Who stories ever made. The Blu-ray transfer looks fantastic, with the black and white images looking crisp and clear. The set also comes with a variety of special features, including audio commentaries, documentaries, and interviews with cast and crew members. However, the set is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for casual fans or those on a tight budget. Some of the episodes are missing footage or have been reconstructed from audio recordings and still images, which can be jarring for some viewers. Additionally, the packaging is a bit flimsy and may not hold up well over time. Overall, if you’re a fan of classic Doctor Who, this set is definitely worth considering.

The Streets of San Francisco (Seasons 1-3)

If you are a fan of classic police dramas, then The Streets of San Francisco is a great choice for you.

Pros

• The show features the iconic duo of Karl Malden and Michael Douglas.
• The series is set in San Francisco and showcases the city’s scenic beauty.
• The show’s writing and direction are top-notch, making for an engaging viewing experience.

Cons

• The show may seem dated to some viewers.
• The DVD set is quite large, with 20 discs included.
• The show’s content may not be suitable for younger audiences.

We recently had the opportunity to watch The Streets of San Francisco, and we were impressed with the show’s quality. The series follows the investigations of Lieutenant Mike Stone and Inspector Steve Keller as they solve a variety of crimes in San Francisco. The chemistry between the two leads, played by Karl Malden and Michael Douglas, is a highlight of the show. Their interactions are both entertaining and believable, making for a great on-screen partnership.

The show’s setting in San Francisco is also a major draw. The series showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic beauty, making it a treat for viewers who are familiar with the area. The show’s writing and direction are also top-notch, with each episode featuring a compelling storyline that keeps viewers engaged.

One potential downside of the show is that it may seem dated to some viewers. The series was filmed in the 1970s, and some elements of the show may not resonate with modern audiences. Additionally, the DVD set is quite large, with 20 discs included, which may be a turn-off for some buyers.

Overall, we would highly recommend The Streets of San Francisco to fans of classic police dramas. The show’s iconic duo, engaging storylines, and beautiful setting make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre.

The Bionic Woman: The Complete Series – Collector’s Edition

If you’re a fan of science fiction and classic TV shows, then The Bionic Woman: The Complete Series – Collector’s Edition is a must-watch.

Pros

• The Blu-ray transfer is of excellent quality, with the original 4:3 ratio and no stretching.
• The set includes all 58 episodes of the series, as well as bonus content like reunion films and a gag reel.
• Lindsay Wagner’s performance as Jaime Sommers is iconic and inspiring, making her a role model for an entire generation.

Cons

• The price of the set may be a bit high for some buyers.
• The series is not rated, so it may not be suitable for all audiences.
• The set requires a multi-region Blu-ray player to play in some regions.

The Bionic Woman: The Complete Series – Collector’s Edition is a true gem for fans of classic science fiction TV shows. The set includes all 58 episodes of the series, as well as bonus content like reunion films, audio commentaries, and a gag reel. The Blu-ray transfer is of excellent quality, with the original 4:3 ratio and no stretching. Lindsay Wagner’s performance as Jaime Sommers is iconic and inspiring, making her a role model for an entire generation.

However, the price of the set may be a bit high for some buyers, and the series is not rated, so it may not be suitable for all audiences. Additionally, the set requires a multi-region Blu-ray player to play in some regions.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic science fiction and Lindsay Wagner’s iconic performance as Jaime Sommers, then The Bionic Woman: The Complete Series – Collector’s Edition is definitely worth the investment.

The Expanse: Season One

If you’re a fan of science fiction, we highly recommend The Expanse: Season One. The show is a thrilling ride through a future where mankind has colonized the solar system. It follows a hardened detective and rogue ship’s captain as they unravel a conspiracy that could change human history forever.

Pros

• Gripping storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat
• Great character development that will make you care about the protagonists
• High-quality production values that make the show visually stunning

Cons

• The first few episodes can be slow and confusing as the show sets up its world
• Some of the science can be a bit hard to follow for those without a background in physics
• The show can be quite dark and violent, so it’s not suitable for all audiences

The Expanse: Season One is a show that rewards patience. While the first few episodes can be a bit slow and confusing, the payoff is well worth it. The characters are well-developed and the storyline is gripping, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The show is also visually stunning, with high-quality production values that make it a joy to watch.

One of the standout features of The Expanse: Season One is its world-building. The show creates a future that feels both believable and immersive, with a detailed and complex political landscape that adds depth to the story. The science is also well-researched and mostly accurate, which adds to the show’s realism.

Overall, we highly recommend The Expanse: Season One to anyone looking for a thrilling science fiction show. It’s a well-crafted and engaging story that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

The Ambush

If you’re in the mood for a thrilling, action-packed war movie, then The Ambush might be worth checking out.

Pros

• Gripping storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat
• Impressive action sequences that are both thrilling and realistic
• Well-done cinematography that immerses you in the chaotic world of war

Cons

• English dubbing can be distracting at times
• Some of the characters lack depth and development
• The plot can be a bit predictable at times

From the director of Taken comes a movie based on a true story about three soldiers who are ambushed by heavily armed militants on their final patrol in hostile territory. Trapped, wounded, and out of communication range, they are running out of options, ammunition, and time. Back at base, their commander receives word of the assault and must lead a daring rescue mission.

The Ambush grips your attention from the word go and never lets it slip, with excellent movie directing by Pierre Morel. The action is impressive in scale and authenticity, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the battle. However, some viewers might find the English dubbing distracting, and some of the characters lack depth and development.

Overall, The Ambush is an intense and thrilling war movie that is definitely worth a watch if you’re a fan of the genre. Just be prepared for some predictable plot points and distracting dubbing.

Battlestar Galactica

If you’re a fan of science fiction TV shows, then Battlestar Galactica is a must-watch. We highly recommend purchasing this show for its gripping storyline, well-developed characters, and stunning visual effects.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their journeys.
• The visual effects are top-notch and add to the overall immersive experience.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s darker themes and violence to be too intense.
• The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be appealing to those who prefer faster-paced shows.
• The ending may not be satisfying for all viewers.

Overall, we believe that Battlestar Galactica is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and thrilling science fiction TV show. The show tackles complex themes such as politics, religion, and morality, making it more than just a typical sci-fi series. The characters are well-written and the acting is superb, which adds to the overall quality of the show. We highly recommend giving Battlestar Galactica a chance if you’re a fan of the genre.

One of the standout aspects of Battlestar Galactica is its ability to create a sense of tension and suspense throughout the series. The show’s overarching plot is centered around a group of humans who are fleeing from a race of robots called the Cylons, who are intent on wiping out all of humanity. This creates a constant sense of danger and uncertainty, as the characters are always on the run and never truly safe.

Another strength of the show is its ability to develop complex and nuanced characters. Each character has their own backstory and motivations, which are slowly revealed over the course of the series. This makes it easy to become invested in their journeys and creates a sense of empathy for them. The show also tackles important themes such as identity, morality, and loyalty, which adds depth to the characters and makes them more relatable.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a well-written and thought-provoking science fiction TV show, then Battlestar Galactica is a great choice. The show’s engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and stunning visual effects make it a standout in the genre. We highly recommend checking it out.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best SF TV show, there are several factors to consider. We want to make sure we get the best value for our money and a show that will keep us entertained. Here are some key features to look for:

Genre

The first thing to consider is the genre of the show. SF TV shows can range from hard science fiction to space operas to dystopian futures. It’s important to choose a genre that you enjoy and find interesting.

Production Quality

The production quality of the show is also important. Look for a show with high-quality special effects, cinematography, and sound design. This will ensure that you have an immersive viewing experience.

Storyline

The storyline is what will keep you invested in the show. Look for a show with a well-written plot that is engaging and thought-provoking. A good SF TV show should have a balance of action, suspense, and character development.

Cast

The cast of the show is also important. Look for a show with talented actors who can bring the characters to life. A good cast can make even the most far-fetched concepts believable and relatable.

Availability

Finally, consider the availability of the show. Some shows may only be available on certain streaming platforms or may require a subscription. Make sure the show is easily accessible to you before committing to it.

By considering these factors, you can find the best SF TV show for your viewing pleasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated sci-fi series according to IMDb?

According to IMDb, the top-rated sci-fi TV series of all time are “Breaking Bad,” “Game of Thrones,” “The Walking Dead,” “Stranger Things,” and “Black Mirror.” These shows have received high ratings from both critics and audiences.

Which sci-fi TV series have been the most popular in the 2000s?

Some of the most popular sci-fi TV series of the 2000s include “Lost,” “Battlestar Galactica,” “Fringe,” “Doctor Who,” and “Stargate SG-1.” These shows have gained a huge fan following and have been praised for their unique storytelling and characters.

What are some of the highest grossing sci-fi TV series to date?

Some of the highest grossing sci-fi TV series to date include “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “The X-Files,” “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Star Trek: Voyager,” and “Babylon 5.” These shows have not only been successful in terms of ratings but have also generated a significant amount of revenue through merchandise and licensing.

Can you recommend critically acclaimed sci-fi series currently on Netflix?

Some of the critically acclaimed sci-fi series currently on Netflix include “Stranger Things,” “Black Mirror,” “Altered Carbon,” “The OA,” and “Dark.” These shows have been praised for their unique concepts, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes.

What new sci-fi TV shows are set to premiere in 2024?

As of now, there is no official announcement regarding new sci-fi TV shows set to premiere in 2024. However, we can expect some exciting new series to be announced in the coming months.

What TV show is considered the number one sci-fi series?

The TV show that is considered the number one sci-fi series is “Star Trek: The Original Series.” This show has been praised for its groundbreaking storytelling, memorable characters, and its impact on popular culture.