Anime has captured the hearts of millions around the world, offering unique stories, vibrant characters, and stunning animation styles. For many fans, 9anime has been a go-to website to watch anime for free online. However, due to frequent outages, legal issues, and regional restrictions, 9anime can sometimes be unreliable.
Luckily, there are several excellent alternatives that allow anime lovers to stream their favorite shows without paying a dime. These platforms often provide large libraries, fast updates, and a variety of genres to explore—all accessible from the comfort of your device. Whether you prefer subtitled or dubbed anime, classic series or the latest releases, these free streaming sites can keep you entertained without interruption. In this article, we will explore some of the best 9anime alternatives, helping you find safe, user-friendly, and free ways to enjoy anime anytime.
History of 9anime
9anime began as one of the many fan-driven streaming websites that quickly gained popularity among anime enthusiasts worldwide. Launched in the mid-2010s, it stood out due to its extensive collection of anime titles, ranging from the newest simulcasts to beloved classics. The site offered free streaming with English subtitles and sometimes dubbed versions, making it accessible to a broad audience beyond Japan. Its user-friendly interface, fast updates, and multiple streaming servers helped it grow rapidly in popularity.
However, 9anime operated in a legal gray area, as it did not officially license most of the content it hosted. This made it a target for copyright enforcement agencies, leading to frequent domain seizures, shutdowns, and forced URL changes. Over time, these disruptions affected the site’s stability and accessibility, frustrating many users. Despite these challenges, 9anime remained a key player in the free anime streaming community.
As legal streaming platforms expanded and gained popularity, many users began shifting toward official services for better quality, security, and to support the creators. Today, while 9anime still exists in some forms, many fans look for safer and more reliable alternatives to enjoy anime legally and without interruptions.
9anime Alternatives for Free Anime
Here are some of the best alternatives to 9anime where you can watch anime for free:
1. Crunchyroll (Free Tier)
Crunchyroll stands out as one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly anime streaming platforms available today, making it a top choice for anyone seeking a legal and reliable alternative to 9anime. With a massive catalog boasting over 1,000 officially licensed anime titles, it offers everything from timeless classics to the latest simulcasts, often releasing new episodes within hours of their Japanese broadcast for premium users.
This vast library caters to all kinds of anime fans, whether they prefer action-packed shonen, heartwarming slice-of-life, or gripping thrillers. Crunchyroll’s service is divided into free and premium tiers, allowing users to watch a large portion of content at no cost with ads, or opt for an ad-free experience with HD streaming and early access to new episodes through subscription.
Beyond just anime streaming, Crunchyroll provides manga, anime news, and community forums to enrich the fan experience. Its interface is intuitive and clean, helping users easily navigate genres, seasons, and trending shows. The platform supports a wide range of devices, ensuring viewers can enjoy anime anytime, anywhere.
Key features include:
- Extensive anime library with over 1,000 titles
- Simulcast episodes shortly after Japanese release
- Multiple subtitle languages and some English dubs
- Free tier with ads and premium ad-free subscription
- Manga access and latest anime news updates
- Community forums for fan engagement
- Offline viewing available for premium users
Crunchyroll is accessible worldwide (with some regional licensing restrictions) and supports a broad range of devices such as:
- Smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android)
- Computers via web browsers (Windows, macOS)
- Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Apple TV, Android TV)
- Streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast)
- Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox)
This flexibility and rich feature set make Crunchyroll a standout choice for anime lovers seeking quality, legal streaming options.
2. RetroCrush
RetroCrush is a standout streaming platform dedicated to classic and retro anime, making it a perfect alternative to 9anime for fans who want to explore anime’s rich history in a legal and high-quality way. Launched to celebrate the golden age of anime, RetroCrush offers a curated collection of beloved titles from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, alongside some lesser-known gems. This service is ideal for nostalgic viewers and new fans eager to discover vintage anime that shaped the industry.
Unlike many free anime sites that rely on unlicensed content, RetroCrush operates legally with official licenses, ensuring creators and rights holders are properly supported. It offers both free ad-supported streaming and a premium subscription that removes ads and provides extra features. RetroCrush’s content includes classics such as Astro Boy, Ranma ½, The Big O, Bubblegum Crisis, and Fruits Basket (the original 2001 version). The platform also produces exclusive retro anime content, further enriching its catalog.
The interface is clean and easy to navigate, with content organized by genre, era, and popularity. RetroCrush is committed to delivering high-quality video streams, ensuring classic shows look their best even decades after their original release. It also features community events and curated collections that engage fans beyond simple streaming.
Key features of RetroCrush include:
- Officially licensed classic and retro anime titles from the 70s to early 2000s
- Free ad-supported streaming and premium ad-free options
- Exclusive retro anime content and curated collections
- User-friendly interface with genre and era filters
- High-quality video streams optimized for older shows
- Community engagement through events and social features
RetroCrush is widely available, but some content may have regional restrictions depending on licensing agreements.
Supported devices include:
- Smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android apps)
- Web browsers on desktops and laptops (Windows, macOS)
- Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV
- Smart TVs with dedicated apps or browser access
Overall, RetroCrush offers a legal, reliable, and nostalgic anime streaming experience, making it an excellent choice for fans wanting to enjoy vintage anime without the risks of unofficial sites like 9anime.
3. Anime-Planet
Anime-Planet has grown into one of the most popular and reliable destinations for anime fans who want to enjoy shows legally while also connecting with a passionate community. Since its launch in 2001, Anime-Planet has offered not only free, legal streaming of thousands of anime titles but also an extensive database that helps users discover new favorites based on their preferences. The platform works closely with official streaming partners like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and HIDIVE to provide access to licensed anime, making it a trustworthy alternative to unofficial sites like 9anime.
What sets Anime-Planet apart is its combination of streaming and social features. Fans can create personalized watchlists, get custom anime recommendations, read and write reviews, and participate in forums where they can discuss everything from plot theories to character favorites. This makes it more than just a streaming site—it’s a full anime community hub.
While Anime-Planet doesn’t host all anime directly, it provides easy links to legal streams on partner sites, ensuring viewers enjoy content in high quality with subtitles or dubs where available. The website is ad-free when browsing the database, providing a smooth and distraction-free experience.
Key features of Anime-Planet include:
- Large database of officially licensed anime and manga
- Free legal streaming through trusted partners
- Personalized anime recommendations based on viewing history
- User-generated reviews, ratings, and community discussions
- Detailed info on anime series, characters, and manga
- No ads on the database website
Anime-Planet is accessible worldwide, although streaming availability depends on partner licensing restrictions in different regions.
Supported devices:
- Web browsers on desktops and laptops (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Mobile browsers on smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android)
- Apps of partner streaming services on various platforms
- Compatible with smart TVs and streaming devices via partner apps
In summary, Anime-Planet is perfect for anime lovers who want a legal way to watch anime while enjoying the benefits of a vibrant community and smart discovery tools.
4. HiAnime
HiAnime is a well-known online platform for streaming anime that has gained popularity as a free alternative to sites like 9anime. It offers a vast collection of anime titles, ranging from the latest episodes of ongoing series to classic favorites across various genres. One of the reasons HiAnime attracts many users is its extensive library that covers popular shows such as Naruto, One Piece, Attack on Titan, and many more. The site provides an easy-to-navigate interface, allowing viewers to quickly find their favorite anime by genre, popularity, or release date.
HiAnime streams its content without requiring users to register or pay, making it accessible to everyone. The platform supports multiple video qualities, including HD, which enhances the viewing experience depending on the user’s internet connection. Subtitle options are available for most titles, helping fans worldwide enjoy anime in their preferred language. Additionally, HiAnime updates its catalog regularly, ensuring that new episodes and series are added promptly after their original release.
While HiAnime offers an extensive and convenient service, it’s important to note that it is not an official streaming platform and may not have proper licensing for all the content it hosts. This means users should be cautious and consider supporting official anime streaming services whenever possible to help the industry thrive.
HiAnime’s simple design includes a search bar, filtering options, and sections for trending and recently added anime, making it easy to explore new shows or catch up on favorites. It also supports streaming on various devices through web browsers, providing flexibility to watch anime on computers, tablets, and smartphones.
5. Gogoanime
Gogoanime is one of the most widely recognized free anime streaming websites and is often recommended as a strong alternative to 9anime. It offers an extensive library of anime series and movies, covering a wide range of genres from action and romance to fantasy and horror. Gogoanime regularly updates its collection with the latest episodes of ongoing anime, allowing fans to stay up-to-date with new releases shortly after they air in Japan.
One of the main reasons Gogoanime is popular is its user-friendly interface that makes searching for anime simple and efficient. Users can browse anime by genre, season, popularity, or alphabetical order. The site also provides detailed anime descriptions, episode lists, and user ratings to help viewers decide what to watch next. Most titles come with English subtitles, and multiple video sources are often available, so viewers can choose the best streaming quality or server to avoid buffering issues.
Gogoanime supports multiple video qualities, including HD, making it accessible to viewers with different internet speeds. The platform doesn’t require registration or payment, which means anyone can access the content for free. However, like many unofficial anime streaming sites, Gogoanime may host content without proper licenses, so users should be cautious and consider using official platforms to support creators.
The website’s design includes a clean layout, a search bar, and sections highlighting new releases and popular anime. It’s also mobile-friendly and works well on smartphones, tablets, and desktop browsers. Though ads may appear during streaming, the overall experience is smooth and convenient.
In summary, Gogoanime is a popular and reliable choice for fans seeking free anime streaming with a wide selection and easy navigation. While it provides great convenience, viewers are encouraged to support official streaming services for the best quality and legal viewing experience.
6. AnimeHeaven
AnimeHeaven is a popular free anime streaming website that many fans turn to as an alternative to 9anime. It offers a vast collection of anime series and movies across numerous genres, including action, romance, fantasy, comedy, and horror. AnimeHeaven is known for regularly updating its content, ensuring that viewers can watch the latest episodes soon after their official release. Whether you’re into classic anime or current hits like Demon Slayer or My Hero Academia, AnimeHeaven has something for everyone.
One of the standout features of AnimeHeaven is its user-friendly and clean interface, making it easy for users to browse or search for anime titles. The website organizes content by popularity, release date, and genre, which helps fans discover new shows effortlessly. Each anime page contains a brief synopsis, episode list, and information about the release year and status, making it easy to keep track of ongoing series.
AnimeHeaven supports multiple video quality options, including HD streams, allowing users to pick the quality that best fits their internet connection. Subtitles are available for almost all anime titles, making it accessible for international viewers. Importantly, AnimeHeaven does not require any registration or subscription, making it simple and free to access.
While AnimeHeaven offers a convenient way to watch a wide variety of anime without any cost, it is important to remember that it is not an officially licensed streaming platform. This means that some of the content may be hosted without proper permissions, which raises legal and ethical concerns. Fans who want to support the anime industry should consider subscribing to official services alongside using free sites like AnimeHeaven.
The website is accessible on multiple devices through web browsers, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, providing flexibility to watch anime anywhere. In conclusion, AnimeHeaven is a popular, easy-to-use platform offering a broad anime catalog for free, but viewers should balance convenience with supporting legal streaming options.
7. Tubi TV
Tubi TV has emerged as a standout platform for free, legal anime streaming. Owned by Fox Corporation, Tubi offers an extensive library of anime titles, catering to both newcomers and seasoned fans. With a user base of 97 million monthly active users as of January 2025, Tubi’s popularity continues to soar.
Tubi’s anime catalog boasts a diverse range of genres, including action, adventure, drama, and fantasy. Notable titles available on the platform include Naruto, Hunter x Hunter, Death Note, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, and Yu-Gi-Oh!. The platform also features critically acclaimed films like Millennium Actress, Liz and the Blue Bird, and In This Corner of the World, thanks to its content deal with Shout! Factory.
Key Features:
- Completely free and legal streaming with ad support
- Extensive anime library, including both series and films
- Available on multiple devices: web browsers, iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV, and more
- No registration required to watch content
- Regular updates with new titles and genres
Downsides:
- Ad-supported model may include commercial interruptions
- Availability of certain titles may vary by region
- Limited selection of the latest simulcasts or ongoing series
Tubi TV stands out as a premier destination for anime enthusiasts seeking a free and legal streaming experience. Its vast and diverse catalog, combined with user-friendly access across multiple devices, makes it an excellent choice for both casual viewers and dedicated fans. While it may not feature the newest simulcasts, Tubi’s commitment to expanding its anime offerings ensures that there’s always something new to discover.
8. Pluto TV
Pluto TV’s Anime All Day channel offers anime fans an exciting and completely free way to enjoy a wide range of anime titles around the clock. Unlike traditional on-demand platforms, this channel functions like a continuous TV broadcast, streaming anime 24/7. This means you can simply tune in at any time and catch episodes playing live, which makes it perfect for viewers who enjoy a more relaxed, passive watching experience without having to decide what to watch next.
The channel’s lineup features a mixture of beloved classics and modern series, spanning multiple genres such as action, fantasy, sci-fi, and drama. This diversity appeals to a broad audience, from longtime anime fans looking for nostalgia to new viewers eager to explore different styles. Because the service is ad-supported, you don’t have to pay a subscription fee — a big plus for budget-conscious fans. While ads do appear occasionally, they’re relatively short and don’t interrupt the overall viewing experience too much.
Key Features:
- 24/7 continuous anime streaming, no scheduling needed
- Mix of classic and modern anime titles across genres
- Completely free with ad-supported model
- Available on smart TVs, streaming devices, mobile apps, and browsers
- Regularly updated and rotated content to keep variety fresh
- No registration or subscription required
One of the greatest strengths of Pluto TV’s Anime All Day is its accessibility. The channel can be streamed on a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming boxes like Roku and Fire TV, smartphones, tablets, and web browsers. This cross-device compatibility ensures that you can enjoy anime whether you’re at home, commuting, or anywhere else with an internet connection.
Moreover, Pluto TV updates its anime offerings periodically, rotating in fresh series to keep the programming interesting. However, since it’s a continuous stream rather than on-demand, you might need to wait for your favorite show to come around if you tune in mid-episode. Overall, Pluto TV provides an easy, hassle-free way to watch anime legally and for free, making it a great choice for casual viewers or those who love having anime on in the background.
9. YouTube
YouTube has grown beyond just a platform for user-generated videos and is now a significant hub for legally streaming anime through official channels. Many anime studios, distributors, and streaming services maintain official YouTube channels where they upload full episodes, clips, and even entire series. This offers anime fans a reliable and free way to watch a wide variety of shows without breaking copyright laws. By streaming from official channels, viewers can enjoy high-quality videos that support the creators and licensors, ensuring the industry remains sustainable. This means access to everything from well-known classics to new and trending titles, with the convenience of watching anytime, anywhere, on any device.
One of the biggest benefits of YouTube is its universal accessibility. Since the platform is supported on nearly all internet-enabled devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and desktops, fans can watch anime without downloading special apps or subscribing to paid services. Additionally, many official channels provide subtitles in multiple languages, making anime more accessible to a global audience. Popular channels like Toonami, Funimation, Crunchyroll, and Muse Asia regularly upload episodes and sometimes simulcast new releases shortly after they premiere in Japan. YouTube’s interactive features also allow viewers to engage by liking, commenting, and sharing videos, fostering a vibrant community of anime enthusiasts. All of this makes YouTube an essential resource for free, legal anime streaming in 2025.
Key Features:
- Licensed anime content uploaded by official studios and distributors
- Free to watch with occasional ads
- Wide variety of genres including classics, new releases, and simulcasts
- Accessible on virtually all internet-connected devices
- Multilingual subtitles available on many videos
- Interactive community features such as comments and likes
- No registration or subscription required for most content
Downsides:
- Regional restrictions may block access to some content
- Ads interrupt the viewing experience occasionally
- Not all series are available or uploaded in full
- Users may need to manually search for episodes and create watchlists
However, there are some downsides to consider. Not all anime series are available on YouTube’s official channels, and licensing restrictions often limit what can be shown in certain regions, meaning some fans might face geographic blocks. Since content is ad-supported, viewers will encounter commercials during playback, which can disrupt the viewing experience. Moreover, because episodes are uploaded individually rather than offered as a full curated library, users may need to search for and compile playlists themselves. Despite these drawbacks, YouTube remains a top choice for accessible and legal anime streaming without any subscription fees.
10. Masterani
Masterani was once a popular destination for anime enthusiasts seeking free, high-quality streaming of a vast array of anime titles. Known for its user-friendly interface and extensive library, it offered both subtitled and dubbed versions of anime series, catering to a global audience.
However, due to legal challenges and copyright infringement issues, the original Masterani website (masterani.me) was shut down. In its place, several mirror sites, such as masteranime.tv, have emerged, attempting to replicate the original site’s offerings. These mirror sites continue to provide access to a wide range of anime content, but they operate without official authorization and may expose users to legal and security risks
Key Features:
- Extensive anime library, including classic and recent titles
- User-friendly interface with easy navigation
- Availability of both subbed and dubbed versions
- No registration required for streaming
Downsides:
- Operates without proper licensing; potential legal issues
- Risk of malware and intrusive ads
- Mirror sites may have inconsistent uptime and reliability
- Lack of official support or updates
While Masterani was once a go-to site for free anime streaming, its shutdown and the emergence of unofficial mirror sites have made it a less reliable and potentially risky option. For those seeking a safe and legal anime viewing experience, it’s advisable to turn to authorized platforms that support content creators and ensure user security.
Tips to Stream on Free Anime Sites Safely and Smoothly
- Use a Reliable VPN: Protect your privacy and bypass regional restrictions by using a trusted VPN service when streaming anime on free sites. This helps keep your identity secure and can improve access to content.
- Enable Ad Blockers: Many free anime streaming sites have intrusive ads or pop-ups. Use an ad blocker extension on your browser to minimize interruptions and avoid potentially malicious ads.
- Keep Your Device Updated: Ensure your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are up-to-date. This reduces the risk of malware or viruses that can come from suspicious links or ads on free streaming sites.
- Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Free anime sites often display misleading ads or fake “download” buttons. Be cautious and avoid clicking on anything that looks suspicious to protect your device from malware.
- Use a Modern Browser: Stream anime using browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari. They offer better security and compatibility with video players on streaming sites.
- Choose Reliable Streaming Sources: Some sites offer multiple streaming servers. If one source buffers or lags, switch to another for better quality and smoother playback.
- Check Your Internet Speed: A stable and fast internet connection (preferably 5 Mbps or higher) is essential for uninterrupted streaming, especially when watching HD videos.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never provide personal details or payment information on free streaming sites, as they usually don’t require it and may be scams.
- Clear Browser Cache Regularly: Clearing your cache helps improve browser performance and can reduce loading issues while streaming.
- Use Legal Alternatives When Possible: Supporting official platforms helps the anime industry grow. Use free sites cautiously and complement them with legal streaming services like Crunchyroll or Funimation.
Final Thoughts
Finding reliable and free alternatives to 9anime can greatly enhance your anime viewing experience without any cost. While 9anime is popular, its instability and legal issues make it essential to explore other platforms. Official services like Crunchyroll and Funimation offer legal, high-quality content with minimal ads, supporting the anime industry. Meanwhile, sites like Gogoanime and AnimeDao provide quick updates and vast libraries but may include more ads or pop-ups.
When choosing an alternative, consider your priorities — whether it’s legality, quality, user experience, or variety. Always use trusted platforms to avoid malware or fake streams. As anime continues to grow worldwide, these alternatives ensure fans have access to diverse content anytime, anywhere. By using these sites responsibly, you can enjoy anime while supporting creators and the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are these 9anime alternatives legal?
Some alternatives like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Tubi TV, and Pluto TV are legal and licensed. Others like Gogoanime and AnimeDao operate in a legal gray area, so exercise caution when using them.
2. Do I need to create an account to watch anime on these sites?
Most free platforms allow streaming without registration, but official services may require signing up for free tiers to access content.
3. Are these sites safe to use?
Official sites are safe. Some free streaming sites might have ads or pop-ups that could be risky, so use ad-blockers and avoid clicking suspicious links.
4. Can I watch dubbed anime on these alternatives?
Yes, platforms like Funimation and Crunchyroll offer both subbed and dubbed anime. Other sites may vary in availability of dubbed versions.