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Best Online Anime Websites to Watch in 2023


Garima Singh
By Garima Singh | Last Updated on April 18th, 2024 12:58 pm

What are Anime Websites?

Anime websites are online platforms dedicated to streaming and providing access to a vast library of anime content. Anime, a style of animation that originated in Japan, has gained a massive following worldwide. Anime websites serve as a gateway for anime enthusiasts to watch their favorite series, movies, and OVAs (Original Video Animations). These websites offer a diverse range of genres and cater to both mainstream and niche interests within the anime community.

The Popularity of Anime Streaming

The popularity of anime streaming has experienced remarkable growth over the years. The convenience of accessing anime content from any device with an internet connection has contributed to this surge. Streaming has largely replaced traditional methods of watching anime, such as buying physical DVDs or waiting for TV broadcasts. With the rise of legal live video streaming website services and fansub websites, fans have more options than ever to enjoy their favorite shows.



  1. Crunchyroll
  2. Benefits

    -Crunchyroll boasts one of the largest collections of anime titles, including simulcasts of the latest episodes from Japan.
    -It offers both free, ad-supported streaming and premium subscription options.
    -Crunchyroll provides subtitles in various languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
    -The website is known for its easy-to-navigate and user-friendly interface.
    -Viewers can enjoy anime in high-definition quality.
    -Crunchyroll fosters a sense of community with forums and discussions among users.

    Cons

    -The free version includes ads, which can be a drawback for some viewers.
  3. Funimation
  4. Benefits

    -Funimation specializes in providing English-dubbed anime, making it a go-to platform for viewers who prefer dubbed versions.
    -It offers a diverse range of anime series and movies.
    -Funimation provides access to exclusive and premium content for subscribers.
    -The website and app are user-friendly and easy to navigate.

    Cons

    -While it excels in dubbed content, Funimation's subtitle offerings in languages other than English are relatively limited.
  5. Netflix
  6. Benefits

    -Netflix boasts a vast library of licensed and original anime content.
    -It offers high-quality video streaming and supports multiple devices.
    -Viewers can download anime for offline viewing.
    -Available in many countries, making it accessible to a worldwide audience.

    Cons

    -Some anime titles on Netflix may be subject to rotations, meaning they may not be available permanently.
    -Netflix may not always offer simulcasts of the latest episodes as soon as they air in Japan.
  7. Hulu
  8. Benefits

    -Hulu includes a mix of classic and current anime series, often with both subbed and dubbed versions.
    -It covers various genres and interests.
    -Hulu is available as part of a Hulu subscription, which also includes other content.
    -It offers high-quality streaming and supports a wide range of devices.

    Cons

    -The free version includes ads, and not all anime may be available to free users.
    -Like Netflix, Hulu may rotate its anime library.
  9. VRV
  10. Benefits

    -VRV bundles together multiple streaming services, including Crunchyroll and HiDive, providing access to a variety of content.
    -The premium subscription tier eliminates ads from all bundled services.
    -VRV offers exclusive content and early access to certain shows.

    Cons

    -VRV is primarily available to viewers in the United States, which may limit its accessibility for international users.
    -While bundling services can save money, subscribing to multiple platforms within VRV may add up.
  11. HiDive
  12. Benefits

    -HiDive offers a mix of classic and modern anime titles.
    -Subscribers can download anime for offline viewing.
    -HiDive provides simulcasts of the latest episodes from Japan.
    -Premium subscribers enjoy an ad-free experience.

    Cons

    -HiDive's library is smaller compared to some other services, which may limit the selection of available titles.
  13. Amazon Prime Video
  14. Benefits

    -Amazon Prime Video's anime content is included with an Amazon Prime subscription.
    -It offers a variety of anime genres and titles.
    -Subscribers can enjoy high-quality video streaming.

    Cons

    -While it offers anime content, the selection may not be as extensive as dedicated anime platforms.
  15. RetroCrush
  16. Benefits

    -RetroCrush specializes in classic and nostalgic anime titles.
    -It's an ad-supported platform, meaning viewers can access content for free.

    Cons

    -The focus on classic titles may limit the selection for viewers interested in newer releases.
    -Ad-supported platforms may have ads, which can be a drawback for some users.

Fansub and free anime websites have been a significant part of the anime community for years. These platforms have provided free access to anime content, including series, movies, and OVAs. However, it's essential to note that many of these websites operate in a legal gray area and may not have the rights to host the content they provide. Due to this, they may face legal issues, be taken down, or have inconsistent content availability. In recent years, there has been a shift towards promoting legal alternatives for watching anime to support the industry and creators. Additionally, you can create your own website through the website builder offered by the Appy Pie AI website builder. The platform allows you to create your own anime website where you can share and add your own content, features, categories, and more.

KissAnime Alternatives

KissAnime, known for its vast library of anime content, was once a go-to source for fansubbed and dubbed anime. However, it faced legal issues and was shut down. As an alternative to KissAnime, viewers can explore legitimate options like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and others.

9Anime Alternatives

9Anime was a popular fansub and free anime website known for its extensive collection. It also encountered legal challenges and was taken offline. Legal platforms like Crunchyroll, HiDive, and VRV offer a broad selection of anime titles for those seeking alternatives.

GogoAnime Alternatives

GogoAnime, another fansub and free anime website, faced legal issues and was subjected to takedowns. In its absence, anime enthusiasts can turn to legal options like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video for a wide range of anime content.

Legal Alternatives to Fansub and Free Anime Websites

In response to the need for legal and accessible alternatives to fansub and free anime websites, various streaming services have emerged. Platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, Hulu, VRV, HiDive, Amazon Prime Video, and RetroCrush offer legitimate ways to watch anime. These services support the industry and provide high-quality streaming, subtitles, and often simulcasts of new episodes. While some require subscriptions, they offer free trials or ad-supported viewing options.

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