Top 10 Best True Crime Podcasts in 2026
True crime continues to be the most popular genre in podcasting. Whether you are a fan of long-form investigations or episodic deep-dives into unsolved mysteries, these 10 shows represent the absolute best of the genre in 2026.
The Top 10 Ranked Shows
Casefile True Crime
The gold standard for fact-based, respectful storytelling. Casefile's deep research and clinical delivery make it the most immersive true crime experience available.
Download freeMy Favorite Murder
The show that launched a thousand 'Murderinos.' Karen and Georgia's blend of true crime and comedy remains a cultural phenomenon and a must-listen for fans of the genre.
Download freeSerial
The podcast that changed everything. Serial's meticulous investigative journalism continues to set the bar for how complex criminal cases are presented in audio format.
Download freeCrime Junkie
Ashley and Brit's 'be your own detective' approach makes listeners feel like they are part of the investigation, focusing on cases that need more public attention.
Download freeDateline NBC
The classic TV show translated perfectly to audio. Keith Morrison's iconic narration and the show's deep access to law enforcement make it a staple for true crime fans.
Download freeThe Generation Why Podcast
One of the longest-running true crime shows, Justin and Aaron provide thoughtful analysis and debate on some of the most famous (and obscure) cases in history.
Download freeCriminal
Phoebe Judge's soothing voice and the show's focus on the 'human' side of crime—rather than just the gruesome details—makes it a unique and sophisticated listen.
Download freeSword and Scale
Known for its use of raw audio from 911 calls and court transcripts, Sword and Scale provides a visceral, sometimes uncomfortable look at the darkest corners of humanity.
Download freeMorbid
A heavy dose of research mixed with a lighthearted (but respectful) dynamic between the hosts. Morbid covers everything from serial killers to spooky folklore.
Download freeAnatomy of Murder
Hosted by a former prosecutor and a former deputy sheriff, this show provides a unique 'insider' look at how cases are actually built and solved.
Download freeWhy Listen with The Podcast App?
Finding the perfect show in a sea of millions can be exhausting. While these top 10 lists provide a great starting point, The Podcast App is designed to take your discovery further. Our Podcast Brain AI understands the semantic content of every episode, allowing you to find shows that match your specific interests, even if they aren't on the mainstream charts.
Download the app for free on iOS or Android and experience a dedicated, ad-free environment where your listening experience is prioritized. With features like smart speed, offline downloads, and AI-powered summaries, you'll spend less time searching and more time listening.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the best true crime podcast for new listeners?
Serial is the best entry point for new true crime listeners. Its meticulous investigative journalism and gripping narrative style set the standard for the genre. Crime Junkie is another great starter with its concise, well-researched episodes that cover a wide range of cases.
Are true crime podcasts free to listen to?
Yes, all 10 podcasts on this list offer free episodes. You can listen to them on The Podcast App, which provides a completely ad-free experience with offline downloads at no cost on both iOS and Android.
Which true crime podcasts focus on unsolved cases and cold cases?
Casefile True Crime and Crime Junkie frequently cover unsolved and cold cases. Casefile is known for deep research into lesser-known cases, while Crime Junkie highlights cases that need more public attention and encourages listeners to help bring them to light.
Download The Podcast App
Get the best listening experience on your phone. Clean, fast, and powered by AI discovery.