Best Podcasts About True Crime, Particularly Those Focusing On Unsolved Mysteries. in 2025
Unsolved mysteries have long captivated the human imagination. True crime podcasts, especially those that delve into these perplexing cases, offer an immersive and engaging way to explore these events and get to know the victims. Their popularity is a testament to our curiosity and the compelling nature of these unsolved stories. What differentiates high-quality podcasts in this niche is a focus on rigorous research, sensitive storytelling, and engaging production. Some focus on forensic details. Others highlight the human impact. Some may also feature interviews with people involved in the case. This buying guide provides a list of top podcasts within this category.
What's In This Guide
- •Our Selection Methodology
- •Selection Criteria
- •Casefile True Crime - Best Overall for In-Depth Investigations
- •Unresolved - Best for Dedicated Unsolved Mystery Focus
- •The Generation Why Podcast - Best for a Conversational True Crime Experience
- •Bear Brook - Best for in-depth examinations of cases
- •True Crime All the Time Unsolved - Best for Audio Drama re-creations
- •Conclusion & Recommendations
- •Frequently Asked Questions
Our Selection Methodology
AI algorithms analyzed thousands of data points, including user reviews from various podcast platforms (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.), expert opinions from true crime podcast critics, and episode ratings. The analysis considered content quality, production value, the host's performance, and the selection of cases. Podcasts were ranked based on a weighted scoring system, with content quality and host engagement being the most significant factors. Further, the AI examined the podcast's focus on unsolved mysteries as a key criterion. The final recommendations represent the podcasts that consistently ranked highly across all these metrics.
Selection Criteria
Content Quality
The accuracy and thoroughness of the research, the depth of investigation, and the sensitivity with which the stories are told were important factors in identifying the best podcasts within this category.
Production Value
This encompasses audio quality, editing, use of music and sound effects (where appropriate), and overall presentation.
Host Engagement
The effectiveness of the host in telling the story, maintaining listener interest, and providing clear and concise information.
Story Selection
The podcast's ability to choose and present compelling and well-researched cases, with a focus on unsolved mysteries.
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Top 5 Podcasts About True Crime, Particularly Those Focusing On Unsolved Mysteries. in 2025
Pros
- Extremely well-researched and detailed investigations.
- Excellent production quality and sound design.
- Objective and unbiased storytelling.
Cons
- Can sometimes delve less into the actual unsolved cases.
- Release schedule can be inconsistent.
Key Specifications
Casefile is a highly-regarded true crime podcast known for its in-depth investigations and the anonymous host's approach. Production quality is exceptional, with well-researched content and a chilling narrative style that avoids sensationalism. The podcast covers a variety of cases, with a strong selection of episodes dedicated to unsolved mysteries. Casefile’s strength lies in its ability to maintain a high standard of accuracy and engaging storytelling. The host's ability to narrate cases without being overly sensational makes this a top choice.
Pros
- Exclusive focus on unsolved cases.
- Extensive coverage and diverse case selection.
- Clear and concise presentation of information.
Cons
- May not appeal to those seeking solely forensic details.
- Limited focus on the host's personality.
Key Specifications
Unresolved is specifically devoted to unsolved cases, making it an ideal choice for those interested in this subcategory. Its strength lies in the sheer volume of unsolved mysteries it explores. Episodes are well-researched and cover a broad range of cases. The host's delivery is clear and straightforward, making Unresolved essential for listeners interested in a broad look at unsolved mysteries.
The Generation Why Podcast
Best for a Conversational True Crime Experience
https://thegenerationwhy.com/Pros
- Engaging and conversational style.
- Consistent release schedule and extensive back catalog.
- Insightful analysis and discussion led by hosts.
Cons
- Some find the conversational style less structured.
- Occasionally relies on listener contributions, which increases risk of misinformation.
Key Specifications
Generation Why is one of the longest-running true crime podcasts and it has a strong reputation. Hosted by two friends, the podcast employs a conversational style that makes listeners feel like they are part of discussions. While the focus is true crime in general, numerous episodes tackle unsolved cases. Their research is strong, and the hosts provide insightful commentary and analysis, which makes for an engaging listening experience. While conversational, their knowledge of the topic, their research, and their willingness to discuss potential theories makes this a top choice.
Pros
- Focus on the investigation
- Uses audio clips and expert interviews
Cons
- Focuses on US cases, which might not appeal to a global audience.
- Production and format is not as slick as some others
Key Specifications
Cold case podcast, Bear Brook, focuses on the investigation of a murder case. The podcast uses audio clips, and in-depth interviews. It is less focused on the forensic details but is useful in its depiction of how cases are handled. For people particularly attracted to the details of how cases are handled, this podcast provides an excellent, in-depth examination.
Pros
- Unique re-creation style
- Good sound effects
Cons
- Can be graphic due to the real-life re-creations.
- Not for the squeamish.
Key Specifications
True Crime All the Time Unsolved takes a slightly edgier stance. It includes recreations in the form of audio drama. Often, there have been few leads in these cases, which lends the podcast a unique perspective. The audio drama format can be useful in allowing the listener to walk through the process with the investigator. This offers an additional layer of analysis. The production quality can also be high, with good sound effects
Conclusion
For true crime enthusiasts seeking the most compelling narratives and comprehensive investigations of unsolved mysteries, the podcasts listed above offer a diverse and consistently high-quality listening experience. The choices range from deeply researched deep dives to more conversational experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best true crime podcast for me?
The best podcast depends on your personal preferences. Both the hosts' style and the podcast's scope are important. Some podcasts are highly produced with audio and sound effects, while others are more narrative driven. Similarly, some focus on a narrow range of cases, and others cover a wider range. Consider what you would most like to get out of the podcast.
Are true crime podcasts free to listen to?
While many true crime podcasts are free, some may offer premium content like ad-free listening or bonus episodes. However, the core content is usually freely available across various podcast platforms.
How often are new episodes released?
The frequency varies. Some podcasts release episodes weekly, others bi-weekly, and some follow a season format with longer breaks in between. Check the podcast's feed to see its release schedule.