HiAnime is a popular anime streaming site, but it often operates in a legal gray area, which may put users at risk. Whether you’re concerned about legality, want ad-free viewing, or are just exploring better alternatives, you’re in the right place. Fortunately, there are several free and legal HiAnime alternatives available in 2025 that let you enjoy high-quality anime content without worry.
Why HiAnime not working anymore?
HiAnime, once a popular go-to platform for anime fans around the globe, has suddenly stopped working — leaving thousands of users confused and disappointed. The site, which allowed free streaming of a wide variety of anime shows and movies, now shows error messages or refuses to load entirely. So what happened to HiAnime, and why did it shut down?
HiAnime was part of a growing number of free anime streaming sites that offered a large catalog of subbed and dubbed episodes without charging users. Launched in the early 2020s, it quickly gained traction among anime lovers due to its clean interface, fast loading times, and massive anime library that included everything from classics like Naruto and One Piece to seasonal hits like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen.
However, HiAnime operated in a legal gray area. Since it did not have licenses to host or stream copyrighted content, it was considered an illegal streaming platform by copyright holders and authorities. Over the years, many similar platforms have faced increasing legal pressure, DMCA takedown notices, and domain seizures. HiAnime has now met the same fate.
Reports suggest that HiAnime was either voluntarily shut down by its creators due to mounting legal pressure or forcibly taken offline through coordinated efforts by anti-piracy organizations and law enforcement. These shutdowns are often sudden, and domain names may be blocked or delisted from search engines without warning.
If you’re seeing error pages, slow load times, or if the website isn’t accessible anymore, it’s likely because the domain has been removed or geo-blocked. Some clone or mirror sites may pop up temporarily, but they often contain malware, excessive ads, or unsafe links.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 legitimate alternatives to HiAnime, explain what makes them great, and show you how to access them legally. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard anime fan, these platforms will help you stream anime legally, often for free with ads or with optional subscriptions.
1. Crunchyroll
Website: www.crunchyroll.com
When it comes to legal anime streaming platforms, Crunchyroll is the undisputed leader. Launched in 2006, it has grown from a small startup to a global powerhouse in anime distribution. Today, Crunchyroll offers one of the largest collections of licensed anime in the world, including everything from classic series to the latest simulcasts direct from Japan.
Crunchyroll’s biggest strength lies in its simulcast feature, which allows users to watch new anime episodes within hours of their Japanese release. This is perfect for fans who want to stay updated with their favorite shows without turning to illegal streaming platforms. Another huge advantage is that Crunchyroll provides subtitles in multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for international audiences.
The platform operates on a freemium model, meaning you can watch most of its content for free with ads, or upgrade to a premium subscription to enjoy ad-free viewing, offline downloads, and early access to episodes. It’s available on nearly all devices, including smartphones, tablets, PCs, gaming consoles, and smart TVs.
Crunchyroll merged with Funimation under Sony’s ownership in 2022, bringing many English-dubbed anime titles under one roof. This merger significantly boosted Crunchyroll’s content library, making it an even better alternative to HiAnime.
Some of the most popular shows on Crunchyroll include:
- Attack on Titan
- Jujutsu Kaisen
- One Piece
- My Hero Academia
- Naruto
Whether you’re a newcomer to anime or a seasoned otaku, Crunchyroll offers a safe, legal, and user-friendly environment to enjoy high-quality anime. Its extensive catalog, timely releases, and multilingual support make it a top-tier alternative to HiAnime in 2025.
2. RetroCrush
Website: www.retrocrush.tv
If you’re a fan of vintage anime or want to explore the golden era of Japanese animation, RetroCrush is a treasure trove. Launched in 2020, RetroCrush is a free, ad-supported streaming service dedicated entirely to classic and rare anime from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. It’s one of the best legal platforms for anime lovers who appreciate storytelling, hand-drawn art styles, and old-school charm.
Unlike modern platforms that focus on new and trending anime, RetroCrush curates older titles that often go unnoticed. From action-packed adventures and psychological thrillers to heartfelt dramas and magical girl series, it offers a diverse lineup you won’t find on most mainstream services. It fills a nostalgic gap that modern anime services like Crunchyroll or Netflix often miss.
RetroCrush is completely free to use with ad support. There’s also an optional premium subscription that removes ads and allows access to some exclusive content. The platform is available via web browser and on mobile devices, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and Android TV, making it accessible on nearly all devices.
Some standout titles on RetroCrush include:
- Lupin the 3rd
- Devil Lady
- Urusei Yatsura
- Cyber City Oedo 808
- Project A-Ko
One of the best things about RetroCrush is its focus on curation and preservation. It not only streams but also reintroduces classic anime to new generations of fans. For anyone tired of the repetitive tropes in modern anime or curious about the roots of the genre, RetroCrush is a must-visit, legal alternative to HiAnime in 2025.
3. Pluto TV
Website: www.pluto.tv
Pluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming platform that operates a bit differently from traditional on-demand services. Owned by Paramount Global, Pluto TV offers hundreds of live channels, including a variety of anime-focused streaming channels. It’s a great legal alternative to HiAnime for viewers who enjoy scheduled programming and discovering shows as they air—just like traditional TV.
While Pluto TV is not exclusively focused on anime, it includes dedicated anime channels such as:
- Pluto TV Anime
- Naruto Channel
- One Piece Channel
- Yu-Gi-Oh! Channel
These channels stream popular anime series 24/7. Instead of choosing a specific episode, you tune in to a live stream, making it perfect for casual viewers or those who want to binge without decision fatigue. It’s a nostalgic experience reminiscent of watching anime on cable TV, but entirely free.
Pluto TV doesn’t require any sign-up to start watching, which adds to its convenience. You can access it through your web browser or download its app on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and game consoles.
While it doesn’t offer the latest simulcasts or deep catalogs like Crunchyroll or Netflix, Pluto TV is ideal for fans of classic shonen series, especially if you enjoy background viewing or want a TV-style anime experience without spending a dime.
Some fan favorites regularly broadcast on Pluto TV include:
- Naruto
- Bleach
- One Piece
- Yu-Gi-Oh!
- Saint Seiya
In 2025, Pluto TV remains one of the most accessible and legal ways to enjoy popular anime titles for free, making it a solid alternative for former HiAnime users looking for convenience and quality.
4. Tubi TV
Website: www.tubitv.com
Tubi TV, owned by Fox Corporation, has quickly become one of the top free streaming platforms in the United States—and it’s also an excellent legal alternative to HiAnime for watching anime. Launched in 2014, Tubi offers thousands of titles across all genres, including a large and diverse collection of anime. Best of all, it’s 100% free to use and doesn’t require a subscription.
Tubi’s anime section includes a mix of mainstream hits, underrated gems, and cult classics. From shonen action and fantasy to romance, slice-of-life, and psychological thrillers, there’s something for every anime fan. It partners with reputable distributors like Funimation, Sentai Filmworks, and Viz Media, so all content is fully licensed and safe to stream.
What sets Tubi apart is its on-demand viewing model—unlike Pluto TV’s live stream approach, Tubi allows you to pick and choose what to watch and when. The platform is ad-supported, which means you’ll encounter occasional commercials, but the tradeoff is access to a huge anime library at no cost.
Popular anime on Tubi include:
- Naruto
- Bleach
- Tokyo Ghoul
- Death Note
- Afro Samurai
- Toradora!
Tubi is available on nearly all platforms, including Android and iOS devices, smart TVs, streaming sticks, gaming consoles, and web browsers. Its user-friendly interface and high-definition streaming make it an ideal choice for viewers looking for a free alternative to HiAnime that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
For anyone seeking a legal and risk-free way to watch anime in 2025, Tubi TV delivers convenience, variety, and accessibility—making it one of the best HiAnime replacements available today.
5. CONtv
Website: www.contv.com
CONtv is a niche streaming platform tailored for fans of cult classics, horror, sci-fi, and anime. Launched in 2015 as a collaboration between Cineverse (formerly Cinedigm) and Wizard World, CONtv has evolved into a haven for genre enthusiasts seeking unique and hard-to-find content.
One of CONtv’s standout features is its dedicated anime channel, offering a curated selection of anime titles. While the anime library isn’t as extensive as some larger platforms, it includes cult favorites and classic series that are often overlooked elsewhere. Notable titles available include:
- Bubblegum Crisis
- AD Police
- Vampire Princess Miyu
These series cater to viewers interested in retro and classic anime, providing a nostalgic experience reminiscent of earlier anime eras.
CONtv operates on a freemium model, allowing users to stream a significant portion of its content for free with ads. For an ad-free experience and access to premium content, a subscription is available. The platform supports streaming in HD, 3D, and 4K, enhancing the viewing experience for compatible devices.
Accessibility is a key strength of CONtv. The service is available on various platforms, including:
- Web browsers
- Mobile devices (iOS and Android)
- Streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV)
- Smart TVs
This wide availability ensures that users can enjoy content across multiple devices seamlessly.
For fans of anime and genre-specific content, CONtv offers a legal and cost-effective alternative to HiAnime. Its focus on cult and classic titles provides a unique viewing experience that complements the offerings of more mainstream anime platforms.
6. Peacock TV
Website: www.peacocktv.com
Peacock TV, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, has steadily expanded its anime offerings, making it a notable legal alternative to HiAnime. While Peacock is primarily known for its diverse range of TV shows and movies, its anime collection has grown to include a mix of classic and contemporary titles.
Peacock operates on a freemium model, allowing users to access a substantial portion of its content for free with ads. For an ad-free experience and access to premium content, a subscription is available. The platform is accessible on various devices, including web browsers, mobile devices, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
Some of the popular anime titles available on Peacock include:
- Naruto
- Hunter x Hunter
- Death Note
- Parasyte: The Maxim
- No Game No Life
- K-ON!
- Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?
- Earl and Fairy
- Terra Formars
- Bubblegum Crisis
These titles span various genres, catering to a wide range of anime enthusiasts. Whether you’re into action-packed adventures, psychological thrillers, or light-hearted comedies, Peacock’s anime library offers something for everyone.
In 2025, Peacock continues to enhance its anime catalog, providing viewers with a legal and convenient platform to enjoy their favorite series. Its combination of free access, diverse content, and user-friendly interface makes it a compelling choice for anime fans seeking alternatives to HiAnime.
7. Anime-Planet
Website: www.anime-planet.com
Anime-Planet is one of the oldest and most trusted platforms for anime fans, and it offers a compelling alternative to HiAnime that’s both free and legal. Founded in 2001, Anime-Planet has grown into a full-featured platform that combines free anime streaming, manga reading, and fan-driven recommendations.
What makes Anime-Planet unique is its deep integration with Crunchyroll, which allows users to stream over 45,000 anime episodes directly from the site—legally and without any subscription. The streaming is ad-supported, making it completely free for users. You’ll find a range of genres and popular titles such as:
- Naruto
- No Game No Life
- Re:ZERO
- JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
- One Piece
In addition to streaming, Anime-Planet is also a community hub. Users can rate and review anime and manga, create custom watchlists, and get personalized recommendations based on viewing habits. This makes it more than just a streaming site—it’s a platform for discovery and engagement.
Anime-Planet also offers legal manga reading, with dozens of titles available thanks to partnerships with publishers. Like its anime section, all manga is free and accessible directly through the website. One of the standout features of Anime-Planet is its intuitive interface and tracking tools. You can easily mark episodes as watched, sort your library, and explore recommendations tailored to your taste—all in one place.
Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or just getting started, Anime-Planet provides a safe, ad-supported environment with no login required for casual browsing. In 2025, it continues to be a top-tier legal alternative to HiAnime, especially for users who enjoy a strong community aspect alongside their streaming experience.
8. Midnight Pulp
Website: www.midnightpulp.com
Midnight Pulp is a niche streaming service that offers a fresh and exciting alternative to HiAnime, especially for viewers interested in cult, horror, sci-fi, and underground anime. Launched in 2018, Midnight Pulp focuses on providing access to titles that are often hard to find on mainstream platforms, making it a valuable resource for anime fans seeking something different.
Unlike major streaming giants, Midnight Pulp curates a selection of anime that leans toward the mature, dark, and experimental. If you enjoy anime with horror themes, psychological twists, or surreal storylines, Midnight Pulp is the place to explore. Its anime catalog includes unique titles such as:
- Vampire Hunter D
- Demon City Shinjuku
- Genocyber
- Robot Carnival
- Wicked City
The platform offers a freemium model: you can watch many titles for free with ads, or subscribe to a premium plan for an ad-free experience and additional perks like early access to new releases. Midnight Pulp is accessible on a wide range of devices, including web browsers, Android and iOS apps, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV. This broad compatibility ensures fans can enjoy content wherever and whenever they want.
Its focus on underground and cult anime classics sets Midnight Pulp apart from more commercialized services. It’s perfect for viewers craving niche genres or rediscovering hidden gems in anime history. In 2025, Midnight Pulp stands out as a legal, free (ad-supported) alternative to HiAnime that offers a different flavor of anime—perfect for those seeking something edgy, unique, and captivating.
9. Vudu
Website: www.vudu.com
Vudu, now rebranded as Fandango at Home, is a prominent digital video store and streaming service offering a vast library of movies and TV shows, including a substantial collection of anime. While primarily known for its rental and purchase options, Vudu also provides a significant selection of free, ad-supported anime content, making it a noteworthy alternative to HiAnime.
Vudu’s “Movies on Us” section features a variety of free anime titles, supported by ads. Some of the available titles include:
- Ghost in the Shell
- Yu-Gi-Oh! The Movie
- Ghost in the Shell 2.0
- Street Fighter Alpha
- Redline
- Yu-Gi-Oh! Bonds Beyond Time
These titles span across different genres, offering something for every anime enthusiast. Beyond the free offerings, Vudu also provides anime bundles and TV seasons for purchase, such as:
- Yu-Gi-Oh!: The Complete Series (Bundle)
- Ponyo & My Neighbor Totoro Double Feature
- Studio Ghibli 6-Film Collection (English Language) (Bundle)
These bundles allow fans to own classic anime films and series in high quality .
Vudu is accessible on various platforms, including:
- Smart TVs
- Streaming devices (e.g., Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV)
- Game consoles
- Mobile devices (iOS and Android)
- Web browsers
This wide compatibility ensures that users can enjoy anime content across multiple devices. In 2025, Vudu remains a valuable resource for anime fans seeking free, legal streaming options. Its extensive library, user-friendly interface, and multi-device accessibility make it a compelling alternative to HiAnime.
10. YouTube
Website: www.youtube.com
YouTube is one of the largest video platforms globally and surprisingly a great legal source for anime. Many official anime distributors and studios upload full episodes and series directly to YouTube, making it a legitimate alternative to HiAnime for free streaming.
Several official channels on YouTube offer anime content with full licensing, meaning the shows are uploaded legally and often with subtitles. Some notable official channels include:
- Muse Asia: Known for streaming popular new and classic anime titles licensed for Southeast Asia and beyond.
- Ani-One Asia: Offers a variety of anime from different genres, often including simulcasts shortly after Japanese airing.
- Toei Animation: The studio behind famous anime like Dragon Ball and One Piece, offering episodes and clips.
- Nozomi Entertainment: Uploads classic and niche anime series, often with English subtitles.
- Funimation: Shares select episodes and trailers from its licensed catalog.
These channels feature a mix of genres, from action and fantasy to romance and slice-of-life, catering to diverse anime tastes.
Advantages of YouTube’s official anime channels:
- Free and legal: All content is uploaded with proper licenses.
- No subscription required: You can watch anime anytime without signing up.
- Multiple language options: Many channels offer subtitles in English and other languages.
- Mobile-friendly: Accessible on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers.
However, availability can sometimes be region-locked due to licensing restrictions. But overall, YouTube remains a convenient and trustworthy platform for legal anime streaming. In 2025, YouTube continues to expand its anime offerings, making official channels a popular choice for anime fans worldwide seeking free and legal alternatives to HiAnime.
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to rely on shady anime websites like HiAnime when so many legal and free alternatives exist. From Crunchyroll’s extensive catalog to RetroCrush’s vintage treasures and Tubi’s ad-supported library, anime fans have never had it better.
Whether you’re watching on a smartphone, tablet, or big screen TV, these platforms bring Japanese animation right to your fingertips—legally and safely. So go ahead—bookmark these sites, explore their collections, and enjoy your anime the right way in 2025!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are these HiAnime alternatives safe?
Yes, all the listed alternatives are 100% legal and safe to use. They don’t host pirated content.
2. Do I need a VPN to watch these?
Most services are accessible globally, but some titles may be region-locked. A VPN might help access more content, but it’s not mandatory.
3. Is Crunchyroll free?
Yes, Crunchyroll offers a free ad-supported plan. You can also pay to watch ad-free and access simulcasts faster.
4. Do these platforms have dubs and subs?
Yes, platforms like Crunchyroll, Tubi, and Pluto TV offer both English-dubbed and subbed anime content.
5. Can I watch on mobile devices?
Absolutely. Most platforms support Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and even gaming consoles