Top Picks: Best Places To Watch Anime You’ll Love

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing worse than being in the mood to binge Attack on Titan or Jujutsu Kaisen, only to waste 20 minutes scrolling through websites trying to figure out where to legally stream it. I’ve done that dance. I’ve opened too many tabs. I’ve even clicked on “Download Now” by mistake (regrets were made).

So I decided to make this definitive guide for you. Whether you’re brand new to anime, a seasoned collector with box sets and figurines, or someone who just wants to understand what the hype is about, here are the best places to watch anime in 2025.

Quick List: Best Anime Streaming Websites

• Crunchyroll – Massive sub/dub library, simulcasts, collector’s favorite
• Netflix – Top-tier anime originals and exclusives
• Hulu – Best mix of anime and regular TV
• HiDive – Underrated platform with niche retro gems
• Tubi, Pluto TV, RetroCrush – Free & legal options

Why You Should Trust This List

I’ve been watching anime since the dial-up internet days and have tried everything from torrents (oops) to Blu-ray collector’s editions. As a professional content strategist and longtime fan, I’ve spent years writing about streaming platforms and media trends. I’ve tested every major anime streaming site for this article, taking into account not just their libraries but also the real fan experience—interface, pricing, accessibility, and extras.

1. Crunchyroll – The Ultimate Anime Hub

If anime had a home base, it would be called Crunchyroll. This is the industry giant and for good reason.

What makes Crunchyroll shine:

• Unmatched catalog: With over 1,000 titles and simulcasts airing within hours of Japan, Crunchyroll offers the largest anime library in the world.
• Sub and Dub: Following the Funimation merger, Crunchyroll offers both subbed and dubbed content in one place, which includes a wide variety of genres—from shounen and slice-of-life to rom-coms and thrillers.
• Extra Features: Manga reading, community forums, convention coverage, and even news updates help you stay connected.
• User Interface: The UI is responsive and clean. You can organize your watchlist, set playback preferences, and switch languages easily. Smart TV and console apps work reliably.
• Pricing: There’s a free plan with ads and a few paid tiers. The premium plan removes ads and gives early access to simulcasts.

Crunchyroll is my go-to app for seasonal anime. The platform feels like a digital anime convention with access to simulcasts, merch, and fan discussions all in one place.

2. What Happened to Funimation?

Once the go-to platform for dubbed anime, Funimation has officially merged into Crunchyroll as of 2022. Sony made the call to consolidate both services into one.

• All new content is now on Crunchyroll.
• Legacy Funimation accounts are being phased out.
• Classic Funimation-exclusive dubs are gradually being added to Crunchyroll.

Bottom line: If you were a Funimation fan, Crunchyroll is where you need to be. And it’s honestly better this way—everything in one place with fewer logins and a much bigger catalog.

3. Netflix – Best for Anime Originals & Global Reach

Netflix is best known for its original films and global dramas, but it’s also quietly built a solid reputation in the anime world. While it’s not an anime-only platform, its anime strategy is serious and cinematic.

Why Netflix works for anime fans:

• Original Productions: Netflix funds and produces high-quality originals like Castlevania, Devilman Crybaby, Baki Hanma, Yasuke, and Spriggan. These series are often darker, more experimental, and well-animated.
• User Experience: Browsing by genre is seamless, with well-organized subcategories like “Fantasy Anime” and “Shounen Favorites.” The streaming is buffer-free and adjusts easily to network conditions.
• Sub and Dub Support: Audio and subtitle customization is intuitive—perfect for bilingual fans or learners.
• Downsides: The anime catalog varies greatly by region. Titles also rotate in and out due to licensing.

Netflix is where I go when I want a cinematic or mature anime experience. It’s not the best for hardcore seasonal fans but perfect for casual or film-style anime viewing.

4. Hulu – Best for Anime + Traditional TV Combo

Hulu is like the comfort food of streaming—it’s flexible, familiar, and underrated when it comes to anime.

Why Hulu deserves a look:

• Anime Library: Solid collection of classics and recent hits including Naruto, Bleach, Tokyo Ghoul, Attack on Titan, and more.
• Dual-language Support: Most major titles come with both sub and dub options.
• Cross-genre appeal: Watch anime, then flip to Brooklyn Nine-Nine or The Bear—all from the same account.
• Platform Experience: The anime is organized reasonably well but lacks some advanced filtering that anime-first platforms offer. Still, it gets the job done.
• Pricing: Budget-friendly, especially when bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+.

My experience: I often use Hulu as my “weekend couch marathon” app. It’s a good way to mix anime with other types of content without needing to switch platforms.

5. HiDive – The Hidden Gem for Niche Anime

HiDive feels like a hidden corner of the internet for anime lovers who like stories a bit off the beaten path.

Why HiDive is worth trying:

• Rare and Emotional Titles: It specializes in genres like yuri, romance, classic drama, and psychological thrillers. You’ll find gems like Clannad, Bloom Into You, and The Big O.
• Clean UI: The interface is light and efficient, though less flashy than Netflix or Crunchyroll. It’s easy to browse by genre or release date.
• Playback and Subs: Video quality is good (HD standard), and subtitles are clear and well-timed. Limited dubs.
• Platforms Supported: Works on web, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and most mobile devices.

Why I use it: When I’m in the mood for something slower, more emotional, or just vintage, HiDive always surprises me. It reminds me of anime club screenings from back in the day.

💡 Pro tip: Ideal for fans who crave something beyond action-packed shounen series.

6. Free and Legal Options

Yes, you can legally stream anime for free! These platforms are a great entry point, especially if you’re just getting started.

Tubi TV

• Library: Impressive range of titles like Naruto, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Berserk.
• User Experience: No account required, just click and watch. Ads are minimal and tolerable.
• Quality: Good HD resolution. Some older titles may vary.

Pluto TV

• Format: Linear-style channels airing anime 24/7.
• Great for: Casual watching or background anime while working.
• Downsides: You can’t choose episodes on demand.

RetroCrush

• Specialty: Dedicated to anime from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
• Features: Free access, curated playlists, and a retro aesthetic.
• Why I use it: It’s like opening a time capsule. Great for studying anime history or revisiting childhood favorites.

BONUS: Use a VPN to Access More Anime

Region restrictions can be frustrating, but VPNs unlock a lot.

Benefits of using a VPN:

• Access U.S. or Japanese catalogs of Crunchyroll and Netflix
• Protect your data on public Wi-Fi
• Bypass unfair licensing limits

Tested & Recommended: I use Surfshark, which gives me reliable access to Netflix Japan, Crunchyroll US, and even content otherwise blocked in my country.

Collectors: Your Streaming/Buying Strategy

Streaming is great, but for anime collectors, ownership matters too.

Why Crunchyroll is great for collectors:

• Access to exclusive figures, Blu-rays, and manga via Crunchyroll Store
• Discount codes for premium members
• Early access to limited-edition bundles

My story: I scored a Vinland Saga collector’s box set before it sold out, thanks to a pre-order alert via Crunchyroll. Totally worth it.

Platform Comparison Table

Preference	Best Platform(s)
All-around anime experience	Crunchyroll
Anime originals	Netflix
Anime + mainstream TV	Hulu
Niche, retro, emotional	HiDive, RetroCrush
Free anime legally	Tubi, Pluto TV, RetroCrush
Dubbed anime (post-merger)	Crunchyroll
Global access	Use VPN for more libraries

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Final Thoughts: Your Anime Journey Starts Here

There’s never been a better time to watch anime. Whether you’re diving into 1000 episodes of One Piece or easing in with Your Name, the right platform can transform your experience.

If I had to choose one? Crunchyroll wins for its size, flexibility, and now-complete catalog. But platforms like HiDive and Netflix still offer unique flavors worth exploring.

🎬 Ready to find your next favorite series? Start with Crunchyroll here

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💬 Let’s Talk Anime

What platform do you use most? Did I miss a hidden gem? Drop a comment below—I always reply.