People love watching thrillers around 9 p.m. — and more insights from Netflix's data vault (NFLX)

Netflix

One of the great things about Netflix is that you can binge-watch on your own terms, instead of having to tune in at a specific time, or wait a week for a show.

That means Netflix is a natural experiment in what times of the day people prefer to watch different kinds of shows. Netflix is notoriously secretive about its data, but on Tuesday the streaming giant release some stats on viewership patterns to USA Today.

Here is a sketch of what Netflix viewership looks like a different points in the day:

• Breakfast. Netflix said that in the pre-work hours, viewers are 34% more likely to view comedies than they are in other parts of the day. Examples: "Master of None," "Lady Dynamite," "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt."
• Lunch. For those who are getting in an episode on their lunch break, Netflix said they prefer dramas — but not by much. They are 5% more likely to view dramas during lunchtime than they are during the rest of the day (though they make up 45% of viewing from 12-2 p.m.). Examples: "The Crown," "Orange Is the New Black." 
• Night. Netflix said that around 9 p.m., thrillers see a 27% boost in viewing. But Netflix also noted that as it gets closer to bedtime, comedies begin to take over again. Perhaps people don't want to be too amped up when they are trying to get some sleep. Examples: "Stranger Things," "iBoy." 
• After midnight. According to Netflix, documentaries see a 24% uptick between midnight and six in the morning. Examples: "Making a Murderer," "13th."

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