10 Best ‘Young Sheldon’ Episodes, Ranked

Young Sheldon has always been more than a sitcom. Yes, it’s funny. Yes, it’s quirky. But it also has heart — the kind of heart that sneaks up on you, grabs your emotions, and makes you fall in love with this brilliant, awkward, endlessly lovable boy from Texas. And with the show now part of TV history, it’s the perfect time to look back at the episodes that truly defined it.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone just discovering the Cooper family, this list of the Top 10 Best Young Sheldon Episodes will remind you why this series became one of the most beloved prequels in sitcom history.

Let’s dive in.

The Ranking Criteria: What Makes an Episode “The Best”?

Before we get into the list, here’s how each episode earned its spot:

• Emotional impact

• Character development

• Humor and memorable moments

• Rewatchability

• Long-term impact on the story

These episodes combine the laughter, warmth, and heartache that make Young Sheldon a standout.

10. A Patch, a Modem, and a Zantac® (Season 1)

This early episode shows Sheldon discovering the internet for the first time — and it’s everything you would expect. His excitement, curiosity, and hyperfocus feel so real, and watching him explore the world online is both hilarious and nostalgic. It’s the perfect introduction to how the world of technology shaped him.

9. A Computer, a Plastic Pony, and a Case of Beer (Season 2)

This episode explores Sheldon saving money for a computer, only for George Sr. to step in at just the right moment. It highlights the softer side of George — something fans would come to cherish — while weaving in family humor that hits just right.

8. A Party Invitation, Football Grapes, and an Earth Chicken (Season 3)

Social events are tough for Sheldon, and this episode captures that awkwardness perfectly. When he’s invited to a party, the episode becomes a funny, relatable look into Sheldon navigating childhood friendships. Its mix of humor and growth makes it memorable.

7. A Virus, Heartbreak, and a World of Possibilities (Season 5)

This is the episode where Sheldon deals with his first real emotional heartbreak — and the show handles it beautifully. Watching him try to understand emotional pain and cope with disappointment is both sweet and surprisingly profound.

6. A Pager, a Club, and a Cranky Bag of Crinkles (Season 4)

This episode shines because of Sheldon’s unexpected involvement with university clubs. It’s a perfect blend of his intellectual curiosity and the social quirks that keep causing him problems. It also deepens his relationship with Dr. Linkletter in hilarious ways.

5. A Docent, a Little Lady, and a Bouncer Named Dalton (Season 4)

Missy takes center stage, and fans loved it. While Sheldon has plenty of comedic moments, Missy’s journey in this episode adds depth to the Cooper siblings’ dynamic. It’s an episode that feels heartfelt and grounded.

4. A Tougher Nut and a Note on File (Season 6)

This episode gives us a beautifully intense look at Sheldon trying to prove himself academically in ways he hasn’t before. It’s a defining moment that ties directly into his future identity as the adult Sheldon fans know from The Big Bang Theory.

3. The Cooper Family Embarrassment (Season 2)

Sheldon participates in the school science fair, and the chaos that follows is pure Cooper-style comedy. It brings together all the quirky personalities in the family in a way that feels both chaotic and warm. Fans consider it one of the funniest episodes of the early seasons.

2. Four Hundred Cartons of Undeclared Cigarettes and a Niblingo (Season 5)

This episode is special because it blends humor with deeper emotional consequences. It highlights George Sr.’s struggles, Sheldon’s obliviousness, and Mary’s attempts to hold everything together. The balance is perfect — heavy, but not overwhelming.

1. Funeral (Season 7)

The final season delivered the most emotional punch of the entire series — and this episode stands above them all. Without revealing major spoilers, it handles grief, family, and transition in a way that left fans stunned and moved.

It’s not just the best episode of Young Sheldon — it’s one of the most powerful episodes in the entire Sheldon universe.

It ties seamlessly into Sheldon’s adult story, connects emotionally to The Big Bang Theory, and serves as a heartbreaking yet beautiful farewell to major characters. Fans felt this one deeply, making it deserving of the #1 spot.

Why Young Sheldon’s Best Episodes Hit So Hard

So why do these episodes stand out? Because Young Sheldon isn’t just about jokes — it’s about family.
The Coopers feel real.
Their struggles feel familiar.
Their wins feel earned.

Whether you’re watching Sheldon’s academic triumphs, George’s attempts to be a good dad, Mary’s fierce protectiveness, or Missy’s rise as a fan favorite, each episode offers something honest and relatable.

That’s the magic of the show.

The Legacy of Young Sheldon

Now that the series has wrapped, fans are already revisiting episodes and rediscovering the heart of the show. The best episodes don’t just entertain — they remind us why the series mattered in the first place.

Young Sheldon wasn’t just a prequel.
It was a celebration of childhood, family, loss, love, and the messy, hilarious journey toward becoming who we’re meant to be.

Conclusion

Ranking the 10 best Young Sheldon episodes wasn’t easy — the show is full of unforgettable moments. But these standout episodes capture everything fans loved: humor, warmth, character growth, and emotional storytelling that hits harder than you expect.

Whether you’re rewatching the series or discovering it for the first time, these episodes are the perfect starting point to appreciate the legacy Young Sheldon leaves behind.

FAQs

1. Is Young Sheldon finished?
Yes, the show concluded with Season 7, creating a complete story that connects beautifully to The Big Bang Theory.

2. Do I need to watch The Big Bang Theory to enjoy Young Sheldon?
Not at all — Young Sheldon stands on its own, though fans of the original series enjoy additional context.

3. Which season of Young Sheldon is considered the best?
Many fans consider Seasons 3, 5, and 7 the strongest due to emotional depth and major character development.

4. Is the show based closely on Sheldon’s backstory from TBBT?
Yes, but with added emotional layers and new storylines that expand his childhood world.

5. Are there any spin-offs planned?
A new spin-off focusing on Georgie and Mandy has already been announced, continuing the Cooper family story.