In today's digital age, the variety of streaming services can make finding the perfect platform to watch anime online a daunting task. With major titles often spread across multiple services, it's essential to know where to look for the best anime viewing experience in 2025. Whether you're seeking a comprehensive library, free options, or exclusive content, we've compiled a list of top sites and apps to help you navigate the world of anime streaming.
Crunchyroll
Best Anime Streaming Service Overall
Crunchyroll stands out as the premier destination for anime enthusiasts. Boasting an extensive catalog of anime movies and series, this service is ideal for those seeking a wide range of options. Crunchyroll offers new episodes of popular series like Demon Slayer shortly after their Japanese broadcast, making it a go-to for both classics and the latest releases.
Crunchyroll provides three subscription tiers, all of which allow ad-free streaming of their full library. New users can enjoy a 14-day free trial, after which the cheapest plan is available for $7.99 per month. Additionally, Crunchyroll offers some anime for free with ads, including titles like Chainsaw Man and My Hero Academia, regardless of your subscription level.
Anime Recommendations on Crunchyroll:
### Dragon Ball: DAIMA
0See it at Crunchyroll
### Jujutsu Kaisen
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### Solo Leveling
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### My Hero Academia
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Tubi
Best Free Anime Streaming Service
For those looking to watch anime without spending a dime, Tubi is an excellent choice. Supported by ads, Tubi offers a diverse selection of anime, including popular franchises like Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and Naruto. Their catalog also includes a mix of classics and new releases, all available for free. To start streaming, you'll need to register using your email or Google account. Tubi also provides a wide range of free movies and TV shows across various genres, making it a versatile option for entertainment.
Anime Recommendations on Tubi:
### Death Note
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### JoJo's Bizarre Adventure
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### Inuyasha
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### Yu-Gi-Oh!
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Hulu
Best All-in-One Streaming Service
While Hulu may not be the top choice for anime alone, it offers a unique advantage with its broad range of content. A Hulu subscription provides access to a vast selection of movies, TV shows, and anime, including popular series like Dragon Ball, Attack on Titan, and Naruto. Hulu also features the latest episodes of series like Spy x Family and Chainsaw Man.
Hulu offers two plans: an ad-free option for $14.99 per month and an ad-supported plan for $7.99 per month. Additionally, Hulu is available in various streaming bundles, enhancing its value.
Anime Recommendations on Hulu:
### Chainsaw Man
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### Attack on Titan
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### Cowboy Bebop
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### Spy x Family
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Netflix
Best for New Original Anime
As the world's largest streaming service, Netflix offers a solid selection of anime, including titles like One Piece, Hunter x Hunter, and Demon Slayer. However, what sets Netflix apart is its impressive lineup of original anime, such as the acclaimed film Bubble and video game adaptations like Tekken: Bloodline. For a comprehensive list of top picks, check out our guide to the best anime on Netflix.
Netflix's ad-supported plan is currently priced at $7.99 per month, while standard and premium subscriptions offer additional features like offline viewing.
Anime Recommendations on Netflix:
### The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
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### Devilman Crybaby
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### Cyberpunk Edgerunners
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### Violet Evergarden
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Max (HBO Max)
Best Streaming Service for Anime Movies
Now rebranded as Max, this service is a treasure trove for anime movie enthusiasts, particularly those interested in Studio Ghibli's masterpieces. From Princess Mononoke to Howl's Moving Castle, Max offers a complete collection of these beloved films.
Max provides three subscription tiers, starting at $9.99 per month for the ad-supported option.
Anime Recommendations on Max:
### The Boy and the Heron
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### Spirited Away
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### Suicide Squad Isekai
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### Uzumaki
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Anime Streaming Sites FAQ
What are the best sites to watch anime for free?
In addition to Tubi and the limited free selection on Crunchyroll, other platforms offer free anime streaming. RetroCrush specializes in "vintage" anime and cartoons, featuring classics like Astro Boy, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and City Hunter. Sling TV's FreeStream also includes several anime channels with on-demand series such as Fruits Basket, Maid-Sama, and Ghost Stories.
AnswerSee ResultsHow can I watch anime live in the U.S.?
Most anime is broadcast live in Japan before becoming available for streaming in the United States. Thanks to Crunchyroll's licensing agreements, new episodes are typically available within a day of their original airtime, making it the best service for timely anime viewing. While some exclusives may eventually appear on Netflix or Hulu, they usually debut on Crunchyroll first.
To watch a new episode or special live, you might need to use a VPN to access Japanese channels like FujiTV.
Looking for some anime suggestions? Check our guides to the best horror anime and the saddest anime of all time.
