Anime streaming has exploded in popularity over the past decade, with fans around the world turning to platforms like HiAnime to watch their favorite shows for free. However, due to various shutdowns, legal issues, or regional restrictions, many users find themselves searching for reliable HiAnime alternatives.
Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or a casual viewer, finding a stable and trustworthy site to stream anime—without paying a subscription—can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are numerous options available that offer high-quality anime streaming, ranging from completely legal platforms like Crunchyroll and Tubi to popular community-driven sites like AniWave and Zoro.to. Some of these alternatives even include mobile support, HD resolution, subtitles, and dubbed content.
History of HiAnime
HiAnime was a popular free anime streaming website that gained significant attention and a loyal user base in the late 2010s and early 2020s. It was known for its extensive anime library, offering thousands of episodes and movies across various genres, all available to stream without subscription fees. HiAnime distinguished itself with fast episode uploads, often providing new episodes shortly after their original Japanese release, which made it a favorite among fans seeking timely access to the latest anime.
The site’s user-friendly interface, minimal ads compared to other unofficial platforms, and lack of mandatory registration helped it build a reputation as a reliable unofficial streaming option. However, as with many free anime streaming platforms, HiAnime operated in a legal gray area by hosting content without official licensing. This made it vulnerable to copyright takedowns and domain seizures.
Around 2022, HiAnime faced increased pressure from copyright holders and anti-piracy enforcement efforts. This led to intermittent shutdowns and domain changes. Eventually, the original HiAnime site ceased operation, leaving a void for fans who had relied on it for free, fast-access anime. Despite its closure, many unofficial alternatives emerged to fill the gap, continuing HiAnime’s legacy as a go-to hub for free anime streaming, though users must weigh legal and ethical considerations.
In this article, we’ll explore 11 of the best free HiAnime alternatives in 2025, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and availability—so you can decide which one works best for your anime-watching needs.
1. Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is arguably the most recognized legal anime streaming platform globally. Launched in 2006 and now owned by Sony, Crunchyroll offers a vast catalog of anime titles—ranging from all-time classics to the newest simulcasts airing in Japan. Unlike HiAnime, which operates in a legally gray area, Crunchyroll is fully licensed and supports the anime industry directly through official content distribution and partnerships with studios.
Key Features:
- Extensive Anime Library: Crunchyroll has one of the largest legal anime libraries, boasting over 1,000 titles and 30,000+ episodes. This includes popular series like One Piece, Attack on Titan, My Hero Academia, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Demon Slayer.
- Simulcast Episodes: New episodes are available just hours after they air in Japan.
- Free Streaming Option: Users can stream anime for free in standard definition with ads. A premium subscription unlocks HD quality, removes ads, and enables offline viewing.
- Subtitles & Dubs: Offers both subtitled and dubbed versions, although not all series are dubbed.
- Multi-Device Support: Available on web browsers, iOS, Android, smart TVs, PlayStation, Xbox, and Roku.
Pros:
- 100% legal and safe to use.
- High-quality video streams (up to 1080p HD).
- Supports simulcast and fast updates.
- Large variety of genres including shonen, shojo, romance, isekai, horror, and slice-of-life.
- Clean, intuitive user interface with helpful genre filters and watchlist features.
- Supports creators and animators financially.
Cons:
- Free users experience ads and some content restrictions.
- Some titles are region-locked (availability may vary by country).
- Dubbed content is less extensive compared to Funimation or Netflix.
Regions Supported:
Crunchyroll is available worldwide, although some shows may be unavailable in certain countries due to licensing restrictions. Users outside North America may encounter geo-blocks on specific titles, which can be bypassed with a VPN (though this may violate terms of service).
Verdict:
Crunchyroll is the gold standard for legal anime streaming. While it offers a limited experience for free users compared to HiAnime’s ad-free model, its legitimacy, quality, and vast library make it a top-tier replacement. If you want to support the industry and enjoy a reliable, legal platform, Crunchyroll is one of the best alternatives to HiAnime available today.
2. RetroCrush
RetroCrush is a unique and refreshing alternative to HiAnime, especially for fans of vintage and cult classic anime. Launched in 2020 by Digital Media Rights, RetroCrush focuses on preserving the golden age of anime by offering a handpicked selection of titles from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Unlike HiAnime, which typically hosts current anime hits, RetroCrush caters to nostalgia lovers and those curious about the roots of modern anime storytelling.
Key Features:
- Curated Classic Anime Library: RetroCrush features iconic titles like Devilman, Fist of the North Star, Urusei Yatsura, Great Teacher Onizuka (GTO), Lupin III, and Magic Knight Rayearth.
- Completely Free: The platform is ad-supported, meaning users can stream all available content for free without a subscription.
- Genre Diversity: Includes action, mecha, psychological horror, slice-of-life, romance, supernatural, and more—offering a wide historical view of anime’s evolution.
- Multiple Platforms: Available on web, iOS, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV.
- Minimal Ads: Compared to other free platforms, RetroCrush has fewer, less intrusive advertisements.
Pros:
- 100% legal and ad-supported.
- Perfect for discovering classic and rare anime titles.
- High-quality video with some HD remastered content.
- Niche focus appeals to older fans and anime historians.
- Includes English-subbed and a few dubbed shows.
- Community-curated feel with a nostalgic vibe.
Cons:
- Limited to older anime—does not offer recent hits or simulcasts.
- Smaller library compared to mainstream platforms like Crunchyroll.
- Some titles may be incomplete or lack English dubs.
- Availability may vary slightly depending on your region.
Regions Supported:
Currently available in North America and select parts of Europe. Global availability is limited, though the platform is working on expanding its reach.
Verdict:
RetroCrush is a standout legal alternative to HiAnime for anyone interested in the rich history of anime. While it doesn’t host the latest series, its unique catalog of rare, retro, and groundbreaking shows makes it invaluable for long-time anime fans and curious newcomers alike. If you want to dive deep into anime’s roots or enjoy timeless storytelling, RetroCrush is a free and legal gem worth bookmarking.
3. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service owned by Paramount Global that functions more like a traditional TV experience than an on-demand library. It offers hundreds of channels that stream content continuously, including a dedicated section for anime. As a HiAnime alternative, Pluto TV is an excellent legal option for casual anime fans who enjoy a lean-back, live-TV-style viewing format without worrying about subscriptions, sign-ups, or fees.
Key Features:
- 24/7 Anime Channels: Pluto TV offers always-on anime channels such as Naruto Channel, Yu-Gi-Oh! Channel, One Piece Channel, and a general Pluto Anime Channel. These streams function like cable TV—shows play continuously on a schedule.
- On-Demand Section: While its strength lies in live content, Pluto TV also offers a growing selection of on-demand anime titles for viewers who prefer watching at their own pace.
- Completely Free and Legal: The service is funded by ads and is 100% licensed, ensuring a safe, legal viewing experience.
- No Sign-Up Required: You can start watching immediately—no account or payment information is needed.
- Multi-Platform Support: Available on web browsers, Android, iOS, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, PlayStation, Xbox, and more.
Pros:
- Free to use with no subscriptions or trials.
- Easy to access and navigate with a familiar TV guide layout.
- Great for background watching or casual viewing.
- Includes well-known anime franchises (e.g., One Piece, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Naruto, Case Closed, Ghost in the Shell).
- Completely legal and trustworthy.
- Constant stream of content—no need to choose what to watch.
Cons:
- No simulcast or up-to-date anime.
- Limited control—live channels mean you can’t pause, rewind, or pick episodes.
- On-demand anime selection is smaller compared to dedicated anime services.
- Video quality is capped at standard to 720p depending on the channel.
Regions Supported:
Pluto TV is available in the United States, Europe, Canada, and parts of Latin America. The anime content may vary based on region due to licensing agreements.
Verdict:
Pluto TV offers a unique alternative to HiAnime by providing a “TV-like” anime experience. It’s perfect for fans who want to enjoy anime casually without worrying about what to watch next. While it lacks the flexibility of on-demand platforms like Crunchyroll or RetroCrush, its 24/7 anime channels and zero-cost model make it a compelling, legal way to stream anime anytime.
4. Tubi TV
Tubi, owned by Fox Corporation, has rapidly grown into one of the top free streaming services in the U.S. and several other regions. Known for its vast and diverse catalog of movies and TV shows, Tubi also offers a surprisingly strong anime section that serves as a fantastic legal alternative to HiAnime. The best part? It’s completely free and ad-supported, making it perfect for anime fans on a budget.
Key Features:
- Extensive Anime Library: Tubi hosts a large selection of both classic and modern anime series and movies. Titles include Naruto, Bleach, One Punch Man, Attack on Titan, Fairy Tail, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Afro Samurai, Toriko, and even Studio Ghibli-like content.
- Well-Categorized Anime Section: There’s a dedicated “Anime” category with filters for movies, action, adventure, sci-fi, fantasy, romance, and more.
- No Sign-Up Required: You can stream immediately without creating an account, although signing up allows for watchlists and content syncing.
- Completely Legal and Safe: All content on Tubi is licensed, making it a risk-free and legitimate platform.
- Multiple Platform Support: Available on web browsers, iOS, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Xbox, PlayStation, and smart TVs.
Pros:
- 100% free with no subscription fees or trials.
- Offers both subbed and dubbed anime.
- High-quality video streaming, including HD for most titles.
- Surprisingly strong catalog with classic and newer series.
- Clean and user-friendly interface with reliable streaming.
- Continues to expand its anime offerings regularly.
Cons:
- Ad-supported (ads typically play at the beginning and once or twice mid-episode).
- Limited selection compared to Crunchyroll or Funimation.
- No simulcast anime (content is not updated alongside Japan).
- Availability of certain titles may vary depending on your region.
Regions Supported:
Tubi is available in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico. Anime availability differs slightly between regions due to licensing.
Verdict:
Tubi is one of the best free and legal HiAnime alternatives currently available. With its solid anime lineup, high-quality streaming, and complete lack of subscription costs, it’s a fantastic platform for both newcomers and longtime fans. While it doesn’t offer the latest simulcasts or exclusive anime content, its accessibility and range of genres make it well worth checking out—especially if you prefer a legal, no-risk streaming option.
5. AniWave
AniWave has emerged as one of the most prominent unofficial anime streaming platforms after the decline of HiAnime and similar sites. Formerly known under various mirror and clone site names (like AnimeKisa, AnimeDao, and recently 4Anime alternatives), AniWave now acts as a go-to destination for anime fans who want fast, free, and ad-minimal streaming without registration. While it operates outside the legal bounds of licensed streaming, its popularity cannot be denied due to its sleek interface, vast library, and reliable streaming speeds.
Key Features:
- Massive Anime Library: AniWave offers a huge selection of anime, including trending titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, One Piece, Demon Slayer, Solo Leveling, and Bleach: TYBW. You can also find older classics, OVAs, specials, and movies.
- Simulcast-Level Speed: New episodes are usually uploaded within hours of their Japanese release.
- Subbed & Dubbed Options: AniWave typically includes both subbed and dubbed versions, depending on availability.
- User-Friendly Interface: Features a modern, clutter-free UI, dark mode, episode tracking, and search filters by genre, release year, or popularity.
- No Pop-Up Ads: Unlike other unofficial sites, AniWave is known for being clean, with minimal intrusive advertising.
- No Account Required: You can stream everything without signing up.
Pros:
- Completely free with no registration needed.
- Huge selection of both new and old anime.
- Fast episode updates, often faster than legal platforms.
- Minimal ads and no pop-up redirections (a major plus in unofficial sites).
- Mobile-optimized and works well on various browsers.
Cons:
- Not Legal – AniWave hosts content without distribution rights, which may raise ethical or legal concerns.
- No app support (browser-based only).
- Risk of mirror/phishing sites—users need to verify they are on the correct AniWave domain.
- Cannot officially support the anime industry through use.
- Episodes or entire site may be taken down at any time due to copyright claims.
Regions Supported:
AniWave is accessible globally, although some ISPs may block it in countries with strict anti-piracy laws (e.g., UK, Australia, Germany). A VPN may be required in those regions.
Verdict:
AniWave is arguably the best HiAnime successor for users looking for fast, free, and modern anime streaming without a paywall. While it lacks the legal safety and industry support of platforms like Crunchyroll or Tubi, it delivers where HiAnime left off: speed, selection, and simplicity. However, users should weigh the legal risks and consider supporting the creators through official services whenever possible.
6. 9Anime
9Anime is a fan-favorite unofficial anime streaming website, often praised for its vast library, lightning-fast episode updates, and high-resolution streams. It’s been around for several years and has managed to remain accessible despite occasional shutdowns, domain changes, and DMCA issues. For many anime fans who relied on HiAnime, 9Anime became the next natural choice due to its content availability and consistent performance.
Key Features:
- Enormous Library: 9Anime hosts thousands of anime series, OVAs, specials, and movies—from legacy titles like Naruto, Bleach, and Dragon Ball Z, to the latest seasonal anime such as My Hero Academia, Spy x Family, Tokyo Revengers, One Piece, and more.
- Fast Updates: New episodes are uploaded within hours of their Japanese broadcast. Subbed versions often appear the same day, and dubbed versions follow when available.
- Multiple Stream Servers: Offers numerous servers for each episode, allowing users to switch if one stream fails or buffers.
- HD Streaming (1080p): Most content is available in 720p or 1080p, making it ideal for users who want high-quality viewing.
- Subbed & Dubbed: Both versions are available for many titles, with dubbed anime labeled clearly for easy navigation.
- Genre Filters & Search: Easily browse by genre, release year, status (ongoing/complete), and language.
Pros:
- Completely free, no account required.
- One of the most complete anime databases online.
- Fast streaming with minimal buffering.
- Regular domain updates to stay online despite legal issues.
- Works well on both desktop and mobile browsers.
- Clean, modern interface with night mode.
Cons:
- Unofficial & Unlicensed – 9Anime operates without legal streaming rights.
- Frequent fake clones—users must verify the correct domain (e.g.,
9anime.pl,9anime.id, or whatever the current active version is). - Contains intrusive ads, including redirect ads and pop-ups (can be mitigated with ad blockers).
- Legal and ethical concerns around using non-licensed content.
- Prone to sudden shutdowns or domain takedowns due to copyright enforcement.
Regions Supported:
9Anime is accessible globally, but some ISPs in countries like Australia, the UK, and India may block it. Users often rely on VPNs to bypass geo-blocks.
Verdict:
For anime fans who valued HiAnime’s speed and convenience, 9Anime is a very close replacement. It’s incredibly fast, covers nearly every anime imaginable, and offers solid video quality with a user-friendly experience. However, being unofficial, it comes with legal grey areas and potential security risks. If you’re comfortable navigating those, it’s one of the most powerful free anime sites available—but those seeking safety and to support the industry may prefer legal options like Crunchyroll or Tubi.
7. AnimeHeaven
AnimeHeaven is one of the oldest and most widely recognized unofficial anime streaming websites on the internet. Despite its unofficial status, it remains a favorite among fans due to its massive content library and ease of use. Like many unofficial platforms, AnimeHeaven streams anime without proper licensing, which raises legal and ethical issues, but its accessibility and frequent updates have kept it popular for years.
Key Features:
- Vast Anime Library: AnimeHeaven boasts thousands of anime titles covering every genre imaginable—from classics like Naruto and Bleach to the latest hits like Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and My Hero Academia.
- Fast Episode Updates: New episodes typically appear within hours or a day of their Japanese release, making it great for fans who want the newest content.
- Subbed and Dubbed Versions: Many shows offer both subbed and dubbed formats to cater to different viewer preferences.
- User-Friendly Navigation: The site features an organized layout with categories, genre filters, search options, and top trending lists.
- Multiple Streaming Servers: To prevent downtime, AnimeHeaven provides several mirror servers for each episode.
Pros:
- Completely free to use with no subscription required.
- Large, comprehensive anime database with new and old series.
- Fast updates ensure timely access to new episodes.
- No registration necessary.
- Works well on both desktop and mobile browsers.
Cons:
- Heavy ad presence, including pop-ups and redirect ads, which can be frustrating without an ad blocker.
- Unofficial and unlicensed, exposing users to legal risks.
- Frequent warnings from browsers or antivirus software about malicious ads or security risks.
- No official app or support.
- Episodes or the entire website can be taken down or blocked due to copyright enforcement.
Regions Supported:
Accessible worldwide, though it can be blocked in countries with strict anti-piracy laws. Use of VPNs is common among users to bypass geo-blocks.
Verdict:
AnimeHeaven serves as a quick and easy way for anime fans to watch a broad selection of titles for free, especially those seeking the latest episodes. However, its unofficial nature and overwhelming ads can pose security risks and ethical concerns. Users must balance the convenience and content variety with these drawbacks, and consider supporting official platforms for sustainable anime consumption.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right anime streaming platform depends on your priorities—whether you value legality, content variety, video quality, or cost. While HiAnime offered a popular free gateway to countless anime titles, its unofficial nature posed legal and ethical risks. Thankfully, a range of alternatives exists today, spanning from fully legal services like Crunchyroll, Tubi, and Pluto TV, to semi-legal or unofficial sites like 9Anime, AniWave, and AnimeHeaven.
Legal platforms provide peace of mind, support the anime industry, and offer high-quality streams with subtitles and dubs, but often require subscriptions or ads. On the other hand, unofficial sites offer extensive libraries and rapid updates for free, but come with intrusive ads and potential legal issues.
Ultimately, supporting official platforms whenever possible helps sustain the creators behind your favorite shows. For casual viewing or budget-conscious fans, free legal sites like Tubi and Pluto TV offer excellent options. Choose wisely and enjoy your anime journey responsibly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to HiAnime?
HiAnime was an unofficial anime streaming site that shut down due to copyright enforcement and legal pressures. Like many unlicensed platforms, it faced domain seizures and takedowns, leading to its closure.
Are free anime streaming sites legal?
Most free anime streaming sites, like HiAnime, AniWave, and 9Anime, operate without proper licenses, making them unofficial and often illegal. Legal platforms include Crunchyroll, Tubi, and Pluto TV, which have licensing agreements with content creators.
Which HiAnime alternative is the safest to use?
Legal platforms such as Crunchyroll, Tubi, and Pluto TV are the safest as they have official licenses and protect users from malware or intrusive ads. Using unofficial sites risks malware, intrusive ads, and legal issues.
How can I avoid ads on free anime sites?
Using official legal platforms with paid subscriptions removes ads. For free sites, using reputable ad blockers helps but may violate site terms or reduce revenue for content creators.
