* "Band Geeks": This episode featuring the marching band and the iconic "Sweet Victory" song is often praised for its music, humor, and heartwarming moments.
* "The Krusty Krab Training Video": This episode is known for its absurdity, iconic lines ("I'm ready! I'm ready! I'm ready!"), and its status as a meme-worthy classic.
* "Plankton!": This episode featuring Plankton's grand plan to steal the Krabby Patty formula is a fan favorite due to its chaotic nature and Plankton's hilarious antics.
* "Bubble Bass": This episode is known for its quotable lines ("I want my money back!") and its surprisingly effective dark humor.
* "The Original Fry Cook": This episode introduces the backstory of SpongeBob's first job at the Krusty Krab and is well-liked for its nostalgic feel and its glimpse into SpongeBob's early life.
Ultimately, which episode is "most popular" is subjective and depends on individual preferences. But these episodes are consistently ranked high on "best of" lists and continue to be enjoyed by fans years after their original airings.