Anime fans today have many legal ways to watch their favorite shows and movies in high quality. While unlicensed sites like AnimePahe might be tempting, they often have unreliable video quality, intrusive ads, and risk malware. Licensed services, on the other hand, guarantee HD or 4K streaming, official subtitles/dubs, and help support the anime industry.

Whether you want free content or premium originals, there’s an option that suits your needs. Below, we explore the top legitimate anime streaming platforms – from anime-dedicated services to general streamers – comparing their libraries, features, and pricing to help you find the best fit for your viewing habits.

By choosing licensed anime sites, you get consistent video quality and avoid legal issues. Most major services offer mobile apps, multi-device support, and even offline downloads. Many also provide both subtitled and dubbed versions in multiple languages. We’ve structured the comparison by category and audience: dedicated anime platforms (with the largest libraries and simulcasts) and general streaming platforms (wider audience content).

Dedicated Anime Streaming Platforms

Crunchyroll – Global Leader in Anime

Crunchyroll is widely recognized as the largest dedicated anime streamer. It offers an enormous licensed catalog (over 1,400 titles totaling 45,000+ episodes) spanning new hits and classic series. As a matter of fact, Crunchyroll’s library is estimated at roughly 50,000 episodes (about 25,000+ hours), giving it the edge over other anime services. Crunchyroll is known for simulcasts – airing new episodes just hours after they premiere in Japan – so it’s ideal for watching the latest seasonal anime right away.

Crunchyroll has both a free tier and paid subscriptions. The free version (ad-supported) lets you stream thousands of episodes at up to 1080p HD, while Premium plans (costing roughly $8–$16 per month) remove ads and add perks like offline downloads and simultaneous streams. All premium tiers support the same Full HD streaming, and Crunchyroll has begun offering some early dubs and special language options. As a matter of fact, Crunchyroll supports multiple languages; its interface and many titles offer subtitles and/or dubs in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German and more, making it accessible globally.

Since Sony’s acquisition, Crunchyroll now incorporates the former Funimation catalog. Funimation’s on-demand anime library and dubbed titles have mostly migrated into Crunchyroll. As of mid-2024, Crunchyroll reported over 15 million paid subscribers worldwide, underscoring its popularity among anime fans. If you crave the broadest selection of anime (from One Piece and My Hero Academia to niche OVA and indie titles) plus the fastest simulcasts, Crunchyroll is the top pick. Its website and apps are well-designed for browsing and queues, and it even offers extras like Crunchyroll Games (mobile games for fans) and limited-time event streams.

Key features

Largest dedicated library (50k episodes), simulcasts a few hours post-Japan, available in many languages, multi-profile support, offline downloads, and original Crunchyroll-exclusive series. Free tier with ads or premium ad-free plans; 1080p streaming for all.

HiDive – Niche Anime and High-Quality Dubs

HiDive (stylized HIDIVE) is a smaller but dedicated anime platform owned by Sentai Filmworks (a division of AMC Networks). HiDive’s catalog is more limited – around 438 titles– but it focuses on depth and exclusives that bigger sites might not carry. For example, HiDive holds exclusive streaming rights to Sentai-licensed gems like Made in Abyss and a collection of retro titles. This “quality over quantity” approach means HiDive often has classic or hard-to-find series, especially older 80’s and 90’s anime that mainstream services skipped.

A standout for HiDive is its dub quality. Sentai’s English voice acting and localization are frequently praised as better produced and more accurately synced than some competitors. HiDive even pioneered “dubcasts” – releasing English dubs of new shows only weeks after the Japanese airdate. (By contrast, Crunchyroll’s own dubs sometimes lag further behind or are criticized for localization.) HiDive’s interface is simple and offers HD streaming – its official FAST (free ad-supported) TV channel “ANIME x HIDIVE” broadcasts in 1080p, and the on-demand service streams HD or Full HD content on demand. HiDive is relatively affordable at about $4.99/month (with a free trial), and it allows offline downloads and multiple device streaming.

Key features

Curated library (~438 titles) focusing on Sentai exclusives and classics; superior English dubs and recent “dubcast” releases; HD/1080p streaming; offline downloads; low-cost subscription; ad-free experience. Not as large as Crunchyroll, but great for collectors who want niche titles and top-notch dubbing.

Free and Niche Anime Services

For budget watchers and classic anime fans, several free or ad-supported options exist. Crunchyroll’s free tier (with ads) still offers thousands of episodes, so it’s a decent no-cost entry point. Beyond that:

• Tubi TV: A free streaming service (US and some other regions) that includes a modest anime section. It’s ad-supported and often only has older or less-popular shows. Still, titles like Yu-Gi-Oh! or Fate series sometimes appear. Video quality is usually up to 1080p, but varies by title. Tubi is completely free (no subscription) and has apps on major devices.
• RetroCrush: A free platform (US-focused) devoted to classic anime. RetroCrush’s library covers vintage and cult favorites (e.g. Trigun, Fist of the North Star) that aren’t on bigger services. It’s ad-supported (or you can pay a small fee to remove ads) and streams most content in HD. Great for fans of older anime and done-for-love curation.
• Anime on YouTube and FAST channels: Official YouTube channels like Muse Asia, AnimeLog or Aniplus Asia legally stream recent anime (with subtitles) for free in specific regions. Similarly, FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) channels like Crunchyroll’s Twitch channel or HIDIVE’s ANIME x HIDIVE channel (on Roku/Plex) offer continuous anime streams. Availability depends on your country, but these are 100% legal and free (with ads).

Each of the above requires no subscription fee. They are excellent for casual or nostalgic viewing, though the selection is smaller and ad interruptions are frequent. For fans on a budget, Crunchyroll’s free tier plus Tubi/RetroCrush covers many bases.

General Streaming Platforms with Anime

Netflix – Global Giant with Exclusive Anime

Netflix is a major global streamer that has invested heavily in anime. Though anime makes up only a fraction of Netflix’s overall library, the genre is influential – about 6.8% of Netflix’s viewership demand comes from anime. Netflix’s anime offerings include both licensed series and a growing slate of Netflix Anime Originals (e.g. Castlevania, Devilman Crybaby, To Your Eternity, One Piece live-action adaptation). It also holds exclusive rights to popular titles like Attack on Titan (dubbed) and some My Hero Academia movies.

Netflix’s strengths are its high video quality and polished platform. Almost all Netflix anime can stream in HD or 4K UHD (on higher-priced plans). For example, shows like Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 and Knights of the Zodiac have 4K/HDR options. Netflix also supports multiple language tracks and subtitles on most anime, and allows offline downloads on mobile devices. The interface is smooth and global (available in virtually every country), making it easy for casual viewers to discover anime alongside Netflix’s vast catalog of TV and movies.

The downsides are that Netflix’s anime library is smaller than Crunchyroll’s and heavily curated; it typically carries a few hundred anime titles (the number fluctuates by region) rather than thousands. Also, Netflix does not simulcast new episodes – most series arrive on a seasonal schedule after the entire season finishes in Japan (the “binge” model). Netflix has no free tier and no ads; subscription starts around $9–$18/month depending on quality. This makes Netflix best for casual viewers who prefer big-budget streaming service with anime plus global TV/film content. It’s also great if you value very high resolution (4K) and originals you can’t get anywhere else.

Key features

Global reach, 4K/HDR streaming for many anime, extensive interface with recommendations, strong original anime lineup. Netflix licenses select hit anime and produces exclusives. It’s subscription-only (no ads, no free tier), typically around $10–$20 per month, with offline downloads and multiple profiles.

Hulu – US-Focused Anime Library

Hulu (U.S. only, except a separate Japanese Hulu) offers a mix of anime through various partnerships. It does not produce its own anime but streams titles licensed by others. For example, Hulu’s anime catalog includes shows from Crunchyroll, Funimation (via the Crunchyroll merger), Sentai (HiDive), and VIZ Media. Popular series on Hulu have included My Hero Academia, Hunter x Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, and many Studio Ghibli films. Unlike Crunchyroll, Hulu is not anime-centric, so its overall library is smaller, but it’s still substantial (several hundred anime titles).

Hulu’s pricing starts at about $7.99/month with ads (or $14.99 without ads), and it allows HD streaming. It features simulcast content through the Crunchyroll-hulu tie-up (some new episodes appear on Hulu shortly after Japanese broadcast, but this can lag behind Crunchyroll slightly). Hulu has strong device support and bundles with Disney+ available. Because it’s only in the U.S., Hulu’s utility depends on your region. For a U.S. viewer, Hulu is a good complement if you already subscribe (since it carries anime from multiple sources). But anime die-hards will still prefer Crunchyroll for breadth.

Key features

Available only in the U.S.; moderate anime catalog from various licensors; ads or ad-free plans; HD streaming; live-TV bundle options. Best if you’re already on Hulu for general TV/Movies and want easy access to anime without an extra account.

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video (membership starts at around $14.99/month in the US) has a small but growing anime selection. It holds exclusive series like Made in Abyss (season 2 onward in some regions) and Vinland Saga, plus various movies (e.g. some Dragon Ball and One Piece films). Prime also ran an “Anime Strike” channel (now defunct), but now licensed anime simply lives in the main Prime library. The selection is mostly mid-tier: you’ll find dozens of series and films, but many are older seasons or titles not deemed big enough for Netflix or Crunchyroll.

Prime’s advantage is that if you already have it (for shipping or movies), you can access anime at no extra cost. It streams in up to 4K on supported titles and allows offline downloads. Prime’s interface isn’t anime-specialized, and it often lacks the latest seasonal shows. Overall, treat Prime Video as bonus anime content – a supplement to Crunchyroll or Netflix rather than a primary anime hub.

Key features

Included with Amazon Prime membership; 4K streaming on many titles; has some high-profile anime (e.g. Vinland Saga); offline downloads. Library is limited compared to anime-dedicated services. Good for Prime members who want extras.

Disney+

Disney+ is not primarily an anime platform, but it carries a few noteworthy titles. It includes some anime that tie into Disney-owned franchises (for example, Marvel’s animated series and films, Star Wars: Visions, and anime-style reimaginings of Marvel characters). It also hosts content from Studio Ghibli in certain regions (like Europe) and selected Kid-friendly anime (such as Pokemon Journeys in some countries). Video quality is high (up to 4K on select titles) and Disney+ has a strong global presence.

For most fans, Disney+ won’t be a go-to for anime. Its library is small, but the titles there are generally family-oriented or prestige anime. Still, if you’re already a Disney+/Marvel fan, it’s easy to watch anime-adjacent series within that app. Disney+’s plans start around $7/month and include offline downloads and multiple profiles.

Key features

Family-friendly anime and anime-adjacent content (Star Wars/Marvel franchises); global availability; high-quality streams (4K on some); no free tier. Best for viewers who already have Disney+ for other content and want occasional anime treats.

Comparing Libraries and Features

• Library Size: Crunchyroll wins by volume (~1,200+ titles, 45,000+ episodes). HiDive is much smaller (~438 titles), focusing on exclusives. Netflix varies by region but generally has a few hundred anime titles (including its originals). Hulu/Amazon/Disney+ have only a few dozen or so main anime series each. Free services (Tubi, RetroCrush) have limited catalogs (tens of titles, mostly classics).
• New Simulcasts: Crunchyroll (and now HiDive) lead here. Crunchyroll airs new episodes just hours after Japanevoca.tv. HiDive offers some simulcast shows (often with quick dubs). Netflix and Disney+ do not simulcast; they release full seasons at once, often months later. Hulu has some simulcast support through Crunchyroll’s content deals.
• Subtitles/Dubbing: Crunchyroll offers multiple subtitle languages and has expanded dubbing (English, Spanish, etc.). HiDive is known for its high-quality English dubs. Netflix also provides multi-lingual subs/dubs on most titles. Hulu and Amazon offer English subtitles and some dubs. Free platforms (Tubi, RetroCrush) usually have English subs and occasional dubs.
• Video Quality: Netflix and Amazon can stream in up to 4K UHD (on compatible titles and plans). Crunchyroll and HiDive currently stream up to 1080p (Full HD). Hulu streams in HD (up to 1080p). Tubi/RetroCrush vary by title but often up to HD. Many legal services have no compulsory data cap, but real-world quality depends on your internet speed and the service’s encoding.
• Accessibility: All major platforms have apps for web, iOS/Android, Smart TVs, and game consoles. Crunchyroll and Netflix also offer offline downloads on mobile apps (a boon for commuting). HiDive allows downloads too. Hulu/Disney+/Amazon allow downloads on mobile/PC (app), though sometimes only on certain plans. Tubi and RetroCrush are available on web and some TV platforms (e.g. Roku, Fire TV) and are entirely free to use.
• Pricing: Crunchyroll Premium ~$7–16/month (depending on tier), with a free tier available (ads). HiDive ~$4.99/month (with a free trial). Netflix $9–$18/month (different tiers for 1-4K streaming). Hulu $7.99+/month (with ads), $14.99 no-ads. Prime Video comes with Prime ($14.99/month) or $8/month for video only. Disney+ about $7/month. Tubi/RetroCrush/YouTube channels – free with ads. Some services offer annual discounts or bundle deals (for example, Hulu/Disney+/ESPN bundle, Crunchyroll student plans, etc.).
• Unique Features: Crunchyroll has original anime (Crunchyroll Originals) and events (fanzones, games). Netflix offers a seamless recommendation engine and big-budget originals. HiDive has exclusive Sentai content and “dubcasts.” Hulu bundles live TV and general entertainment. Amazon Prime has perks (free shipping) plus video, and occasionally simulcasts (Anime Strike era). Disney+ offers family profiles and integrated Marvel/Star Wars content. Tubi/RetroCrush require no payment and often have retro ad campaigns.

Which Platform is Best for You?

• Casual viewers: Netflix – for its ease of use, large catalog across genres, high-quality streams, and offline viewing. You’ll find popular anime here without hunting multiple sites. Hulu (US) or Disney+ can also be good casual picks if you’re already subscribed. Crunchyroll’s free tier is also an option if you mostly want mainstream titles and don’t mind ads.
• Hardcore anime fans: Crunchyroll – its massive library and simulcasts make it the go-to for staying current and accessing even obscure shows. Crunchyroll Premium (no ads, HD, offline) is worth it if you watch anime often. For collectors of dubbed content, the (now merged) Funimation/Crunchyroll offering covers most popular dubs. If you love niche sub-genres or classic anime, HiDive is a great add-on to catch exclusive titles.
• Simulcast followers: Crunchyroll (or HiDive, where available) – they air new episodes almost immediately with English subs/dubs. Hulu also gets some simulcasts but Crunchyroll is more comprehensive. Netflix does not simulcast (it releases full seasons later).
• Dub-only fans: Crunchyroll (due to the Funimation merger) and HiDive – both have strong English dub libraries. Crunchyroll now provides day-and-date dubs on some shows; HiDive’s dubs are often higher quality. Netflix also dubs its originals but has fewer simulcast dubs.
• On a budget: Crunchyroll Free and Tubi/RetroCrush – Crunchyroll’s ad-supported tier gives you thousands of episodes legally for free (albeit with delays and ads). Tubi and RetroCrush add more free anime (mostly older titles). Combining these free services yields a respectable library without paying a cent.
• Lovers of classics: RetroCrush, HiDive, and Crunchyroll – RetroCrush specializes in classic anime. HiDive also has older series from Sentai’s catalog. Crunchyroll has many old and OVA titles too (e.g. Ghost in the Shell, Cowboy Bebop).
• Family-friendly: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu – these mainstream platforms have broader parental controls and carry family-oriented anime (e.g. Disney+ has Hanna-Barbera Meets Looney Tunes and Pokémon Journeys in some regions). Crunchyroll also has kids’ anime, but the big platforms have more general family content alongside anime.

Each service has its strengths, and many fans subscribe to more than one. A common approach is to have Crunchyroll for 80% of anime needs (especially new series) plus Netflix for exclusive originals and general shows. If you want more variety or specific shows, add HiDive (for unique Sentai titles) or Hulu/Prime for extras.

No matter which you choose, switching to licensed streaming means better video quality (1080p or 4K), official subtitles/dubs, and supporting anime creators. Most platforms also update their libraries regularly, so you’ll often find just-released anime soon after they air (especially on Crunchyroll and HiDive).

Conclusion

For a one-stop anime experience, Crunchyroll is the safest bet (huge library, simulcasts, multiple language options). If you already have Netflix (or get it for other shows), use it for high-quality originals and big titles – it now even drives a significant portion of anime viewership. Add HiDive if you want exclusive Sentai titles or superior English dubs. Top up with free services (Crunchyroll Free, Tubi, RetroCrush) to catch anything you’re missing. This mix will cover casual enjoyment and hardcore fandom without resorting to illegal sites.