All 11 Star Trek TV Shows, Ranked

Star Trek has been a beacon of sci-fi storytelling for nearly 60 years, inviting us to explore strange new worlds. From its bold 1960s debut to today’s streaming hits, the franchise has grown into a massive universe with 11 TV shows.

Each series offers a unique lens on the final frontier, whether through gripping drama, fresh characters, or big ideas. I’ve ranked all 11 based on their storytelling, cultural weight, and how they embody the heart of Star Trek.

Star Trek: Enterprise (2001-2005)

‘Star Trek: Enterprise’ tracks Captain Jonathan Archer, played by Scott Bakula, and his crew on Earth’s first starship in the 22nd century. Jolene Blalock as T’Pol and Connor Trinneer as Trip Tucker round out the cast.

The show aimed to depict humanity’s raw early space ventures, but clunky plots and a divisive theme song held it back. It found its footing in later seasons with stronger arcs, yet its cancellation after four years left it as Trek’s weakest link.

Star Trek: Picard (2020-2023)

‘Star Trek: Picard’ sees Patrick Stewart return as Jean-Luc Picard, now retired in a grittier future. The cast includes Isa Briones, Santiago Cabrera, and Jeri Ryan as Seven of Nine.

Its early seasons leaned hard on nostalgia, often feeling scattered and less like classic Trek. The third season rallied with a ‘Next Generation’ reunion, but the show’s focus on Picard’s personal struggles over broader exploration keeps it low in the ranks.

Star Trek: Discovery (2017-2024)

‘Star Trek: Discovery’ centers on Michael Burnham, portrayed by Sonequa Martin-Green, starting a decade before the original series. Doug Jones as Saru and Mary Wiseman as Sylvia Tilly add depth.

The show’s dark tone and serialized style initially clashed with Trek’s optimistic roots. Later seasons, especially in the far-future 32nd century, embraced bold visuals and mysteries, but it struggled to fully win over longtime fans.

Star Trek: The Animated Series (1973-1974)

‘Star Trek: The Animated Series’ revived the Enterprise’s adventures with voices from the original cast, like William Shatner as Kirk and Nichelle Nichols as Uhura. It lasted two seasons.

Wild sci-fi concepts, like a planet-eating cloud, showed ambition, but low-budget animation and stiff pacing dimmed its shine. It’s a quirky piece of Trek history, adding canon details like Spock’s childhood, yet it feels dated.

Star Trek: Voyager (1995-2001)

‘Star Trek: Voyager’ follows Captain Kathryn Janeway, played by Kate Mulgrew, leading a crew lost in the Delta Quadrant. Tim Russ as Tuvok and Robert Picardo as the Doctor stand out.

The survival premise promised high stakes, but early seasons often mimicked ‘Next Generation’ stories. Strong later arcs, like Seven of Nine’s evolution and Borg battles, lifted it, making it a beloved but uneven entry.

Star Trek: Prodigy (2021-2024)

‘Star Trek: Prodigy’ is an animated show for kids, following teens who commandeer a starship, guided by a Janeway hologram, voiced by Kate Mulgrew. Rylee Alazraqui and Angus Imrie lead the voices.

Its colorful animation and themes of friendship make it a perfect Trek gateway for young viewers. While it captures the franchise’s spirit, its simpler tone lands it mid-tier for broader audiences.

Star Trek: Lower Decks (2020-2024)

‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’ is a funny animated series about the USS Cerritos’ junior officers. Voices include Noël Wells as D’Vana Tendi and Eugene Cordero as Sam Rutherford.

Packed with insider Trek jokes and warm humor, it celebrates the franchise while poking fun at it. Its niche comedic style clicks with fans who love a lighter take, but it’s not for everyone.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993-1999)

‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’ follows Commander Benjamin Sisko, played by Avery Brooks, on a space station near a wormhole. Nana Visitor as Kira Nerys and Colm Meaney as Miles O’Brien shine.

Unlike ship-based Trek, its focus on politics, war, and morally gray characters broke new ground. Early seasons were slow, but later arcs, like the Dominion War, delivered rich drama, earning it a strong fanbase.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (2022-Present)

‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ tracks Captain Christopher Pike, portrayed by Anson Mount, on the Enterprise pre-Kirk. Jess Bush as Nurse Chapel and Celia Rose Gooding as Uhura add spark.

Its return to episodic tales with modern polish feels like classic Trek reborn. With compelling characters and tight stories, it’s a fan favorite, though its newer status keeps it just shy of the top.

Star Trek: The Original Series (1966-1969)

‘Star Trek: The Original Series’ started it all, starring William Shatner as Captain Kirk, Leonard Nimoy as Spock, and James Doohan as Scotty. It ran for three seasons.

Its groundbreaking themes on equality and peace still resonate, despite dated visuals. The trio of Kirk, Spock, and McCoy defined Trek’s heart, making it a cultural icon that launched a dynasty.

Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ set a new standard with Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard commanding the Enterprise. Gates McFadden as Dr. Crusher and Michael Dorn as Worf became legends.

Early seasons stumbled, but episodes like ‘Best of Both Worlds’ showcased deep storytelling. Its blend of exploration and complex characters made it Trek’s pinnacle, shaping every show that followed.

Which Star Trek series tops your list, or did I miss a standout episode? Share your thoughts in the comments!