The Big Bang Theory

10 Best Episodes of The Big Bang Theory - Season 5

The Big Bang Theory, which aired on CBS from 2007 to 2019, is one of the most popular sitcoms of all time. The show centers on five characters living in Pasadena, California and features the geekiness and intellect of Leonard Hofstadter, Sheldon Cooper, Howard Wolowitz and Raj Koothrappali contrasted with the common sense and social skills of Penny. With 13 seasons of content, fans have plenty of episodes to choose from. Here we will rank the best episodes of The Big Bang Theory and discuss why they are so popular.

The Big Bang Theory is renowned for its clever writing and witty dialogue. The show explores a variety of topics, ranging from relationships and romance to science and technology. It also features a number of recurring jokes and cultural references. All of these elements combine to make The Big Bang Theory an entertaining and memorable show.

Given the show’s long run, it’s no surprise that it has featured some truly outstanding episodes over the years. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best episodes of The Big Bang Theory and discussing why they are so highly ranked. From heartfelt moments to laugh-out-loud comedy, these episodes are sure to please any fan of the show.

Written by Sophie and last updated on apr 22, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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The Big Bang Theory - S5E10

#15 - The Flaming Spittoon Acquisition (Season 5 - Episode 10)

Sheldon considers taking his relationship with Amy to the next level when Stuart from the comic book store asks her out on a date.

The episode was rated 8.03 from 2936 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E15

#14 - The Friendship Contraction (Season 5 - Episode 15)

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Sheldon's selfish demands force Leonard to reconsider their friendship. Meanwhile, Wolowitz tries to pick his astronaut nickname.

The episode was rated 8.07 from 2845 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E9

#13 - The Ornithophobia Diffusion (Season 5 - Episode 9)

Leonard and Penny try hanging out as friends on a 'non-date,' but end up purposely ruining each others chances with perspective dates. Meanwhile, Sheldon enlists the help of Bernadette and Amy to overcome his fear of birds.

The episode was rated 8.07 from 2903 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E5

#12 - The Russian Rocket Reaction (Season 5 - Episode 5)

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Sheldon and Leonard get invited to a party at Wil Wheaton's house, and Howard gets an out-of-this-world opportunity.

The episode was rated 8.08 from 2970 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E22

#11 - The Stag Convergence (Season 5 - Episode 22)

After the guys throw Howard a bachelor party, Bernadette reconsiders marrying him after learning about his sexual history.

The episode was rated 8.08 from 2787 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E17

#10 - The Rothman Disintegration (Season 5 - Episode 17)

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Sheldon and his rival Barry Kripke fight it out over the availability of a new office. Penny gets a gift from Amy that really tests their friendship and it doesn't end well.

The episode was rated 8.11 from 2753 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E13

#9 - The Recombination Hypothesis (Season 5 - Episode 13)

The Big Bang Theory is a show that follows the lives of four friends as they navigate through love, science and their quirky personalities. In the episode “The Recombination Hypothesis” Leonard and Penny contemplate getting back together after Leonard breaks up with Priya. This episode is one of the most memorable of the season, as it brings together the two characters that have had a will they won’t they relationship since the beginning of the show.

The episode starts with Leonard and Penny spending an evening together, seemingly as friends, until sparks start to fly and the conversation turns to the possibility of them getting back together. This episode is a great example of the lighthearted and comedic moments that make The Big Bang Theory so enjoyable. The witty dialogue and the perfect comedic timing of the actors make it an episode to remember.

The episode was rated 8.12 from 2924 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E20

#8 - The Transporter Malfunction (Season 5 - Episode 20)

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In the episode "The Transporter Malfunction" from the hit show The Big Bang Theory, Penny buys Leonard and Sheldon Star Trek collectibles as a thank you. This leads Sheldon to become obsessed with the character Mr. Spock, hearing his voice everywhere he goes. Raj, on the other hand, is set up on a date by his parents and believes he has found the "Future Mrs. Koothrappali".

Although viewers were disappointed that Spock did not make an actual appearance, the episode still managed to capture the essence of the Star Trek icon. It was humorous to see Sheldon become so preoccupied with the character that it began to haunt him. Additionally, Raj's story line created a more lighthearted side to the episode, adding a comedic element.

The episode was rated 8.14 from 2791 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E19

#7 - The Weekend Vortex (Season 5 - Episode 19)

In the episode of The Big Bang Theory titled "The Weekend Vortex," Sheldon is faced with a difficult decision. On one hand, Amy has invited him to join her at her aunt's birthday party, but on the other hand, he has been invited to spend the weekend playing video games with his friends. This creates a "weekend vortex," in which Sheldon must choose between spending quality time with Amy or having fun with the guys.

The struggle of choosing between the two is exacerbated by the fact that Sheldon is a creature of habit and loves his daily routine. He wants to make the right decision but is torn between the two options. In the end, he learns that sometimes it is ok to break from his routine and try something new, and winds up having a great time at the party with Amy.

The episode was rated 8.15 from 2874 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E18

#6 - The Werewolf Transformation (Season 5 - Episode 18)

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In this episode of The Big Bang Theory, Sheldon becomes agitated when his regular barber is out sick, leaving him with a difficult decision to make. Meanwhile, Howard undergoes astronaut training which causes him to reconsider his desire to go into space. Finally, Penny beats Leonard in chess, the first time she ever plays, much to his surprise.

Howard's comedic timing is always spot on and this episode is no exception. Despite his training, his witty comments and gags provide plenty of laughs for the audience. Meanwhile, Sheldon's inability to find a suitable barber replacement is humorous and the audience feels for him as he struggles to make a decision. Finally, Penny's victory over Leonard in chess is a hilarious moment and shows the audience just how far she has come in her own personal growth.

The episode was rated 8.19 from 2837 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E23

#5 - The Launch Acceleration (Season 5 - Episode 23)

In the episode "The Launch Acceleration" of The Big Bang Theory, Howard Wolowitz's mission to space is moved up by NASA, and Howard must now face his fears and Bernie's dad while their wedding plans are put in jeopardy. While this is happening, Leonard says something unexpected to Penny in the bedroom. This episode is sure to be an emotional rollercoaster for the characters and the audience.

The episode will likely focus on Howard's character arc as he deals with his fears and his future father-in-law. We can also expect to see the tension between Leonard and Penny as Leonard reveals his surprising comment. Emotions will run high as the characters deal with their issues, and Howard's mission to space hangs in the balance. Will Howard be able to overcome his fears and launch into space, or will he remain grounded? Will the wedding plans stay on track, or will they be derailed?

The episode was rated 8.20 from 2891 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E14

#4 - The Beta Test Initiation (Season 5 - Episode 14)

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In the episode "The Beta Test Initiation" of The Big Bang Theory, Leonard and Penny contemplate the possibility of starting their relationship again. Raj finds someone he can talk to without having to be drunk, and Sheldon enlists Amy's help to launch a YouTube series entitled "Sheldon Cooper presents Fun with Flags".

This episode is full of hilarious moments, especially when Sheldon starts his new YouTube series. People were so delighted with this scene that many suggested that the show should do couple specials only for this part. The Big Bang Theory continues to be a hit show, delivering laughs and heartfelt moments in every episode.

The episode was rated 8.21 from 2893 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E21

#3 - The Hawking Excitation (Season 5 - Episode 21)

In this episode of The Big Bang Theory, Wolowitz gets the chance of a lifetime to collaborate with the renowned Stephen Hawking. Sheldon, being an admirer of Hawking, will do whatever it takes to meet his idol. Sheldon puts his dignity on the line and goes to extraordinary lengths to meet and impress Hawking, but ends up embarrassing himself.

This was a great episode of The Big Bang Theory and was a fitting tribute to the late Stephen Hawking. It was nice to see Hawking on the show and have the audience appreciate his brilliance. Even though Sheldon was embarrassed in the end, he still cherished the moment he had with Hawking and was able to follow through with his dream of meeting him. May Hawking Rest In Peace.

The episode was rated 8.22 from 2931 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E7

#2 - The Good Guy Fluctuation (Season 5 - Episode 7)

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In the episode "The Good Guy Fluctuation" of The Big Bang Theory, Leonard and Priya's relationship is put to the test when a cute comic book artist enters the picture. Meanwhile, Sheldon is determined to scare the guys for Halloween. The episode is full of laughs, including a hilarious moment when Sheldon shouts "Bazinga, punk! Now we're even!"

The Big Bang Theory has always been a show that is packed with comedic moments and this episode is no exception. It is no wonder why this episode is considered one of the best of this season so far. From Sheldon's mischievous attempts to scare the guys to Leonard and Priya's relationship woes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a fan of the show or just looking for a good laugh, this episode is sure to please.

The episode was rated 8.28 from 3195 votes.

The Big Bang Theory - S5E24

#1 - The Countdown Reflection (Season 5 - Episode 24)

The Big Bang Theory's episode "The Countdown Reflection" follows Howard as his mission to space is quickly approaching. In order to not leave without being married, he and Bernadette decide to get married before his launch. Their sudden decision causes the gang to scramble in order to arrange the wedding in time. The entire gang works together to make the day special for the couple, making sure nothing is left out.

At the end of the episode, the finally married couple is surrounded by their closest friends. In a sweet moment, they all hold hands as they reflect on the special event. It was a perfect way to end the episode, showing that even when rushed, something beautiful can still come out of it.

The episode was rated 8.30 from 2906 votes.

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