Detective shows have long captivated audiences with their intricate plots, compelling characters, and the thrill of unraveling mysteries. Netflix, a powerhouse in streaming, offers an impressive array of detective series that cater to every taste—whether you prefer gritty realism, psychological depth, or a touch of humor. From time-bending conspiracies to chilling true-crime adaptations, here’s a curated list of the 10 best detective shows on Netflix that you absolutely must watch. Each series is a masterclass in storytelling, guaranteed to keep you glued to your screen.

1. Bodies (2023)

Based on Si Spencer’s graphic novel, Bodies is a mind-bending sci-fi detective drama that spans four timelines: 1890, 1941, 2023, and 2053. The series follows four detectives, each investigating the same mysterious murder of a man found naked in a London alley. As they dig deeper, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens the future of Great Britain. With stellar performances from Amaka Okafor, Shira Haas, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, and Kyle Soller, Bodies weaves a complex narrative that rewards attentive viewers. Its eight episodes are perfect for a binge, blending historical drama, futuristic intrigue, and classic detective work. If you love puzzles that span centuries, this is a must-watch.

2. Mindhunter (2017–2019)

Created by Joe Penhall and frequently directed by David Fincher, Mindhunter is a gripping blend of fact and fiction set in the late 1970s. The series follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they pioneer criminal profiling by interviewing imprisoned serial killers like Edmund Kemper and David Berkowitz. The show’s cerebral approach focuses on the psychology of both the killers and the detectives, exploring how obsession with evil can take a toll. With its meticulous pacing and chilling dialogue, Mindhunter is a standout for fans of psychological thrillers. Though it only ran for two seasons, its impact is undeniable.

3. Unbelievable (2019)

Unbelievable is a powerful limited series based on a Pulitzer Prize–winning article about a series of rapes between 2008 and 2011. The story centers on Marie (Kaitlyn Dever), a teenager whose assault report is dismissed by male detectives, and two female detectives, Grace Rasmussen (Toni Collette) and Karen Duvall (Merritt Wever), who later connect her case to a serial rapist. The series is a masterclass in empathetic storytelling, highlighting systemic failures in handling sexual assault cases. Its eight episodes are emotionally gripping, with standout performances that make it a must-see for true-crime enthusiasts.

4. The Åre Murders (2025)

For fans of Nordic noir, The Åre Murders is a chilling new addition to Netflix’s detective lineup. Based on Viveca Sten’s book series, this Swedish series follows detectives Hanna Ahlander (Carla Sehn) and Daniel Lindskog (Kardo Razzazi) as they investigate a missing person case in the snowy ski resort town of Åre. What begins as a routine investigation spirals into a web of family secrets, dark conspiracies, and heinous crimes. The picturesque yet eerie setting, combined with intense character-driven drama, makes this series a binge-worthy gem. Its recent rise to Netflix’s top charts proves its broad appeal.

5. Dept. Q (2025)

Dept. Q introduces Detective Chief Inspector Carl Morck (Matthew Goode), who leads a new Edinburgh police unit dedicated to solving cold cases. After a tragic on-duty shooting, Morck assembles a team of misfits to tackle seemingly hopeless cases, only to uncover shocking secrets. Based on Jussi Adler-Olsen’s crime-thriller novels, this British series combines gritty realism with intricate plotting. Goode’s nuanced performance as the troubled yet determined detective anchors the show, making it a compelling watch for fans of classic police procedurals with a modern twist.

6. The Good Detective (2020–2022)

This South Korean series offers a fresh take on the detective genre with its focus on ethics and justice. The Good Detective follows two contrasting detectives—Kang Do-chang (Son Hyun-joo), a seasoned veteran with questionable morals, and Oh Ji-hyuk (Jang Seung-jo), an idealistic newcomer—as they revisit a five-year-old murder case that led to a wrongful conviction. The series blends intense investigative work with personal drama, exploring themes of corruption and redemption. Its tight pacing and strong performances make it a standout for fans of international crime dramas.

7. Giri/Haji (2019)

A BAFTA-winning British-Japanese co-production, Giri/Haji (translated as Duty/Shame) is a thrilling blend of noir and family drama. Tokyo detective Kenzo Mori (Takehiro Hira) travels to London to find his presumed-dead brother, Yuto (Yosuke Kubozuka), who is entangled with the Yakuza and accused of murder. The series alternates between Tokyo and London, weaving a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. With its stylish visuals, bilingual dialogue, and pulse-pounding action, Giri/Haji is a unique entry in the detective genre that’s as emotionally resonant as it is suspenseful.

8. Missing You (2025)

Adapted from Harlan Coben’s novel, Missing You is a limited series that follows Detective Inspector Kat Donovan (Rosalind Eleazar) in the missing persons unit. Her life unravels when she spots her ex-fiancé, Josh Buchanan (Ashley Walters), on a dating app, reigniting a personal mystery tied to her past. Coben’s signature twists and turns keep viewers guessing, while Eleazar’s compelling performance grounds the emotional stakes. This British series is a perfect blend of personal drama and investigative intrigue, making it a must-watch for fans of fast-paced mysteries.

9. Murderville (2022)

For a lighter take on the detective genre, Murderville is a hilarious improv comedy starring Will Arnett as Senior Detective Terry Seattle. Each episode features a celebrity guest star—like Conan O’Brien, Marshawn Lynch, or Sharon Stone—who must solve a murder case without a script, leading to unpredictable and laugh-out-loud moments. The show’s absurd humor and Arnett’s deadpan delivery make it a refreshing departure from more serious detective fare. If you’re in the mood for a quick, fun binge, Murderville’s six episodes are a delight.

10. The InBESTigators (2019–2020)

Perfect for younger audiences or families, The InBESTigators is an Australian series about a group of kids running a detective agency from a backyard office. Led by the sharp-witted Maudie (Anna Cooke), the team—Ezra (Aston Droomer), Ava (Abby Bergman), and Kyle (Jamil Smyth-Secka)—solves neighborhood mysteries with charm and cleverness. The show’s mockumentary style and relatable characters make it engaging for all ages, proving that detective work isn’t just for adults. Its lighthearted mysteries are a great palette cleanser after heavier crime dramas.

Why These Shows Stand Out

What makes these detective shows so compelling? Each one offers a unique angle on the genre, from Bodies’ time-hopping conspiracy to Unbelievable’s unflinching look at real-world issues. Mindhunter and The Good Detective delve into the moral complexities of justice, while Murderville and The InBESTigators inject humor and accessibility. International series like The Åre Murders and Giri/Haji bring diverse perspectives, showcasing Netflix’s commitment to global storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to psychological depth, high-stakes action, or family-friendly fun, there’s something here for everyone.

Netflix’s strength lies in its ability to cater to varied tastes while maintaining high production quality. These shows feature top-tier casts, intricate writing, and innovative approaches to the classic whodunit. They invite viewers to play armchair detective, piecing together clues alongside the characters. Plus, most are designed for binge-watching, with limited series like Unbelievable and Missing You delivering complete stories in a single season.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Netflix has you covered with these 10 exceptional detective shows. From the haunting realism of Unbelievable to the comedic chaos of Murderville, each series offers a fresh take on the genre. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and dive into these captivating worlds of crime and investigation. Whether you’re solving a murder across centuries or laughing at an improv gone wrong, these shows are guaranteed to leave you wanting more. Start streaming now and see if you can crack the case before the detectives do!