Updated 4/3/2026
The Star Trek universe spans decades of iconic series, from the classic adventures of The Original Series to the modern explorations of Strange New Worlds and Picard. With so many shows across different timelines, it can be overwhelming to decide which series to watch first. In this guide, we rank every Star Trek show based on storytelling, characters, production, and fan impact, highlighting the top episodes and what makes each series stand out in the franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Starfleet, this ranking will help you explore the best Star Trek has to offer.
How We Ranked Every Star Trek Show
| 1 | Star Trek: Deep Space Nine |
| 2 | Star Trek: The Next Generation |
| 3 | Star Trek: The Original Series |
| 4 | Star Trek: Strange New Worlds |
| 5 | Star Trek: Voyager |
| 6 | Star Trek: Lower Decks |
| 7 | Star Trek: Enterprise |
| 8 | Star Trek: Prodigy |
| 9 | Star Trek: Starfleet Academy |
| 10 | Star Trek: Scouts |
| 11 | Star Trek: The Animated Series |
| 12 | Star Trek: Short Treks |
| 13 | Star Trek: Discovery |
| 14 | Star Trek: Picard |
To rank every show, we tried to reflect what fans and newcomers value most in the franchise. Our ranking system weighed narrative quality, character development, world-building, legacy impact, and consistency across seasons. We also considered how each series expands the Star Trek timeline, explores core franchise themes, and delivers memorable episodes that stand out in science-fiction television. Production quality, audience reception, innovation, and contribution to the overall canon all played major roles. By combining these factors, we created a balanced and comprehensive list that helps viewers decide which Star Trek series to watch first, which ones reward long-term fans, and how each show fits into the broader universe.
13. Star Trek: Picard
Overview
- Release Years: 2020–2023
- Seasons: 3
- Episodes: 30
- Showrunners: Michael Chabon; Terry Matalas; Alex Kurtzman
- Network/Platform: Paramount+
- Timeline: 2399–2401
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
First, we have Picard. It started with bold ambitions. There was cursing (the f word!), a crew made of losers, and a beaten-down cargo ship. Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) is the most popular character on Next Generation, and it promised to tell a new story about the fan-favorite character. The first season was the exact opposite of what we know as Trek, and that could have been refreshing. But this isn’t why it’s the worst. It’s the worst because it’s so boring. The acting is strong throughout all three seasons, but the story is muddled and confusing, with plots about renegade robots and time travel malarkey. By the third season, it went in the opposite direction, bringing every character that wants a paycheck back and even the Enterprise D. Even then, it’s hot garbage. It’s a shame because there was a real chance to do something new and exciting. The show has zero rewatchability.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Remembrance (S1E1)
- The Star Gazer (S2E5)
- The Impossible Box (S3E6)
- Absolute Candor (S1E7)
- The Last Best Hope (S3E10)
Who is This Show For?
TNG fans and viewers who prefer emotional legacy stories.
12. Star Trek: Discovery
Overview
- Release Years: 2017–2024
- Seasons: 5
- Episodes: 65
- Showrunners: Bryan Fuller; Alex Kurtzman
- Network/Platform: CBS All Access / Paramount+
- Timeline: 2256–2258 / 32nd century
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
Next, we have Discovery. When the show premiered, it was the first Star Trek show in over a decade. Plus, it was the first on streaming. But it boasted visuals that rivaled movies. Unfortunately, right out of the gate, it tried too hard to be different with Klingons that look like the California Raisins on steroids. The confusing writing and whiplash-inducing plotting got slightly better when it moved 1000 years in the future. Then they introduced Captain Pike and familiar characters like Spock. But the show is still inconsistent. The show got slightly better when it jumped 1000 years into the future. But that also meant the wonderful prequel characters were gone. On the plus side, we got the first female African American captain! But by the end, the show ended with a sputter rather than a bang.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Magic to Make the Sanest Man Go Mad (S1E11)
- Despite Yourself (S1E11)
- Vaulting Ambition (S2E10)
- Such Sweet Sorrow, Part 1 & 2 (S2E13-14)
- That Hope is You, Part 2 (S4E10)
Who is This Show For?
Fans of modern, emotional, serialized storytelling.
11. Star Trek: Short Treks
Overview
- Release Years: 2018–2020
- Seasons: 2
- Episodes: 10
- Showrunners: Various modern Trek producers
- Network/Platform: CBS All Access
- Timeline: Varied
- Format: Live-Action/Animated
Why It Ranks Here
The next show is barely a show. The inventive anthology series Short Treks offers a mix of standout gems and uneven storytelling. That said, the short videos enrich the lore of Discovery, Picard, and Strange New Worlds. Released on Paramount Plus, it features experimental, bite-sized stories of 8-20 minutes that allowed for creative risks and character-focused narratives. While it was originally a companion to Discovery, the series expanded to include various segments of the Star Trek universe. Although some episodes were hit-or-miss, standout offerings like “Calypso” and “Q&A” showcased the potential of the anthology format. However, the series ultimately fell short of its potential, as earlier episodes clung too closely to their parent series, leaving viewers wishing for more beyond its two seasons.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Calypso (S1E1)
- Ephraim and Dot (S2E3)
- Ask Not (S1E3)
- Children of Mars (S2E4)
- Q&A (S1E4)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Viewers who want quick stories that expand continuity.
10. Star Trek: The Animated Series
Overview
- Release Years: 1973–1974
- Seasons: 2
- Episodes: 22
- Showrunners: Gene Roddenberry; D.C. Fontana
- Network/Platform: NBC
- Timeline: 2269–2270
- Format: Animated
Why It Ranks Here
The tenth show on the list is Star Trek: The Animated Series. It aired on NBC from 1973 to 1974, making up 22 episodes, and is considered the fourth season of the original Star Trek. Produced by Gene Roddenberry and D.C. Fontana, it won an Emmy for Outstanding Children’s Series in 1975. While featuring most of the original voice cast, Walter Koenig’s Chekov was replaced by new characters. The series blended traditional storytelling with whimsical elements, creating a unique yet inconsistent viewing experience. It included sequels to original episodes and introduced notable concepts like the “rec room,” a precursor to the holodeck. Despite its primitive animation by today’s standards, it holds nostalgia for devoted fans and is regarded as a canonical extension of the Star Trek universe.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Yesteryear (S1E2)
- The Time Trap (S2E3)
- The Slaver Weapon (S1E9)
- More Tribbles, More Troubles (S2E5)
- One of Our Planets is Missing (S2E4)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Completionists and fans of vintage animation.
9. Star Trek: Starfleet Academy
Overview
- Release Years: 2026–Present
- Seasons: 1 (Season 2 expected in 2027)
- Episodes: 10
- Showrunners: Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau
- Network/Platform: Paramount+
- Timeline: 32nd Century (Post-Burn / Discovery Era)
Why it Ranks Here
Next up is Starfleet Academy. It’s part of a bold experiment to appeal to young adults (Gen Z) and a new audience. They hoped to reach an audience outside of Star Trek fandom. The diverse cast was designed to appeal to a wider audience. All of that is admirable, and the show deserves praise instead of scorn for making the effort. It certainly doesn’t deserve the review bombing.
Unfortunately, the show is hampered by poor writing. Also, the inexperienced cast struggles to convey the complex emotions demanded of them. Most of the episodes lack real stakes, which makes the show feel unimportant. Critics have been mixed, and long-time fans have been vocal about their hatred of the series. I was willing to give it a chance, but it fell short.
Best Episodes to Watch
- “Rubincon” (S1E10)
- “300th Night” (S1E09)
- “Come, Let’s Away” (S1E06)
- “The Life of the Stars” (S1E08)
- “Vox in Excelso” (S1E04)
Who is This Show For?
Younger viewers and newcomers to Star Trek
Who is This Show Best For?
10. Star Trek: Scouts
Overview
- Release Years: 2025–Present
- Seasons: 1
- Episodes: 10
- Showrunners: Tanya Corbett
- Network/Platform: Paramount+
- Timeline: Late 24th Century / Post-Dominion War
Why It Ranks Here
The second animated show on the list is Star Trek: Scouts. It’s hard to compare a children’s show with other adult-oriented series. However, it earns its place for offering a fresh, youth-focused take on the Star Trek universe while still honoring the franchise’s core values. Set on the frontier edges of Federation space, the series follows a diverse group of young Starfleet cadets assigned to a training vessel that unexpectedly becomes stranded far from home. Blending exploration, emotional growth, and classic Trek problem-solving, Scouts stands out for its character-driven storytelling and its emphasis on mentorship, teamwork, and scientific curiosity. The show appeals to families, younger viewers, and longtime fans who appreciate a lighter, optimistic series that still fits seamlessly within the Star Trek timeline.
Best Episodes to Watch
- “Quantum Fault” (S1E01)
- “The Silent Nebula” (S1E04)
- “Lessons of the Lost” (S1E07)
- “Cadet’s Honor” (S1E08)
- “First to Rise” (S1E10)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Star Trek: Scouts is best for younger viewers, families, and Trek fans who enjoy cadet adventures, teamwork, and character-driven, exploration-focused stories.
8. Star Trek: Prodigy
Overview
- Release Years: 2021–2024
- Seasons: 2
- Episodes: 40
- Showrunners: Kevin Hageman; Dan Hageman
- Network/Platform: Paramount+ / Netflix
- Timeline: 2383
- Format: Animated
Why It Ranks Here
Next up is Star Trek: Prodigy. It’s an innovative CGI-animated series designed to engage younger audiences while preserving the core values of the Star Trek franchise. Created by Kevin and Dan Hageman, it follows a diverse group of alien teens who commandeer the USS Protostar, guided by a hologram of Captain Janeway (Kate Mulgrew) from Star Trek: Voyager. The series skillfully blends new characters with callbacks to Star Trek history, focusing on themes of teamwork and mentorship. Though it faced early cancellation, Prodigy has become a fan favorite for its uplifting narrative and strong character development, making it an ideal introduction to Star Trek for children. Or children at heart.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Ouroboros, Part 2 (S2E10)
- Ouroboros, Part 1 (S2E9)
- The Devourer of All Things, Part 1 & 2 (S1E12-13)
- Supernova, Part 1 & 2 (S1E11-12)
- Kobayashi (S1E3)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Kids, teens, and families new to Trek.
7. Star Trek: Enterprise
Overview
- Release Years: 2001–2005
- Seasons: 4
- Episodes: 98
- Showrunners: Rick Berman; Brannon Braga; Manny Coto
- Network/Platform: UPN
- Timeline: 2151–2155
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
Star Trek: Enterprise, airing from 2001 to 2005, is often seen as an underrated prequel with significant Federation lore. Set in the 22nd century, it chronicles the voyages of the NX-01 under Captain Jonathan Archer and features a reimagined ensemble with T’Pol and Trip Tucker. While its storytelling was uneven and sometimes viewed as derivative of earlier series, later seasons captured a pioneering spirit and laid the foundation for the Federation’s origins. The show reportedly improved over its run but faced challenges, including a controversial finale and the burden of being the last Star Trek series before a prolonged hiatus. Despite criticism, Scott Bakula’s portrayal of Archer and the series’s unique take on Star Trek have garnered it a reassessment over time.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Twilight (S3E8)
- Carbon Creek (S2E2)
- Regeneration (S2E23)
- Zero Hour (S4E26)
- Babel One / United (S4E11-12)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Viewers who like origins/prequels and worldbuilding setup.
6. Star Trek: Lower Decks
Overview
- Release Years: 2020–2024
- Seasons: 4
- Episodes: 50
- Showrunners: Mike McMahan
- Network/Platform: Paramount+
- Timeline: 2380s
- Format: Animated
Why It Ranks Here
At long last, we get to the clever Trek satire, Star Trek: Lower Decks. It’s made with love. It combines humor with deep affection for the franchise, featuring character development and emotional depth. Created by Mike McMahan and inspired by The Next Generation episode “Lower Decks,” it showcases the lives of the USS Cerritos support crew, led by Lt. Beckett Mariner and her friends, while humorously critiquing Star Trek tropes. The series enriches the show’s lore, exploring 24th-century themes and showcasing diverse cultures, such as Orion. As an animated comedy, it offers a unique perspective on Starfleet life, balancing outrageous plots with a heartfelt tribute to the franchise. Despite occasionally overwhelming comedy, it refreshingly reveals new realms of the Star Trek galaxy to explore.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Cursed! (S3E1)
- Temporal Edict (S1E7)
- No Small Parts (S1E9)
- Crisis Point (S2E7)
- The Spy Humongous (S3E3)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Comedy lovers and long-time Trek fans who enjoy in-jokes.
5. Star Trek: Voyager
Overview
- Release Years: 1995–2001
- Seasons: 7
- Episodes: 172
- Showrunners: Michael Piller; Jeri Taylor; Brannon Braga
- Network/Platform: UPN
- Timeline: 2371–2378
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
Star Trek: Voyager has an adventurous premise and strong character development, particularly of Captain Janeway, the Doctor, and Seven of Nine. Premiering in 1995 as the first Star Trek series led by a female captain, it introduced fans to new aliens while confronting the challenges of the Delta Quadrant. Although it varied in quality and didn’t fully meet the expectations set by Star Trek: The Next Generation, its impact was significant, especially for female audiences. The series gained popularity by enhancing character dynamics, particularly when Seven of Nine was introduced (her costume helped), elevating the show’s appeal. Despite some flaws, particularly in character consistency, Voyager’s legacy continues to resonate with viewers, marking a notable achievement in television history.
Best Episodes to Watch
- Blink of an Eye (S6E12)
- Scorpion, Part I & II (S3E26-4E1)
- Living Witness (S4E23)
- Timeless (S5E6)
- Endgame (S7E25-26)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Fans who enjoy survival stories and strong character arcs.
4. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
Overview
- Release Years: 2022–present
- Seasons: 2+
- Episodes: 30
- Showrunners: Akiva Goldsman; Henry Alonso Myers
- Network/Platform: Paramount+
- Timeline: 2259–
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
Fourth is Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. The show successfully revives the franchise’s episodic format with modern production values. Set before Captain Kirk’s era, the series follows Captain Christopher Pike and the U.S.S. Enterprise on self-contained adventures, showcasing a strong cast led by Anson Mount as Pike, alongside familiar faces like Spock (Ethan Peck). The show is cheerfully charming. But it also has bold storytelling and takes innovative risks, including a comedic crossover and the franchise’s first musical. By brilliantly blending classic Trek spirit with contemporary elements, Strange New Worlds offers an exhilarating experience while maintaining its adventurous essence, eagerly anticipating its upcoming seasons. Unfortunately, the episodes have swung wildly from great (“A Quality of Mercy”) to terrible (“A Space Adventure Hour”).
Best Episodes to Watch
- A Quality of Mercy (S1E6)
- Those Old Scientists (S1E5)
- Ad Astra Per Aspera (S1E2)
- Memento Mori (S1E3)
- Hegemony (S1E10)
Who Is This Show Best For?
New viewers and fans of episodic but modern Trek.
3. Star Trek: The Original Series
Overview
- Release Years: 1966–1969
- Seasons: 3
- Episodes: 79
- Showrunners: Gene Roddenberry; Gene Coon; Fred Freiberger
- Network/Platform: NBC
- Timeline: 2266–2269
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
Star Trek: The Original Series, created by Gene Roddenberry, debuted with a multiracial crew led by Captain Kirk (William Shatner), Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy), and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley). The series has earned praise for episodes such as “The City on the Edge of Forever,” written by Harlan Ellison. It also addresses themes of exploration, diversity, and moral dilemmas. But the special effects, even by the standards back then, are terrible. The remastered versions help, but it’s still distracting. Add some truly scene-chewing acting and bizarre stories, and it doesn’t hold up. But its impactful social commentary and memorable performances have left a lasting legacy, influencing the franchise and television as a whole, and continue to attract new audiences.
Best Episodes to Watch
- The City on the Edge of Forever (S1E28)
- Balance of Terror (S1E14)
- The Devil in the Dark (S1E25)
- Amok Time (S2E1)
- The Trouble with Tribbles (S2E15)
Who Is Show Best For?
Sci-fi purists and fans of 60s adventure TV.
2. Star Trek: The Next Generation
Overview
- Release Years: 1987–1994
- Seasons: 7
- Episodes: 178
- Showrunners: Gene Roddenberry; Michael Piller; Jeri Taylor
- Network/Platform: Syndicated
- Timeline: 2364–2370
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
The second-greatest show is Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG). It redefined the franchise with its mature storytelling, strong ethical dilemmas, and character-driven arcs. Initially struggling to escape the shadow of The Original Series, it found its identity by season three, achieving critical acclaim for its balance of optimism and exploration. Despite early criticism, TNG evolved, particularly under new leadership, showcasing Captain Picard and complex narratives involving iconic species. The series is celebrated for its profound storytelling and remains one of the defining entries in Star Trek history, highlighted by Sir Patrick Stewart’s iconic performance.
Best Episodes to Watch
- The Inner Light (S5E25)
- Chain of Command, Part II (S6E11)
- Darmok (S5E2)
- Yesterday’s Enterprise (S3E15)
- Redemption, Part I & II (S4E26-5E1)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Fans who want classic Trek philosophy and character-driven sci-fi.
1. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
Overview
- Release Years: 1993–1999
- Seasons: 7
- Episodes: 176
- Showrunners: Michael Piller; Ira Steven Behr
- Network/Platform: Syndicated
- Timeline: 2369–2375
- Format: Live-Action
Why It Ranks Here
Finally, we have Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, which began airing in 1993. It’s the strongest Star Trek series due to its groundbreaking approach. Unlike its predecessors, it is set on a space station rather than a starship, allowing for introspection and longer-lasting impacts from storylines. It features Commander Benjamin Sisko, the franchise’s first African-American lead, and an eclectic ensemble cast. Showrunner Ira Steven Behr made it the first serialized series in the franchise, tackling complex themes such as love, death, and war, particularly during the Dominion War arc. It’s deep political narratives and moral ambiguity that establish it as a uniquely ambitious entry in the Star Trek universe.
Best Episodes to Watch
- In the Pale Moonlight (S6E19)
- The Visitor (S4E3)
- Far Beyond the Stars (S6E13)
- Duet (S1E19)
- Sacrifice of Angels (S6E6)
Who Is This Show Best For?
Viewers who enjoy complex arcs and darker storytelling.
Final Verdict
When looking at the entire franchise, one thing becomes clear: Star Trek thrives because every series brings something unique to the galaxy. Whether it’s the philosophical optimism of The Next Generation, the deep serialized storytelling of Deep Space Nine, the adventurous tone of Voyager, or the modern, character-driven energy of Strange New Worlds, each show contributes to the legacy in its own way. Our final verdict is simple — there is no single “best” Star Trek, only the best show for the viewer’s tastes. With options ranging from animated adventures to gritty war arcs and episodic exploration, the franchise continues to evolve while staying true to its mission: exploring strange new worlds, seeking out new life, and boldly going where no series has gone before.
Which Star Trek series is your personal favorite, and which episodes do you think belong on the top-five list? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to join the conversation on social media—let’s see which show boldly goes to the top in the fan rankings!
