Best Anime Streaming Websites in 2025 | Free & Paid Options

Published on the 24th of August

Introduction

Anime has grown from being a niche interest to a worldwide cultural force. From classics like Naruto and One Piece to modern hits like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, millions of fans are searching for reliable platforms to watch their favorite shows. While the internet is filled with free anime streaming sites, not all of them are safe, legal, or worth your time. Some are loaded with ads, while others may even expose you to malware.

That’s why it’s important to know where you can watch anime online legally and safely in 2025. Whether you’re looking for free websites, premium subscriptions, or platforms with exclusive titles, this guide covers the best anime streaming websites available today.

1. Crunchyroll – The King of Anime Streaming

Crunchyroll remains the most popular anime streaming service in 2025. With a massive catalog of over 1,300 titles, it offers everything from ongoing simulcasts (episodes released hours after Japan) to timeless classics.

Pros:

• Huge anime library with subbed and dubbed versions
• Simulcasts available quickly
• Free plan with ads available

Cons:

• Premium subscription required to remove ads
• Some exclusive shows locked behind paywall

2. Netflix – Home of Exclusive Anime

Netflix is known for its original series and global availability, and anime is no exception. It offers both mainstream titles and exclusive anime that you won’t find anywhere else.

Pros:

• Global streaming access
• High-quality dubbing and subtitles
• Exclusive anime like Devilman Crybaby and Blue Eye Samurai

Cons:

• Smaller catalog compared to Crunchyroll
• Entire seasons sometimes delayed instead of simulcast

3. HiDive – The Hidden Gem

HiDive is less well-known than Crunchyroll or Netflix, but it has a strong following among hardcore anime fans. It specializes in niche titles, classics, and exclusives.

Pros:

• Affordable subscription plans
• Exclusive and rare titles
• Clean and easy-to-use interface

Cons:

• Limited device compatibility
• Smaller library compared to giants

4. Hulu – Anime Plus More

Hulu is not primarily an anime platform, but it hosts a decent catalog of popular shows, especially for U.S. viewers. It’s a good choice if you want anime along with other TV shows and movies.

Pros:

• Great mix of anime and regular TV
• Bundles available with Disney+ and ESPN+
• Dubbed versions of many popular series

Cons:

• Available mostly in the U.S.
• Anime library not as deep as Crunchyroll

5. Amazon Prime Video – Anime with Your Subscription

Amazon Prime Video offers anime alongside its wide selection of movies and shows. While its anime library isn’t the largest, it includes some exclusives.

Pros:

• Comes bundled with Amazon Prime
• Includes unique anime series and films
• Wide device support

Cons:

• Limited anime catalog
• Not updated as frequently as competitors

6. Anime-Planet – Free & Legal

Anime-Planet is one of the best options for free and legal anime streaming. It’s partnered with Crunchyroll and other distributors to bring viewers thousands of episodes at no cost.

Pros:

• 100% free and legal
• Partnered with official distributors
• Also doubles as an anime community with reviews and lists

Cons:

• Ads can be annoying
• Library smaller than paid services

7. YouTube Anime Channels – Free & Official

Believe it or not, YouTube is becoming a major place for free legal anime. Many publishers and studios upload entire seasons of classic shows to their official channels.

Pros:

• Completely free
• Safe and legal to watch
• Great for classic and older titles

Cons:

• Not all episodes available for every show
• Limited selection compared to premium platforms

8. Unofficial Free Sites (Use with Caution)

Websites like 9Anime, Zoro.to, and others remain popular, but they are not legal and often come with risks like pop-up ads, trackers, and copyright issues. While many fans use them, we strongly recommend sticking to safe and legal options whenever possible.

Pros:

• Free access to a wide range of titles
• No subscription required

Cons:

• Legal and ethical concerns
• Risk of malware and intrusive ads
• Unreliable streaming quality

Comparison Table of Anime Streaming Websites

FAQ – Best Anime Streaming Websites

Q1. Is it safe to use free anime streaming sites?

Yes, if you stick to legal options like Anime-Planet or official YouTube channels. Unofficial sites may expose you to ads or malware.

Q2. Which anime site is best for new releases?

Crunchyroll and HiDive are the best for simulcasts, as they release episodes within hours of airing in Japan.

Q3. Can I watch anime for free legally?

Yes! Anime-Planet, Crunchyroll’s free tier, and YouTube anime channels all offer free, legal anime.

Q4. Which site has the largest anime library?

Crunchyroll currently has the biggest catalog in 2025, with over a thousand titles.

Conclusion

In 2025, anime fans have more choices than ever when it comes to streaming. If you’re looking for the most comprehensive library and latest releases, Crunchyroll remains the top choice. For exclusives and global access, Netflix is a strong contender. HiDive is perfect for niche fans, while Anime-Planet and YouTube provide free and legal alternatives.

Ultimately, the best anime streaming website depends on your viewing habits. Whether you prefer free platforms or premium subscriptions, you can find a safe, reliable service that suits your needs. So grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and start watching!