Imagine Dragons Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Figuring out the best Imagine Dragons albums can spark lively debate among fans.
Everyone has their favorites, often tied to personal memories or a specific sound.
Today, we're diving into Imagine Dragons albums ranked, guided first and foremost by fan sentiment. We've looked at discussions, polls, and overall community buzz to get a feel for the most cherished records.
Later, we'll also glance at how their discography stacks up based on current popularity data. Let's explore this journey through their powerful anthems and evolving sounds.
Ranking Imagine Dragons's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. Evolve (2017)
Released in 2017, Evolve marked a significant, well, evolution for Imagine Dragons.
Frontman Dan Reynolds described this third studio album as a deliberate shift for the band. This came after their previous album, Smoke + Mirrors, and its extensive world tour.
The album aimed for a brighter, more pop-infused sound. It still retained the band's signature arena-rock energy.
Evolve was a commercial success, peaking at number 2 on the US Billboard 200. It also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album.
Key tracks:
- Believer
- Thunder
Topping our fan-driven ranking, Evolve clearly resonates deeply with a large part of the Imagine Dragons fanbase.
Its blend of anthemic hits and a slightly more polished production seems to be a winning formula for many listeners.
2. Night Visions (2012)
Night Visions, released in 2012, was the debut album that catapulted Imagine Dragons to global fame.
The band, along with producer Alex da Kid, crafted an album that took three years to complete. It featured several tracks previously released on EPs.
Musically, Night Visions showcased a unique blend of pop rock, folk, hip hop, and electronic influences. This created a fresh sound for the time.
The album was a massive commercial success. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and achieved multi-platinum status worldwide.
Key tracks:
- Demons
- Radioactive
Securing the second spot, Night Visions holds a special place for many. It was their introduction to the band's powerful sound.
The raw energy and iconic singles from this era have left a lasting impression on fans. It remains a cornerstone of their discography.
3. Origins (2018)
Origins arrived in 2018, quickly following its predecessor, Evolve.
Frontman Dan Reynolds described it as a "sister album" to Evolve. He suggested it completed a musical cycle for the band.
The album continued to explore the pop rock and electronic soundscapes, with production from many collaborators from Evolve.
While critical reception was mixed, many saw Origins as an extension or refinement of the sounds explored in their third album.
Key tracks:
- Natural
- Bad Liar
Landing at number three, Origins is appreciated by fans for its continuation of the band's energetic style.
Its strong singles and thematic connection to Evolve make it a significant release for those who enjoy this particular era of Imagine Dragons.
4. LOOM (2024)
LOOM, released in June 2024, is the sixth studio album from Imagine Dragons.
This album is notable for its conciseness, featuring the fewest tracks on any Imagine Dragons standard release.
It marked the band's first release as a trio. Drummer Daniel Platzman had announced an indefinite hiatus prior to its creation.
The album, produced with longtime collaborators Mattman & Robin, follows their ambitious double album Mercury – Acts 1 & 2.
Key tracks:
- Eyes Closed
- Wake Up
As a newer release, LOOM's position at number four reflects a positive initial reception from the fanbase.
Fans seem to be connecting with its focused energy and the band's continued musical exploration even as a trio.
5. Smoke + Mirrors (2015)
Smoke + Mirrors, released in 2015, served as Imagine Dragons' highly anticipated second studio album.
Recorded in the band's home studio in Las Vegas, it was self-produced alongside Alex da Kid.
The album aimed for a more rock-driven sound, with introspective themes. It followed the massive success of their debut, Night Visions.
Despite mixed critical reviews, Smoke + Mirrors debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. This made it their only album to achieve that feat upon release.
Key tracks:
- Warriors
- I’m So Sorry
Though fifth in this fan ranking, Smoke + Mirrors holds a distinct place for its ambition and darker tones.
Many fans appreciate its artistic risks and the depth of its songwriting, even if it didn't achieve the same broad appeal as some other releases.
6. Mercury - Acts 1 & 2 (2022)
Mercury – Acts 1 & 2 is the expansive fifth studio project from Imagine Dragons. Act 1 was released in 2021, and Act 2 followed in 2022, completing the double album.
Executive produced by the legendary Rick Rubin, this sprawling 32-track collection delves into themes of loss, grief, and eventual celebration of life.
Frontman Dan Reynolds described it as a deeply personal work. It reflected on mental health struggles and the band's evolving journey.
This album also marked the final full project with longtime drummer Daniel Platzman before his hiatus and eventual departure.
Key tracks:
- Bones
- Enemy (with JID) - from the series Arcane League of Legends
While Mercury - Acts 1 & 2 is placed sixth based on the fan sentiment data we analyzed, its ambition is undeniable.
The sheer volume of material and its deeply introspective nature offer a lot for dedicated fans to explore, even if it didn't collectively rank higher in this specific list.
Imagine Dragons albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.
Below is a ranking of Imagine Dragons's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Evolve | 2017 |
| 2 | Mercury - Acts 1 & 2 | 2022 |
| 3 | Origins | 2018 |
| 4 | LOOM | 2024 |
| 5 | Night Visions | 2012 |
| 6 | Smoke + Mirrors | 2014 |
Quick FAQs about Imagine Dragons's albums
Q: Why did Imagine Dragons call their third album Evolve?
A: Frontman Dan Reynolds described Evolve as an "evolution" for the band. This was in comparison to their previous albums, Night Visions and Smoke + Mirrors.
Q: What were some key singles from Imagine Dragons' album Evolve?
A: Evolve was supported by several major singles. These included "Believer", "Thunder", and "Whatever It Takes".
Ranking music is always a fascinating exercise. It blends objective facts with deeply personal feelings.
This exploration of Imagine Dragons albums ranked, through fan sentiment and popularity, shows diverse perspectives.
Ultimately, the best Imagine Dragons album is the one that connects with you the most. Their music has soundtracked countless moments for fans worldwide.
What's your take? Which Imagine Dragons album tops your personal list, and what makes it special to you?