In 2025, anime continues to dominate the entertainment world with ever-growing popularity among global audiences. From long-standing classics like Naruto and One Piece to new hits like Jujutsu Kaisen and Solo Leveling, anime enthusiasts are constantly searching for the best platforms to watch their favorite shows legally and for free.
This article presents a comprehensive list of the best free anime websites available in 2025, focusing on platforms that are safe, legal, and offer an excellent viewing experience. We will also discuss the pros and cons of each site, whether they require registration, and the types of content they offer.
1. Crunchyroll (Free Plan)
Crunchyroll is one of the most well-known and trusted platforms for anime streaming in 2025. With a massive collection of over 1,000 anime titles, it caters to both casual viewers and hardcore fans. While it offers a premium subscription with added perks, its free plan is still one of the best ways to legally watch anime online.
The free version of Crunchyroll is ad-supported, which means you can watch anime without paying, but you’ll encounter a few commercial breaks during each episode. Despite this, the platform provides HD streaming, accurate subtitles, and a user-friendly interface across devices including Android, iOS, smart TVs, and browsers.
Some of the most popular anime available on the free plan include Attack on Titan, One Piece, Naruto, and My Hero Academia. While new episodes (simulcasts) are typically delayed by one week for free users, the rest of the catalog is widely accessible.
Crunchyroll’s commitment to legal and high-quality content makes it a safe and reliable choice for anime fans. With regular updates, community reviews, and an extensive genre list, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the world of anime without spending a dime.
Website: https://www.crunchyroll.com
Crunchyroll remains one of the most popular legal streaming services for anime. While it offers a premium subscription, the free plan gives access to thousands of anime titles with ads.
Features:
- HD streaming quality
- Large collection of subbed anime
- Simulcasts available (with delay)
- Mobile app support
2. RetroCrush
RetroCrush is a free, ad-supported streaming service specializing in classic anime from the 1970s to the early 2000s. It offers a curated selection of vintage titles, including hard-to-find gems like Urusei Yatsura, Devilman, Galaxy Express 999, and Future Boy Conan, Hayao Miyazaki’s directorial debut. The platform is accessible without registration and is available on various devices, such as Roku, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and smart TVs.
While the service is primarily free, RetroCrush offers a premium subscription at $4.99 per month or $49.99 annually, providing an ad-free experience and access to exclusive content. However, the majority of its library remains accessible to free users. The platform’s user interface is straightforward, featuring categories like “Live TV,” “Movies,” “Shows,” and “Genres,” making it easy to navigate and discover content.
It’s important to note that RetroCrush is currently available only in the United States and Canada. For anime enthusiasts interested in exploring the roots of the medium, RetroCrush serves as a valuable resource, offering a nostalgic journey through the history of anime.
Website: https://www.retrocrush.tv
Features:
- Niche catalog of 70s–90s anime
- No payment required
- Available on Roku, Android, iOS
3. Anime-Planet
Anime-Planet is a reputable and legal anime streaming platform that offers a substantial collection of anime titles, including simulcasts of current series. It provides a free, ad-supported viewing experience, making it an excellent choice for anime enthusiasts seeking accessible and legitimate streaming options. Anime-Planet collaborates with major distributors to stream anime legally, ensuring that content creators and studios are supported. The platform offers a wide range of anime genres, from action-packed adventures to heartwarming romances, catering to diverse tastes.
Beyond streaming, Anime-Planet serves as a comprehensive database for anime and manga. Users can track their viewing progress, create custom lists, and receive personalized recommendations based on their preferences. The community aspect is robust, with active forums and user-generated content, fostering a vibrant environment for discussions and reviews.
Anime-Planet is accessible on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. The user-friendly interface ensures a seamless viewing experience, whether at home or on the go. While dedicated mobile applications may not be available, the responsive website design adapts well to different screen sizes, providing flexibility for users.
While Anime-Planet offers a substantial amount of content for free, some newer or premium titles may require a subscription or may not be available in certain regions due to licensing restrictions. Additionally, as with many free streaming platforms, users may encounter advertisements during viewing. In summary, Anime-Planet stands out as a legal and community-driven platform for streaming anime, with extensive features that appeal to both casual and dedicated fans.
Website: https://www.anime-planet.com
Features:
- User-based anime recommendations
- Episode guides and tracking tools
- HD streaming for select series
4. AsianCrush
AsianCrush is a free, ad-supported streaming platform that offers a curated selection of Asian entertainment, including anime, Korean dramas, and Chinese films. It provides a legal and accessible way for viewers to enjoy a variety of content from East Asia. While the platform is primarily available in the United States, users outside the U.S. can access it using a VPN service that provides a U.S. IP address.
AsianCrush’s anime library includes both classic and contemporary titles, catering to diverse tastes. The platform is accessible on various devices, including iOS, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Google TV. This wide device compatibility ensures that users can enjoy their favorite anime series across different platforms.
For those who prefer an ad-free experience, AsianCrush offers a premium subscription at $4.99 per month, which includes a 7-day free trial. This subscription provides additional features such as access to exclusive content and an uninterrupted viewing experience.
In summary, AsianCrush is a valuable resource for anime enthusiasts seeking a legal and free streaming option. Its diverse content library, device compatibility, and premium subscription option make it a convenient choice for viewers interested in Asian entertainment.
Website: https://www.asiancrush.com
5. Midnight Pulp
Midnight Pulp is a free, ad-supported streaming platform that offers a curated selection of cult classics, including anime, horror, sci-fi, and action films. Accessible on various devices such as Roku, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Google TV, it provides instant access without the need for a subscription or login.
The platform’s anime library features a mix of classic and niche titles, appealing to fans of retro and genre-specific anime. While the selection may not be as extensive as some dedicated anime services, it offers a unique blend of cult films and series, making it a valuable resource for enthusiasts seeking unconventional content.
Midnight Pulp is part of Cineverse, a company that also owns other streaming services like RetroCrush and AsianCrush, which focus on classic and Asian cinema, respectively. This affiliation allows Midnight Pulp to tap into a broader network of cult and genre-specific content, enhancing its appeal to a niche audience.
For viewers interested in exploring a diverse range of cult films and anime, Midnight Pulp offers a convenient and cost-free option. Its unique programming and accessibility make it a noteworthy choice for those seeking something different in the streaming landscape.
Website: https://www.midnightpulp.com
6. 9anime.to
9animetv.to is an unauthorized anime streaming website that emerged following the shutdown of the original 9anime platform. It operates in a legal grey area, offering free access to a vast library of anime content, including both dubbed and subtitled versions.
Despite its popularity, 9animetv.to has garnered mixed reviews regarding its safety and reliability. While some users report a smooth viewing experience, others have encountered issues such as missing subtitles and intrusive ads. Additionally, the website’s legitimacy is questionable, and it may pose security risks, including potential exposure to malware or phishing attempts.
For those seeking legal and secure alternatives to 9animetv.to, several reputable platforms offer extensive anime libraries. Services like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, and HiDive provide licensed content with high-quality streaming options. These platforms ensure that creators are compensated for their work and offer a safer viewing experience.
In summary, while 9animetv.to may appeal to viewers seeking free access to anime content, its legal status and potential security risks make it a less advisable choice. Opting for legitimate streaming services supports the anime industry and provides a more reliable and secure viewing experience.
Website: https://9animetv.to/
7. AnimeFreak
AnimeFreak is a free, ad-supported anime streaming website that offers a wide selection of anime series and movies, including both dubbed and subbed versions. It provides users with access to a variety of genres, from action and adventure to romance and slice-of-life, catering to diverse tastes within the anime community.
The platform is accessible without the need for registration, allowing users to stream content directly. However, it’s important to note that AnimeFreak operates in a legal grey area. The site does not have official licensing agreements with content creators or distributors, which raises concerns about copyright infringement. Additionally, users may encounter intrusive ads and potential security risks, including exposure to malware or phishing attempts.
For those seeking legal and secure alternatives to AnimeFreak, several reputable platforms offer extensive anime libraries. Services like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, and HiDive provide licensed content with high-quality streaming options. These platforms ensure that creators are compensated for their work and offer a safer viewing experience.
In summary, while AnimeFreak may appeal to viewers seeking free access to anime content, its legal status and potential security risks make it a less advisable choice. Opting for legitimate streaming services supports the anime industry and provides a more reliable and secure viewing experience.
Website: https://animefreak.to/
8. GoGoAnime
In the current scenario, Gogoanime remains operational but faces significant challenges due to ongoing legal actions and piracy crackdowns. The site has been a popular destination for free anime streaming, offering a vast library of both dubbed and subbed content.
However, it operates in a legally ambiguous space, lacking official licensing agreements with content creators or distributors. This has led to multiple domain changes and shutdowns in the past, with the site frequently reappearing under new URLs to evade enforcement actions.
In recent months, there have been reports of Gogoanime ceasing to add new content and experiencing periods of downtime. Some users have expressed concerns about the site’s future, noting unusual activity and a lack of updates. Despite these issues, the site continues to function, albeit with potential risks.
In summary, while Gogoanime may appeal to viewers seeking free access to anime content, its legal status and potential security risks make it a less advisable choice. Opting for legitimate streaming services supports the anime industry and provides a more reliable and secure viewing experience.
Website: https://gogoanime.by
9. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service that offers a diverse range of anime content, making it an excellent choice for fans seeking accessible and legal viewing options. As of May 2025, Pluto TV has significantly expanded its anime offerings, providing a variety of channels and on-demand content to cater to different tastes.
One of the standout features of Pluto TV is its “Anime All Day” channel, which broadcasts a continuous lineup of popular anime series. This channel allows viewers to enjoy a curated selection of shows without the need for a subscription or login. Additionally, Pluto TV has partnered with HIDIVE to launch the “Anime x HIDIVE” channel, offering a mix of fantasy, slice-of-life, and romance genres, complete with English subtitles and dubs.
For those interested in anime films, Pluto TV has introduced the “Anime Movies” channel, featuring titles from franchises like Naruto Shippuden, Lupin the 3rd, and Bleach. The platform also offers a dedicated “Anime Comedy” channel, showcasing series such as Pop Team Epic and Ghost Stories.
In celebration of “Ani-May,” Pluto TV has added over 800 hours of anime content, including more than 120 movies and 50 new series. Highlights include marathons of Hunter x Hunter, Speed Racer, and Death Note, providing fans with an opportunity to binge-watch their favorite series. It is accessible on various devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, and through web browsers. This wide compatibility ensures that viewers can enjoy their favorite anime anytime, anywhere.
In summary, Pluto TV offers a comprehensive and free anime streaming experience, with a wide range of channels and content to suit diverse preferences. Its user-friendly interface and extensive library make it a valuable resource for anime enthusiasts.
Website: https://pluto.tv/
10. Tubi TV
Tubi TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service offering a diverse selection of anime titles, making it an excellent choice for fans seeking accessible and legal viewing options. As of May 2025, Tubi continues to expand its anime library, providing a variety of genres and series to cater to different tastes.
The platform’s anime collection includes both classic and contemporary titles, ensuring that viewers can enjoy a wide range of content. Tubi’s partnerships with major anime distributors, such as VIZ Media, Sentai Filmworks, and Toei Animation, have bolstered its catalog, bringing popular series and films to its audience. These collaborations have made Tubi a valuable resource for anime enthusiasts seeking free and legal streaming options.
Tubi is accessible on various devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, iOS, Android, and web browsers, allowing users to enjoy their favorite anime series anytime, anywhere. The service does not require a subscription or account, providing a hassle-free viewing experience.
Overall, Tubi TV offers a comprehensive and free anime streaming experience, with a wide range of titles and genres to suit diverse preferences. Its partnerships with leading anime distributors and user-friendly interface make it a go-to platform for anime fans looking for quality content without the need for a subscription.
11. YouTube (Bonus)
YouTube remains one of the most accessible and popular platforms for watching anime content in 2025. While it is not primarily an anime streaming service, YouTube hosts a wealth of official channels from anime studios, distributors, and licensors that offer legal and often free anime episodes, clips, and specials. Channels like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and even individual studios upload episodes, trailers, and promotional content, making it a convenient way to watch select anime safely.
One of the key advantages of YouTube is its widespread availability on virtually all internet-connected devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers. This accessibility allows fans to watch anime anytime and anywhere without the need for a subscription. Additionally, many creators and fans upload reviews, analyses, AMVs (anime music videos), and fan-made content, enriching the overall anime experience.
However, YouTube’s free content is often limited in terms of full episodes and the latest releases due to licensing restrictions. Viewers might also encounter ads, but these help support content creators and the platform itself. For those looking for legal, free anime streaming combined with extra content and community interaction, YouTube is a valuable supplement to dedicated anime streaming services.
Recommended Channels:
- Ani-One Asia
- Muse Asia
- Nozomi Entertainment
- Toei Animation
How to Choose the Best Free Anime Website in 2025
| Criteria | Importance |
|---|---|
| Legality | Always prioritize platforms with licensed content to avoid malware issues. |
| Content Quality | Look for HD streaming and subtitles or dubs. |
| Library Size | Choose platforms with varied anime genres and multiple seasons. |
| Ad Intrusiveness | Some ads are tolerable; too many can ruin the experience. |
| Device Support | Make sure the site supports your device (TV, mobile, browser). |
Final Thoughts
When exploring free anime websites, it’s important to balance accessibility with legality and safety. While platforms like Crunchyroll, Pluto TV, and Tubi offer vast libraries of licensed, high-quality anime for free with ads, many unofficial sites such as 9animetv.to and AnimeFreak operate in legal grey areas, posing risks including malware and copyright infringement. Choosing legal streaming services not only ensures a safer viewing experience but also supports creators and the industry as a whole.
Free ad-supported services have improved significantly, providing diverse genres, reliable streaming, and multiple device compatibility, making them excellent options for anime fans on a budget. Ultimately, enjoying anime through legitimate platforms contributes to the growth and sustainability of the anime community, ensuring that new and classic titles remain available for years to come. Prioritizing safety, quality, and respect for creators is key when selecting where to watch your favorite anime in 2025.
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