Anime continues to explode in popularity, with the industry reaching a staggering $19+ billion in 2023. As the medium grows, so does the demand for accessible viewing options. Thankfully, fans can enjoy a vast array of anime series and movies for free, though some may miss out on exclusive Netflix originals. The world of free anime streaming is rich and diverse, offering something for every type of viewer.
However, it's important to tread carefully, as not all free anime sites are created equal. Many operate in a legal gray area or even delve into piracy. This list focuses exclusively on platforms that have legally acquired their streaming licenses, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite shows with peace of mind.
Whether you're eager to catch up on the buzz around Solo Leveling, plan a marathon of Naruto, or revisit classics like Sailor Moon, here are the top sites for watching anime for free.
Crunchyroll stands out as the ultimate destination for anime enthusiasts, offering a robust selection of its library for free, supported by ads. The free tier's offerings shift with the seasons, providing a constantly updated catalog of the latest and most exciting anime. Currently, fans can dive into the first season of hits like Solo Leveling, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Chainsaw Man. If a Premium title catches your interest, Crunchyroll also offers a 14-day free trial of their Premium service, perfect for testing the waters before committing.
Tubi is renowned for its extensive library of free streaming content, and its anime collection is no exception. Thanks to licensing agreements with major players like Crunchyroll, Konami, GKIDS, and Viz Media, Tubi offers a diverse range of anime. From beloved classics like Naruto, Pokémon, and Sailor Moon to shoujo favorites such as Toradora and Maid-Sama, and comedies like Daily Lives of High School Boys, Tubi caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. Additionally, the platform boasts a remarkable selection of anime movies, including works by acclaimed directors Satoshi Kon and Naoko Yamada.
Sling TV's Freestream platform amalgamates various free streaming channels into one convenient service. A highlight for anime lovers is RetroCrush, a dedicated free anime site that specializes in nostalgic titles like Ghost Stories and City Hunter. Additionally, Freestream offers "sneak peeks" at programming from Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, including the eagerly awaited Uzumaki anime and the final season of Attack on Titan.
Viz Media, a key distributor of anime and manga in North America, primarily offers physical anime releases and free manga chapters on its website. However, anime fans can still access a substantial selection of free anime on the Viz Media YouTube channel. This includes full series like InuYasha, Naruto, and a range of Sailor Moon movies.
Unfortunately, due to licensing agreements, ads are a necessary component of free streaming sites. If you come across a site that claims to be ad-free, it's likely operating on the riskier side of the internet. While tempting, such sites may not be the safest choice.
Beyond the official Viz Media channel, YouTube hosts a wealth of free anime content. While I won't direct you to specific channels to avoid any legal issues, exploring YouTube can uncover a treasure trove of anime to enjoy at no cost.