Anime has exploded in popularity over the last decade. What was once a niche interest has now become mainstream entertainment around the world. With so many great anime series out there, it can be hard to figure out the best places to watch. Fortunately, there are several excellent websites where you can stream anime for free legally. Here are 5 of the best options.

1. Crunchyroll

When it comes to streaming anime, Crunchyroll is the first site that comes to mind for many fans. This platform specializes in anime and offers over 1000 different series to choose from. They add new episodes shortly after they air in Japan, so it’s a great way to keep up with all the latest shows.

The free version of Crunchyroll gives you access to their entire catalog of anime series and new simulcast episodes. The only caveat is that free users will have to watch ads during playback. But an ad-supported free option is better than nothing!

While a premium Crunchyroll account gives you perks like ad-free watching, the free content is extensive enough for most casual anime fans. If you’re looking for a diverse selection of popular anime titles without paying a dime, Crunchyroll is your best bet.

2. Funimation

Funimation is another major name in anime streaming. Like Crunchyroll, they focus specifically on anime series and films. Funimation’s library includes tons of all-time classics like Dragon Ball Z alongside current hits like Attack on Titan.

The Funimation free account gives you access to a large selection of their anime catalog. You can watch with ads. Funimation shines for anime dubs, so it’s an excellent destination for watching English dubbed versions of your favorite shows. They simulcast new episodes not long after they air in Japan.

While a paid Funimation account unlocks greater benefits, their free offering succeeds at making loads of great anime available without subscription fees. Funimation remains a top free option for anime fans.

3. Tubi

Tubi TV is a free streaming service with content across many genres, including a growing anime selection. Unlike niche services like Crunchyroll, Tubi markets itself as an alternative to paid services like Netflix. But their anime catalog stands out as an unexpected treasure trove.

Tubi won’t have all the brand-new simulcast episodes. But they host an impressive back catalog spanning anime classics, popular shounen titles, films, obscure hidden gems, and more. You’ll find offerings like Trigun, Black Lagoon, Puella Magi Madoka Magica, Paprika, and so much more. The anime selection is updated regularly, so there’s always something new to check out.

Since Tubi is completely free of ads, it’s easily one of the best websites for watching anime without spending any money. You might just discover your next favorite anime on Tubi TV.

4. Yahoo View

Yahoo View is a free streaming service created through a partnership between Yahoo and Hulu. It hosts many anime series that originally aired on TV in the US. The selection is more focused on classics and popular shounen than the huge libraries of Crunchyroll and Funimation. But you’ll find plenty of beloved titles.

Big hits like Bleach, Death Note, Cowboy Bebop, Sailor Moon, Naruto, and Inuyasha headline the Yahoo View anime roster. There are also lesser-known gems like Space Dandy and Rurouni Kenshin. This free option is great for revisiting popular anime series and discovering new classics.

Being from Hulu, most titles on Yahoo View include ads. But you can’t beat the price of totally free. With no subscription or signup required, Yahoo View is an easy website for watching anime.

5. RetroCrush

RetroCrush is a niche free streaming service focusing exclusively on classic anime. This makes it a wonderful destination for nostalgic anime fans who want to re-watch or discover vintage series and movies from the 60s through the 90s.

The catalog includes gems like Voltron, Robotech, Ultraman, and World Masterpiece Theater classics like A Dog of Flanders. There are also retro manga adaptations, live-action tokusatsu shows, and obscure cult favorites. RetroCrush is like a museum for the most memorable anime of the past.

As a free service, RetroCrush depends on ads to keep running. But the blast to the past is worth it for vintage anime lovers. RetroCrush niche appeal places it among the top free websites for anime.

Conclusion

While paid services like Netflix and Hulu offer good anime selections, you’ll find far more options on free dedicated anime streaming sites. Excellent platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Tubi TV, Yahoo View, and RetroCrush all provide thousands of anime series and movies to watch at no cost.

With these sites, anime fans can keep up with all the latest shows simulcast from Japan. Or rediscover classics from decades past. Regardless of taste, there’s a fantastic selection of free anime waiting online. Never pay for anime again by utilizing these free streaming treasures.

FAQs

Q: Is it legal to watch anime on these free websites?

A: Yes, all the websites listed offer anime streaming with the permission of the content owners. They can provide free access supported by ads. Streaming anime this way does not violate copyright.

Q: Do I need to make an account to watch free anime?

A: Most of these websites allow you to watch without registering an account. However, signing up for a free account enables options like bookmarking shows and customizing your streaming experience.

Q: How recent are the anime series on free sites?

A: Services like Crunchyroll and Funimation simulcast new anime shortly after airing in Japan. Others like Yahoo View host shows after they run on TV. RetroCrush specializes in older anime.

Q: Will I run into ads while watching free anime?

A: Most free anime streaming options do include ads to generate revenue since they don’t charge subscriptions. But services like Crunchyroll let paying members watch completely ad-free.

Q: Can I watch anime for free on my TV or mobile devices?

A: Many of these services have apps for smart TVs, mobiles, tablets, game consoles, etc. You can watch free anime on virtually any device with a good internet connection!