Top 10 Best Anime Websites to Watch Anime Legally in 2025

The anime world has exploded in popularity over the past decade. What was once a niche genre tucked away in late-night TV slots or hidden DVD collections has now become a global entertainment powerhouse. Thanks to streaming platforms and social media, the anime fanbase has more than doubled—from casual viewers watching Naruto on weekends to hardcore fans staying up for simulcasts straight from Japan.

Anime is now a lifestyle, with conventions, merchandise, memes, and fan theories forming a thriving global community. But with this growth comes a responsibility: supporting anime legally. Illegal streaming may seem tempting, but it hurts the creators, voice actors, and studios behind the magic.

Thankfully, there are many amazing platforms that allow fans to watch anime legally, affordably, and in high quality—often with both subbed and dubbed versions available. Below are the 10 best websites to stream anime legally in 2025 to get you started.

1. Crunchyroll

If there’s one name that dominates the anime streaming landscape, it’s definitely Crunchyroll. Known as the ultimate hub for anime fans, Crunchyroll offers over 1,000 anime titles from old classics to brand-new simulcasts fresh from Japan. From action-packed hits like Attack on Titan and One Piece to wholesome favorites like My Dress-Up Darling, it has something for every kind of anime lover.

Crunchyroll also produces its own original anime series, and offers both subs and dubs, multiple language options, manga access, and exclusive merchandise. Its sleek app and web interface make streaming easy whether you’re on mobile, desktop, or console.

• Subscription: Free with ads; Premium tiers start at $7.99/month (Fan), $9.99/month (Mega Fan)

2. Funimation

Though Funimation has merged with Crunchyroll in many regions, it still operates independently in certain areas and remains beloved for its extensive collection of English-dubbed anime. If you’re someone who prefers watching anime in English—or just loves shows like Dragon Ball Z, My Hero Academia, or Tokyo Ghoul—Funimation is your go-to.

The platform also offers early access to simulcasts, offline downloads, and a user-friendly layout. Its curated collections, seasonal lineups, and simul-dub feature make it a must-have for dub fans.

• Subscription: Free with ads; Premium starts at $5.99/month

3. Netflix

Streaming giant Netflix has become a major anime powerhouse in recent years. With big investments into both licensed anime and Netflix Originals, the platform is home to standout series like Castlevania, Beastars, Baki Hanma, Devilman Crybaby, and even Studio Ghibli films in select regions.

Netflix’s high-budget anime exclusives offer stunning visuals and unique storytelling, making it an essential platform for both mainstream hits and experimental anime. It’s also a great choice for families or casual fans who want anime alongside live-action content.

• Subscription: Plans range from $6.99/month (ad-supported) to $22.99/month (premium)

4. Hulu

Hulu has quietly built up an impressive anime library, thanks to its partnerships with both Crunchyroll and Funimation. It’s a great choice if you’re in the U.S. and want to mix anime with popular Western series, movies, and even live TV.

The anime selection includes iconic series like Naruto, Bleach, Demon Slayer, and Cowboy Bebop, along with a rotating catalog of newer shows. Hulu’s flexibility and combo bundles (like with Disney+ and ESPN) also make it a solid value.

• Subscription: Starts at $7.99/month (with ads); bundles available with other platforms

5. HiDive

HiDive is a hidden gem for anime fans seeking underrated titles, cult classics, and exclusive content. While other platforms focus on mainstream anime, HiDive shines with niche genres, uncensored editions, and hard-to-find gems like Legend of the Galactic Heroes, The Executioner and Her Way of Life, and Made in Abyss.

Its interface supports custom subtitle styling, episode commentary tracks, and simulcasts. Hardcore fans will appreciate its unique catalog that includes both vintage and modern titles rarely found elsewhere.

• Subscription: Starts at $4.99/month with a 7-day free trial

6. Amazon Prime Video

While Amazon Prime Video is known more for movies and series, its anime catalog continues to grow and includes standout series like Vinland Saga, Dororo, and Inuyashiki. Amazon occasionally picks up exclusive streaming rights, so it’s worth checking their anime section regularly.

Since it’s included in the Amazon Prime bundle, anime lovers who already subscribe for shopping perks get double value by accessing quality anime as well.

• Subscription: Included in Amazon Prime at $14.99/month

7. Disney+

Yes, you read that right—Disney+ is now part of the anime streaming game. With exclusive licenses to shows like Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War and Tokyo Revengers: Christmas Showdown in certain regions, Disney+ is expanding its content strategy into anime.

Though the library is still limited, the production quality and hype behind its acquisitions suggest Disney+ is serious about anime’s future. Plus, it’s a great all-in-one platform for families.

• Subscription: Starts at $7.99/month (with ads); bundles with Hulu and ESPN+ available

8. YouTube (Ani-One & Muse Asia)

For completely free and legal anime, look no further than Ani-One and Muse Asia on YouTube. These channels offer full episodes and even simulcasts with official subtitles. They’re incredibly popular in South and Southeast Asia, giving fans access to anime without a subscription.

The catch? Shows may be geo-restricted, and not all major series are available. Still, for free legal content, these channels are goldmines.

• Subscription: Free (with optional YouTube Membership perks for bonus content)

9. AnimeLab (for Australia & New Zealand)

AnimeLab serves anime fans in Australia and New Zealand with an extensive catalog of subbed and dubbed anime. Though it’s being integrated into Funimation, the platform still offers a gorgeous UI, HD streaming, and easy access to hundreds of shows including My Hero Academia, Sword Art Online, and Re:Zero.

AnimeLab’s tailored regional content and quick updates make it a fan favorite for Oceania users.

• Subscription: Free with ads; Premium starts at $7.95/month

10. RetroCrush

RetroCrush is a nostalgic treat for those who love classic anime. Dedicated to bringing back anime from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, RetroCrush streams cult hits like Lupin the Third, Urusei Yatsura, Project A-ko, and Fist of the North Star.

The platform is ad-supported but free, and offers a premium tier for those who want ad-free HD streaming. It’s perfect for long-time fans or anyone curious about anime’s golden era.

• Subscription: Free with ads; Premium tier at $4.99/month

With so many legal anime platforms available, there’s no need to rely on shady sites or pirated content. From mega-libraries like Crunchyroll to hidden gems like HiDive and RetroCrush, the options are vast and cater to every type of fan. Watching anime legally not only gives you top-tier streaming quality but also helps support the hardworking studios, voice actors, and creators who make this incredible art form possible.

💬 Loved the list? Share it with your fellow anime lovers and spread the word! Let’s support anime the right way—one episode at a time. 🍜🎌