10 Best and worst crime drama shows that you should know before binging 

Crime dramas have always been popular with TV viewers because of the suspense, thrilling investigations, and complex characters. Some shows will reinvent the genre through good storytelling, while others decay due to bad writing, bad execution, or clichéd tropes.

So, before you decide to catch up on one more show, it is vital to know which ones are worth your time and which might leave you disappointed.

The list comprises a good crime drama against a parallel disgusting one, so the viewer gets a fair insight into the genre. From psychological thrillers to hardcore detective shows, we pit one masterpiece against another flop. Be it deep crime studies, heavy character studies, or true crime, we include all bases.

So here are the ten best and worst crime drama series that should be on your must-watch list before your next binge.

Disclaimer: The first five shows on the list include the avoidable shows followed by the best five. Additionally, the article is a reflection of the writer's views and opinions. Let us know in the comments what series should have made the cut!

1) True Detective (Season 2)

Following the masterpiece that was Season 1, the second season of True Detective felt like an overcooked mess. With an A-list cast including Colin Farrell, Vince Vaughn, and Rachel McAdams, the complicated plot, clunky dialogue, and unconvincing chemistry between actors made it a disappointing viewing experience.

The season went for complexity but ended in incoherence, with an excessive number of subplots and a disappointing villain. Although subsequent seasons boosted the reputation of the show, Season 2 is an exemplary case of how great expectations result in a great disappointment.

2) The Blacklist

James Spader's acting as Raymond "Red" Reddington is the sole reason The Blacklist survived for 10 seasons. Still, even his charm could not prevent the show from lacking originality in storytelling, ridiculous plot turns, and long-drawn-out mysteries.

The series began well, but its subsequent seasons were over-extended, with Red's actual identity epic taking a lot too long to deliver. The last season, which ended in 2023, disappointed viewers with its subpar conclusion. If you want a crime drama that offers good storytelling all the way, you can skip The Blacklist.

3) APB

APB had a cool concept: What if a billionaire took over a failing police station? Sadly, the execution was terrible. The show attempted to mix up crime-solving with cutting-edge technology but sounded like a knockoff of Person of Interest. The characters were shallow, the script sounded lazy, and the gadget gimmicks became increasingly absurd every episode.

It lasted only one season in 2017, and hardly anyone is talking about it now. If you’re looking for a smart, tech-driven crime drama, you’re better off watching Mr. Robot instead.

4) Instinct

CBS's Instinct was a try at making a contemporary Castle, but it was a failure. Starring Alan Cumming as a professor of psychology-turned-detective, the show was marred with generic plots, uncreative cases, and cringe-worthy humor. Worse, it was accused of copying a Bones episode, and it faced backlash.

With lackluster ratings, it was canceled after only two seasons. In comparison to other crime dramas that have strong character development and engaging mysteries, Instinct was forgettable at best.

5) Reef Break

Reef Break attempted to combine crime-solving with island adventure but went down quickly. The program had a surfer-turned-fixer solving crimes in a tropical paradise, but the writing was cheesy, the action scenes seemed low-budget, and the characters were one-dimensional.

It was trashed by critics and ignored by viewers, and it was canceled immediately after one season in 2019. If you're in the market for a strong crime drama that has action along with excellent storytelling, avoid this one.

6) True Detective (Season 1)

Few crime dramas have entranced audiences the way the first season of True Detective did. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star in a mesmerizing amalgamation of Southern Gothic horror, philosophy, and gripping detective work. The uncanny visuals and non-linear narrative went on to do much more.

Even today, discussions remain concerning the enigma of the Yellow King in pop culture. Recent speculations suggest a possible return to that dreaded universe, with True Detective: Night Country reportedly rekindling interest in the anthology.

7) Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad is on the list of the best crime dramas. The transition of Bryan Cranston from the mild-mannered teacher to ruthless drug kingpin is nothing short of legendary. The writing, cinematography, and compelling storytelling- with all its suspense- keep viewers glued to the screen.

Well, even in 2025, Better Call Saul's finale was relevant to Breaking Bad, making the parent show relevant even today. This influence is apparent in most new age crime dramas that fail in imitating the slow-burn intensity.

8) Mindhunter

David Fincher's Mindhunter is an intellectual tour de force that explores the psychology of serial killers. Drawn from real-life FBI profiling innovators, it boasts terrifying interviews with notorious offenders such as Ed Kemper. The show's rigorous attention to period detail, beautiful cinematography, and slow-burning narrative make it a standout.

Even after Netflix dropped it after two seasons, Mindhunter has become a cult classic, with supporters continuing to call for its return. In recent interviews, Fincher left the door open for revisiting the project in the future, keeping hopes alive.

9) Sherlock

Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock Holmes brought the iconic character back for a new generation. With high-octane storytelling, deductive brilliance, and energetic interplay with Martin Freeman's Watson, Sherlock captured the world's attention. Subsequent seasons saw a mixed reaction, but seasons one and two are close to flawless.

Since 2017, there has been no new material, yet whispers of a return continue. It is doubtful in light of Cumberbatch's Hollywood success, but hope exists. Even years later, Sherlock is still one of the cleverest and most fashionable crime dramas ever produced.

10) Narcos

Narcos established the gold standard for crime dramas based on true events. The ascension and descent of Pablo Escobar and the Cali Cartel were brought to vivid life with raw performances, compelling narratives, and a gritty, documentary-style approach.

Even after Escobar's saga concluded, Narcos: Mexico carried on the franchise's high standards. In 2024, Netflix revealed a new spin-off focusing on contemporary drug cartels, demonstrating that the show's legacy is very much alive. If you enjoy crime dramas based in history with edge-of-your-seat tension, Narcos is a must-watch.