Anime fan for 15 years. Covers shonen, seasonal previews, and the occasional deep dive.
Best Places to Watch Anime Legally (2025 Guide)
Watching anime legally has never been easier. Here's your complete guide to the best streaming platforms in 2025.
Major Streaming Platforms
Crunchyroll
Price: Free (with ads) | $7.99/month (ad-free)
Library Size: 1,000+ anime series
Key Features:
- Largest anime library
- Simulcasts from Japan
- Manga integration
- Offline downloads
Best for: Everything mainstream
Netflix
Price: $6.99-$22.99/month
Anime Selection: 500+ titles
Key Features:
- Original anime productions
- High-quality dubs
- 4K streaming
- Download support
Best for: Exclusive originals and binge-watching
Hidive
Price: $4.99/month
Library Size: 800+ series
Key Features:
- Niche and classic anime
- Uncensored versions
- Fast simulcasts
- Lower price point
Best for: Hardcore fans seeking deep cuts
Disney+
Price: $7.99/month
Anime Selection: Growing library
Key Features:
- Studio Ghibli films
- Marvel anime
- Star Wars anime
- Family-friendly content
Best for: Ghibli fans and families
Hulu
Price: $7.99/month
Anime Selection: 300+ titles
Key Features:
- Next-day simulcasts
- Bundled with other content
- Decent dub selection
Best for: Multi-genre viewers
Specialty Services
Funimation (Now Merged with Crunchyroll)
Legacy subscribers still have access, but new users should use Crunchyroll.
Amazon Prime Video
Price: $14.99/month (or $139/year)
Anime Selection: 200+ series
Key Features:
- Vinland Saga exclusives
- Made in Abyss
- Free with Prime membership
Best for: Prime members
RetroCrush
Price: Free (ad-supported)
Library: Classic anime from the 70s-00s
Key Features:
- Nostalgic titles
- Completely free
- Dubbed and subbed
Best for: Retro anime lovers
Regional Options
Asia: Bilibili, iQIYI, Ani-One
Popular in: China, Southeast Asia
Europe: Wakanim (Now part of Crunchyroll)
Coverage: France, Germany, Scandinavia
Australia: AnimeLab (Now Crunchyroll)
Merged into Crunchyroll in 2022
Free Legal Options
Crunchyroll (Free Tier)
Ad-supported with slightly delayed episodes
Tubi
Rotating anime selection, completely free
YouTube Official Channels
Some studios upload full series for free
Pluto TV
24/7 anime channels
What to Consider When Choosing
Budget: Free options exist, but premium is worth it
Library: Check if your favorite shows are available
Simulcasts: Want episodes as they air in Japan?
Dub vs Sub: Some platforms prioritize one over the other
Device Support: Ensure compatibility with your setup
Comparison Table
| Platform | Price | Library | Simulcast | Offline |
|----------|-------|---------|-----------|---------|
| Crunchyroll | $7.99 | 1000+ | Yes | Yes |
| Netflix | $15.49 | 500+ | No | Yes |
| Hidive | $4.99 | 800+ | Yes | Yes |
| Disney+ | $7.99 | Growing | No | Yes |
FAQ
Q: Is pirating ever justified?
A: With so many legal options available, there's no good reason anymore.
Q: What if an anime isn't licensed in my region?
A: Use a VPN (legally) or wait for licensing updates.
Q: Which platform has the best app?
A: Crunchyroll and Netflix have the most polished experiences.