Best Free & Paid Anime Sites for Streaming

Quick Answer:
Looking for the best places to watch anime online in 2025? For free anime streaming sites, Crunchyroll, Tubi, and AniWave offer vast libraries with minimal hassle. Paid sites with free content like RetroCrush and Ani.me provide ad-supported options, while premium platforms like Netflix and Hulu deliver ad-free experiences with exclusive titles. Below, we dive into 30 top anime websites, covering free, partially free, and paid options to suit every fan.

Anime has taken the world by storm, with its vibrant storytelling and stunning visuals captivating fans globally. Whether you’re chasing the latest episodes of Jujutsu Kaisen or revisiting classics like Naruto, finding reliable anime websites is key. In 2025, the options are endless—free anime streaming sites, paid platforms with free tiers, and premium services offering exclusive content. This guide breaks down the best anime websites, highlighting their features, target audiences, and whether they’re worth your time. Let’s explore the top spots to fuel your anime obsession!

10 Completely Free Anime Websites

These platforms let you dive into anime without spending a dime. While some come with ads, they’re ideal for casual viewers or those on a budget. Here are 10 of the best free anime streaming sites in 2025:

1. Crunchyroll (Free Tier)

Crunchyroll is a giant in the anime world, offering a free, ad-supported tier with access to thousands of episodes. From Demon Slayer to Spy x Family, its library is vast, with simulcasts dropping shortly after Japan’s releases. The interface is user-friendly, and community features like reviews add a social vibe.

Audience: Casual viewers and hardcore fans seeking legal, high-quality streams.

Ads: Yes, frequent ads on the free tier.

Content Library: Over 1,300 series and films, updated regularly.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Download Option: No downloads on free tier.

Other Info: Subtitles available; dubbed content limited on free tier. Regional restrictions may apply.

2. Tubi

Tubi is a free, ad-supported streaming service with a surprisingly robust anime selection. Classics like Naruto and Yu-Gi-Oh! sit alongside films like Akira. Its simple interface makes browsing easy, though the resolution caps at 720p.

Audience: Casual fans and nostalgia seekers.

Ads: Yes, ads during playback.

Content Library: Nearly 200 anime titles, from 1970s classics to 2020s hits.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Download Option: No downloads.

Other Info: US-focused but accessible globally with a VPN. No simulcasts.

3. AniWave

AniWave is a fan-favorite for its clean interface and massive library of over 40 genres, including One Piece and Black Clover. It offers high-quality 1080p streams with subbed and dubbed options, though ads can be intrusive.

Audience: Fans seeking variety without registration.

Ads: Yes, frequent in-between page ads.

Content Library: Thousands of episodes across genres.

Versions: Website only.

Download Option: Yes, subbed/dubbed downloads available.

Other Info: Use a VPN for safety, as it’s an unverified site.

4. GogoAnime

GogoAnime is a go-to for its vast library and fast updates, offering both subbed and dubbed anime in multiple resolutions. Popular titles like Tokyo Revengers are available, but caution is needed due to its unverified status.

Audience: Fans prioritizing variety and speed.

Ads: Yes, can be overwhelming.

Content Library: Extensive, covering new and classic titles.

Versions: Website, some third-party apps.

Download Option: Yes, downloadable episodes.

Other Info: Multiple servers for reliable streaming; use a VPN.

5. Anime-Planet

Anime-Planet partners with Crunchyroll to offer over 45,000 episodes across genres like comedy and horror. It’s more than a streaming site, with user reviews and manga recommendations enhancing the experience.

Audience: Community-driven fans who love curated lists.

Ads: Yes, moderate ads.

Content Library: Over 45,000 episodes, legally licensed.

Versions: Website, mobile-friendly.

Download Option: No downloads.

Other Info: Personalized recommendations and watch history tracking.

6. 9anime

9anime is a popular unofficial site with a huge collection of high-definition anime, updated quickly. It supports both subbed and dubbed content, but its legal status is questionable, so a VPN is recommended.

Audience: Fans seeking fast updates and variety.

Ads: Yes, frequent pop-ups.

Content Library: Thousands of titles, new and old.

Versions: Website only.

Download Option: Yes, downloadable content.

Other Info: No registration needed; subtitle quality varies.

7. HiAnime

HiAnime is a dependable free anime streaming site that delivers a broad selection of both subbed and dubbed anime, including hits like One Piece and Fullmetal Alchemist. It stands out for its quick updates on new episodes and a straightforward layout that lets users jump right into binge-watching without any fuss. The platform supports various resolutions to suit different connection speeds, ensuring smooth playback for everyone.

Audience: Anime lovers who want fast access to fresh content without signing up.

Ads: Yes, moderate ads with occasional redirects.

Content Library: Vast, featuring thousands of episodes from popular and underrated series.

Versions: Website, mobile-optimized.

Download Option: Yes, allows downloading episodes for offline viewing.

Other Info: VPN recommended for unverified access; multiple servers for better streaming reliability.

8. AnimeKAI

AnimeKAI stands out for its ad-free streaming and HD quality, offering subbed and dubbed anime without registration. Its simple design makes it easy to dive into favorites like My Hero Academia.

Audience: Fans seeking ad-free, no-sign-up streaming.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Large, covering popular and niche titles.

Versions: Website only.

Download Option: Yes, supports downloads.

Other Info: Limited category organization; VPN recommended.

9. Pluto TV

Pluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service that includes a dedicated anime channel featuring classics and modern hits like Naruto and Attack on Titan. Its live TV-style format adds a unique twist, with on-demand options for select titles, making it easy to discover new favorites without any cost.

Audience: Casual viewers and fans of both new and classic anime in the US and select regions.

Ads: Yes, ads during playback and between channels.

Content Library: Moderate, focused on popular and classic anime titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Download Option: No downloads.

Other Info: Legal and safe; region-locked in some areas, use a VPN if needed; no account required for basic use.

10. The Roku Channel

The Roku Channel is a free, ad-supported streaming platform offering a selection of anime titles, including classics like Death Note and Inuyasha. It’s a legal service with a user-friendly interface, accessible without a Roku device, and features a growing library of anime alongside other entertainment. Perfect for fans looking for a no-cost, hassle-free streaming experience.

Audience: Casual anime fans in the US and select regions seeking legal, free streams.

Ads: Yes, moderate ads during playback.

Content Library: Moderate, with a curated mix of popular and classic anime.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, Roku devices, smart TVs.

Download Option: No downloads.

Other Info: No account required for streaming; primarily US-focused, may require a VPN for global access; safe and legal platform.

10 Paid Anime Sites That Offer Free Shows

These platforms offer paid subscriptions but include free, ad-supported tiers, blending accessibility with premium perks. Here are 10 top picks:

1. Vudu (Free Tier)

Vudu, now part of Fandango at Home, offers a free, ad-supported tier with a selection of anime like Cowboy Bebop and Trigun. Known for its high-quality streams, the free tier is perfect for casual viewers, while its paid rentals and subscriptions unlock more content. The platform’s clean design enhances the viewing experience.

Audience: US-based anime fans looking for legal, free, and premium options.

Ads: Yes, ads on free tier.

Content Library: Moderate, with a mix of classic and popular anime.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: Free tier; premium rentals start at $3.99, subscriptions vary.

Download Option: No downloads on free tier; available for purchased content.

Other Info: US-only; requires account for streaming; supports HD streaming.

2. Amazon Freevee

Amazon Freevee provides free anime with ads under its “Anime” category. Titles like Hunter x Hunter are available, but the selection is smaller than dedicated platforms.

Audience: US-based casual viewers.

Ads: Yes, ads during playback.

Content Library: Limited anime selection.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, Fire TV.

Price: Free; premium via Amazon Prime ($14.99/month).

Download Option: No downloads on free tier.

Other Info: US-only; requires Amazon account.

3. RetroCrush

RetroCrush specializes in classic anime from the ‘80s and ‘90s, like City Hunter, with a free, ad-supported tier. It’s perfect for nostalgia-driven fans.

Audience: Fans of vintage anime.

Ads: Yes, on free tier.

Content Library: Moderate, focused on classics.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Premium at $4.99/month.

Download Option: No downloads on free tier.

Other Info: Limited simulcasts; great for hidden gems.

4. Ani.me

Ani.me offers a curated selection of licensed anime for free with ads, focusing on quality over quantity. It includes community features and news for fans.

Audience: North American fans seeking legal streams.

Ads: Yes, on free tier.

Content Library: Moderate, curated titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Premium at $7.99/month.

Download Option: No downloads on free tier.

Other Info: Clean interface; supports industry.

5. Sling TV Freestream

Sling TV’s Freestream includes RetroCrush’s anime library, offering free classics like Ghost Stories. It’s a bundled platform with a broad entertainment focus.

Audience: Casual US viewers.

Ads: Yes, frequent ads.

Content Library: Limited anime via RetroCrush.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: Free; premium Sling plans start at $4.99/month.

Download Option: No downloads.

Other Info: Cluttered interface; US-focused.

6. Bilibili

Bilibili (also known as Bstation in some regions) is a leading Asian streaming platform with a vast anime library, including Jujutsu Kaisen and Chinese donghua like Link Click. Its free tier offers ad-supported anime, while VIP subscriptions unlock ad-free viewing and exclusives. Popular in China and Southeast Asia, it’s highly accessible in Hong Kong.

Audience: Anime and donghua fans in Asia, especially Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

Ads: Yes, ads on free tier.

Content Library: Extensive, with thousands of anime and donghua titles, both subbed and dubbed.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Free tier; VIP starts at ~$4/month.

Download Option: Yes, on premium plans; limited on free tier.

Other Info: Legal and safe; widely accessible in Asia; supports English and Chinese subtitles.

7. iQIYI

iQIYI, a major Asian streaming service, offers a free tier with ad-supported anime like Demon Slayer and Haikyuu!!. Its premium plans provide ad-free streaming and exclusive simulcasts. Popular in Hong Kong and globally, it’s a reliable choice for anime fans.

Audience: Anime fans in Asia and worldwide seeking high-quality streams.

Ads: Yes, ads on free tier.

Content Library: Large, with hundreds of anime titles and Asian dramas.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: Free tier; VIP starts at ~$5/month.

Download Option: Yes, on premium plans.

Other Info: Legal; globally accessible with strong Asia presence; supports multi-language subtitles.

8. WeTV

WeTV, by Tencent, provides a free ad-supported tier with anime like Attack on Titan and Chinese donghua. Its premium plans offer ad-free viewing and early access to new episodes. Widely available in Asia, including Hong Kong, with a user-friendly interface.

Audience: Anime and Asian content fans in Southeast Asia and globally.

Ads: Yes, ads on free tier.

Content Library: Moderate, with a growing anime and donghua selection.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Free tier; VIP starts at ~$4/month.

Download Option: Yes, on premium plans.

Other Info: Legal; accessible in Hong Kong; supports English and Chinese subtitles.

9. Viu

Viu is a popular Asian streaming platform with a free tier offering anime like One Piece alongside Asian dramas. Premium subscriptions unlock ad-free streaming and exclusive content. Highly accessible in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

Audience: Anime and drama fans in Asia, especially Hong Kong.

Ads: Yes, ads on free tier.

Content Library: Moderate, with a curated anime selection.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: Free tier; Premium starts at ~$5/month.

Download Option: Yes, on premium plans.

Other Info: Legal; strong Asia presence; supports multi-language subtitles.

10. Tencent Video

Tencent Video offers a free ad-supported tier with anime like Naruto and donghua like Soul Land. Premium plans provide ad-free streaming and exclusives. Highly accessible in Hong Kong and Asia, with a robust anime library.

Website: v.qq.com

Audience: Anime and donghua fans in Asia.

Ads: Yes, ads on free tier.

Content Library: Large, with extensive anime and donghua titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Free tier; VIP starts at ~$4/month.

Download Option: Yes, on premium plans.

Other Info: Legal; strong Asia presence; supports English and Chinese subtitles.

10 Paid Websites to Watch Anime

For those willing to pay, these platforms offer ad-free streaming, exclusive content, and offline downloads. Here are 10 top paid anime websites:

1. Netflix

Netflix has a growing anime library, including exclusives like Avatar: The Last Airbender and One Piece. Its high-quality streams and offline downloads make it a premium choice.

Audience: Global fans seeking all-in-one streaming.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Moderate, with exclusive and popular titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: Starts at $6.99/month.

Download Option: Yes, downloads available.

Other Info: Supports multiple languages; region-locked content.

2. Hulu

Hulu, owned by Disney, offers a strong anime selection, including Bleach and My Hero Academia. Its ad-free premium tier enhances the viewing experience.

Audience: US fans wanting diverse content.

Ads: Yes, on basic plan ($9.99/month); ad-free at $17.99/month.

Content Library: Large, with anime and other genres.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: $9.99–$17.99/month.

Download Option: Yes, on premium plans.

Other Info: US-only; 30-day free trial.

3. Crunchyroll Premium

Crunchyroll’s premium tier unlocks its full library, ad-free streaming, and simulcasts. It’s the go-to for fans wanting the latest anime in HD.

Audience: Hardcore anime fans globally.

Ads: No ads on premium.

Content Library: Over 1,300 titles, including simulcasts.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, gaming consoles.

Price: $7.99–$14.99/month.

Download Option: Yes, on higher tiers.

Other Info: Supports six simultaneous streams; 14-day free trial.

4. HIDIVE

HIDIVE focuses on niche and mature anime like Elfen Lied, offering ad-free streaming and simulcasts. Its library is smaller but curated for dedicated fans.

Audience: Fans of unique and classic anime.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Moderate, with exclusive titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: $4.99/month.

Download Option: Yes, offline downloads available.

Other Info: Affordable; limited mobile app experience.

5. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video includes anime like Jujutsu Kaisen alongside its vast library of movies and shows. It’s ad-free with offline downloads, ideal for all-in-one streaming.

Audience: Global fans seeking premium streaming.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Moderate anime selection.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: $14.99/month or $139/year.

Download Option: Yes, downloads available.

Other Info: Global access; bundled with Prime benefits.

6. Disney+

Disney+ has expanded its anime offerings, including Star Wars: Visions and Mugen Train. It’s ad-free with a polished interface, great for family-friendly anime.

Audience: Families and casual anime fans.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Small but growing anime selection.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps, smart TVs.

Price: $7.99/month or bundled with Hulu.

Download Option: Yes, downloads available.

Other Info: Links with Hulu and HBO Max; regional restrictions.

7. ADN (Anime Digital Network)

Anime Digital Network (ADN) is a premium anime streaming platform popular in Europe, offering ad-free access to a vast library of anime like My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU and Vinland Saga. It specializes in simulcasts and exclusive content, with high-quality streams and offline downloads, making it a top choice for dedicated anime fans.

Audience: Anime enthusiasts in Europe and globally (accessible in Hong Kong with VPN).

Ads: No ads on premium.

Content Library: Large, with hundreds of anime titles, including simulcasts and classics.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Starts at ~$7.99/month (€6.99).

Download Option: Yes, offline downloads available.

Other Info: Legal; primarily Europe-focused but accessible globally with a VPN; supports English and French subtitles; 14-day free trial available.

8. KKTV

KKTV is a Taiwan-based premium streaming platform offering ad-free anime streaming, featuring popular titles like Spy x Family and Chainsaw Man. Its high-quality streams, simulcasts, and offline downloads cater to dedicated anime fans, with a strong focus on Asian markets, including Hong Kong. The platform also includes Taiwanese and Japanese dramas for added variety.

Audience: Anime and Asian drama fans in Asia, especially Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Ads: No ads on premium.

Content Library: Moderate, with a curated selection of recent and popular anime titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Starts at ~$5/month (NT$149).

Download Option: Yes, offline downloads available.

Other Info: Legal; accessible in Hong Kong without a VPN; supports Chinese and English subtitles; offers a free trial in some regions.

9. VIZ

VIZ, known for Naruto and Bleach, offers a premium streaming service with high-definition anime for North American fans. It’s ad-free with a focus on quality.

Audience: North American anime fans.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Moderate, with popular titles.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Varies, around $6.99/month.

Download Option: Yes, downloads available.

Other Info: Strong on manga; regional focus.

10. Aniplus Asia

Aniplus Asia caters to anime lovers with a premium service offering simulcasts and exclusive content. It’s ad-free with a focus on Asian markets.

Audience: Asian anime fans.

Ads: No ads.

Content Library: Moderate, with simulcasts.

Versions: Website, iOS/Android apps.

Price: Varies by region, around $5/month.

Download Option: Yes, downloads available.

Other Info: Region-locked; English and Korean subtitles.

Anime Sites FAQs

Below are some of the most common questions users have when looking for anime websites.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a casual viewer or a dedicated otaku, 2025 offers a wealth of anime websites to satisfy your cravings. Free anime streaming sites like Crunchyroll and Tubi provide accessible options with ads, while paid platforms like Netflix and HIDIVE deliver ad-free, high-quality experiences with exclusive titles. For the best balance, Crunchyroll’s free and premium tiers stand out for their massive libraries and simulcasts. Always prioritize legal platforms to support the anime industry, and consider a VPN for safety on unverified sites. Dive into your favorite anime today and enjoy the vibrant world of Japanese animation!