The 10 Best Albums of 2025 — Ranked

This list was built from aggregated year-end rankings published by [Pitchfork](https://pitchfork.com) and [Rolling Stone](https://www.rollingstone.com), combined with reader votes cast on Top10Grid throughout 2025. An album needed recognition from at least three major outlets to qualify; community votes then determined the final order. Cast your own vote using the button above — every vote shifts the ranking in real time.

Which album topped the most 'best of 2025' lists? Billie Eilish's *HIT ME HARD AND SOFT* and Kendrick Lamar's *GNX* dominated year-end critical polls, with Eilish's record sweeping multiple major Grammy categories.

Is Chappell Roan's Midwest Princess Deluxe a brand-new album? No — it is an expanded reissue of her 2023 debut, adding the smash hit 'Good Luck, Babe!' and tracks recorded during her breakout year.

What kind of music is Mk.gee — Two Star & The Dream Police? Mk.gee blends indie-pop, lo-fi guitar rock, and hazy dream-pop. If you enjoy early Mac DeMarco or Weyes Blood, this is for you.

Can I vote for my favourite? Yes! Hit the vote button next to any album to push it up the community rankings — every vote counts.

What was the best album of 2025? Based on community votes on Top10Grid, the top-ranked album sits at #1 above — but rankings update in real time as more fans vote, so check back often to see if your pick has climbed.

How is this Top 10 list ranked? The order reflects votes cast by Top10Grid readers. Anyone can vote once per list; the album with the most votes rises to the top.

Were any 2024 albums included? All albums on this list had their primary commercial release in 2025. Deluxe editions (such as Chappell Roan's *Midwest Princess Deluxe*) are included where the added material was substantial enough to warrant a standalone ranking.

What was the biggest surprise album release of 2025? Kendrick Lamar's *GNX* arrived without warning as a surprise drop and is widely regarded as a career peak.

Which 2025 album produced the most viral singles? Sabrina Carpenter's *Short n' Sweet* — every release from the album became a viral moment.

Which 2025 album was the most talked-about debut? Mk.gee's *Two Star & The Dream Police* was the most talked-about debut of the year, bringing hazy, guitar-driven pop to a new audience.

What is the best live album edition of 2025? Mitski's *My Love Mine All Mine Tour Edition* added live renditions that showcased her songwriting in a new light.

Which artist cemented their breakthrough status in 2025? Chappell Roan's *Midwest Princess Deluxe* cemented her rise, with "Good Luck, Babe!" remaining inescapable throughout the year.