20 Best Free Anime Streaming Sites to Watch Online: Looking to stream anime online without spending a dime? In this post, I’ve rounded up the top free anime streaming sites available in 2025. Whether you’re after verified platforms or more underground options, this list includes both. I’ve also mentioned a few premium services that offer free trials, so you can explore without commitment.

Watch Anime for Free 2025: Top Streaming Sites

Anime, a Japanese form of animation, stands out for its vibrant visuals, immersive storylines, and rich world-building—setting it apart from traditional Western animation. While animation in general refers to adding motion to 2D or 3D illustrations, anime has carved out its own identity, often focusing on detailed backgrounds and emotionally driven narratives. Anime has been around for decades. Originally hand-drawn, it evolved with technology into the stunning film and series formats we enjoy today.

Though anime is primarily made for the Japanese market, its popularity has skyrocketed worldwide. Fans across the globe—kids and adults alike—search for reliable streaming platforms to enjoy their favorite anime shows and movies.

What is the use of Anime Streaming Sites

However, not all anime released in Japan is readily available internationally. This creates frustration for fans who want access to the latest high-quality content. Many streaming sites only offer limited or outdated selections. That’s why I’ve compiled this comprehensive list of both official and unofficial platforms where you can watch anime online for free. These sites offer a vast collection of anime, including the newest releases and classic favorites, all accessible from devices like FireStick, smartphones, PCs, and Macs.

Legal Disclaimer: This guide is intended for educational purposes only. firesticktricksapps.com does not own, operate, resell, or distribute any streaming apps, addons, websites, IPTV services, or content. Some of the platforms mentioned may not be officially verified, and we cannot confirm whether they possess the legal rights to distribute the content they offer. It is your responsibility to ensure you’re complying with all local laws and only streaming content available in the public domain. The end user is solely responsible for any media accessed through these services.

The Best Free Anime Streaming Sites to Watch Anime Online

Below is a curated list of both official and unofficial websites where you can stream anime for free. These platforms feature a wide range of content—from timeless classics and fan-favorite series to the newest anime releases. Later in the post, I’ll also highlight premium streaming services that provide fully legal access to high-quality anime content. But for now, let’s jump into the free options!

Disclaimer

1. HiAnime

HiAnime stands out as one of the most popular free anime streaming platforms of the decade, drawing in millions of users each month. Its appeal lies in a vast anime collection, a sleek and easy-to-navigate interface, and high-quality video playback. The layout is user-friendly, with clearly defined categories such as Home, Movies, TV Series, Most Popular, and Airing Today. Looking for a specific title? A central search bar makes finding content quick and simple.

One of HiAnime’s biggest perks is that you don’t need to register—just pick a title and start watching instantly. However, since the site operates in a legal gray area, it’s recommended to use a VPN like ExpressVPN for added privacy and security.

Features

• Ad Disruption: Minimal
• Ad-Blocker Support: Compatible
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: HD

2. Gogoanime

Gogoanime has earned a strong reputation among anime fans since its launch in 2014. Known for its large and regularly updated library, it offers everything from Japanese anime series and movies to a selection of Chinese titles. One major advantage is the availability of ad-free streaming, ensuring a smooth viewing experience. Users can stream without registering, though signing up is necessary for downloading content.

The site features the latest anime episodes on its homepage shortly after they air in Japan. It also includes a robust search tool with multiple filters, along with an alphabetical list of all available titles for easy browsing.

Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

3. 9anime

9anime is a well-known third-party streaming platform that offers a wide range of anime content for free. Its straightforward design features a prominent search bar in the center and a top-left menu that lets you browse by genre, type, update status, ongoing series, and upcoming releases. You can also navigate to the homepage to explore the full anime library. Most of the content streams in HD, making it a go-to site for viewers who prioritize video quality. Each anime title comes with useful details like a plot summary, release year, genre, number of views, and type—helping you decide what to watch.

It’s worth noting that 9anime doesn’t host content directly; instead, it aggregates streams from external sources. As a result, some links may occasionally be broken. If a video doesn’t load, refreshing the page or switching to another link usually helps.

Features

• Ad Disruption: Moderate
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

4. RetroCrush

RetroCrush is a standout anime streaming site known for its curated collection of classic, rare, and nostalgic anime series and films. With a focus on action, adventure, and lesser-known gems, it also includes modern favorites and cult classics. The site boasts a sleek, user-friendly interface with organized sections and a modern menu layout. Main navigation options include Live TV, Movies, and Shows. Additional features like the Watchlist, Genres filter, and Search function enhance the browsing experience.

Streaming quality is top-notch, and the platform is ad-free. While you can stream content without registering, creating an account unlocks extra features such as maintaining a personalized watchlist.

Keep in mind that although most content is globally accessible, certain titles may be region-locked. Using a reliable VPN can help bypass these restrictions.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Minimal
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

5. Anime-Planet

Anime-Planet is a fully legal and fan-supported anime streaming platform that has been serving anime lovers for over 20 years. Hosting more than 45,000 officially licensed episodes, it offers a vast selection of anime without charging users a subscription fee. Donations via Patreon help keep the site running. Thanks to partnerships with streaming giants like Crunchyroll and Hulu, Anime-Planet delivers a wide variety of genres and regularly updated titles like One Piece, Tokyo Revengers, and Black Clover. The site features a clean, easy-to-navigate interface, and ads are minimal and non-intrusive.

By creating a free account, users can build personalized anime and manga lists, track their progress, and even dive into manga and light novel recommendations. Anime-Planet also features a thriving community forum, where fans share reviews, discussions, and recommendations.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

6. HIDIVE

HIDIVE is a premium anime streaming platform that offers a rich catalog of anime series, films, dubbed content, and simulcasts. Its sleek, modern interface is easy to use, with a top navigation bar and sections like Exclusives, Recently Added, Romance, and Most Popular to help you find content quickly. While HIDIVE does offer some free titles, full access requires a subscription. Fortunately, new users can take advantage of a 7-day free trial to explore the platform before committing to a paid plan.

Premium members enjoy ad-free streaming, fast-loading videos, and high-definition playback with minimal buffering. HIDIVE is well-known for offering exclusive titles not found on other services, making it a solid option for hardcore anime fans.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Minimal (premium = ad-free)
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

7. VIZ

VIZ is a dynamic and feature-rich platform that caters to all your anime needs. With a vast library, frequent updates, and a user-friendly interface, it’s one of the top choices for anime fans. The site offers a comprehensive menu and displays various series and content banners on the homepage, making it easy to explore popular titles, classic shows, and unique movies. VIZ also provides additional content like manga and character publications, such as the My Hero Academia section, allowing fans to dive deeper into their favorite franchises.

A standout feature is the Create section, where fans can submit their original manga characters. The site also includes a useful Calendar function, allowing you to keep track of upcoming anime releases.

VIZ offers an ad-free experience and doesn’t require an account to stream, although signing up unlocks additional features, such as newsletters and special publications.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

8. AsianCrush

AsianCrush is a popular streaming platform that specializes in Asian content, including anime, movies, and TV series across various genres. Although it’s not solely focused on anime, it offers a solid selection of anime titles for fans to enjoy. While signing up isn’t necessary for free streaming, registration is required to access some premium content. The platform also offers a paid subscription that unlocks the full catalog of movies and TV shows.

The site has a modern interface, but it lacks a dedicated anime section, making it a bit trickier to find anime content. However, its search function helps users quickly locate their favorite shows.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

9. AniWatch

AniWatch is an unofficial anime streaming site that offers free anime with ads. The design of the site is similar to HiAnime, featuring a central search bar and an organized menu for easy navigation. However, users should exercise caution, as the site can occasionally redirect you to unreliable external sites. The streaming quality is high, with most videos available in 1080p HD. AniWatch provides both subbed and dubbed anime options, along with essential features like autoplay, auto-next, intro skip, fullscreen mode, and volume control for an enhanced viewing experience.

Key Features

While AniWatch doesn’t host the anime content itself, it aggregates streaming links from various sources. If one link is unavailable, simply try another.

• Ad Disruption: Moderate
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

10. YouTube

YouTube has grown into a comprehensive platform for all types of content, including full-length anime episodes and original films. While it’s known for music videos, tutorials, and vlogs, it’s also a hidden gem for anime fans.

The best place to find anime on YouTube is through official channels from anime creators and distributors. These channels often upload fully dubbed episodes, exclusive clips, and even original anime. You can also occasionally find full-length series or movies by searching the platform.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Moderate
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to HD

11. Pluto TV

Pluto TV is a free streaming platform primarily focused on movies, TV shows, and live channels. While its anime library is somewhat limited, it does feature popular titles like Naruto, Death Note, Mr. Osomatsu, Saint Seiya: Soul of Gold, and All Day.The interface is modern and easy to navigate, with various content categories and a simple menu. Searching for anime is straightforward—just use the search function to explore a broader selection or type in a specific title.

Though Pluto TV doesn’t offer an extensive anime catalog, its user-friendly features, such as a favorites manager and regular updates, enhance the overall experience. Streaming quality typically ranges from 720p to 1080p HD.

Key Features

You don’t need an account to stream free content, but creating one grants access to additional features.

• Ad Disruption: Moderate
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

12. Tubi TV

Tubi TV is an over-the-top (OTT) streaming platform offering a wide array of content, including movies, TV shows, and live channels. While not exclusively dedicated to anime, it provides a selection of titles such as One Punch Man, One Piece, Toriko, and Fairy Tail. Most of the anime on Tubi TV is dubbed, making it convenient for English-speaking viewers.

The video quality is capped at 720p, which might be less than ideal for some users who prefer higher resolution. However, Tubi TV remains a solid option for casual anime streaming with its free access.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 720p HD

13. Aniplus

Aniplus is a diverse and legal anime streaming site that provides an expansive catalog, an interactive layout, and access to the latest anime releases. The site features an organized menu that allows users to filter anime titles alphabetically, along with a useful TV schedule that shows upcoming releases, episode counts, ratings, and genres.Aniplus also includes a News section for updates on anime productions and a Store menu for buying official merchandise. The streaming quality is excellent, with most content available in 720p or 1080p HD.

No account is needed to watch content, but registering will give you real-time updates on your favorite shows.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: None
• Ad-Blocker Support: Not required
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

14. Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is a leading anime streaming site that has been around since 2006. It offers a vast library of anime across a variety of genres such as Isekai, Mecha, Magical Girl, and Shonen. Crunchyroll merged with VRV and later acquired Funimation, making it a one-stop-shop for anime content. New users can enjoy a 7-day free trial before subscribing to a paid plan, starting at $7.99/month. The platform’s user interface is straightforward, with categories like Popular, New, Simulcast, and Genres for easy navigation.

Crunchyroll provides high-definition streaming, and ad-free access is available for premium subscribers.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 1080p HD

15. Hulu

Hulu is one of the most popular streaming services globally, offering an excellent variety of anime series and movies. Shows like My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan, One Piece, and Dragon Ball Super are available, with most series dubbed in English. The anime movies offered by Hulu often come with subtitles, including films like Akira, Fairy Tail the Movie, and Afro Samurai Resurrection.

Hulu provides content in varying video qualities, from 720p to 4K Ultra HD and 60fps HD. Hulu is a paid service, with subscription plans starting at $9.99/month, and new users can enjoy a free 1-month trial.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Video Quality: Up to 4K Ultra HD

16. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video is a popular streaming platform offering a mix of movies, TV shows, and anime. Anime on Prime Video is accessible through two options: by using a Prime subscription or purchasing/renting specific titles. You can watch a variety of anime series and films, including Ragna Crimson, Hell’s Paradise, The Eminence in Shadow, Spy Family, Dragon Ball Z, Princess Mononoke, and My Hero Academia. The platform supports high-quality streaming in resolutions ranging from HD to 4K, depending on your device and the content.

Prime Video offers a 30-day free trial for new users, and you can access anime content as part of the broader Amazon Prime membership. The subscription costs $14.99/month with Prime, or $8.99/month for the standalone video service.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: None
• Ad-Blocker Support: Not required
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Streaming Quality: Up to 4K

17. Max

Previously known as HBO Max, Max has expanded its anime library significantly in recent years. While its anime catalog doesn’t rival other dedicated streaming services, it still offers a decent collection of both classic and current titles.

Subscription Plans

Popular anime on Max include Castle in the Sky, Death Note, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Erased, and Kill la Kill. Max offers three subscription plans:

• Max with Ads: $9.99/month
• Max Ad-free: $16.99/month
• Max Ultimate Ad-free: $20.99/month

The platform offers high-quality streaming up to 4K, but the Ad-lite plan does not support 4K or downloads. Max does not offer a free trial, but if subscribed through platforms like Amazon or Hulu, a 7-day free trial is available.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Low
• Ad-Blocker Support: Not required
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Streaming Quality: Up to 4K

18. Apple TV+

Apple TV+ is renowned for its high-quality original content, including a growing library of anime titles. While the selection isn’t as extensive as other platforms, it includes some notable shows like Gekidol, Kamikatsu, Asteroid in Love, Ninja Nonsense, and The Detective is Already Dead.

Key Features

A subscription to Apple TV+ costs $9.99/month, and the service provides a 7-day free trial for new users to explore its features.

• Ad Disruption: None
• Ad-Blocker Support: Not required
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Streaming Quality: Up to 4K

19. Disney+

Disney+ is one of the leading streaming services worldwide and has recently expanded its anime offerings. While its library isn’t as extensive as other niche platforms, it now features popular anime like Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, Attack on Titan, Kill la Kill, and Sailor Moon.

Disney+ offers two primary subscription plans:

• Basic: $9.99/month (with ads)
• Premium: $15.99/month (ad-free)

Disney+ also has bundle options with Hulu, Max, and ESPN. However, it does not offer a free trial.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: None
• Ad-Blocker Support: Not required
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Streaming Quality: Up to 4K

20. Netflix

Netflix boasts one of the largest and most diverse anime libraries, from classic hits to the latest releases across various niches. Notable anime on Netflix include Death Note, InuYasha, Castlevania: Nocturne, Naruto, Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia, and That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime.

Netflix no longer offers a free trial, but it remains one of the most affordable services with an ad-supported plan starting at $7.99/month. For those seeking an ad-free experience, premium plans are also available.

Key Features

• Ad Disruption: Moderate
• Ad-Blocker Support: Yes
• VPN Friendly: Yes
• Streaming Quality: Up to 4K

20 Best Free Anime Streaming Sites to Watch Online FAQs

Are free anime sites legal?

Some free anime sites are completely legal, while others may host unlicensed content, which can lead to potential legal issues. If you’re unsure about a site’s legality, using a VPN can help protect your privacy and keep your online activity secure.

Do I need a VPN to stream anime online?

Yes, using a VPN is recommended for streaming anime. VPNs help protect your traffic from being intercepted by ISPs, scammers, and even governments. They also allow you to bypass geo-restrictions set by anime sites, enabling access to content that may be limited to specific regions. I personally recommend ExpressVPN.

Can I stream anime on FireStick?

Absolutely! You can stream anime on your FireStick by using some of the best apps designed for anime viewing.

What is the best website to watch anime for free without ads?

If you’re looking to watch anime for free with minimal or no ads, RetroCrush and Anime-Planet are excellent choices. Both offer legal content, and RetroCrush even provides an ad-free experience without requiring a subscription.

Can I download anime episodes from free streaming sites?

Some free anime platforms like Gogoanime and HiAnime offer download options, but you may need to sign up for an account. Keep in mind that downloading from unofficial sites may carry risks, so always use caution.

Which anime streaming site has the largest library?

Crunchyroll likely has the most extensive anime library among both free and paid services. It offers thousands of titles across all major genres, including simulcasts of new episodes shortly after they air in Japan.

Are there any streaming platforms for classic anime?

Yes, RetroCrush specializes in nostalgic and classic anime titles. It’s perfect for fans of older series and lesser-known gems that aren’t typically available on mainstream platforms.

What streaming services offer dubbed anime?

Several platforms offer dubbed anime, including Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Tubi TV. These services often give users the option to switch between subbed and dubbed versions depending on availability.

Is it safe to use anime streaming websites?

Using legal sites like Crunchyroll, Anime-Planet, and RetroCrush is completely safe. For unofficial or gray-area sites such as 9anime or AniWatch, it’s strongly recommended to use an ad-blocker and a trusted VPN to enhance privacy and security.

Wrapping Up

That concludes our list of the top free anime streaming sites for watching anime online. Whether you’re looking for legal, free platforms, unverified sites, or paid services, there’s a wide range of options available. Which of these platforms do you prefer? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.