This is a history of the progression of the world record for the 200 metres freestyle swimming event. It is a listing of the fastest-times-ever swum in the event, in both long course (50m) and short course (25m) swimming pools. These records are maintained and recognized by FINA, which oversees international competitive swimming and Aquatics. The drop in world record times in 2008–2009 coincided with the introduction of polyurethane suits from Speedo (LZR, 50% polyurethane) in 2008 and by Arena (X-Glide), Adidas (Hydrofoil) and Italian swimming suit manufacturer Jaked (all 100% polyurethane) in 2009. FINA's ban on non-textile suit came into effect in January 2010. FINA also released a list of approved suits. The long course records are historically older than the short course records; the latter having only been recognized since the early 1990s.

Men

Long course

Short course

Women

Long course

Short course

All-time top 25

Men long course

Men short course

Women long course

Women short course