Fact check: Which is generally considered the better show by fans and critics. Breaking Bad, or Better Call Saul?

1. Summary of the results

The comparison between Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul reveals a complex and nuanced debate without a clear consensus. Multiple analyses show Breaking Bad winning in direct comparisons ^{[1] [2] [1]}, though often by narrow margins. Breaking Bad particularly excels in plot, setting, and intensity of storytelling ^[3]. However, Better Call Saul receives significant praise for its higher Rotten Tomatoes score of 98% compared to Breaking Bad's 96% ^{[4] [4]}, and is consistently lauded for superior character development and more nuanced storytelling.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual elements are worth noting:

• The shows employ fundamentally different storytelling approaches, with Better Call Saul taking a more intimate, character-driven approach compared to Breaking Bad's intense narrative style ^[5]
• Better Call Saul serves as a "brilliant companion piece" that actually enhances the original series rather than competing with it ^[3]
• The shows are extremely close in quality, with Better Call Saul potentially superior in specific aspects like character depth, consistency, and finale execution ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question assumes these shows need to be ranked against each other, which multiple sources suggest might be misleading. There are several potential biases to consider:

• Critical reception metrics like Rotten Tomatoes scores ^[4] might favor Better Call Saul's more subtle approach
• Breaking Bad's cultural impact and earlier release may influence perceptions of its quality ^[3]
• The shows' different approaches make direct comparison challenging, as they excel in different areas: Breaking Bad in plot and intensity, Better Call Saul in character development and nuance ^{[1] [5]}