All The 'CSI' Shows, Ranked

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Updated May 13, 2024 23.4K views 5 items
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Vote up the best shows in the CSI television franchise.

The first CSI series, named simply CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, premiered on October 6, 2000, bringing modern forensics to the classic procedural drama. Since then, there have been some great CSI series – expanding quickly into an incredibly interconnected franchise that spanned 16 years and almost 50 characters (and four songs by The Who).

CSI: Las Vegas was often criticized for sensationalism, both in the subjects it covered and that it did not provide viewers with a realistic idea of how the criminal forensic process worked. Even so, it received multiple Golden Globe and Emmy nominations, winning several for its effects and cinematography.

Only four series made up the CSI television franchise, but they were accompanied by numerous books, comics, and video games. Running from 2000-2015, the first CSI series ran the longest, ending with 337 episodes. CSI: Cyber, which premiered in 2015, only ran for two seasons, ending six months after the original series aired its last episode. The characters at the different CSI labs often worked together, and the franchise aired 12 crossover episodes within the franchise and four crossovers with other series, including Without A Trace and Mythbusters.

In this list, we're going to look at all the CSI shows and find out once and for all which are the best in the CSI TV universe. We won’t get fooled again about which CSI series are the best, so vote up the best CSI TV shows ever made.

  • CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
    1

    CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

    Ted Danson, Elisabeth Shue, George Eads
    560 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: NCIS, Criminal Minds, Bones, Castle, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
    Why Should I Stream? CSI: Crime Scene Investigation offers a captivating look into the world of forensic science and detective work, appealing to viewers with an interest in unraveling mysteries. The series has received praise for its character development and meticulous attention to detail, earning numerous awards throughout its 15-season run. As a key influence on modern crime dramas, this show is an essential component of any aficionado's watchlist.

    An investigation team in Las Vegas scours crime scenes for forensic evidence.
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  • CSI: NY
    2

    CSI: NY

    Gary Sinise, Sela Ward, Carmine Giovinazzo
    471 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Cold Case, Without a Trace, Numb3rs, Blue Bloods, Third Watch
    Why Should I Stream? By setting its compelling investigations against the backdrop of bustling New York City, CSI: NY provides a distinctive take on crime scene analysis amidst urban turmoil. The stellar ensemble cast led by Gary Sinise adds depth to their roles while using advanced forensic technology to solve grisly crimes. Acclaimed for combining accurate scientific methodology with enthralling storytelling, this series remains a must-watch for police procedural enthusiasts.

    Forensic investigators use high-tech science to follow evidence and solve crimes in the Big Apple.
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  • CSI: Miami
    3

    CSI: Miami

    David Caruso, Emily Procter, Adam Rodriguez
    546 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: NCIS: Los Angeles, Crossing Jordan, JAG, The Glades, Body of Proof
    Why Should I Stream? CSI: Miami delivers an enticing blend of sun-drenched scenery and high-stakes criminal investigations, making it perfect for viewers seeking both excitement and intrigue. With memorable performances from David Caruso and Emily Procter, this series showcases how cutting-edge forensics can be used to apprehend criminals under challenging circumstances in South Florida's vibrant environment. Add this riveting show to your lineup for a taste of tropical suspense laced with innovative investigative tactics.

    Delving into the world of forensic science, CSI: Miami offers a thrilling exploration of criminal investigations in the sun-soaked city. Led by Lieutenant Horatio Caine (David Caruso), this skilled team of investigators unravels complex cases through meticulous analysis and cutting-edge technology. The show's gripping narratives, coupled with its dynamic ensemble cast, have earned it numerous award nominations, including six Primetime Emmy Awards. With a blend of drama, suspense, and occasional humor, CSI: Miami has made a lasting impression on television audiences, solidifying its place as an iconic crime procedural in the pantheon of TV classics.
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  • CSI: Vegas
    4

    CSI: Vegas

    Paula Newsome, Matt Lauria, Mandeep Dhillon
    285 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The Mentalist, Rizzoli & Isles, White Collar, Hawaii Five-0
    Why Should I Stream? Building upon the success of the original series, CSI: Vegas retains the suspenseful intrigue and inventive crime-solving techniques that made its predecessor stand out in the television landscape. Introducing new characters and challenges within the Las Vegas Police Department's forensics team, this spin-off keeps audiences captivated by each unexpected development. Don't miss the opportunity to witness how this thrilling continuation expands upon the beloved CSI franchise.

    A brilliant new team of forensic investigators welcomes back old friends and deploys new techniques.
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  • CSI: Cyber
    5

    CSI: Cyber

    Patricia Arquette, Ted Danson, James Van Der Beek
    264 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Blacklist: Redemption, Person of Interest, Scorpion, Mr. Robot, Blindspot
    Why Should I Stream? Focusing on the rapidly evolving landscape of cybercrime, CSI: Cyber opens up new avenues of intrigue as it tackles complex cases involving digital threats and online law enforcement. Starring Patricia Arquette as a skilled cyber psychologist, this series offers captivating insights into the minds of both criminals and investigators within a virtual world. By exploring the dangers lurking behind screens and devices, CSI: Cyber presents an exhilarating journey that showcases the importance of cybersecurity in today's society.

    CSI: Cyber plunges into the dark world of cybercrime, following an elite team of FBI Special Agents tasked with solving Internet-related murders, cyber theft, hacking, sexual offenses, and blackmail. Led by Special Agent Avery Ryan (Patricia Arquette), a cyber-psychologist turned field agent, the series plunges into the murky depths of crimes that start in the mind, live online, and play out in the real world. The show delves into themes of privacy invasion and the far-reaching consequences of digital technology. Arquette's performance anchors the series, which expands the CSI franchise into the increasingly relevant realm of cyber threats.
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