The BEST Seasons of S.W.A.T. (2017)

When S.W.A.T. premiered in 2017, no one expected it would become one of the most gripping, emotionally rich, and action-packed series on television. But year after year, it has delivered a powerful combination of high-intensity tactical missions, deep character development, and storylines that reflect real-world struggles.

And of course, fans can’t help but argue over one big question: Which seasons of S.W.A.T. are truly the best?

Today, we’re diving deep into the most iconic, unforgettable, and fan-favorite seasons this franchise has ever produced. Get ready—because this breakdown might stir up some heated debates.

Why Ranking the Best Seasons of S.W.A.T. Isn’t Easy

Honestly? Every season brings its own strengths. Some seasons hit harder emotionally, while others blow fans away with bigger missions, stunning visuals, or massive plot twists. As the show evolves, each season feels like a new chapter while still honoring its roots.

But after analyzing fan reactions, emotional impact, storytelling depth, and pure adrenaline moments, some seasons truly stand out.

Let’s break them down one by one.

Season 1: The Foundation That Started It All

Season 1 is where fans fell in love with Hondo, Street, Deacon, Luca, Chris, and the world of Team 20. It set the tone for everything that followed—action-packed missions mixed with moral dilemmas, leadership challenges, and personal journeys.

Why Season 1 Stands Out

• Introduces one of TV’s strongest ensemble casts

• Establishes Hondo as a layered, compassionate leader

• Balances action with emotional storytelling

• Features compelling early character conflicts, especially Street’s rocky start

Season 1 doesn’t just launch a show—it launches a legacy.

Season 2: Bigger Stakes, Bolder Storylines

Season 2 takes everything fans loved and makes it even better. The missions escalate, the characters grow, and the emotional storytelling deepens.

Characters face new challenges in their careers and personal lives, making this season incredibly memorable.

What Makes Season 2 One of the Best

• Strong, consistent writing throughout

• High-stakes operations that push the team to their limits

• Deep dives into Street’s past and Deacon’s struggles

• A perfect mix of action and heart

It’s one of the seasons fans love to rewatch.

Season 3: Emotional Depth and Incredible Character Arcs

Season 3 hits differently. It’s more emotional, more intense, and more introspective. The storytelling focuses heavily on the inner lives of Team 20, showing how personal battles can affect their work on the field.

Why Season 3 Is a Fan Favorite

• Reveals vulnerabilities in almost every major character

• Brings emotional weight to the series

• Explores heavier themes without losing action

• Strengthens the team dynamic like never before

Season 3 proves S.W.A.T. isn’t just an action show—it’s a show with heart.

Season 4: Tackling Real-World Issues

Season 4 deserves massive respect. It boldly addresses tough social and political issues with rawness, empathy, and honesty. Few action shows have the courage to handle such topics—and fewer do it well.

Why Season 4 Is One of the Most Important Seasons

• Confronts racial tension, policing challenges, and social justice

• Provides some of Hondo’s most powerful storylines

• Humanizes law enforcement in a meaningful way

• Delivers well-crafted, high-energy missions

Season 4 isn’t just entertainment—it’s a conversation starter.

Season 5: Hondo’s Evolution and Redemption

Season 5 focuses heavily on Hondo’s identity, leadership, and moral compass. Fans get to see him at his lowest and watch him fight his way back. This personal journey makes Season 5 one of the most emotionally impactful seasons.

Why Season 5 Leaves a Lasting Impression

• Shows Hondo’s vulnerability and resilience

• Brings fresh storylines and dynamic shifts

• Offers visually stunning missions

• Deepens interpersonal relationships within the team

It’s the season that proves Hondo is more than a leader—he’s a survivor.

Season 6: Cinematic Missions and Global Action

Season 6 expands the S.W.A.T. universe beyond Los Angeles. The team faces global threats, international missions, and larger-than-life enemies. It feels closer to a movie than a TV season.

What Makes Season 6 Stand Out

• Big-budget action sequences

• Broader storytelling scope

• Tighter team coordination

• Bold, high-energy episodes that keep fans hooked

This season is adrenaline from start to finish.

Season 7: The Emotional Setup Before the Storm

Season 7 feels like the tightening coil before a final spring release. Every episode adds tension, buildup, and emotional preparation for what’s coming next. Fans feel the weight of every choice.

Why Season 7 Hits Hard

• Beautiful character evolution

• Strong themes of loyalty and sacrifice

• High suspense leading into the final chapters

• Emotional arcs that resonate deeply with long-time fans

Season 7 is the calm before the chaos—and fans loved it.

Season 8: The Explosive, Unforgettable Climax

Season 8 delivers the kind of finale fans talk about for years. With SWAT headquarters under attack, emotions run high, danger closes in, and Team 20 faces a threat unlike anything before.

Why Season 8 Is One of the BEST Seasons Ever

• A finale that’s bold, emotional, and unforgettable

• Real stakes that shake the entire team

• Incredible teamwork under pressure

• A perfect blend of action and emotional closure

Season 8 is the kind of ending fans hope for—powerful, meaningful, and worthy of the journey.

The Top 3 BEST Seasons of S.W.A.T. (Final Ranking)

After comparing emotional impact, character depth, action quality, storytelling strength, and fan reactions, here’s the ultimate ranking:

#1 – Season 3 (Emotional Masterpiece)

#2 – Season 8 (Explosive, unforgettable conclusion)

#3 – Season 2 (Perfect blend of action, character development, and tension)

These three seasons represent everything that makes S.W.A.T. extraordinary.

Why These Seasons Stand Above the Rest

They Deliver Emotional Resonance

From Hondo’s moral battles to Street’s growth to Deacon’s struggles, fans feel every moment.

They Balance Action With Story

Explosions are great—but meaning is better. These seasons deliver both.

They Show the Team as More Than a Unit

Team 20 isn’t just a tactical squad—it’s a family.

What Makes S.W.A.T. Such a Special Series

If you ask fans why they love S.W.A.T., you’ll hear answers like:

• “The characters feel real.”

• “The action scenes are insane.”

• “The emotional moments hit home.”

• “It’s authentic.”

• “Team 20 feels like family.”

S.W.A.T. isn’t just popular because it’s exciting. It’s popular because it has heart, depth, and soul.

Conclusion

Ranking the best seasons of S.W.A.T. isn’t easy because the show consistently delivers powerful storytelling, dynamic characters, and edge-of-your-seat missions. But certain seasons shine just a little brighter.

Whether it’s the emotional wave of Season 3, the explosive intensity of Season 8, or the perfect balance found in Season 2, each of these standout chapters proves exactly why S.W.A.T. has become one of the most beloved action series of the last decade.

It’s more than a show—it’s a journey filled with courage, loyalty, sacrifice, and heart.

And no matter which season fans rank as “the best,” one thing is certain: S.W.A.T. has earned its place in action TV history.

FAQs

1. Which S.W.A.T. season is considered the most emotional?
Season 3 is widely praised for its emotional depth and powerful character arcs.

2. What season has the best action scenes?
Season 6 offers some of the most cinematic, high-budget action sequences.

3. Which season is best for new viewers?
Season 1 is ideal for newcomers, but Season 2 or 3 also work well as entry points.

4. What makes Season 8 so memorable?
The intense SWAT headquarters attack and emotional finale make it unforgettable.

5. Which season is the fan-favorite overall?
Many fans rank Season 3 or Season 2 as their all-time favorites.