If you're an anime fan searching for the best places to stream your favorite shows, you’re in the right place. From subscription-based platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix to free options such as Tubi and Pluto TV, there are plenty of ways to enjoy high-quality anime legally online. This guide breaks down the top 10 anime streaming sites, comparing their pricing, free access options, and anime libraries to help you find the perfect platform for your watching style.

Overview of Top 10 Anime Streaming Sites

1. Dedicated Anime Platforms

These platforms focus exclusively on anime — ideal for true anime fans seeking large, curated libraries and simulcasts.

Platform Highlight Pricing Free Options Content Library
Crunchyroll Largest anime library globally; Fastest new episode simulcasts; Integrates manga and merchandise store.  $7.99–$15.99/mo

✅ Yes (with ads,7-day free trial)

10,000+ anime titles
HIDIVE Specializes in niche & exclusive anime; strong library of Sentai Filmworks titles. $6.99/mo ✅ Yes ( free trial) 500+ curated titles

2. General Entertainment with Strong Anime

These are major streaming services that feature anime alongside other genres — great for casual viewers.

Platform Highlight Pricing Free Options Content Library
Netflix High-quality anime originals like Castlevania and Devilman Crybaby; strong global access. $7.99–$24.99/mo ❌ No 400+ anime titles
Disney+ Exclusive licensing for blockbuster titles like select seasons of Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, etc.; Strength lies in a curated selection of major hits. $11.99–$18.99/mo ❌ No 200+ anime titles
Hulu Offers anime from Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Aniplex; U.S.-exclusive; can be bundled with live TV services.. $11.99–$18.99/mo ❌ No 500+ anime titles
Amazon Prime Video Included as part of the Prime membership; Features many titles available for paid rental/purchase, alongside select free content. $8.99/mo or $139/year ✅ Yes( free 30-day trial) 300+ anime titles

3. Free Legal Options

Great choices for anime fans who prefer free, ad-supported viewing or want to discover new titles legally.

Platform Highlight Pricing Free Options Content Library
Tubi Best overall free service; Large and consistently updated library, including many classic and popular anime. Free ✅ Yes 500+ anime titles
Pluto TV Offers 24/7 non-stop anime channels; Has multiple dedicated channels showing content on a broadcast schedule. Free ✅ Yes 200+ anime titles
YouTube Official channels provide free content (e.g., Muse Asia, Ani-One Asia) offering simulcasts in specific regions.

Free/Premium: $11.99/mo

✅ Yes Varies by channel
RetroCrush Focused on classic anime from the 70s–90s; nostalgic appeal; fully free with ads. Free (ad-supported)/Premium: $4.99/mo ✅ Yes 1,000+ retro titles

Detailed Reviews of these Top Anime Streaming Sites

1. Crunchyroll

Official Website:https://www.crunchyroll.com/

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewCrunchyroll is one of the world’s leading anime streaming platforms, offering both free ad-supported access and premium memberships for an enhanced viewing experience. Established in 2006 and now part of Sony Group, Crunchyroll has become the go-to destination for anime fans worldwide, available in over 200 countries and regions.It provides high-quality streams (up to 1080p or 4K), multi-language subtitles, and access via web, mobile, consoles, and smart TVs. As a legal platform, it partners directly with Japanese studios and distributors to deliver the latest anime almost simultaneously with Japan.

Image from crunchyroll.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Crunchyroll’s catalog covers a vast range of anime content: seasonal simulcasts (new shows airing almost simultaneously with Japan), long-running series, classic titles, and anime films. Genres include shōnen, shōjo, seinen, romance, slice-of-life, fantasy, isekai, sports, and mecha. The platform also signs region-exclusive licensing deals and co-produces original series with Japanese studios. 

Some of the most popular and representative anime available include: Attack on Titan (進撃の巨人), Jujutsu Kaisen (呪術廻戦), Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (鬼滅の刃), One Piece (ワンピース), My Hero Academia (僕のヒーローアカデミア), Naruto / Naruto: Shippuden (ナルト/疾風伝), Spy x Family, Chainsaw Man, Re:Zero, Solo Leveling, Your Name (君の名は。) and other popular anime films.

Crunchyroll regularly updates its catalog with new seasonal titles and offers exclusive access to co-produced works and theatrical releases in selected regions.

Subscription Plans & Pricing

Starting January 1, 2026, Crunchyroll will fully transition to a paid subscription model, discontinuing its free ad-supported viewing option. There are three paid membership tiers with increasing benefits, allowing users to choose based on viewing habits and desired perks.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Fan Plan $7.99 Ad-free viewing, full anime library access, simulcast (same-day Japan release), streaming on 1 device
Mega Fan $9.99 All Fan Plan perks, offline downloads, streaming on 4 devices, early access to merch/events
Ultimate Fan $15.99 All Mega Fan perks, exclusive merch discounts, premium member gifts, extra device support (up to 6)

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Large anime catalog with near-simulcast releases from Japan Regional licensing limits certain titles by country
 Legal, high-quality streaming that supports creators  Some shows rotate out when licenses expire
 Flexible pricing tiers for different needs  Higher-tier perks may not be useful to casual viewers
 Includes manga, merchandise store, and event perks  

2. HIDIVE

Official Website:https://www.hidive.com/

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewHIDIVE is a U.S.-based anime streaming service operated by AMC Networks through Sentai Filmworks. Since its launch in 2017, HIDIVE has focused exclusively on anime, offering simulcasts, dubbed versions, classics, and exclusive titles licensed from Japan. The platform supports HD streaming, multi-language subtitles, and playback across smartphones, smart TVs, and consoles. Recent updates added offline downloads and expanded access via Amazon Prime Video Channels in select regions.While smaller than giants like Crunchyroll or Netflix, HIDIVE is praised for its niche library and exclusive hits such as Oshi no Ko, The Eminence in Shadow, and The Dangers in My Heart.

Image from hidive.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

HIDIVE’s catalog focuses on exclusive, niche, and high-quality anime licensed by Sentai Filmworks. While smaller in scale than Crunchyroll, it offers a curated collection that appeals to dedicated anime fans.

The library includes simulcasts of current shows, classic titles from the 80s–2000s, and hidden gems rarely seen on other platforms. Many titles feature uncut versions, English dubs, and multiple subtitle options. Notable series on HIDIVE include Oshi no Ko, Made in Abyss, Call of the Night, The Eminence in Shadow, The Dangers in My Heart, and Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?

Pricing

HIDIVE offers a straightforward paid subscription model (with a 7-day free trial) that allows access to its full anime catalogue including simulcasts, dubs, offline viewing and more. Example pricing (U.S.):

  • Monthly subscription: US $6.99/month 

  • Annual subscription: US $69.99/year (equivalent to about US $5.83/month)

International/Alternative distribution: Available in some regions as an add-on channel via platforms like Amazon Prime Video: e.g., UK £4.99, Canada CA$8.99, Australia/NZ A$8.99/NZ$8.99 for the add-on.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Offers many exclusive titles not found on other platforms (e.g., Oshi no Ko, Made in Abyss) Smaller library compared to Crunchyroll 
Affordable pricing with one simple paid plan Limited regional availability — not accessible in some countries
High streaming quality (up to 1080p or 4K for select titles) No free ad-supported plan
Features uncut / uncensored versions of select anime  
Strong focus on niche genres and mature storytelling  

3. Netflix

Official Website:https://www.netflix.com/

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewNetflix is one of the world’s largest streaming platforms, offering a vast library of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and an expanding catalog of anime. In recent years, Netflix has invested heavily in original anime productions and exclusive global licenses, making it a key player in the international anime market. It provides multi-language subtitles and dubs, high streaming quality (up to 4K HDR), and smart recommendations based on viewing habits. Its clean interface and seamless playback experience make it a convenient option for both casual and dedicated anime fans.

Image from netflix.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Netflix's anime catalog includes popular mainstream series, Netflix Originals, and classic titles. The platform features both Japanese-language and dubbed versions, with global simulcasts for certain co-productions.

Netflix's anime range covers shōnen, shōjo, seinen, fantasy, romance, sci-fi, mecha, and slice of life, appealing to a broad international audience. Some of the most notable anime include One Piece (Live Action), Castlevania, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Blue Eye Samurai, The Seven Deadly Sins, Beastars, Dorohedoro, Kakegurui, Baki Hanma, and films like A Whisker Away and Bubble.

Pricing

Netflix offers three main paid plans, each with different streaming quality and device limits. Users can watch anime and all other Netflix content under any plan without additional fees.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Standard with Ads
$7.99 Limited ads, HD quality, 2 concurrent streams.
Standard (Ad-Free)
$17.99 No ads, HD quality, 2 concurrent streams, downloads.
Premium (Ad-Free)
$24.99 No ads, Ultra HD (4K) quality, 4 concurrent streams, downloads.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Wide global availability and accessibility. Anime library smaller than dedicated anime platforms.
High-quality streaming (up to 4K HDR). New episodes may be delayed due to batch releases.
Multi-language support for subtitles and dubs. Some anime are geo-restricted by region.
Strong investment in original and exclusive anime Lacks community features (e.g., comments, ratings).
Ad-free options and offline downloads available  

4. Disney+

Official Website:https://www.disneyplus.com/

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewDisney+ is a global streaming service operated by The Walt Disney Company, best known for its extensive collection of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content. In recent years, Disney+ has also begun expanding its anime lineup, especially through collaborations with Japanese studios and its subsidiary Star Distribution.Its interface is polished and family-friendly, with high-resolution streaming (up to 4K HDR) and multiple subtitle/dub languages. While anime is not its primary focus, Disney+ increasingly features exclusive simulcasts and co-produced anime projects.

Image from disneyplus.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Disney+’s anime catalog is smaller than dedicated anime services but growing rapidly. The platform focuses on exclusive simulcasts, co-productions, and anime adaptations of popular franchises.

Genres mainly include fantasy, sci-fi, adventure, and action, aligning with Disney’s storytelling style. Some of the most popular anime available include:
Tokyo Revengers (東京卍リベンジャーズ), Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (BLEACH 千年血戦篇), Summertime Rendering (夏日重现), Phoenix: Eden17, Tatami Time Machine Blues (四叠半时光机蓝调), and Star Wars: Visions.

Pricing

Disney+ offers simple and flexible subscription options that vary slightly by region. In the U.S., there are three main plans: an ad-supported plan, a premium ad-free plan, and a bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ for broader entertainment access.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Basic (Ad-Supported) $11.99 Access to the entire library, limited ads.
Premium (Ad-Free) $18.99 No ads, 4K UHD quality, 4 concurrent streams.
The Disney Bundle Starts at ~$12.99 Combines Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
High-quality streaming (up to 4K HDR). Smaller anime selection compared to anime-specific platforms.
Increasing number of exclusive and co-produced anime. New anime availability can vary by region.
Family-friendly interface and reliable performance. Not ideal for fans seeking niche or older anime.
Available in many countries with localized subtitles.  
Bundle options with Hulu and ESPN+ add extra value  

5. Hulu

Official Website:https://www.hulu.com/welcome

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewHulu is a U.S.-based streaming platform majority-owned by The Walt Disney Company, known for its rich selection of TV series, movies, and anime. It serves as both a mainstream entertainment hub and an alternative anime destination, offering titles from major Japanese licensors such as Aniplex, Toei Animation, and Funimation.Hulu provides multi-device access, HD to 4K streaming, and personalized recommendations. While it mainly targets general audiences, anime fans can find a strong mix of classic hits, simulcasts, and dubbed content, making it a convenient one-stop service for diverse viewing preferences.

Image from hulu.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Hulu’s anime library is extensive for a general streaming service, featuring both popular mainstream titles and classics from major studios. It includes simulcast series, subbed and dubbed options, and anime films.

Genres span across action, fantasy, romance, horror, and slice of life, appealing to a wide audience. Some notable anime available include Attack on Titan, Naruto, Bleach, One Punch Man, My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer, Tokyo Ghoul, Spy x Family, and films like Akira and Your Name.

Pricing

Hulu offers several plans, including a basic on-demand streaming service  and Hulu + Live TV Plans, giving users flexibility based on budget and viewing preferences.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Hulu (With Ads) $11.99 Access to full on-demand library with ad breaks.
Hulu (No Ads) $18.99 Ad-free streaming of on-demand content. Offline downloads available.
The Hulu Bundle Starts at ~$12.99 Combines Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
Hulu + Live TV (With Ads) $89.99 (price may vary slightly by source) 95+ live channels, unlimited cloud DVR, two simultaneous streams, and the ad-supported versions of Hulu and Disney+.
Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV $95.99 (price may vary slightly by source) includes live TV, ad-free Hulu, and ad-free Disney+ for around $95.99/month.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Large anime catalog with mainstream and classic titles. No anime-exclusive focus or community features
Offers simulcasts and English-dubbed versions. Regional restrictions outside the U.S.
High compatibility with many devices and smart TVs. 4K available only on limited titles.
Option to bundle with Disney+ and ESPN+.  

6. Amazon Prime Video

Official Website:https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/genre/anime

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewAmazon Prime Video is a global streaming platform included with Amazon Prime membership, offering a massive library of TV shows, movies, and anime. It also provides the option to rent or purchase titles individually. In Japan, Prime Video has become one of the most popular anime streaming services, often streaming new anime simultaneously with local broadcasters. The platform supports up to 4K HDR playback, multi-language subtitles, download for offline viewing, and cross-device synchronization. Its anime offerings range from mainstream hits to niche exclusives, making it a versatile choice for anime fans worldwide.

Image from amazon.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Amazon Prime Video features a diverse anime catalog, especially strong in Japan where it offers simulcasts, exclusive releases, and classic series. Internationally, the availability varies by region due to licensing.

The platform covers genres such as action, fantasy, romance, sci-fi, slice of life, and drama. Popular and representative titles include:
Vinland Saga (海盗战记), Made in Abyss (来自深渊), Dororo (多罗罗), Attack on Titan (进击的巨人), Re:Creators, Great Pretender, Banana Fish, and Land of the Lustrous (宝石之国).

Pricing

Amazon Prime Video is available either as part of an Amazon Prime membership or as a standalone subscription. You can get free trial for 30 days.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Prime Video (Standalone) $8.99 Up to 4K HDR. Access to entire Prime Video library. Offline downloads
Amazon Prime Membership $14.99 Includes Prime Video, free shipping, Prime Music, and more

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Included with Amazon Prime — great overall value. Anime availability varies significantly by region
Offers exclusive and simulcast anime (especially in Japan). Some anime require separate rental or channel add-ons.
Supports 4K HDR and offline downloads. Limited community interaction features.
Access to both anime and non-anime content in one place.  
Affordable compared to most competitors.  

7. Tubi

Official Website:https://tubitv.com/category/anime

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewTubi is a free, ad-supported streaming platform owned by Fox Corporation, offering a wide range of TV shows, movies, and anime without any subscription fees. While it doesn’t specialize solely in anime, its anime catalog has grown rapidly in recent years, featuring both classic and newer titles licensed from major studios. Tubi is available primarily in the United States, Canada, and Australia, with streaming supported on most major devices and smart TVs.

Image from tubitv.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Tubi’s anime library features a mix of classic titles and popular modern series, often sourced from studios like Toei Animation, Funimation, and Sentai Filmworks.
Some of the notable titles available include: Naruto, One Punch Man, Attack on Titan, Fairy Tail, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Lupin the 3rd, Initial D, Case Closed (Detective Conan). The platform also carries several anime films, including Akira and Ghost in the Shell.

Pricing

Tubi is completely free to use, with revenue generated through short ad breaks during playback. There are no premium tiers or subscription plans, making it one of the most accessible legal anime streaming options available.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
100% free and legal streaming. Ad interruptions during viewing.
Offers a solid selection of classic anime. Limited availability outside North America.
Supports multiple devices and platforms. Smaller anime catalog compared to paid services.
Easy-to-use interface, no login required. No option for HD/4K upgrades or ad-free experience.
Great choice for budget-conscious viewers.  

8. Pluto TV

Official Website:https://pluto.tv/

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewPluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service owned by Paramount Global, offering a mix of live TV channels and on-demand content. Unlike traditional streaming platforms, Pluto TV mimics cable-style television, with curated channels for movies, news, sports, and anime. The service is completely free, relying on ad revenue, and is available in the U.S., Europe, and parts of Latin America. Its anime offering has grown steadily, with dedicated channels for 24/7 anime broadcasting.

Image from pluto.tv, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

Pluto TV features several dedicated anime channels and on-demand titles from major licensors like Funimation, Sentai Filmworks, and Toei Animation. It specializes in classic and action-heavy anime, appealing to long-time fans.

Some popular and representative anime available include: Naruto, One Piece, Bleach, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Fairy Tail, Inuyasha, Case Closed (Detective Conan),Lupin the 3rd. There are also occasional anime movie marathons, including Dragon Ball Z and Ghost in the Shell.

Pricing

Pluto TV is 100% free to use — there are no premium tiers, subscriptions, or hidden fees. Users can instantly access the content without creating an account, though signing in allows syncing watchlists and preferences.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
100% free and legal to stream. Ad interruptions during viewing.
Live anime channels for continuous 24/7 streaming. Limited on-demand options compared to other platforms.
Features many classic and nostalgic titles. Availability restricted to select regions.
Supports multiple devices and smart TVs. No offline downloads or HD upgrade options.
Simple, TV-like experience with no login required. No simulcast or latest-season anime.

9. YouTube

Official Website:https://www.youtube.com/

APP Download:iOS Android

Basic OverviewYouTube, owned by Google, is one of the world’s largest video-sharing platforms, featuring an extensive variety of user-uploaded and officially licensed content. In the anime world, YouTube has become an important legal streaming source, as many studios, distributors, and publishers have official channels that share full episodes or even entire series for free. With its global accessibility and device compatibility, YouTube offers a convenient and flexible way to watch anime legally.

Image from youtube.com, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

YouTube hosts a vast range of anime through official channels from studios and distributors such as Muse Asia, Ani-One Asia, Crunchyroll, Toei Animation, and TMS Entertainment. These channels often upload episodes for free and legally, sometimes simulcasting new shows in select regions.

Some popular and representative anime available include: Naruto (official clips & episodes), One Piece (Toei official channel), Jujutsu Kaisen (via Ani-One Asia), Spy x Family, Attack on Titan, Detective Conan, Sailor Moon (classic episodes), Cardcaptor Sakura, Dragon Ball, etc.

Pricing

YouTube itself is free to use, with content monetized through ads. However, users can upgrade to YouTube Premium, which removes ads, allows offline downloads, and enables background playback. Pricing may vary slightly by region.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Free (Ad-supported) $0 Watch with ads, access all free anime channels
YouTube Premium $11.99/month Ad-free viewing, offline downloads, background play, YouTube Music included

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Free and globally accessible. Regional restrictions for some official channels.
Numerous official anime channels with licensed uploads. Video availability may change due to licensing rotation.
Supports multiple devices and subtitles. Video quality depends on uploader and network.
Offers simulcasts and early-access premieres in Asia. Ads appear frequently unless using Premium.
Great for discovering classic and trending anime. Lacks a unified anime catalog like dedicated streaming services.

10. RetroCrush

Official Website:https://www.retrocrush.tv/

APP Download:iOS & Android

Basic OverviewRetroCrush is a free, ad-supported streaming platform dedicated entirely to classic Japanese anime from the 1970s to early 2000s. Launched in 2020 by Digital Media Rights, it focuses on preserving and showcasing vintage titles that shaped anime history. Available mainly in North America, RetroCrush provides both on-demand viewing and live streaming channels, making it a nostalgic paradise for longtime anime fans.

Image from retrocrush.tv, Copyright by original author

Content Libraries

RetroCrush features a curated collection of classic and cult-favorite anime, highlighting hand-drawn animation and storytelling from Japan’s golden era. Genres span mecha, romance, fantasy, sci-fi, and samurai epics.

Some popular and representative titles include:Urusei Yatsura (福星小子), City Hunter (城市猎人), Fist of the North Star (北斗神拳), Lupin the 3rd (鲁邦三世), Rose of Versailles (凡尔赛玫瑰), Ninja Scroll (兽兵卫忍风帖), Bubblegum Crisis, Astro Boy (铁臂阿童木). The library is regularly updated with restored HD versions of vintage anime and classic films.

Pricing

RetroCrush is primarily free with ads, but offers an optional Premium plan that removes ads and adds exclusive HD titles.

Plan Monthly Price (USD) Key Features
Free (Ad-supported) $0 Access full library with ads
Premium $4.99/month Ad-free viewing, HD resolution, exclusive titles

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
100% legal and free access to classic anime. Limited availability (mostly North America).
Focused on vintage and nostalgic titles. No simulcast or modern anime titles.
Optional ad-free premium upgrade. Smaller catalog compared to larger platforms.
Offers HD remasters of classic series. Some shows lack multi-language subtitles.
Features both on-demand and live channels. No offline download support.

How to Choose the Right Anime Streaming Platform?

Each anime streaming platform offers distinct advantages — from Crunchyroll’s simulcasts and vast catalog, to RetroCrush’s nostalgic classics and Tubi’s free accessibility.Your ideal platform depends on your watching habits, budget, and content preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

User Type Recommended Platform(s)
Why It Fits You
💰 Budget-conscious or prefer free viewing Tubi, Pluto TV, YouTube Free and legal streaming with ads; ideal for casual viewers who don’t mind commercials.
🎬 Mainstream anime fan Crunchyroll, Netflix Huge anime catalogs, simulcast titles, and stable streaming quality; good for both new and popular shows.
🔒 Exclusive content chaser HIDIVE, Disney+ Unique series and regional exclusives, plus titles you can’t find elsewhere.
🧠 Mature or niche genre enthusiast HIDIVE, RetroCrush Focus on classic, artistic, or adult-oriented storytelling.
🧳 All-in-one entertainment user Amazon Prime Video, Hulu,Netflix Anime plus live-action, TV series, and movies — perfect for general media consumption.
🌍 Fans who want cross-device convenience Netflix, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video Excellent app ecosystem, multi-language support, offline viewing options.

Final Tips: If you're a die-hard anime fan who wants simulcasts and the latest releases, Crunchyroll remains unbeatable. If you prefer a balance of anime and other entertainment, Netflix or Amazon Prime Video are great all-rounders. And if you just want to enjoy anime casually without paying, Tubi, Pluto TV and YouTube make excellent, legal choices. You can also try a few and find the one that fits your taste and watching habits.