Terminator Movies in Order

Skynet and the resistance in release order — from The Terminator through Dark Fate

This guide lists every main Terminator film in release order — the sequence audiences originally experienced them. Release order is the best marathon for first-time viewers because character introductions, callbacks, and story twists land naturally. 6 films are included below with posters, ratings, and direct links.

Terminator Films in Release Order

The Terminator poster
1984#1

The Terminator

TMDB7.7
90%

The Terminator (1984) kicks off this Terminator guide in release order and sets the tone for the rest of the run. Open it on MovieLinks to see where it streams, how fans rate it, and what to queue next in order.

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Terminator 2: Judgment Day poster
1991#2

Terminator 2: Judgment Day

TMDB8.2
90%

In release order, Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) is the bridge chapter — best watched after the earlier Terminator entries on this list. Track it on MovieLinks for current streaming links, TMDB scores, and related picks in the same universe.

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Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines poster
2003#3

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

TMDB6.2
70%

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) is a core middle chapter for Terminator fans following the official release sequence. Open it on MovieLinks to see where it streams, how fans rate it, and what to queue next in order.

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Terminator Salvation poster
2009#4

Terminator Salvation

TMDB6.1
33%

Terminator Salvation (2009) sits mid-saga in release order and carries forward story beats established earlier in Terminator. Use MovieLinks to compare ratings, check streaming options, and jump straight to the title.

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Terminator Genisys poster
2015#5

Terminator Genisys

TMDB6.0
26%

Terminator Genisys (2015) is a core middle chapter for Terminator fans following the official release sequence. Open it on MovieLinks to see where it streams, how fans rate it, and what to queue next in order.

Open
Terminator: Dark Fate poster
2019#6

Terminator: Dark Fate

TMDB6.4
70%

Terminator: Dark Fate (2019) closes the main Terminator film line-up in release order — save it for when you want the saga's last chapter. Use MovieLinks to compare ratings, check streaming options, and jump straight to the title.

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FAQ

What is the best order to watch Terminator movies?

Release order is the standard recommendation for first-time viewers. It matches how the movie were originally released and keeps the story easy to follow.

How many Terminator movies are there?

This guide includes 6 movies in the recommended watch order. Streaming availability may vary by region.

Is chronological order different from release order?

Yes. Chronological order follows in-universe events rather than premiere dates. Release order is easier for first-time viewers; chronological order works better on a rewatch.

Where can I watch Terminator movies?

Streaming availability changes by country and platform. Check MovieLinks for current options, trailers, and related titles in the Terminator universe.

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