60 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You Entertained
Yes, you should absolutely marathon them.
Abrar Al-Heeti
CNET
2 min read
5/10
Key Takeaways
CNET's list includes 60 shows spanning over a dozen genres, from drama and comedy to documentary and sci-fi.
Netflix currently holds the number one spot globally with more than 260 million subscribers as of Q1 2025.
The curated selection features multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winners, such as 'The Crown' and 'Stranger Things'.
International series like 'Squid Game' (South Korea) and 'Money Heist' (Spain) are highlighted, reflecting Netflix's global reach.
Binge-watching habits are on the rise: the average Netflix user spends approximately 3.2 hours per day on the platform.
Netflix's library of original and licensed TV shows is vast, but CNET's curated list of 60 best TV shows on Netflix cuts through the noise. This definitive guide highlights the most binge-worthy series across every genre, from gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and mind-bending sci-fi. Whether you're a subscriber looking for your next obsession or a cord-cutter evaluating the service, this list is your roadmap to hours of premium entertainment. The list represents a cross-section of Netflix's global content strategy, featuring both acclaimed originals and popular licensed titles. CNET, a trusted tech and entertainment review outlet, compiled the selection based on critical reception, audience ratings, and cultural impact. The result is a diverse mix that spans decades—from classic sitcoms to recent Emmy-winning dramas. Why this matters now: with over 260 million subscribers worldwide, Netflix dominates the streaming landscape, but competition from Disney+, Max, and others is fierce. A reliable, up-to-date curation helps viewers maximize their subscription value. The CNET list includes breakout hits like Stranger Things and The Crown, alongside hidden gems such as Dark and Mindhunter. It also incorporates international content, including South Korean sensations like Squid Game and Spanish thrillers like Money Heist. Each entry on the list comes with a brief description, genre tags, and why it's worth watching. For example, viewers can expect recommendations tailored to different moods—from a lighthearted comfort watch to an intense limited series. Industry observers note that such lists are essential for discovery. With thousands of titles on Netflix, decision fatigue is real, and curated guides boost viewer satisfaction and retention. As streaming services continue to fragment, the ability to find quality content quickly becomes a key competitive advantage. Looking ahead, Netflix will continue to invest heavily in original programming, and future updates to this list will likely include new hits like The Night Agent and One Piece. For now, CNET's 60 best TV shows on Netflix is the ultimate starting point for any subscriber. The article serves as both a practical tool and a celebration of the golden age of television, reaffirming Netflix's role as a cultural curator.
Frequently Asked Questions
CNET's curated list of 60 shows includes critically acclaimed series like Stranger Things, The Crown, Squid Game, and Breaking Bad. It covers genres such as drama, comedy, sci-fi, and documentary, ensuring something for every taste.
CNET's selection is based on a combination of critical reviews, audience ratings, cultural impact, and diversity of genres. The list is updated periodically to reflect new releases and shifting trends.
No. The list includes both Netflix original series and licensed content from other networks, such as Breaking Bad and The Office. This mix ensures a broad range of high-quality options.
Yes. The list features global hits like Squid Game (South Korea), Money Heist (Spain), and Dark (Germany), reflecting Netflix's growing international library.
CNET revises the list periodically, typically every few months, to include new critically acclaimed series and remove those that are no longer available or have fallen out of favor.
