Top 10 Best Sites to Watch Anime Online in 2024 (Free)

Anime has captured the hearts and minds of viewers around the world with its diverse genres, compelling stories, and vibrant characters. As the popularity of anime continues to grow, so does the demand for convenient and high-quality platforms to watch it online. Whether you’re a seasoned anime enthusiast or just dipping your toes into this captivating world, finding the best sites to watch anime online is crucial. In this digital age, where streaming services have become the norm, anime fans are fortunate to have a plethora of options at their disposal.

These sites offer an extensive selection of anime series, movies, and OVA (original video animation) for both subbed and dubbed enthusiasts, allowing viewers to enjoy their favorite shows in their preferred language. Additionally, many of these platforms offer free streaming with ads or premium subscriptions for an ad-free and enhanced experience.

In this article, we will explore some of the best sites to watch anime online, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From classics like “Naruto” and “One Piece” to newer releases like “Demon Slayer” and “My Hero Academia,” these platforms have a vast library of titles to choose from. We will also delve into the features, accessibility, and pricing models of these websites to help you make an informed decision on where to fulfill your anime-watching cravings.

List of Best Sites to Watch Anime Online:

• Crunchyroll: Crunchyroll is one of the most popular and legal anime streaming platforms. It offers a vast library of anime series, including simulcasts of the latest episodes from Japan. Crunchyroll provides both free ad-supported and premium subscription options.

• 9Anime: 9Anime is a free anime streaming site that hosts a wide range of anime content. However, it’s important to be aware that it may not always have legal streaming rights for the content it offers.

• Funimation: Funimation is a legal streaming platform that specializes in anime. It offers a broad selection of anime titles, including both subbed and dubbed versions. Funimation is well-regarded for its high-quality streaming and is a great choice for English-speaking viewers.

• Gogoanime: Gogoanime is a free anime streaming website that boasts a large collection of anime series and movies. It offers options for both subbed and dubbed anime, making it a popular choice among anime fans.

• Netflix: Netflix is a subscription-based streaming service that has been expanding its anime library in recent years. It features a mix of popular and original anime series and movies, often with high production values.

• AnimeDao: AnimeDao is a free anime streaming site that provides a variety of anime content, including the latest releases. Like other free streaming sites, it may not always have legal rights for all the content it hosts.

• Kissanime: Kissanime is another free anime streaming website, known for its vast library of anime series and movies. However, it’s important to note that its legal status has been a subject of debate due to copyright concerns.

• Contv: Contv is a streaming service with a focus on classic and cult films, including anime. It offers a selection of anime titles along with other genres.

• Masterani: Masterani was a popular free anime streaming site, but it was shut down in 2019. it may not be operational.

• Hulu: Hulu is a subscription-based streaming service that features a decent catalog of anime content. It offers a mix of older and newer titles and is often praised for its streaming quality.

When choosing an anime streaming platform, consider factors such as the site’s legality, content library, video quality, and availability of subtitles or dubbing. It’s important to be aware of the legal status of the site and the potential ethical implications of using free, unlicensed streaming platforms.

1. Crunchyroll

Features:

• Top-tier anime site featuring on-demand anime content.
• User-friendly: Enables users to post reviews for the anime series they’ve viewed.
• Social integration: Allows seamless video sharing on Facebook and Twitter.
• Multilingual support: Offers content in languages such as English, Dutch, French, Italian, and more.
• Diverse content: Not limited to anime, but also provides access to drama shows.
• Convenient payment options: Accepts Credit Card, PayPal, and Paymentez for premium services.
• Wide device compatibility: Accessible on Roku TV set-top boxes, Android OS 2.1+, Windows, Mac, and Linux computers with Adobe Flash 9+, iOS 3.1+, and Boxee set-top boxes.

Crunchyroll is your go-to destination for streaming anime shows, offering a vast array of thrilling dramas and captivating animations—all accessible for free. This anime-centric platform is the result of a collaboration between Japan’s Aniplex and Sony Pictures Entertainment, ensuring top-notch quality and a diverse selection. Additionally, Crunchyroll boasts a dedicated merchandise store where fans can find an exciting array of anime-related products. Dive into the world of renowned anime titles like Naruto and Yuri on Ice, all available at your fingertips.

2. 9anime

Features:

• Effortless searching: Easily find ongoing, upcoming, and highly-watched movies.
• Versatile content: Provides access to quality movies, TV series, and Original Video Animation (OVA).
• Customized filtering: Tailor your video searches by season, year, quality, type, and language.
• User engagement: You can make requests for specific anime you want to watch.
• Intuitive navigation: Enjoy a user-friendly and comprehensive browsing experience.
• Stay updated: Displays the schedule for upcoming anime series.
• Accessibility: Free website accessible on various devices, including PCs, laptops, tablets, Android and iOS mobile devices, smart TVs, and more.

9anime is your online destination for enjoying animated content with ease. Offering a wide array of categories such as action, comedy, drama, and gaming, it caters to diverse tastes. What sets it apart is its commitment to high-quality streaming, with most content available in stunning 1080p resolution. With a sleek and visually appealing interface, 9anime makes your anime-watching experience even more enjoyable. The best part? You can explore both subbed and dubbed versions of anime without the hassle of registration or payment.

3. Funimation

Features:

• Comprehensive genre selection: Offers action, adventure, horror, idol, drama, and more.
• Manga and Anime:Provides access to both manga and anime content.
• Extensive episode library: Thousands of episodes are available for your viewing pleasure.
• Varied content: Enjoy a wide range of options, including recently added episodes, subbed and dubbed versions, and popular shows.
• Payment flexibility: Accepts multiple payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.
• Device compatibility: Accessible on various devices, including Android, iOS, Amazon Kindle, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung smart TV, LG smart TV, PS3, PS4, PS Vita, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.

Funimation, under the ownership of Sony, stands as a repository of beloved anime content, offering both subbed and dubbed versions. Distinguished as one of the premier anime streaming services, it grants you access to the latest movie releases, all complemented with English subtitles and audio. Notably, Funimation prides itself on delivering fresh episodes mere hours after their initial broadcast. Prior to its evolution into a streaming platform, it left an indelible mark on Western audiences by publishing iconic anime titles such as Beyblade, Pokémon, and Dragon Ball Z.

4. Gogoanime

Features:

• Stream ongoing series: Easily access and watch ongoing anime series.
• Diverse genres: Offers a broad spectrum of genres, including action, cars, horror, drama, game, kids, and more.
• User requests: You can make requests for specific videos you’re interested in.
• Download capability: Enjoy the flexibility to download favorite episodes without requiring a subscription.
• Accessibility: It’s a free website compatible with Android, iOS, Roku, Amazon FireStick TV, PC, and various other devices.

Gogoanime serves as a go-to platform for enjoying animated movies, providing free online anime streaming. It offers a convenient feature to browse and search for anime content categorized by day, week, or month. The standout quality of this anime platform lies in its user-friendly interface and its vast collection of anime titles. Notably, Gogoanime is entirely free to access. However, it’s important to note that due to certain legal limitations, they periodically change their URLs to maintain their service.

5. Netflix

Features:

• High-quality original content: Features top-notch original programming and a variety of kids’ shows in multiple languages.
• Ad-free streaming: Provides an uninterrupted, ad-free viewing experience.
• Diverse content: Offers a wide range of genres, including action movies, thrilling kids’ TV, and more.
• Mobile downloads: Allows you to download your favorite anime directly to your mobile device for offline viewing.
• Extensive content collection: Boasts a vast library encompassing movies, shows, anime, series, and KDrama.
• Payment options: Supports various payment methods, including MasterCard, Visa, HDFC credit card, Amazon Pay, BHIM, PhonePE, Paytm, and Google Pay.
• Device compatibility: Accessible on Android, Smart TVs, Windows, Laptop, PC, Mac, and iOS devices.

Netflix is an online streaming platform renowned for delivering top-tier series and movies that can transform your living room or any space into a captivating cinematic experience. Among its extensive content library, it stands out as one of the premier anime websites, offering animated movies, cartoons, and kid-friendly TV shows. As one of the most widely embraced online streaming platforms, Netflix is celebrated for its user-friendly interface, making it effortless to watch your preferred content. Notably, it allows you to curate a personalized list of your favorite shows and provides high-quality streaming for an unparalleled viewing experience.

6. AnimeDao

Features:

• Bookmark feature: Save and revisit your favorite videos easily.
• Alphabetical browsing: Streamline your search by browsing animations in alphabetical order.
• Theme options: Choose from dark and light themes to customize your viewing experience.
• Upcoming anime alerts: Stay informed with notifications about upcoming anime releases.
• Clean interface: Enjoy a clutter-free and user-friendly platform design.
• Accessibility: It’s a free website compatible with PC and Mac devices.

AnimeDao is a go-to platform for watching the latest and most beloved anime movies. This site allows you to search for your preferred animated content in both English and Japanese, catering to a wide audience. It has garnered global acclaim among anime enthusiasts for its exceptional video quality, rapid loading speeds, and extensive content library. Additionally, AnimeDao offers the convenience of adjusting video quality, ranging from 340p to 1080p, to align with your internet connection speed and viewing preferences.

7. Kissanime

Features:

• Request Content: This allows you to request your preferred animated clips.
• Diverse categories: Offers a wide range of categories, including action, comedy, dub, adventure, and more.
• Dubbed and subbed versions: Provides both dubbed and subbed versions for flexibility.
• Advanced filtering: Utilize advanced filter search options for precise content discovery.
• Accessibility: Free website compatible with various devices, including Firestick, Fire TV, Fire TV Cube, NVIDIA Shield, Windows OS computers, MAC OS computers, Android gadgets, Apple iOS gadgets, and more.

Kissanime.ru is a dedicated anime streaming platform for enjoying anime movies. It stands out with its advanced filtering options, allowing you to easily locate videos by name, genre, and status. With a staggering daily release of over 4000 anime episodes worldwide, it ensures high-quality viewing experiences, featuring resolutions such as HD, 4K, and UHD.

8. Contv

Features:

• Varied content: Enjoy original shows, genre movies, comics, and more.
• Cross-platform availability: Accessible via web, iOS, and Android devices.
• Watchlist feature: Add videos to your personal watchlist for easy access.
• 24/7 access: Watch your favorite anime and live TV content around the clock.
• Payment options: Accepts credit card payments.
• Device compatibility: Compatible with Roku, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, and Xbox.

Contv, offered by Cinedigm, is a free channel that provides streaming access to a diverse range of content, including anime, TV shows, movies, and comedy. This platform is a go-to destination for watching animated videos and is highly regarded as one of the finest sites for anime enthusiasts, offering both modern and classic animation.

9. Masterani

Features:

• User-friendly interface: Provides an easy-to-navigate and intuitive user interface.
• Speedy streaming: Recognized as one of the quickest anime streaming sites.
• No registration required: Use the site without the need for registration or additional information.
• User feedback: Gain insights about anime content through user comments and ratings.
• Accessibility: Available for free and compatible with PC, Mac, and mobile devices.

Masterani is an online platform dedicated to the delight of animated movies and series enthusiasts. This website empowers you to explore a vast catalog of anime series available for unlimited streaming. Additionally, it provides the option to create an account, giving you access to an anime discussion feature where you can engage in conversations about your favorite shows with fellow anime aficionados.

10. Hulu

Features:

• Ad-free streaming: Access an extensive streaming library without advertisements.
• Offline downloads: Download thousands of titles for offline viewing convenience.
• Live TV with 65+ channels: Provides live TV access with over 65 top channels.
• Personalized TV experience: Tailor your viewing experience to your preferences.
• Payment options: Accepts PayPal, Venmo, American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.
• Device compatibility: Accessible on Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, FireTV, iOS, Android, PCs, Macs, and more.

Hulu provides boundless, immediate access to an extensive library of both current and timeless TV shows and popular films. This versatile application enables you to enjoy video content on a range of devices, including your TV, phone, laptop, and tablets. Moreover, Hulu offers bundled subscription plans in collaboration with Disney+ and ESPN+. Notably, it holds licenses to a wide array of renowned titles from esteemed anime studios in Japan.

11. chia-anime

Features:

• Genre variety: Offers a genre list encompassing adventure, comedy, magic, space, and more.
• New series access: Easily watch the latest anime series.
• Popular and recent movies: Enjoy both popular and recently released anime films.
• Multimedia content: Provides soundtracks and manga titles alongside visual content.
• Accessibility: It’s a free website accessible on Mac, Windows PC, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TVs, and Smart TVs.

Chia-Anime is a dedicated platform for indulging in top-tier anime clips. Renowned as one of the premier free anime sites, it hosts a vast collection of over 1000 anime titles available for online streaming. What sets it apart is its unique feature, ensuring you stay in the loop with the latest anime releases. The platform’s interface is not only visually appealing but also incredibly user-friendly, making navigation a breeze.

What are the Best Sites to Watch Anime Online

here are some of the best sites to watch anime online:

1. Crunchyroll: Known for its extensive library and simulcast of new episodes, Crunchyroll offers both free and premium options.

2. Funimation: This platform specializes in providing a wide range of anime, often with high-quality dubs. It also offers both free and premium memberships.

3. Netflix: Netflix has been expanding its anime library with a mix of popular and original series and movies.

4. Hulu: Hulu offers a variety of anime, including older classics and recent releases, in addition to its other content.

5. 9anime: 9anime is a free anime streaming website with a broad selection of anime series and movies. However, its legal status can be questionable.

6. Kissanime: Kissanime is another free anime streaming site with a vast library, but its legal status is often debated due to copyright concerns.

7. GoGoAnime: GoGoAnime provides free streaming for a wide range of anime content, including subbed and dubbed versions.

8. Crave: Crave is a Canadian streaming service that includes a selection of popular anime titles.

9. MyAnimeList: MyAnimeList offers a platform for tracking and rating anime, as well as watching some anime series for free with ads.

10. Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video includes a selection of anime in its content library, though it’s not as anime-focused as some other platforms.

Features of Best Sites to Watch Anime Online

The best sites to watch anime online often share common features that enhance the overall viewing experience. These features can vary from one platform to another, but they generally include:

• Extensive Anime Library: A comprehensive collection of anime series, movies, and OVAs, covering a wide range of genres and time periods.

• Subbed and Dubbed Options: Availability of both subbed (with subtitles) and dubbed (with voice-over) versions, allowing viewers to choose their preferred language.

• High-Quality Streaming: High-resolution video quality, with options for HD, 4K, and UHD, ensuring a visually appealing experience.

• Search and Filters: Robust search and filtering tools to help users easily find specific anime titles by name, genre, release date, or other criteria.

• User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive and user-friendly website or app design for seamless navigation.

• Personalization: Features like watchlists, history tracking, and recommendations to personalize the viewing experience.

• Offline Download: The ability to download episodes or movies for offline viewing on mobile devices, providing flexibility for on-the-go watching.

• No Ads or Minimal Ads: Ad-free streaming or the option for ad-free premium memberships to avoid interruptions.

• Community and Reviews: Integration with a community of anime enthusiasts, including discussion forums, user reviews, and ratings for anime titles.

• Simulcasts: Availability of new episodes shortly after their broadcast in Japan, allowing viewers to stay up-to-date with the latest releases.

• Legal and Licensed Content: A focus on providing licensed and legal anime content, ensuring creators and studios are appropriately compensated.

• Multiple Platform Support: Compatibility with various devices, including PCs, Macs, mobile phones, tablets, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices like Roku and Chromecast.

• Regular Updates: Continuous addition of new titles and updates to the anime library to keep content fresh.

• Free and Premium Options: The choice between free access with ads or premium subscriptions for an ad-free experience, additional features, and exclusive content.

• Safety and Security: Ensuring a safe and secure browsing and streaming experience, protecting users from malware and intrusive ads.

Remember that the availability of these features may vary from one platform to another, so it’s essential to research and compare different anime streaming sites to find the one that best meets your preferences and needs. Additionally, as the anime streaming landscape can change over time, it’s a good practice to check the current offerings and features of these platforms.

Disadvantage of Best Sites to Watch Anime Online

While watching anime online can be convenient and enjoyable, there are some potential disadvantages associated with using these websites and platforms. Here are some of the common drawbacks:

• Legal and Ethical Concerns: Many free anime streaming sites may not have the necessary licensing or permissions to host and distribute the content they offer. This can raise legal and ethical concerns regarding copyright infringement and piracy.

• Intrusive Ads: Free anime streaming sites often rely on advertising revenue, which can result in a high number of intrusive and potentially malicious ads. These ads can disrupt the viewing experience and, in some cases, pose security risks.

• Risk of Malware: Some free streaming sites may contain pop-up ads that lead to harmful websites or initiate downloads of malware onto your device. This poses a significant security risk.

• Unreliable Video Quality: Free sites may not consistently offer high-quality video streams. The video resolution and stability can vary greatly, leading to a subpar viewing experience.

• Limited Selection: Free sites might not have as extensive a library as legal and paid platforms, limiting the availability of certain anime titles, especially the latest or more niche content.

• Inconsistent Subtitles and Dubbing: Subtitled and dubbed versions of anime on free sites may not always be of high quality or accuracy, leading to potential issues with translation and voice acting.

• Availability and Reliability: Free sites may change URLs frequently, go offline, or be taken down by copyright holders, resulting in an inconsistent viewing experience.

• Lack of Support for Creators: Watching anime on unauthorized sites does not contribute to the financial support of creators, studios, or the industry as a whole. It may hinder the production of new content and the growth of the anime industry.

• Data and Bandwidth Usage: Streaming anime online consumes data and bandwidth, which can be a concern for those with limited internet access or mobile data plans.

• No Offline Viewing: Many free sites do not offer the option to download anime episodes for offline viewing, limiting flexibility for viewers who prefer to watch without an internet connection.

• User Experience: Free sites may lack features such as user profiles, watchlists, and personalized recommendations, which can enhance the viewing experience on legitimate platforms.

To overcome these disadvantages and enjoy anime in a legal and safe manner, viewers may opt for legitimate paid streaming services that offer a wide selection of content, high-quality streaming, and support for the anime industry. These services typically come with a subscription fee but provide a more secure and reliable experience.

Pros And Cons of Best Sites to Watch Anime Online

Pros of Using Best Sites to Watch Anime Online:

• Convenience: Online anime streaming sites offer the convenience of watching anime from the comfort of your home or on-the-go, without the need to purchase physical media.

• Variety of Content: These platforms provide access to a vast library of anime titles, spanning various genres, time periods, and languages.

• Affordability: Many streaming sites offer free access to anime content with ads, and premium subscription options are often available for an ad-free experience.

• Accessibility: Anime streaming sites are compatible with a wide range of devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.

• High-Quality Streaming: Viewers can enjoy high-definition video quality, with options for different resolutions, making for an immersive viewing experience.

• Simulcasts: Some sites offer simulcasts, allowing viewers to watch the latest anime episodes shortly after they air in Japan.

• Community Engagement: Platforms often include forums, user reviews, and ratings that enable users to interact and discuss their favorite anime series.

• Offline Viewing: Premium subscriptions on certain platforms offer the option to download anime episodes for offline viewing, ideal for travel or areas with limited internet access.

• Legal and Ethical: Using legitimate streaming services supports creators, studios, and the anime industry by ensuring fair compensation for their work.

Cons of Using Best Sites to Watch Anime Online:

• Subscription Costs: Premium, ad-free access to some platforms typically requires a monthly or annual subscription fee.

• Ad Interruptions: Free versions of streaming sites may include ads, which can disrupt the viewing experience.

• Content Licensing: Some anime titles may not be available in all regions due to licensing agreements, resulting in content restrictions.

• Intrusive Ads: Free sites may display intrusive and potentially malicious ads that pose security risks and diminish the viewing experience.

• Legal and Ethical Concerns: Free streaming sites may not have the legal rights to distribute content, raising questions about copyright infringement and piracy.

• Quality Variations: The quality of video streams, subtitles, and dubs can vary on free streaming sites, affecting the overall viewing experience.

• Risk of Malware: Pop-up ads on free sites may lead to malware downloads or malicious websites, posing security risks to users.

• Limited Support for Creators: Watching anime on unauthorized sites does not financially support creators, studios, or the anime industry.

• Data Usage: Streaming anime consumes data and bandwidth, which may be a concern for users with limited internet access or data plans.

• Reliability: Free sites may change URLs frequently, go offline, or be taken down by copyright holders, affecting reliability.

To make an informed choice, viewers should consider these pros and cons and weigh the advantages of using legitimate and paid streaming services against the drawbacks of free and unauthorized platforms.

Beginner’s Guide to Best Sites to Watch Anime Online

Are you new to the world of anime and looking for the best sites to watch your favorite series and movies online? This beginner’s guide will help you navigate the vast and exciting realm of online anime streaming. From where to watch to essential tips, we’ve got you covered.

1. Choose a Legitimate Streaming Platform:

When starting your anime journey, it’s crucial to choose a legitimate streaming platform. Here are some popular options:

• Crunchyroll: Known for its vast library and simulcasts of new episodes.
• Funimation: Offers a wide range of anime with high-quality dubs.
• Netflix: Features an expanding collection of both popular and original anime.
• Hulu: Provides a variety of classic and current anime titles.

2. Create an Account:

Many streaming platforms require you to create an account. This account allows you to customize your experience, create watchlists, and receive recommendations based on your preferences.

3. Explore the Library:

Once you’re on the platform, take some time to explore the anime library. You’ll find a wide variety of genres, from action and romance to fantasy and sci-fi. Don’t hesitate to browse and discover new series.

4. Start Watching:

Choose an anime series or movie that catches your interest and start watching. You can often select between subbed (with subtitles) and dubbed (with English voice-overs) versions.

5. Use Watchlists:

Most platforms offer the option to create watchlists. This feature helps you keep track of anime you plan to watch or are currently watching.

6. Consider Premium Memberships:

Many platforms offer premium memberships for ad-free streaming, early access to new episodes, and offline downloads. If you find yourself enjoying anime, consider upgrading for an enhanced experience.

7. Engage with the Community:

Anime communities are vibrant and welcoming. Consider joining forums or discussion boards related to your favorite series or platform. You can share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with fellow anime enthusiasts.

8. Stay Informed:

Stay updated on the latest anime releases and news. Some platforms offer simulcasts, allowing you to watch new episodes shortly after they air in Japan.

9. Respect Copyright and Licensing:

Remember to use legitimate and licensed platforms to support creators and the industry. Avoid unauthorized or pirated sources.

10. Keep Your Device Secure:

If you’re using free streaming sites, be cautious of pop-up ads and potential security risks. Ensure your device has up-to-date security software.

Enjoy your anime journey and immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating world of Japanese animation. Whether you’re into action-packed adventures, heartwarming romances, or mind-bending mysteries, there’s an anime series or movie waiting for you to explore. Happy watching!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of anime offers a vast and diverse array of captivating stories, vibrant characters, and stunning animation. For anime enthusiasts and newcomers alike, accessing these animated masterpieces through the best sites to watch anime online provides a gateway to this incredible realm. From popular streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation to entertainment giants like Netflix and Hulu, the choices are abundant. These sites not only offer convenience but also a plethora of features, such as subbed and dubbed options, high-quality streaming, and community engagement.

However, it’s essential to approach online anime viewing responsibly. While free streaming sites may seem tempting, the legal and ethical concerns surrounding them are significant. Using legitimate and licensed platforms not only ensures you’re enjoying your favorite shows guilt-free but also contributes to the sustainability of the anime industry. So whether you’re into thrilling adventures, heartwarming romances, intense action, or mind-bending mysteries, there’s an anime series or movie that’s perfect for you. It’s time to immerse yourself in this rich world of Japanese animation, explore new genres, and connect with fellow fans in online communities.