Contrary to popular beliefs, all legal anime streaming websites are paid only, but such is not the case, to be honest. Many of them offer a free tier, though it comes with heavy limitations. As it stands, then, if you’re a hardcore user, the main option is to pay, but in times of running low on cash, then it makes sense to take advantage of the free options we’ll be listing today.
Best Free Anime streaming websites
These are some of the best places on the web to watch anime for free legally. However, there is always a chat for legal free-tier content, so keep that in mind.
1] FUNimation
Long time anime fans would have heard of FUNimation. From our point of view, the Dragon Ball Z franchise transformed it into what it is today. The platform is quite large, and it does offer an option to watch anime for free directly through the website. Apps are available for your smartphone if that’s your thing, but just bear in mind that Windows Phone is not on the list because the Microsoft mobile platform has died a long time ago. Note that with the free tier, users cannot watch content in high definition, that’s something you’ll have to pay for. Visit FUNimation.
2] Crunchyroll
In terms of popularity, the Crunchyroll anime streaming platform is the most popular on the planet. You can find almost anything you want here, along with a free layer option. Watching anime content free is limited to resolutions less than high definition, and you’ll be forced to contend with advertisements. Additionally, users won’t be able to watch the latest episodes right away, so that’s a major downside, which will likely force you to fork out some cash for a subscription. Visit Crunchyroll.com.
3] YouTube
Yes, we’re not being crazy here. YouTube does offer free anime series, but they come via the likes of publishers, some with their very own streaming platform. You see, both FUNimation and Crunchyroll offer free content on YouTube in either English dub or sub with a Japanese dub. We can’t be certain of YouTube itself offers free anime content, but you can check for that at any time to find out.
4] Anime-Planet
With over 45,000 episodes of anime content available on its website, Anime-Planet is one of the best places on the web to watch anime series for free. Bear in mind, however, that videos on Anime-Planet are sourced from Crunchyroll, so right away you might be wondering why not simply go directly to the source? Well, here’s the reason why we would recommend staying. You see, recommendations are not based on an algorithm, but rather, real users. These same users will also give reasons for why they’ve recommended a title in the first place, so that’s a nice little touch. Visit Anime-Planet. Did I miss your favorite?
