7 Best Sitcoms Without Laugh Tracks, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score

While laugh tracks have become a thing of the past in recent years, television is still replete with sitcoms that are just as amusing (or even more so) than their predecessors from the 20th century.

Here's a list of seven comedy shows to brighten your day — and they don't even need a laugh track to crack you up!

7. Arrested Development (2003–2006, 5 seasons, 75%)

The original seasons of Arrested Development may seem outdated to some, but the situations and characters of this show are just as hilarious as they were 20 years ago. Revolving around the highly dysfunctional Bluth-Fünke family, this sitcom is an absolute must-see.

6. 30 Rock (2006–2013, 7 seasons, 78%)

Apart from its hilarity, this sitcom's main highlight is the star-studded cast. Centered around a crew of a fictional sketch comedy show, 30 Rock delivers a very lighthearted story, and it's a sheer pleasure to watch.

5. Modern Family (2009–2020, 11 seasons, 85%)

This ABC mockumentary was a success right from its debut in 2009. The writers' unorthodox takes on family matters, combined with the relative freshness of the genre, make the show a fun-cracking machine.

4. Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000–present, 11 seasons, 92%)

Goofy yet smart, this satirical sitcom was created by one of Seinfeld's authors, Larry David. It's been on the air for over two decades now, albeit sporadically, making fun of comedians and the industry in general.

3. Parks and Recreation (2009–2015, 7 seasons, 93%)

Inspired by The Office, this show inherited the iconic sitcom's best aspects, but it also feels more vigorous and dynamic than its predecessor. Following the personal and professional lives of small civil servants, Parks and Rec is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

2. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005–present, 15 seasons, 94%)

This sitcom is somewhat Friends-ish, except that its characters are probably not as likable as those in Friends. The five pub owners are selfish, narcissistic, and co-dependent — but their controversial personalities are the source of the series' great humor.

1. The Middle (2009–2018, 9 seasons, N/R)

Although it doesn't have a score on Rotten Tomatoes, The Middle has made it to our list because it has everything a sitcom needs — a lighthearted narrative centered around a typical American family, lovable characters, hilarious jokes, and great acting. Never dropping in quality throughout its nine seasons, this sitcom has what it takes to cheer you up even on the bleakest day.