If you are an anime lover, you have probably come across this thing. “This site has been shut down for now,” or “This site cannot be reached.” That soul-crushing message always appears just when you’ve finally found a working free anime site, after 17 pop-up ads and 3 fake ‘Download Now’ buttons.
With tons of anime sites out there, some free and some paid, figuring out which ones are the safest can feel like playing Russian roulette with 5 bullets loaded. But don’t worry, after searching all over the internet for you, we have finally found the ultimate list of 20 safe, actually-working best anime websites. Here’s the list!
Best Anime Websites for 2025
Are you looking for the best anime websites? Here, we’ve enlisted the popular options you shouldn’t miss out:
10 Best Free Anime Websites Working in 2025
Finding free anime websites that still work in 2025 can be tough, but not anymore. We’ve curated the ultimate list of the 10 best free anime websites, so you can enjoy your favorite shows anytime, anywhere!
- AnimeKai
AnimeKai is one of the best websites to watch anime right now. It’s got a huge library—everything from new hits to older classics, all in great quality. The site feels super modern and easy to use, which makes binge-watching a breeze. It even supports both hard and soft subtitles so that you can watch your way. Streaming is smooth, and it’s constantly updated with the latest episodes.
Website: AnimeKai Homepage
- GoGoAnime
GoGoAnime has been around for a while and is still loved by fans. It’s totally free and gets new episodes very fast. You’ll find subbed and dubbed content, and it’s organized by genre, popularity, or release date. The interface isn’t the flashiest, but it gets the job done. Multiple servers are available in case one goes down, which is great for reliability. It does have ads, so a pop-up blocker is recommended. Still, the massive anime collection and fast updates make it worth it.
Website: GoGoAnime Homepage
- HiAnime
HiAnime is another free anime streaming site that’s winning fans quickly. It features an easy-to-use layout, sharp video quality, and quick updates on the latest episodes. You can choose subbed or dubbed, and there’s a built-in dark mode for late-night bingeing. What’s cool about HiAnime is how light the ads are minimal interruptions and smooth playback. It’s great for mobile and desktop, and new users will feel right at home.
Website: HiAnime Homepage
- 9anime
9anime has a sleek-stylish design, which makes it one of the best anime streaming websites out there. It offers HD streaming and quick episode uploads. There’s a wide range of genres and the latest releases, and you can stream without signing up. Some ads are present, but nothing too crazy. One of the best parts? It lets you switch servers and video quality for a smoother experience. If you’re into new anime and want it fast, 9anime is a great pick.
Website: 9Anime Homepage
- AniWatch
AniWatch is becoming a rising star in the free anime world. It boasts a slick interface, high-definition streams, and zero ads most of the time. What sets AniWatch apart is its community vibe, each anime has user reviews, ratings, and recommendations. You can also create playlists and track your progress. It supports both subbed and dubbed versions and is constantly updated with new episodes. It’s a newer player, but definitely one to bookmark.
Website: AniWatch Homepage
- Crunchyroll
Yep, you heard it right! Crunchyroll has both free and premium plans. On the free tier, you can watch tons of anime with ads. It’s the #1 choice for subbed anime lovers, and you’ll also find thousands of episodes from popular series like Naruto, One Piece, and Attack on Titan. The interface is smooth, and you can stream on almost any device. Episodes drop pretty quickly after they air in Japan, although you’ll have to wait a bit longer as a free user. The ads can be a bit annoying, but they’re bearable if you want legal, high-quality anime without paying a single penny. Plus, the recommendations system helps you discover new shows you might love.
Website: Crunchyroll Homepage
- KickAssAnime
This platform has a modern, clutter-free layout and is great for tracking newly released episodes. The built-in countdown timer for upcoming shows is a neat feature, and it’s especially good for seasonal anime fans. Quality is crisp, and while there are occasional ads, the viewing experience is generally smooth.
Website: KickAssAnime Homepage
- AnimeHeaven
AnimeHeaven brings a clean layout and solid quality to your screen. You get both dubbed and subbed anime, fast updates, and a good variety of genres. The website also allows you to download shows, and the streaming quality is excellent. There are some ads, but nothing overbearing. It’s a solid platform if you want reliability and quick access.
Website: AnimeHeaven Homepage
- AnimeFreak
AnimeFreak is loaded with shows across all genres, from action to romance to mystery. As one of the most reliable free anime websites, it offers daily updates, both dubbed and subbed episodes, and super-easy sorting options. The UI is functional, though a little dated. Ads are present, so a blocker helps, but the vast library and solid streaming quality make it worth visiting.
Website: AnimeFreak Homepage
- AnimixPlay
Last but not least, AnimixPlay offers a simple and ad-light experience. It provides crisp video quality, subtitles, and a full episode guide for each show. What really sets it apart from other best free anime websites is that you don’t need to register, and you can even download episodes to watch later. It also has a mobile-friendly version that works smoothly. AnimixPlay is the best platform for those who want continuous watching without disruptions.
Website: AnimixPlay Homepage
10 Best Paid Anime Websites in 2025
Free anime sites are great, but if you’re serious about streaming high-quality anime without annoying ads or buffering issues, paid platforms are the best! Here are the 10 best anime websites (Paid ones!)
1. Crunchyroll (Premium)
As mentioned above, Crunchyroll also offers a premium version that delivers enhanced streaming benefits, which totally justify the subscription cost. By subscribing to one of their plans, users can stream movies ad-free, access simulcasts of new shows from Japan within an hour, and watch HD content across a huge collection of titles. Among streaming services, Crunchyroll provides users with one of the biggest anime library collections, including life shows, action dramas, and supernatural movies.
You can watch on pretty much any device—TV, tablet, phone, gaming consoles, you name it. The service includes an offline viewing mode that is best to use when you are traveling. The platform provides multiple plan options, from basic levels, and also includes a 7-day free trial to experience the service before deciding. All genuine anime fans should choose this platform as their go-to for anime entertainment.
Website: Crunchyroll Premium
2. Funimation
English-dubbed anime fans should look no further than Funimation because it provides their preferred content. Any viewer who favors dubs instead of subs will find everything they desire on this platform. With their subscription, you get complete library access without any commercials to watch mainly action and fantasy, and shounen anime titles. All the popular anime shows like My Hero Academia, Tokyo Ghoul, and Attack on Titan are available for premium users streaming through Funimation, alongside simulcast episodes.
Users can navigate through the site easily, and also gives them multiple profiles access so that they can binge anime episodes together with their family or friends. You can stream on nearly every device, and the offline mode is super handy.
Website: FunimationNow Homepage
3. Netflix
Yes, Netflix! Your favorite site for binge-watching dramas and series, but it also has a killer anime collection. The best part is that the user experience is top-notch, with super smooth streaming and personalized recommendations. Netflix has both classic anime and newer Netflix Originals like Devilman Crybaby, Castlevania, and Yasuke. You also get English dubs, subtitles, and multiple audio tracks depending on your region.
If you already have Netflix, there’s no need for extra subscriptions. Just pick one and get into the anime world. It’s also great for introducing anime to friends or family who might already use the platform. It might not have the widest collection, but it’s getting better every year.
Website: Anime | Netflix Official
4. Hulu
Hulu does not fit the definition of a traditional anime site, yet still it presents a good collection of popular anime titles. With shows like Bleach, Naruto Shippuden, One-Punch Man, and Demon Slayer, it stands as a good option for users who already watch content through their existing subscriptions.
Hulu provides excellent content quality and a friendly interface while ensuring smooth playback. Hulu subscribers in the U.S. can enjoy subbed and dubbed content without needing additional subscriptions. The platform delivers this service to limited geographic regions only.
Website: Hulu Anime
5. HiDive
HiDive is a hidden gem in the paid anime world. They have a huge collection of anime genres that also includes anime you won’t find on other platforms. The subscription is also cheaper than most, making it budget-friendly. Plus, it supports customizable subtitles, multiple streaming qualities, and offline viewing. While it’s not as well-known, it’s super underrated and one of the best websites to watch anime in my opinion
Website: HiDive Anime Homepage
6. Amazon Prime Video
Most people don’t usually think of anime when they hear Amazon Prime Video, but it actually has some great exclusive titles. If you already have a Prime membership, you can watch a variety of subbed and dubbed anime for no extra cost. The quality is excellent, as you would expect from Amazon, and the interface is smooth, reliable, and super easy to navigate. When it comes to paid anime websites, Amazon Prime Video ranks among the best anime streaming websites for fans who want both convenience and valuable content.
Website: Amazon Prime Anime
7. Disney+
Yup, even Disney has stepped into the anime game. With its recent partnership with Japanese studios, Disney+ now streams anime like Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War and Tokyo Revengers. The platform is slowly expanding and competing with the big names. Plus, you get everything else Disney offers, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and now anime, all under one roof. It’s especially appealing to those who want to watch anime with family or on the big screen. Keep an eye on Disney+ as it continues to add more anime content.
Website: Disney+ Homepage
8. Apple TV (Anime via Subscriptions)
Apple TV lets you add anime channel subscriptions like Crunchyroll, Funimation, or HIDIVE directly to your Apple ecosystem.
As an Apple user, you can enjoy seamless integration, manage billing from one place, and stream content across all your devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. With Apple TV, you can rent or purchase anime titles like Weathering With You, Your Name, and Demon Slayer: Mugen Train.
Apple users can find high-quality anime content through this platform, while the platform contains many other features beyond anime videos.
Website: Apple TV Homepage
9. VRV
VRV is kind of like a content buffet that bundles multiple services into one. It includes Crunchyroll, HiDive, and other geeky content channels like Rooster Teeth and Mondo. For one price, you get access to a range of anime and animation-related content, which makes it a good bang for your buck. The interface is nice, the anime options are strong, and it supports ad-free HD streaming.
If you’re someone who enjoys not just anime but also other animated and fandom content, VRV is the best website to watch. The service is currently limited to U.S. audiences only, and fans from other regions must wait until its availability extends globally.
Website: VRV Homepage
10. YouTube (Official Paid Channels)
Believe it or not, YouTube has official anime content if you know where to look. Many anime studios and distributors have their own channels, like Ani-One, Muse Asia, and even paid movie releases. Some shows are free with ads, while some need users to pay a small rental fee or purchase a subscription. It’s a smart choice for casual viewers who don’t want monthly bills.
Website: Youtube Homepage
What makes the Best Anime Website?
Before we get into the list, it’s important to understand what makes an anime website stand out:
Content Library
The content library carries the most important weight among all other features. The best anime websites carry broad content collections that not only present classic favorites but also the newest releases for viewers with different tastes so that fans of all kinds can find something to enjoy.
Video Quality
Next comes video quality. The viewer needs high-definition streaming, which provides pristine image quality to achieve full immersion. HD video presentation with smooth playback allows you to fully appreciate both fast-paced action sequences and overwhelming emotional scenes.
Subtitles and Dubs
Sites that provide both subtitles and dubbed versions of anime are more valuable for viewers. Viewers have different preferences regarding watching anime.
Some prefer watching anime in Japanese with subtitles, while others prefer their native language with dubbing. So, when users searching for the best anime website find these options in one place, they’re more likely to stick with it.
User Interface
People prefer watching their preferred shows instead of struggling with a complicated website layout. Streaming websites should always be well-designed, responsive, and have no complex interfaces so that users can find new TV shows without any obstacles and can watch them easily on any device.
Legal and Safe
A truly great anime site is not only legit but also safe. The users feel safe knowing that the site is protected from harmful ads, pop-ups, and malware by following proper content licensing standards.
Conclusion
So here you go! Now you can easily find appropriate options among these 20 best anime websites to match your budget level. Free streaming platforms will let you binge your favorite anime without having a need to spend a penny, while paid platforms provide ad-free, smooth playback streams with special content you will love to watch.
Plus, you can also test most of the paid anime sites through their free trials, as they provide this option to allow you to make an appropriate choice based on your preferences. If you’re planning to create an anime website, reach out to Web Dev Sphere today to build a strong online presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best paid anime site for English dubbed content?
If you’re big on English dubs, Funimation is your best bet. It is one of the best anime websites and has the largest dubbed anime libraries out and often drops dubbed episodes shortly after their original Japanese release. It’s perfect if you want to watch without subtitles.
Can I download anime to watch offline?
Absolutely! Most paid platforms like Crunchyroll Premium, Netflix, and Funimation let you download episodes for offline viewing. Just make sure you’re using their mobile app and have an active subscription.
Is Crunchyroll better than Netflix for anime?
That depends on your viewing style. Crunchyroll easily lands among the best anime websites. But if you like a mix of anime, movies, and TV shows in one place, Netflix is a solid pick from the list of best anime streaming websites.
Can I watch anime legally without paying?
Yes, you can! Sites like Crunchyroll (with ads), Tubi TV, and official YouTube channels like Muse Asia offer legal streaming for free. Just be prepared to sit through a few ads.
Are free anime sites like Zoro.to and AnimeDao safe to use?
Many fans use these sites, but keep in mind they may not always have proper licensing. While they usually offer HD streams, they can come with pop-ups or unsafe ads. Use an ad blocker and antivirus protection if you choose to stream from them.