Anime's popularity continues to soar, with the industry reaching a staggering $19 billion in 2023. This growth has made it easier than ever to enjoy anime without breaking the bank. While you might miss out on some exclusive Netflix originals, there's a vast array of anime series and movies available for free. However, navigating the world of anime streaming can be tricky, with many sites falling into legal gray areas or outright piracy. Fear not, as we've curated a list of the best free anime streaming sites that have secured legal streaming licenses, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite shows without worry.
Whether you're eager to dive into the buzz surrounding "Solo Leveling," planning a "Naruto" marathon, or revisiting classics like "Sailor Moon," these platforms offer something for everyone.
Crunchyroll stands out as the premier destination for anime enthusiasts, offering a robust free tier that includes ad-supported streaming of a curated selection of its vast library. The free tier's offerings shift with the seasons, providing a dynamic way to experience the latest anime hits. Currently, you can enjoy the first seasons of blockbuster series like "Solo Leveling," "Jujutsu Kaisen," "Chainsaw Man," and more. Should you find yourself hooked, Crunchyroll also offers a 14-day free trial of its Premium service, perfect for diving deeper into their extensive catalog.
Tubi is a powerhouse in the world of free streaming, and its anime collection is no exception. Thanks to licensing agreements with giants like Crunchyroll, Konami, GKIDS, and Viz Media, Tubi boasts a diverse library of anime. From timeless classics like "Naruto," "Pokémon," and "Sailor Moon" to beloved shoujo titles like "Toradora" and "Maid-Sama," and even comedies like "Daily Lives of High School Boys," Tubi has it all. Not to mention, it also offers a compelling selection of anime movies, including works by renowned directors Satoshi Kon and Naoko Yamada.
Sling TV's Freestream platform is a game-changer, consolidating various free streaming channels into one convenient location. One of its gems is RetroCrush, a dedicated space for vintage anime lovers, featuring classics like "Ghost Stories" and "City Hunter." Additionally, Freestream offers sneak peeks at content from Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, including the highly anticipated "Uzumaki" anime and the final season of "Attack on Titan."
Viz Media is a cornerstone in the distribution of anime and manga in North America. While their website offers free manga chapters and physical anime releases, their YouTube channel is a treasure trove of free anime content. You can enjoy full series like "InuYasha," "Naruto," and a variety of "Sailor Moon" movies without spending a dime.
Unfortunately, due to the nature of licensing agreements, ads are a common feature on free streaming sites. If you come across a site without ads, it's likely operating in a legally gray area. While we don't condone such practices, it's important to be aware of the risks involved.
Absolutely, beyond Viz Media's official channel, YouTube hosts a wealth of free anime content. While we can't direct you to specific unauthorized channels, exploring YouTube can lead to discovering a variety of anime series and movies that are freely available. Just be mindful of copyright issues and enjoy responsibly.