What Order Should You Watch Dragon Ball?
Dragon Ball is one of the longest-running and most beloved anime franchises ever created. But with multiple series, hundreds of episodes, and dozens of movies, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down the complete Dragon Ball watch order so you can enjoy the saga from start to finish — whether you're a first-timer or a returning fan.
The Recommended Watch Order
1. Dragon Ball (1986–1989) — 153 Episodes
The original series follows young Goku as he trains in martial arts and searches for the Dragon Balls. It's lighter and more comedic than what comes later, but it establishes every major character and the heart of the franchise.
Filler to skip: Episodes 29–33 (Training arc filler), Episodes 79–83 (Fortuneteller Baba filler padding).
2. Dragon Ball Z (1989–1996) — 291 Episodes
This is where Dragon Ball became a global phenomenon. Goku and the Z Fighters face increasingly powerful enemies — from the Saiyan Saga to the Buu Saga.
Key filler arcs to skip:
- Episodes 108–117 (Garlic Jr. Saga — entirely filler)
- Episodes 125–127 (fake Namek filler)
- Episodes 195–199 (Otherworld Tournament — fun but skippable)
Alternative: Watch Dragon Ball Z Kai (167 episodes) for a recut version with less filler and improved pacing.
3. Dragon Ball Super (2015–2018) — 131 Episodes
Set after the Buu Saga, Super introduces new transformations, universes, and gods. The Tournament of Power arc is considered one of the best arcs in the franchise.
Note: The first 27 episodes retell the Battle of Gods and Resurrection F movies. You can watch the movies instead and start Super at episode 28.
4. Dragon Ball GT (1996–1997) — 64 Episodes
GT is not canon but still enjoyable. It follows an older Goku on a space adventure. The ending is widely praised even by fans who don't love the series.
5. Dragon Ball Daima (2024–2025) — 20 Episodes
The latest entry, created with involvement from original creator Akira Toriyama. Set between Z and Super, it features chibi versions of the characters in a demon realm adventure.
Dragon Ball Movies Worth Watching
| Movie | When to Watch |
|-------|--------------|
| Dragon Ball: Path to Power | After Dragon Ball (retelling) |
| Battle of Gods | After DBZ, before Super |
| Resurrection F | After Battle of Gods |
| Dragon Ball Super: Broly | After Super episode 131 |
| Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero | After Broly |
Quick-Start Option
If you want to get into Dragon Ball fast:
- 1Watch Dragon Ball Z Kai (167 eps)
- 2Watch Dragon Ball Super from episode 28 (104 eps)
- 3Watch the Broly and Super Hero movies
That gives you the core experience in about 271 episodes — much more manageable than 600+.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip the original Dragon Ball?
You can, but you'll miss important character development for Goku, Krillin, Piccolo, and others. Z Kai does recap some of it.
Is GT worth watching?
It's optional since it's not canon, but the final episode is genuinely emotional and worth experiencing.
Where does Daima fit in the timeline?
Between the end of Dragon Ball Z and the start of Dragon Ball Super.
Looking for filler guides for other long-running anime? Check out our One Piece filler guide or browse all our watch order guides.
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