Anime has grown from a niche subculture to a global phenomenon, captivating millions with its compelling storylines, beautiful animation, and diverse genres. The demand for anime content continues to soar, especially among viewers seeking free anime streaming sites. Whether you’re into action-packed series like Attack on Titan or wholesome slice-of-life anime like My Dress-Up Darling, there’s a platform for you.
While some top-tier anime requires subscriptions, there are still plenty of websites where you can watch anime online for free and legally — yes, without shady pop-ups or malware. These websites offer dubbed and subbed episodes, HD quality, and frequently updated libraries of both classic and new anime. In this guide, we’ve curated the best websites to watch free anime in 2025, making sure they’re accessible, safe, and ad-supported — so you don’t pay a dime but still enjoy high-quality content.
1. Crunchyroll
Website: https://www.crunchyroll.com
When it comes to streaming anime legally and for free, Crunchyroll remains one of the most popular and trusted platforms globally. Launched in 2006, it has grown into a massive hub for anime lovers, offering a mix of free and premium content.
With a free ad-supported plan, users can enjoy thousands of anime episodes without paying a dime. Popular titles like Attack on Titan, Naruto, Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia, One Piece, and many more are available. While premium users get earlier access and no ads, the free version still offers an impressive catalog with only a short delay for new episodes.
Crunchyroll supports subtitled (sub) and dubbed anime, catering to different viewer preferences. It’s available on virtually every platform — from web browsers and smartphones to gaming consoles and smart TVs — making it extremely convenient to use.
One of Crunchyroll’s biggest strengths is its commitment to simulcasting. Even free users can watch new anime episodes shortly after they air in Japan, albeit with a slight delay. Additionally, it has a manga section and a store that sells anime merchandise.
Key Features:
- Massive library of anime (classic and trending)
- HD streaming with subtitles and dubs
- Available on mobile, tablet, console, and TV
- Optional premium subscription for ad-free access
- Manga and merchandise sections included
Downsides:
The free plan includes ads, and access to newly released episodes is delayed by a few days.
Overall, the Crunchyroll is the best legal website to watch free anime in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or a curious newcomer, Crunchyroll provides a reliable, legal, and safe way to explore thousands of anime titles.
2. Anime-Planet
Website: https://www.anime-planet.com
Anime-Planet is one of the most respected and feature-rich platforms for anime fans, offering a unique blend of legal anime streaming, personalized recommendations, and community-driven features. Launched in 2001, Anime-Planet has built a solid reputation as a trustworthy destination for watching anime online — legally and for free.
What sets Anime-Planet apart is its partnership with streaming services like Crunchyroll and HIDIVE, allowing users to watch thousands of anime episodes directly on its platform. The anime is hosted legally, and you don’t need a paid subscription to start watching — just a free account (or even no account at all in some cases).
Apart from streaming, Anime-Planet is well-known for its robust anime and manga database. Users can create custom watchlists, track their progress, write reviews, and get recommendations based on their viewing habits. This makes it more than just a streaming site — it’s a full-fledged community for anime lovers.
Key Features:
- Legally streams anime for free (via Crunchyroll and HIDIVE integrations)
- Huge database with detailed anime and manga profiles
- Personalized anime recommendations and watchlists
- Clean and ad-free interface
- Community reviews, forums, and user discussions
- Includes manga recommendations and reading lists
Downsides:
- Video content depends on third-party sources (limited regionally)
- Doesn’t host all videos natively; some may redirect you
- Interface isn’t as visually modern as some newer platforms
Anime-Planet is an excellent platform for watching anime legally, managing your collection, and discovering new shows through intelligent recommendations. While it doesn’t directly host all of its content, it’s one of the few websites that combine streaming, cataloging, and community interaction in one place — all for free. Whether you’re just starting your anime journey or you’re a veteran looking for an organized hub, Anime-Planet is a smart, safe, and legal choice.
3. RetroCrush
Website: https://www.retrocrush.tv
If you’re a fan of classic anime from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, then RetroCrush is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Launched as a free, ad-supported streaming platform, RetroCrush focuses exclusively on older and rare anime titles that defined the genre before the streaming boom.
Unlike mainstream anime platforms that concentrate on current hits, RetroCrush celebrates the golden age of anime. Titles like Urusei Yatsura, Devil Lady, Lupin the 3rd, Great Teacher Onizuka (GTO), Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie, and Legend of the Galactic Heroes are available in both subbed and dubbed formats.
RetroCrush offers a completely free viewing experience supported by ads, with an optional premium plan to go ad-free. There’s no sign-up required to watch, and the platform is available on web browsers, iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV — making it highly accessible.
Key Features:
- 100% free with optional premium upgrade
- Focused on classic, retro, and rare anime
- Subbed and dubbed versions available
- Clean and ad-light interface
- Available on all major platforms including mobile and TV apps
- Curated collections and genre playlists (e.g., “Psychological Thrillers” or “Mecha Classics”)
Downsides:
- Limited selection of new or ongoing anime series
- Some classic titles may have lower resolution or older audio quality
- Only available in certain regions (mainly the U.S. and Canada; VPN may be needed elsewhere)
RetroCrush is a nostalgic goldmine for anime fans who want to explore the roots of Japanese animation. While it may not cater to fans looking for the latest simulcasts or modern hits, it excels in delivering high-quality classics with a smooth, free streaming experience. It’s an excellent legal alternative to mainstream anime services, especially for those who appreciate anime’s rich history and cultural evolution.
4. CONtv Anime (Now MidnightPulp)
Website: https://www.contv.com
CONtv Anime is a free, ad-supported streaming platform that offers a dedicated anime channel, providing 24/7 access to a diverse range of anime content. Launched by Cinedigm, CONtv Anime caters to both newcomers and seasoned anime enthusiasts, focusing on a variety of genres including cyberpunk, supernatural, drama, and fantasy.
The platform features a selection of cult classics and hard-to-find titles such as Bubblegum Crisis, AD Police, and Vampire Princess Miyu. These series are available in English or with English dubbing, making them accessible to a broad audience.
Key Features:
- Free, ad-supported streaming with no subscription required
- 24/7 anime channel featuring a mix of classic and cult titles
- Available on multiple platforms including Roku, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, iOS, Android, and Vizio
- User-friendly interface with continuous programming
- Regular updates to the content library based on viewer feedback
Downsides:
- Limited selection of new or ongoing anime series
- Availability may vary by region; some content may be geo-restricted
- Ad-supported model may include commercial interruptions
CONtv Anime is an excellent choice for anime fans interested in exploring classic and cult titles without any cost. Its 24/7 streaming model offers a unique, cable-like viewing experience, allowing users to discover and enjoy anime content continuously. While it may not feature the latest simulcasts, its focus on nostalgic and hard-to-find series makes it a valuable addition to any anime enthusiast’s streaming options.
5. Tubi TV
Website: https://tubitv.com/category/anime
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.
6. Pluto TV
Website: https://pluto.tv/us/live-tv/5812b7d3249444e05d09cc49
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.
7. YouTube
Website: https://www.youtube.com
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.
8. Masterani
Website: masterani.me (Defunct)
Mirror Site: https://masteranime.tv (Unofficial)
Disclaimer: Masterani was an unofficial anime streaming site that operated without proper licensing. Accessing such platforms may violate copyright laws and pose security risks. For a safe and legal anime viewing experience, consider using authorized platforms like Crunchyroll, Tubi, or RetroCrush.
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.
9. 9anime
Website: https://9anime.to (Use with caution)
Disclaimer: 9anime is not a legal streaming platform. It hosts anime content without official licensing from the copyright holders. While it is extremely popular, using such websites may expose users to legal and security risks. For a safe and ethical anime experience, it’s strongly recommended to use legal alternatives like Crunchyroll, Tubi, or RetroCrush.
Despite the legal gray area, 9anime has grown to become one of the most well-known websites among anime fans for free anime streaming. It offers a huge collection of anime episodes and movies, including subtitled and dubbed versions, often in full HD quality. Its clean, modern interface and fast streaming make it especially attractive to users worldwide.
9anime features thousands of titles, ranging from the latest simulcasts to old-school classics. Viewers can sort anime by genre, release date, popularity, language (sub/dub), and more. The platform typically updates episodes shortly after their release in Japan, making it a go-to for fans who want instant access.
Key Features:
- Massive anime library including new and old titles
- Subbed and dubbed versions available
- Filter by genre, year, and language
- Multiple streaming servers and backup links
- Minimal ads compared to other unofficial sites
Downsides:
- Not legally licensed; use may violate copyright laws
- Risk of malware, phishing, and harmful ads
- No official app or support
- Can be taken down or blocked by ISPs at any time
While 9anime offers a vast and free anime streaming experience, it comes at the cost of legality and potential cybersecurity threats. If you do choose to access it, always use a reliable ad blocker, antivirus software, and a VPN to protect your privacy. However, for a safe, legal, and ad-free viewing experience, consider sticking with platforms like Crunchyroll, Tubi, or RetroCrush.
10. Viz Media (Optional, Free Trial)
Website: https://www.viz.com
VIZ Media is one of the leading names in the anime and manga industry, well-known for licensing and distributing some of the most popular and beloved series worldwide. Their official website offers a substantial collection of free and paid anime streaming options, making it an excellent destination for fans who want to watch high-quality, legal anime content. VIZ Media hosts many iconic titles such as Naruto, Boruto, Bleach, One Piece, and My Hero Academia—series that have shaped the anime culture globally. By streaming on VIZ’s platform, viewers support the original creators and enjoy access to authentic, officially licensed episodes, often simulcasted shortly after their Japanese release.
What makes VIZ Media particularly attractive is its blend of free and subscription-based content, catering to both casual viewers and dedicated fans. The free content section includes selected episodes from various series, often with ads, allowing users to sample or catch up on popular shows without any upfront cost. Meanwhile, premium subscribers can unlock the full catalog and benefit from ad-free viewing, early episode access, and additional perks. VIZ Media’s platform is also highly user-friendly, with a clean interface and compatibility across devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. The service also often includes manga alongside anime, offering fans a one-stop shop to enjoy both mediums.
Key Features:
- Officially licensed anime from top series like Naruto, One Piece, and My Hero Academia
- Mix of free ad-supported episodes and premium subscription content
- Simulcast episodes shortly after Japanese airing
- Access to manga alongside anime in one platform
- Compatible with a variety of devices
- Clean, user-friendly interface
Downsides:
- Limited free content compared to subscription library
- Ads interrupt free episodes
- Some shows require paid subscription
- Possible regional restrictions
However, VIZ Media’s free tier comes with some limitations. While the ad-supported free episodes are great for casual viewing, the selection is somewhat limited compared to the full library available to subscribers. Also, not all anime titles are available for free, and some popular shows require a paid subscription to watch. Ads, though generally short, can interrupt the viewing experience, especially if binge-watching. Additionally, geographic restrictions may apply in some regions, limiting access to certain content. Despite these drawbacks, VIZ Media remains a top choice for legal, high-quality anime streaming with a trustworthy reputation and a rich library of fan-favorite series.
Final Thoughts
Watching anime for free doesn’t mean you have to resort to illegal sites. The list above showcases the best platforms to enjoy anime content safely and responsibly. Whether you’re a die-hard otaku or a casual fan, there’s something here for everyone — from high-action shonen titles to nostalgic classics.
Many platforms operate on an ad-supported model, which helps content creators and studios keep producing the shows you love. If you want an uninterrupted experience, some services offer premium plans, but even the free tiers are feature-rich. So grab your popcorn, bookmark your favorite site, and immerse yourself in the fantastic world of anime — guilt-free!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to watch anime on free websites?
Yes, as long as the site is legal (like Crunchyroll or Tubi), it’s safe and ad-supported.
2. Do I need a VPN to access anime sites?
Some platforms are region-restricted. A VPN can help but ensure it’s legal in your country.
3. Are dubbed anime available on free sites?
Yes. Platforms like Tubi, Crunchyroll, and YouTube often include both dubbed and subbed versions.
4. Can I download anime from these sites?
Some platforms like Crunchyroll (with subscription) and Hoopla (via app) allow downloads.