10 Best 9anime Alternatives: Free Websites That Work (2025)

9anime (AniWave) has shut down due to copyright infringement, and many other illegal anime streaming sites have met the same fate. While these platforms offer massive libraries, they also come with risks like malicious ads, data tracking, and copyright issues. But don’t worry — I’ve put together the best 9anime alternatives where you can stream anime safely, legally, and sometimes even for free.

So, what are the best 9anime alternatives? I’ve rounded up top choices like Crunchyroll, which has over 15 million paying subscribers¹, along with other premium platforms for ad-free, subbed, and dubbed anime. Since every site on this list is completely legal, you don’t have to worry it will suddenly disappear.

Best Free 9anime Alternatives That Still Work in 2025

Sadly, around 66% of anime fans still watch anime on pirate websites². However, there are plenty of free 9anime alternatives that allow you to enjoy anime without breaking any laws. These sites offer legal content, are safe from shutdowns, and don’t have harmful ads or viruses, making them a much better option for streaming.

1. Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll has one of the biggest anime libraries, featuring nearly all the fan favorites, such as Attack on Titan, One Piece, My Hero Academia, and Demon Slayer. It also offers exclusive Crunchyroll Originals, such as Tower of God. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to browse by genre or find specific titles.

You can stream for free, though you’ll have to sit through ads and wait a week for new episodes. If you upgrade to a premium plan, you get ad-free streaming, offline downloads, and simulcasts — letting you watch new episodes just an hour after they air in Japan.

You can watch many titles, like Demon Slayer, completely free without even registering

Crunchyroll supports up to 4K (Ultra HD) streaming, with subtitles in multiple languages and a growing selection of dubbed content. Beyond streaming, it fosters a lively anime community with forums and special events.

Key Features:

• 1000+ anime titles, including exclusive simulcasts, manga, and games
• Accessible via web, Android, iOS, PlayStation, Xbox, Apple TV, Roku, and more
• Available worldwide (with regional licensing restrictions) in many languages
• Active community forums, news sections, and a release calendar

2. BiliBili

Bilibili started as a Chinese video-sharing platform but has grown into the top anime streaming service in Southeast Asia. It boasts over 332.6 million monthly active users, including 28.5 million paying subscribers³. While it’s primarily known for anime, it also offers ACG-themed mobile games, comics, and a vibrant user-generated content scene with fan animations and parodies.

The platform features a mix of licensed anime, such as Fate/Stay Night and Sword Art Online. Some anime are available to watch for free, while others require a subscription.

Use the site's search bar to find the title you want in seconds

Bilibili stands out for its interactive viewing experience, thanks to its danmaku feature — real-time comments that scroll across the screen, making it feel like you're watching with a community. The streaming quality goes up to 1080p, with multilingual subtitles on its international version, though the interface may take some getting used to.

Key Features:

• Vast library of licensed and user-generated anime content
• Available on the web, Android, iOS, and more
• Primarily in China but expanding across Southeast Asia and beyond
• Unique real-time comment overlays (danmaku) for an interactive experience

3. Viu

Viu is a go-to platform for fans of Asian entertainment, offering a mix of anime, K-dramas, and more. While it’s best known for its fast K-drama releases, its anime lineup includes popular titles like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Hunter x Hunter.

You can watch Fullmetal Alchemist for free on Viu

One of Viu’s standout features is its lightning-fast subtitle translations, often available within hours of a show airing. Streaming is usually in HD, and the platform’s intuitive interface makes it easy to browse genres and get personalized recommendations. Viu offers both a free plan with ads and a premium subscription for ad-free viewing.

Key Features:

• Wide selection of anime, K-dramas, and other Asian content
• Available on the web, Android, and iOS
• Primarily accessible in Southeast Asia and the Middle East
• Fast subtitle translations in multiple languages

4. RetroCrush

RetroCrush is a paradise for classic anime fans, bringing legendary series from the '70s, '80s, and '90s back to life. Whether you’re into Astro Boy, Lupin the Third, Ninja Scroll, or Galaxy Express 999, this platform is all about preserving anime history and introducing these timeless gems to new audiences.

The service highlights anime that inspired today’s biggest hits

You can watch for free with ads or upgrade to a premium plan for an ad-free experience. The platform offers high-quality streams with both dubbed and subtitled options. Its nostalgic, easy-to-use interface features curated playlists and staff picks, making it simple to discover genre-defining classics.

Key Features:

• Extensive library of classic and rare anime (’70s–early 2000s)
• Available on the web, Android, iOS, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV
• Free to watch with minimal ads — no subscription required
• Accessible in North America

5. AsianCrush

Though best known for its Korean dramas, AsianCrush has a solid collection of anime gems waiting to be discovered. I was pleasantly surprised to find classics like Millennium Actress and Hajime no Ippo on the platform.

AsianCrush’s anime library is smaller but still includes popular titles

Most anime on AsianCrush is subtitled with original audio, making it an excellent choice for fans who prefer an authentic viewing experience. You can stream for free with ads or upgrade to a premium plan for an ad-free experience. Plus, since it’s web-based, there’s no need to install an app.

Key Features:

• A mix of classic and hidden-gem anime titles
• Free with ads, or upgrade for ad-free viewing
• Available in the US and Canada

Best Premium 9anime Alternatives in 2025

In addition to free sites, check out these premium platforms for original, high-quality anime. Some offer free trials, letting you watch for a limited time at no cost.

1. Netflix

Netflix’s anime library keeps expanding, making it a great choice for both casual viewers and hardcore fans. You’ll find hits like Naruto, One Piece, and Demon Slayer alongside Netflix Originals like Castlevania, B: The Beginning, and Yasuke in many languages.

Streaming quality goes up to UHD, and most anime come with both subbed and dubbed options. The clean, user-friendly interface makes it easy to browse by genre or language, with personalized recommendations to help you find new favorites.

One downside? No free trial. But you can cancel anytime without extra fees.

Key Features:

• 100+ anime titles, including exclusives
• Works on web, mobile, smart TVs, game consoles, and more
• Available worldwide (content varies by region)
• Plans start at $9.99/month (Basic)

2. Hulu

Hulu has a solid anime lineup, from classics to the latest simulcasts. You’ll find hits like Attack on Titan, My Hero Academia, and One-Punch Man in HD, with both subbed and dubbed options for flexible viewing.

New subscribers can try Hulu for free for 30 days, making it a great way to explore its anime catalog. The user-friendly interface includes genre categories and a powerful search tool to help you find shows quickly.

Key Features:

• 300+ anime titles, from classics to new releases
• Works on web, mobile, smart TVs, Xbox, Chromecast, and more
• Available in the US and Japan
• Plans start at $7.99/month (with ads)

3. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video has a growing anime library with exclusives like Vinland Saga, Dororo, Bleach, and many Studio Ghibli films. You can stream in 4K Ultra HD with HDR on compatible devices, and many titles offer both subbed and dubbed versions.

New members can enjoy a 30-day free trial, and students get access to discounts and extended trial periods.

Key Features:

• Wide range of anime, including exclusives and simulcasts
• Works on web, mobile, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and more
• Available in 200+ countries and territories
• $14.99/month or $139/year (Amazon Prime membership)

4. U-NEXT

U-NEXT is Japan's top streaming service, offering a massive anime library with both mainstream hits and rare gems. You can stream titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, Demon Slayer, and Haikyuu!!, often with early access to new episodes.

New users get a 31-day free trial with full access, plus 1,200 yen in monthly points to rent or buy premium content, including the latest movie releases.

Key Features:

• Over 5,000 anime and manga titles, one of Japan's largest collections
• Works on web, mobile, smart TVs, and more
• Primarily available in Japan
• ¥2,189/month (around $20 USD)

5. Disney+

Disney+ has entered the anime space with a mix of anime classics and anime-inspired content. You’ll find titles like Code Geass, Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, and Attack on Titan, plus original series like Star Wars: Visions, where Japanese anime studios put their spin on stories set in the Star Wars universe.

There’s no free trial, but you can cancel anytime.

Key Features:

• Select anime and exclusive anime-inspired content
• Works on web, mobile, Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, game consoles, and more
• Available in multiple countries
• $7.99/month

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Quick Comparison Table: Best 9anime Alternatives

Here's a quick comparison of the best 9anime alternatives to help you choose based on your budget, preference for ads, and regional availability:

Are Sites Like 9Anime Safe and Legal?

All of the recommended 9anime alternatives listed here are legitimate and legal platforms that offer a safe way to enjoy anime. However, it’s important to note that many sites like 9anime you might come across are illegal and unsafe. These sites often contain pirated content, expose you to malware, and feature phishing ads that can compromise your security.

The original 9anime platform rebranded to AniWave, and was shut down, along with other piracy sites like AnimeSuge and Filmoflix. As these websites went offline, fake replicas and mirror sites emerged, leading to confusion and increased risks of encountering dangerous ads or downloading harmful software.

Even when using legitimate platforms, it’s a good idea to use a VPN for added security. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from third-party tracking. It also makes it possible to safely access your favorite anime sites from anywhere.

FAQs on the 9anime Alternatives

What happened to the 9anime streaming site?

The original 9anime rebranded to AniWave due to DMCA issues and domain blocking. AniWave, along with other piracy sites, was shut down in August 2024 following "Operation Animes," a collaborative effort between Japanese and Brazilian authorities. The site closures were motivated by legal standards in content distribution, with the operators encouraging users to transition to legal streaming services.

Why are 9anime alternatives not working for me?

9anime alternatives may not be working for you due to issues like regional restrictions, server downtime, or network connectivity problems. Some sites could also be blocked by your ISP or might be experiencing temporary technical difficulties. You might also encounter problems with your browser settings, such as cookies or ad blockers interfering with the site’s functionality. Remember to always use legit anime sites.

Are there any region-specific restrictions for these 9anime alternatives?

Yes, some 9anime alternatives are only available in certain countries. This is because content licensing agreements differ by region, so the anime library you can access might depend on where you're located. A reliable VPN makes it possible to safely access your desired anime sites from anywhere.

Do I need a VPN to watch free 9anime alternatives?

A reliable VPN makes it possible to securely access anime sites from anywhere. However, only the most reliable VPNs work with anime streaming platforms. You may encounter access error messages if you use free VPNs. Plus, VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, preventing third parties from monitoring your online activities and stealing your personal information.

Bottom Line

My guide covers several working 9anime alternatives that are legal, safe, and offer high-quality streaming. Unlike 9anime (AniWave) and other piracy sites, these platforms let you watch the latest anime titles, both subbed and dubbed or enjoy classic series without worrying about the site going down.

When choosing your 9anime replacement, think about your preferred streaming quality, subtitle options, and features like simulcasting. If you're looking to watch without paying, explore the free plans or take advantage of free trials.

References:

1. https://www.statista.com/statistics/594952/crunchyroll-users/
2. https://gamerwelfare.com/2019/11/18/66-of-anime-fans-watch-anime-on-pirate-websites/
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bilibili#:~:text=In%20the%20third%20quarter%20of,including%2028.5%20million%20paying%20users