Many of us now are working from home and just prefer to not go out. However, the entertainment options such as movies and TV shows that are keeping us sane will sooner or later dry out. Why not try anime? To many, anime will always be vibrant and exciting thanks to its art style and wacky storylines. They are easily accessible too. Many anime fans can simply log into their computers and consume anime and even manga with one click. Not all sites are created equal, though, so we have to check which really are the best anime sites available on the World Wide Web.
Looking for the best anime sites is not just based on which has the biggest catalog. We also have to consider if the site is secure from malware, provides subs and dubs, and has quality videos. Let us take a look at online streaming services and websites that can fulfill your anime cravings.
Note that this list includes both free and subscription-based websites. To be able to stream anime from paid sites, you would need to have an active paid subscription.
Websites that have the Best Anime Recommendations
First, you need to find an anime to watch. If you can’t decide on what, there are plenty of resources available to determine the best one for you. These three sites are our go-to’s when it comes to looking for new shows.
MyAnimeList
MyAnimeList is a website that is dedicated to introducing people to anime. The site provides consumers with reviews, rankings, and schedules of upcoming anime titles. If you’re looking for a new series to watch, you can check out the review section for every anime and see what others are saying. If you want to play it safe, reviews from other users can be a big tool.
You can also check out the anime’s rankings and see how popular it is as of the moment. You’ll also be able to check out additional info such as cast members, number of episodes, as well as trailers.
Lastly, you can track when a new anime or season will start.
Amino
Amino is unique as it’s a messaging platform that allows like-minded individuals to discuss topics of their interest. It is very popular when it comes to anime and K-pop circles. Amino promotes a sense of community as users can post content, blogs, and polls to name a few. Here you can find people and ask them for anime suggestions or feedback on a certain anime.
Another great feature of Amino is you can personalize your profile the way you want it. If you want to stand out while meeting new people or connecting with old friends, this one is for you.
Connect with other anime fans today!
ChasingAnime
ChasingAnime differs from the other two anime sites on this list as it features a ton of articles talking about different animes. You can find articles that discuss certain weapons or plot points from a specific anime. You can also read their lists regarding the best anime by genre or facts about certain characters.
These types of content allow readers to venture further into an anime title or introduce them to a new one.
See anime-related content now!
Where to Watch Anime Online, Fast and Quick
With anime sites, it’s fairly straightforward when you want to watch anime. Free sites allow you to watch by selecting a show and choosing an episode. Most of the time, these sites will give you several links or mirrors where you could watch that episode. These can also have varying resolutions if you so desire.
On the other hand, paid or subscription-based anime sites will require you to sign up and pay for their services. The subscription cost for each service varies and it’ll be best to test out their services through a free trial. The majority of these anime sites provide this once you sign up.
Some of these anime sites also offer a payment plan that allows you to download episodes and consume them while you’re offline.
Lastly, some are not available in certain areas; one workaround is to use a VPN service to access these sites.
Best Subscription-Based Anime Sites
1. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is one of the frontrunners when it comes to on-demand streaming services. Albeit having a smaller catalog compared to its competitors, this streaming platform boasts titles new and old. Arguably, its headlining title is the Viking-inspired anime, Vinland Saga.
Sign up to Amazon Prime Video today to enjoy anime shows like RWBY and Vinland Saga.
Subscription Plan
- $5.99/monthly
Shows to Look Out For
- Vinland Saga
- RWBY
2. Netflix
Netflix is known for providing its consumers with the best direct to digital releases, as well as movies and TV shows from the past. However, they also offer a good amount of anime shows to keep fans binging for hours. Netflix offers different plans that can accommodate individuals and groups. This is perfect if you have friends or family members that want to watch anime on demand.
Netflix is truly one of the best anime sites since it allows people who prefer dubs over subs to enjoy the anime they want. Netflix also has numerous famous titles under its library. These include Naruto, Kimetsu No Yaiba, Yuyu Hakusho, and Attack on Titan.
The best thing about Netflix is it allows you to download anime episodes to your devices for offline consumption.
Subscription Plans
- $8.99 for 1screen
- $12.99 for 2 screens
- $15.99 for 4 screens
Shows to Look Out For
- Naruto
- Demon Slayer (Kimetsu No Yaiba)
- YuYu Hakusho
- Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure
- Attack on Titan
3. Crunchyroll
If you’re looking for a good subscription-based anime site, Crunchyroll is one of your top choices. Not only can you enjoy anime, but you can also indulge in Japanese drama. What makes Crunchyroll one of the best anime sites is its expansive library. Top to bottom, Crunchyroll might have the best library among subscription-based anime sites. You can select from classic titles up to the newest ones.
Another draw for people to subscribe to this service is that they showcase anime using subs. Some people can be purists who want the original Japanese voices with English subtitles.
Lastly, Crunchyroll also allows its subscribers to consume anime offline. However, you have to be subscribed to the Mega Fan tier to do so. If you want to try out it, Crunchyroll has a free 14-day trial.
Subscription Plans
- Fan $7.99/month
- Mega Fan $9.99/month or $79.99/yearly
Shows to Look Out For
- Boruto
- Naruto Shippuden
- The Rising of The Shield Hero
- Hajime No Ippo
4. Funimation
The choices above all showcase their anime library via subtitles with the Japanese audio intact. If you’re not a fan of that, then Funimation is what you should try.
Funimation started as a company that brought Dragonball to the United States. Arguably the most popular anime title of all time, this became Funimation’s vehicle to success. Funimation offers dubbed versions of your favorite anime shows. Which is great for people who prefer English dialogues and dislike subtitles. You can even learn how to download anime movies on Funimation for a more seamless, offline experience.
Albeit being the more convenient choice, Funimation is not available in most areas. This has been the service’s biggest drawback ever since. If you wish to try out Funimation, it’s suggested to set up a VPN to do so.
Subscription Plans
- $5.99/monthly
- $7.99/monthly
Shows to Look Out For
- Dragonball franchise
5. Hulu
Hulu is another competitor in the video-on-demand streaming wars. Hulu offers movies, animated series, TV shows, and of course anime. What’s great about Hulu is that it has a mix of classic titles with newer properties. You can watch Dragonball episodes, as well as see the latest Dragonball movie, Super: Broly.
One great advantage of subscribing to Hulu is that it is relatively cheaper than its competitors. Clocking in at $5.99 per month, that is more affordable than what the others offer. However, an $11.99 per month offer is great if you hate ads and want to consume anime shows offline. Both packages come with a one-month free trial period.
Lastly, you can also subscribe to Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ as a bundle.
Subscription Plans
- $5.99/month
- $11.99/month (no ads, download shows for offline use)
- Can be bundled with ESPN+ and Disney+ services for $12.99
Shows to Look Out For
- Dragonball franchise
- Naruto & Naruto Shippuden
- Boruto
6. CONtv
If you’re a fan of anime and Star Trek, this is one of the best anime sites for you. CONtv offers comics for Star Trek fans as well as a few anime titles. If you’re a fan of Beyblade Metal Fury, then this is the one for you. It also streams anime titles such as Saint Seiya.
However, the limited library is a true drawback and unless you’re a fan of Star Trek, most of their offerings are available from other providers.
Subscription Plans
- $6.99/month (no ads)
Shows to Look Out For
- Beyblade Metal Fury
- Saint Seiya
7. VRV
VRV is a streaming service created by fans of different genres, from anime and cartoon shows to gaming. VRV aims to put all the puzzles together for its subscribers. What’s great about VRV is that it offers a lot of free episodes as well as titles not available on other streaming sites. VRV also allows a certain number of people in a household to use it at the same time.
VRV also has Cruncyroll’s content under its umbrella. One drawback to VRV is that it is not available in some locations. If you still want to try it, a VPN could come in handy.
Subscription Plans
- $9.99/monthly
Best Free Anime Streaming Sites
Disclaimer
Before we tell you about free sites to watch anime online, we want to mention that this article does not promote piracy in any shape or form. We have included these anime sites for information purposes only. Robots.net recommends readers to sign up for legitimate subscription-based anime websites to enjoy their favorite shows legally.
8. AnimeLab
AnimeLab is one of the best free anime streaming sites available on the market. It comes with a wide library of anime titles you can access at your fingertips. From classics such as Danmachi to new titles such as the Fruits Basket remake, AnimeLab has you covered. You even have the option to rate the anime you’ve watched and check out ratings from other users.
Although it comes with subscription tiers, you can access each title for free and catch simulcasts on the site. AnimeLab provides a simulcast schedule so you can catch up with your favorites live. With an intuitive and clean interface, you can navigate through the site and find your favorite shows easily. The only drawback is that it is only available in Australia and New Zealand. But if you know how to set up a VPN, this should be easy.
9. Soul Anime
If you’re looking for another great streaming site where you won’t have to spend a dime, check out Soul Anime. This site has all of the major anime titles that you might be looking for, with a comprehensive media library. Not only that, but you can watch many animated movies at your perusal. Popular titles like Haikyuu and Boku no Hero Academia are available.
The website is completely free to use, with a straight-to-the-point interface. If you’re looking for a reliable KissAnime alternative after the site’s shutdown, then this is a good choice.
10. AnimeFrenzy
Another reliable anime streaming site is Anime Frenzy. It has everything you could ever want in a good anime site and much, much more. Not only does it have an expansive selection of titles, but it also has some cool features that you’ll enjoy.
You can find any classic anime on their roster, complete with a randomizer button that will assign a random title to you. This is perfect for when you don’t know what to watch. Anime Frenzy even houses both subbed and dubbed versions of an anime, depending on the show. You also get cinematic modes for complete concentration.
11. AnimeHeaven
AnimeHeaven is a straightforward site where you can watch anime online for free. Its massive anime library even contains original Netflix titles like Violet Evergarden and Castlevania! Although the site is riddled with ads, that’s nothing a Ctrl + W and the best antivirus software can’t fix. The site also comes with a simplistic and easy-to-navigate design so you get what you come for right off the bat.
Its library is frequently updated so you can catch your favorite titles as it airs in Japan in real-time. You can get both dubbed and subbed versions quickly and easily. Check out AnimeHeaven now so you won’t miss out on the newest releases.
12. RetroCrush
If you can’t tell from the name, RetroCrush is the best anime site for your old-school anime. If you want to feel nostalgic and rewatch the classics, you should check this out. We were pleasantly surprised by RetroCrush’s playful yet minimalistic interface. It gives off the same feeling as picking out a VHS from the video store.
You can find anything, from slice-of-life shoujo to mind-blowing isekai titles. Like many of the free anime streaming sites, RetroCrush may rely on ads for revenue. But unlike most, the RetroCrush ads aren’t invasive or distracting. If you want to get rid of ads, you can avail of the Premium subscription. The site also has a mobile app so you can easily switch over to any mobile device without hassle. If you want to relive your glory days, RetroCrush is the best anime site for you.
13. Tubi.tv
With Tubi, you stream your favorite movies and shows from anywhere. While not specifically for anime, the site has a great selection of titles. It may not be as diverse as the others, but you’ll find many of the lesser-known hidden gems here. Like RetroCrush, Tubi has many classic retro titles that you surely miss.
Tubi also has a mobile app so you can seamlessly switch from device to device in a snap. Unlike other anime sites, Tubi doesn’t have a download feature, but it’s a safe and free alternative to other free anime streaming services. For safe viewing, watch anime online for free with Tubi.tv now.
14. Anime Karma
If you’re a fan of both anime and cartoons, then you should check out Anime Karma. Not only does it have a good range of anime at its disposal, but it also houses many cartoons you may know. You can find anything from the black-and-white Disney cartoons that inspired the indie game Cuphead, to blockbuster animated movies here.
Its perhaps lesser-known feature is its collection of animated documentaries and crime shows. Despite largely appealing to anime fans, you can also find a good range of other genres on this site.
15. 9anime
9anime is one of the best anime sites where you can stream your favorite anime. It comes with a clean user interface and minimal ads so that you can watch without interruptions. Not only that, but it gives you a ton of options so that you have complete control over your viewing experience. You can toggle settings to change from dark to light mode, and even choose to view the site in Japanese.
Perhaps its best feature is the option to toggle ads. Most free streaming sites have to rely on ads to operate, and 9anime is no different. But the site allows you to choose whether or not to accept NSFW ads so that you won’t have to worry about watching in public and people getting the wrong idea. It’s a simple feature, yet makes the viewing experience infinitely better.
16. AnimeDao
Animedao may not be as famous as other anime sites, but it’s another great site to watch anime. It has a great list of anime and cartoon titles for you to enjoy. Like AnimeFrenzy, AnimeDao has a randomizer feature that will suggest a random anime title for you. This is a great way to find what could potentially be your next favorite show.
AnimeDao is completely free to use. You can find any of your favorite anime, and it provides you with other details you need to know such as its release date, and much more. You can even interact with other site users in the comment section so you don’t feel like you’re watching alone.
17. Animefreak
Animefreak is your one-stop shop when it comes to all things anime. Not only will you be able to find your favorite anime on this site, but it will also give you quick access to your favorite manga.
Animefreak is free to use, but you can create an account for free to access even more features. For instance, you can add anime to your watchlist and leave comments on the site to interact with other fans. It will also give you all the information you need about a certain anime, such as its voice actors.
18. Animeland/DubbedTV
If you’re an anime fan, you have to admit that it’s rare to see sites only for dubbed anime. Animeland is one of the best anime sites for this specific kind. While it doesn’t have as wide a library as others on this list, you have access to great dubbed anime at your disposal.
You’ll find dubs for big titles like Naruto Shippuden and Bleach. If you’re looking for a great resource for dubbed anime, look no further than Animeland.
19. Animeshow
If you want an anime site with a comprehensive list of anime titles, Animeshow is the best site for you. There is a multitude of categories you can choose from, including the top 100 most popular anime of all time. You can find the anime of your choice in multiple ways. You can search by genre or popularity, or from the anime title list on the homepage. Like the other sites, you can even use the randomize button to get a randomly generated anime you can watch.
The site even gives you vital information about each show you watch. It gives you a summary as well as its airing status and when it first started. All in all, it’s a pretty holistic choice for an anime site.
20. Adult Swim
For many millennials, Toonami was the gateway to anime. The late-night show featured a lot of animated series that we’ve known and loved. Lucky for us, the show went digital to stream simulcasts of our favorite shows. On Adult Swim, you can catch all of your favorite Toonami shows for free.
It may not have many Japanese anime shows, but it’s a great platform to watch animated shows you’ll love. You can find many shows from Adult Swim, including the widely-popular Rick and Morty.
21. AnimeUltima
Of all on this list, AnimeUltima has perhaps the most extensive exploration features. You can toggle settings to find a specific anime based on year of airing, genre, type, and even views or followers. You can even find many popular animated movies like 5 Centimeters Per Second and other classic titles like Sailor Moon on the site.
AnimeUltima has an active community you can sign up to join. There are forums and threads you can use to converse with other fans and unlock more features. They also have an active customer service feature and can answer any concerns from users easily.
22. Chia-Anime
Chia-Anime is one of the most popular sites to watch anime online for free. Chia-Anime is home to many anime and cartoon titles. Not only that, but you can even read your favorite manga here too. It has a manga collection like no other, which is great to go and read while you wait for season 2 of Ouran High School Host Club (if it ever comes out.)
The site is completely free to use, although you might have to deal with a few ads along the way. The user interface is pretty intuitive and should be easy to navigate. Chia-Anime is definitely one of the best, all-around anime and manga sites.
Best Free Anime Download Sites
23. Nyaa.biz
Nyaa.biz is a reliable source for all your anime downloads. The site has several anime in all sorts of genres that you can enjoy. If you’re looking to practice Japanese, you can even check out the original non-subbed anime that Nyaa has on their roster. All in all, it’s a great service and one of the best free anime download sites around.
24. Shana Project
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to download anime, visit the Shana Project. It’s one of the best anime sites you can download all your favorites from. With its straightforward interface, you can easily find and download the title you’re looking for. With Shana Project, you have access to anime uploaded directly by other subbers. You can even subscribe to a subber that you like and get notified whenever they post a new file.
25. HorribleSubs.cc
If you’ve ever downloaded anime or watched a fanmade MV on YouTube, chances are you’ve come across HorribleSubs. The service has been around for years and has become a prominent source of anime for the community. If you want to download anime for free, then this is the best site to visit.
How to Find the Best Anime Site for You
With a myriad of choices available to you, it can be daunting to pick out just one service. But you can find a good anime site that will suit you best. Before investing in one of the best anime sites, here are a few things you should look out for.
Dubbing and subtitle options
The debate between dubbed and subbed anime may go on forever, but a good anime site won’t let you pick a side. If you’re looking for a reliable source for anime, make sure it has options for both dubbing (dub) and subtitles (subs). We can argue about the merits of both, but at the end of the day, we each have our preferences when it comes to anime. Anime Frenzy has a great selection of both, depending on the title.
If you’re willing to shell out a little more, paid services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video even let you toggle the subtitle and audio settings to fit your taste. You can even change the language of the dubs. That way, you can watch your all-time favorites even when multitasking.
Affordability and Accessibility
Another thing to look out for is the affordability and accessibility of the site. Many anime sites like Crunchyroll or Funimation offer their streaming services at a reasonable price. With this price comes a myriad of helpful features to improve your anime viewing experience. To make a more informed decision, you can compare Crunchyroll vs Funimation and get the best service for you.
You can also access free streaming sites if you’re on a tight budget. Just bear in mind that many of these sites are not 100% safe. There are a few trustworthy sites such as AnimeLab; however, it isn’t available for most places. Be sure to check whether these services are accessible to your region as well.
