16 Best Websites to Watch Anime: Free & Paid Legal Streaming Services

• Available in: Most countries worldwide (availability may vary by region)
• Pricing: Free with ads or subscription-based (ad-free, premium access)
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is pretty much the go-to sites for anime streaming. It’s one of the biggest and most well-known platforms dedicated entirely to anime, and for good reason.

With one of the biggest legal anime libraries in the world, Crunchyroll offers everything from popular series like Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End to timeless classic like One Piece.

Not only that, Crunchyroll’s biggest strengths is the simulcast system, which means you can watch new episodes from new anime just hours after they air in Japan.

That’s huge for keeping up with ongoing series without spoilers!

Crunchyroll offers both free and premium options. The free tier comes with ads and limited shows to watch, while the premium tier gives you ad-free viewing, access to simulcasts and all anime they offer.

The service is available in most regions worldwide, and they’re constantly expanding. The price is pretty cheap considering the benefits like access to simulcast and premium anime.

• Available in: Over 200 countries and territories
• Pricing: Subscription-based (included with Amazon Prime)
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video might not be the first service that comes to mind when you think of anime, but it has quietly built a solid lineup over the years.

While it doesn’t offer the same extensive catalog as Crunchyroll or Netflix, Prime Video has a growing collection of both mainstream hits and exclusives like Vinland Saga, or Dororo.

Some anime are available depending on your region, so what you can watch might vary.

Still, for those already subscribed to Amazon Prime, this platform is a great way to enjoy both popular and lesser-known anime without spending extra.

• Available in: Worldwide (but anime catalog may varies by region)
• Pricing: Subscription-based
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Netflix

Netflix needs no introduction, but it deserves a spotlight for how far it’s come in the anime world. Available nearly worldwide, Netflix offers a rich catalog of anime.

While it started with just a few titles, it now has a hefty anime lineup, including original Netflix exclusives like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, and Devilman: Crybaby.

Their animation quality is often stellar, and they’ve been heavily investing in both Japanese and global anime production, which means more originals are always on the way.

One important thing to note is that Netflix’s anime library depends on where you live.

For example, users in Japan often get simulcasts faster, while other regions might lag behind or have different selections.

It’s a subscription-only service and no free tier here, but if you’re already using Netflix, you’re basically getting a ton of anime as a bonus.

• Available in: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand
• Pricing: Subscription-based
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit HIDIVE

HIDIVE might not be as widely known as Crunchyroll, but it’s beloved by fans who like their anime slightly off the beaten path: something unique, niche, and cult-favorite anime.

Available in several English-speaking countries, HIDIVE offers a clean interface and ad-free streaming for subscribers.

Its curation feels more personal than algorithmic, making it perfect for fans who like to dig into genres beyond shonen or slice-of-life.

Not only they have simulcast system, the service also licenses exclusive titles and occasionally brings back long-forgotten anime for modern audiences.

• Available in: United States, Canada
• Pricing: Subscription-based
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Hulu

While Hulu is a general streaming platform like Netflix, it has carved out a respectable anime section for U.S. viewers.

With partnerships involving Funimation and other distributors, Hulu offers a huge variety of anime, from popular hits to hidden gems, available in both subbed and dubbed versions.

It’s subscription-based, and while there’s no free plan, Hulu often offers bundle deals with Disney+ and ESPN+. You can watch both anime shows and live TV shows here!

If you’re already using Hulu for other shows, anime fans will find a lot to like here too.

• Available in: Primarily across Asia (especially Southeast Asia and China)
• Pricing: Free and subscription-based for full content access
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit BiliBili

BiliBili (also known as Bstation in some regions) is already a massive platform in China, and now it’s expanding its anime streaming arm across Asia.

It’s especially prominent in Southeast Asian countries and offers an ever-growing catalog of anime both new and old, whether it’s anime from Japan or donghua (Chinese anime).

One of the biggest advantages of BiliBili is that it’s free. Yes, really. A lot of their anime can be watched without paying a cent.

Some shows are locked behind a VIP subscription, but the free selection is impressive and constantly updated (One Piece is free for instance).

One of the coolest things about BiliBili is the community interaction: fans can leave “danmaku” comments that scroll across the screen while watching (you can turn it off).

• Available in: Asia (especially Southeast Asia, China)
• Pricing: Free with ads or subscription for full access
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit iQIYI

iQIYI is a major player in the Asian streaming websites.

Based in China, it’s often compared to Netflix in terms of scale and variety, but with a strong focus on Chinese and Japanese content including anime.

It offers a mix of licensed Japanese anime and original Chinese anime (donghua), making it a great platform if you’re curious about both.

iQIYI uses a freemium model. Many episodes are available for free with ads, but newer or premium titles often require a VIP subscription.

Like Bilibili, it also supports danmaku-style commentary. If you already use iQIYI for Asian dramas, you might be surprised at how much solid anime content it now offers.

• Available in: United States, Canada, parts of Asia
• Pricing: Subscription-based
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Disney+

Disney+… or is it Hotstar in Asia?

While they have Hulu, Disney still jumped into the anime world with both feet.

With the acquisition of 20th Century Fox and a growing interest in international animation, Disney has secured exclusive streaming rights for major popular and new anime series.

Some notable shows include Summer Time Rendering, and Tokyo Revengers.

While the catalog is still growing, Disney+ could become a major player in anime distribution, especially for new high-profile releases tied to mainstream media.

Disney+ is especially appealing because it offers a bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ in the U.S., giving you access to three major streaming services for one price. Definitely a solid option.

• Available in: United States, Canada
• Pricing: Free (ad-supported)
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Tubi TV

Tubi is one of those streaming services that seems too good to be true. It’s completely free, and it actually has a surprisingly decent anime collection.

You won’t find the latest simulcasts here, but you will find a solid lineup of classics, dubbed options, and niche titles that you may have missed elsewhere.

What’s great about Tubi is that it’s 100% free, legal, and doesn’t even require an account to start watching.

It’s especially handy if you’re looking to explore retro titles or introduce someone new to anime without any cost involved.

• Available in: United States, Canada
• Pricing: Completely free (ad-supported)
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Pluto TV

If you’re looking for a totally free, no-login-required option, Pluto TV is a great place to start.

It’s a live TV-style streaming service with various live channels, and it has dedicated anime channels that stream 24/7!

Shows run on a schedule, just like cable, so you can kick back and watch whatever’s airing. But yeah, you can’t pause or watch back if you skipped some scenes.

Since it’s not on-demand, you can’t pick exactly what to watch or when, but it’s perfect for casual viewing or putting on in the background like good old cable TV.

No subscription, no stress.

• Available in: Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand
• Pricing: Subscription-based (with some free episodes and promos)
• Access via: Website, etc.
• Visit AniPlus Asia

AniPlus Asia is an excellent local platform dedicated to anime for Southeast Asian anime fans.

While it might not have the global reach of Crunchyroll, it makes up for it with quality selections and simulcasts tailored for its audience.

It often carries current-season anime straight from Japan and has broadcast partnerships with local TV and online services.

The platform works on a subscription model, though some content may be accessible for free or during promotional periods.

It’s a strong choice if you want access to current anime without region issues bogging you down.

• Available in: Southeast Asia (Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and more)
• Pricing: Free with ads or premium subscription
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Viu

For our friends across Asia, Viu is a major player known for K-dramas and Asian TV shows.

While anime isn’t Viu’s main focus, it also ocarries a respectable selection of anime, especially popular and trending shows.

You might not find deep cuts or obscure titles here, but if you’re after well-known series that are popular in Asia, Viu delivers a smooth, high-quality streaming service.

Viu’s strength is in accessibility, it’s optimized for mobile viewing, has localized subtitles (often in multiple Asian languages), and offers a mix of free and premium content.

• Available in: United States, Canada
• Pricing: Free with ads or premium subscription
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit RetroCrush

Nostalgic for the golden age of anime? RetroCrush is your time machine.

This platform is a love letter to the anime of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. You’ll find iconic titles like The Rose of Versailles, Hajimete no Ippo, and more.

Only available in the U.S. and Canada, RetroCrush is dedicated to vintage anime, stuff that shaped the industry but might not be on modern streaming platforms.

It’s ideal for fans who appreciate older animation styles, deep storytelling, or want to see where today’s anime evolved from.

• Available in: France, Germany
• Pricing: Subscription-based (with some free episodes)
• Access via: App, Website, etc.
• Visit Animation Digital Network

Anime streaming platforms in Europe are still limited, with the market largely monopolized by the big three: Crunchyroll, Netflix, and Prime Video.

However, if you’re fans in France and parts of Germany, ADN is a localized anime platform that offers subtitled and dubbed anime in French.

ADN offers both current hits and a strong library of older anime titles. ADN simulcasts many of the latest series, making it a great choice for staying up to date with Japan.

They offer both subbed and dubbed content, plus some exclusive streaming rights within the region. ADN is definitely worth checking out if you’re in French or Germany.

Free YouTube Anime Channels

Yep, legal anime on YouTube is a thing, and it’s awesome.

These official channels offer full episodes and even entire series, completely free and legally licensed.

• Available in: Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei
• Pricing: Free (YouTube)
• Visit Muse Asia

Muse Asia is a powerhouse YouTube channel that streams anime episodes for free in Southeast Asia and beyond.

The lineup features titles like Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, Re:Zero, Spy x Family, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, and more. Yes, completely free.

Muse Asia’s video quality is top-tier for a free service, and subtitles are usually available in English and local languages.

They also offer full seasons and curated playlists to make it easier for you to binge-watch legally. If you’re in a supported region, this channel is an absolute goldmine.

All for free. All legal. All awesome.

• Available in: Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, India (and more parts of Asia)
• Pricing: Free, with premium perks via Ani-One Asia ULTRA (YouTube membership)
• Visit Ani-One Asia

Ani-One Asia is another official YouTube channel that simulcasts and archives dozens of anime titles legally for viewers in Asia.

Their catalog includes big names like KonoSuba, Jujutsu Kaisen, and many more. They update regularly with new episodes and seasonal anime, often in sync with Japanese air dates.

You can watch most of the content for free, but becoming an “ULTRA” member on YouTube unlocks early access and exclusive shows.

Honestly, it’s very convenient watching anime on YouTube. But some might find it hard to find the anime they want to watch.

Pro Tip: Want to Watch a Specific Anime? Here’s How to Stream Any Anime

Looking for a particular anime but not sure where to watch it? Don’t worry, you don’t have to open every streaming site one by one.

There are some super helpful anime database websites that do the work for you!

Sites like MyAnimeList.net and MAL alternatives like LiveChart.me, and JustWatch.com are your best friends when it comes to tracking down where a specific anime is legally available.

Just type in the title of the anime in search bar, and you’ll be taken to its dedicated page filled with all the details you need.

• On LiveChart.me, look for the “Streams” section to see which platforms are airing it in your region.
• On JustWatch.com, scroll to the “Where to Watch” section for a list of streaming services that have it available.
• On MyAnimeList.net, scroll down until you find the “Streaming Platforms” section, which lists all the official sites.

It’s fast, reliable, and a total lifesaver when you’re hunting down that one anime show everyone’s been talking about. Bookmark them, you’ll thank yourself later!

Here’s an example:

Optionally, you can also check out Reddit threads (like r/anime) where the community regularly discusses, and updates lists of legal anime streaming sources.

However, we’ve already compiled the most important and must-know platforms for you right here, so you won’t need to hunt through those threads if you’ve already found a platform you like!

Conclusion: Legal Anime Streaming Platforms Is Bigger Than You Think

There’s never been a better time to be an anime fan. There’s an amazing world of anime out there just waiting to be explored, and watching it legally is easier than ever.

From global giants like Crunchyroll and Netflix to free treasures like Muse Asia and Ani-One, there’s no shortage of options, no matter your region or budget.

Legal streaming not only gives you access to high-quality content with proper subtitles and dubs, it also directly supports the creators, studios, and voice actors behind the shows we all love.

Here’s our tip: always check which platforms are available in your country, take advantage of free trials, and don’t sleep on YouTube’s legal anime channels (maybe… uh… you can try VPN for YouTube).

What’s your favorite way to watch anime? Got a favorite platform we missed? We’d love to hear what you use to keep up with your anime obsession.