Anime has taken the world by storm, captivating audiences of all ages with its diverse stories and rich animation styles. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a hardcore fan, having access to the best anime streaming apps on your mobile device is essential. If you’re looking for the top apps to stream anime on iOS and Android in 2024, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover the best platforms that offer legal, high-quality anime streaming for both iOS and Android users.
1. Crunchyroll
Overview
Crunchyroll remains one of the biggest names in anime streaming. With a vast library of both subbed and dubbed anime, it’s a must-have for any serious anime fan.
Key Features
- Crunchyroll offers an extensive catalog, including popular titles like Attack on Titan and My Hero Academia.
- New episodes are available just an hour after they air in Japan.
- Both free and premium versions are available, with the free version being ad-supported.
- Premium members can enjoy offline downloads and an ad-free experience.
Pros
- A massive selection of anime.
- Timely release of simulcast episodes.
- Easy syncing across devices, so you can start an episode on iOS and finish it on Android.
Cons
- The free version has a lot of ads.
- Limited offline access for free users.
Crunchyroll is the best choice for anime lovers who want a mix of old and new titles, with great features for both free and premium users.
2. Funimation
Overview
Funimation is the go-to app for dubbed anime fans. It’s known for its extensive catalog of English-dubbed shows, making it a favorite for viewers who prefer watching anime in English.
Key Features
- Funimation provides fast access to dubbed episodes, often simulcasting alongside their Japanese counterparts.
- The platform supports offline downloads for premium subscribers.
- It offers family-friendly filters, allowing parents to control what their kids watch.
Pros
- Excellent for dubbed anime.
- User-friendly interface.
- Substantial catalog of popular anime.
Cons
- Limited subbed content.
- Free users experience ads.
If you’re more into watching anime in English, Funimation is the top choice for you. Its extensive dubbing library sets it apart from other platforms.
3. Netflix
Overview
Netflix might not be an anime-only service, but its commitment to producing original anime and streaming popular titles makes it a serious contender. Shows like Castlevania and Devilman Crybaby have attracted anime fans worldwide.
Key Features
- High-quality streaming, including HD and 4K options for premium subscribers.
- Netflix Originals include anime you won’t find on other platforms.
- Offline viewing available for all subscription tiers.
Pros
- A solid selection of exclusive anime.
- Consistent streaming quality.
- Subbed and dubbed options available.
Cons
- The anime catalog differs depending on your region.
- It doesn’t update anime episodes as quickly as Crunchyroll or Funimation.
Netflix is ideal for anime fans who enjoy a variety of content. If you already have a Netflix subscription, it’s worth exploring their growing anime library.
4. Hulu
Overview
Hulu is another hybrid platform that combines live TV, popular series, and a respectable anime collection. While it doesn’t focus solely on anime, it offers enough content to keep anime fans entertained.
Key Features
- Offers a mix of subbed and dubbed anime.
- Simulcasts popular series like Attack on Titan.
- Offline downloads available for premium users.
Pros
- Perfect for those who want more than just anime.
- Affordable subscription bundles, especially with live TV.
- Family sharing plans available.
Cons
- Smaller anime library compared to Crunchyroll or Funimation.
- Ads in the basic subscription.
For viewers who enjoy both anime and other forms of entertainment, Hulu offers the best of both worlds. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a variety of content beyond anime.
5. HiDive
Overview
HiDive specializes in lesser-known, classic, and niche anime that you might not find on bigger platforms. It’s a hidden gem for fans who like to dig into more obscure titles.
Key Features
- Offers simulcasts, along with older anime that can be hard to find.
- Provides subbed and dubbed versions of most titles.
- Affordable premium plan with ad-free viewing.
Pros
- Unique selection of anime.
- Cheaper than some competitors.
- Supports multiple languages.
Cons
- Smaller library compared to larger platforms.
- Less polished interface.
HiDive is perfect for anime fans who want to explore beyond mainstream content. If you’re looking for underrated gems and classic anime, HiDive is the app for you.
6. VRV
Overview
VRV is a bundle streaming service that combines multiple content channels into one platform, including anime from Crunchyroll and HiDive. It’s a one-stop shop for fans who want variety in their entertainment.
Key Features
- Access to Crunchyroll, HiDive, and other content like cartoons and indie films.
- Premium membership removes ads and offers offline viewing.
- Available on iOS and Android devices.
Pros
- Combines multiple channels into one subscription.
- Great for fans of multiple types of content.
- Offers anime along with non-anime shows and movies.
Cons
- More expensive than subscribing to individual anime services.
- Not necessary if you only want anime.
If you’re a fan of multiple genres and want a bundled experience, VRV offers excellent value. It’s an all-in-one app for those who enjoy both anime and other kinds of entertainment.
7. Amazon Prime Video
Overview
Amazon Prime Video offers a selection of anime, including exclusive titles like Vinland Saga and Dororo. While it doesn’t have the largest library, it’s growing steadily.
Key Features
- Comes as part of an Amazon Prime membership.
- Offline downloads available.
- Subbed and dubbed options for most anime.
Pros
- Exclusive anime not available on other platforms.
- Offers more than just anime content.
- Good streaming quality.
Cons
- Anime library is smaller than dedicated anime platforms.
- Limited simulcasts compared to Crunchyroll or Funimation.
If you’re already an Amazon Prime member, it’s worth checking out their anime catalog. While not as robust as other platforms, the exclusive content makes it a good choice.
8. Tubi TV
Overview
Tubi TV is a completely free streaming app that offers a surprisingly good selection of anime. Since it’s ad-supported, there’s no need for a subscription.
Key Features
- 100% free, with no subscription required.
- Wide availability of older and classic anime.
- Compatible with iOS and Android.
Pros
- Completely free.
- Large selection of classic anime.
- No sign-up required.
Cons
- Ads can be intrusive.
- Limited new or trending titles.
If you’re looking for a free, legal way to watch anime, Tubi TV is a great option. It may not have the newest series, but it offers plenty of older gems.
9. AnimeLab (for Australia and New Zealand)
Overview
AnimeLab is a top streaming app for anime fans in Australia and New Zealand. It offers a wide variety of subbed and dubbed anime.
Key Features
- Available for free with ads or as a premium ad-free service.
- Simulcasts new episodes shortly after they air in Japan.
- Offline viewing for premium users.
Pros
- Best for anime fans in Australia and New Zealand.
- High-quality streaming.
Cons
- Limited to specific regions.
- Fewer global titles compared to bigger platforms.
For anime lovers in Australia and New Zealand, AnimeLab is an excellent choice with a strong catalog and great features.
10. YouTube
Overview
While not a dedicated anime platform, YouTube has plenty of official channels that stream free anime episodes legally. Channels like Toei Animation and Muse Asia release episodes for free.
Key Features
- Free access to anime episodes, both subbed and dubbed.
- Official anime channels with full seasons available.
- Works on all devices with the YouTube app.
Pros
- Free and easy to access.
- No subscription required.
Cons
- Ads can be disruptive.
- Limited selection compared to paid platforms.
YouTube is a great way to watch free anime legally, especially if you’re just getting into the genre. It’s ideal for casual viewers who don’t want to commit to a paid subscription.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard otaku, there’s an anime streaming app to fit your needs. Platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation cater to dedicated fans, while Netflix and Hulu offer a mix of anime and other content. Free services like Tubi TV and YouTube give you access to anime without spending a dime. By choosing a legal platform, you not only get high-quality content, but you also support the anime industry, ensuring that your favorite shows keep coming back with new episodes.
Akane, known as akanecco._ on Instagram, is a passionate and experienced Anime creator specializing in anime content. With 317 engaging posts and a dedicated following of 12.7K, Akane has become a trusted authority in the anime community. Through detailed reviews, character explorations, and insightful analyses, Akane shares an extensive knowledge of anime, captivating and educating fans with every video. Follow Akane on Instagram to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of anime and join a community of like-minded enthusiasts here- Facebook and Pinterest.