Netflix offers exclusive anime, plus popular titles with offline viewing on most devices.
HIDIVE and RetroCrush provide rare and classic anime not found on major streaming platforms.
Tubi and Pluto TV are free options with ad-supported anime access and live channel-style streaming.
Crunchyroll is widely known for streaming anime, but it isn’t the only option available. Several other apps now offer a wide range of anime content, attracting viewers who are looking for more variety or specific features. These platforms include both free and paid services and offer everything from new releases and timeless classics to dubbed episodes and lesser-known titles.
As anime continues to grow in popularity, many fans are exploring these alternative apps for better recommendations, smoother streaming, or access to rare series. Here are some anime apps that have recently seen a rise in popularity.
Netflix has added a lot of anime in the past few years. Some of the most-watched shows like Naruto, Demon Slayer, and One Piece are on it. There are also anime made only for Netflix like Devilman Crybaby, Beastars, and Yasuke. Netflix works well on most devices and allows downloads for watching offline. Most people already use Netflix, so there’s no need to download a new app just to watch anime.
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Funimation is known for English-dubbed anime. This app is useful for people who don’t want to read subtitles. Shows like My Hero Academia, Tokyo Ghoul, and Attack on Titan are part of the collection. The app is easy to use and also has an offline viewing option. It is mainly available in the US, Canada, and a few other countries, but it can work in other regions with the help of a VPN. There’s a free version with ads and a paid version without ads.
HIDIVE has anime that are not usually seen on bigger platforms. It includes both dubbed and subbed shows. Many of these are less famous, so this app is better for those who have already watched most of the popular series. HIDIVE has a lower monthly price compared to some other services. It also gives a free trial in the beginning.
RetroCrush is good for those who like old-school anime. Most of the shows are from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. It has action, comedy, romance, and other genres from that time. Shows like Fist of the North Star and Project A-ko are part of the list. The app is free with ads, but it also has a paid option for watching without any interruptions.
Tubi is a free streaming app with a decent amount of anime. It includes shows like Death Note, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, and Fairy Tail. There is no need to make an account. The only downside is the ads that appear during shows. Tubi doesn’t always have the newest episodes, but the app is free and works without many problems.
Pluto TV works differently. It doesn’t let people pick episodes. It runs channels that play anime like live television. It’s free and doesn’t ask for sign-ups. For those who just want to watch whatever is on, Pluto TV can be a good choice.
Amazon Prime Video has anime, too. Some of the shows include Vinland Saga, Made in Abyss, and Dororo. The collection is not as big as Crunchyroll or Funimation, but it keeps growing. People who already use Amazon Prime get this app along with their plan. It’s a mix of old and new anime.
YouTube has some official anime channels. These upload episodes legally, usually in good quality. Anime-Planet is a website that offers free anime streaming through links. It also has user reviews, ratings, and manga suggestions. Both options are useful for casual watching.
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All these platforms offer something different. Some are better for new anime, some focus on classics, and some provide a mix of both. A few apps are free, while others need a subscription. Trying different ones can help find a better way to watch anime without depending only on Crunchyroll. Users are advised to choose a platform based on their desired variant of viewership.
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