Anime has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its rich storytelling, stunning visuals, and diverse genres. Among the many platforms available, 9Anime has stood out as a popular destination for streaming anime online. However, due to frequent downtimes, intrusive ads, and legal ambiguities, many users search for 9Anime alternatives that offer better reliability, legality, and user experience.
If you’re wondering where else you can watch your favorite anime series safely and conveniently, this guide has you covered. We’ve researched, tested, and compared the best 9Anime alternatives for 2025, providing detailed insights, feature comparisons, and expert recommendations to help you pick the perfect streaming site or app.
Why Look for 9Anime Alternatives?
While 9Anime offers a vast anime library, several factors motivate users to seek other options:
- Frequent Downtime and Unstable Servers: 9Anime often suffers from outages and slow streaming speeds.
- Intrusive Ads and Pop-ups: The free streaming model comes with heavy ad bombardment, sometimes risking malware exposure.
- Legal Risks: 9Anime operates in a legal gray area, putting users at risk of violating copyright laws.
- Lack of Consistent Quality: Video quality can be inconsistent, with limited options for HD or dubbed versions.
- Device Compatibility Issues: Some devices and browsers have trouble accessing 9Anime.
To enjoy a safer, more stable, and higher-quality anime viewing experience, exploring legal and trusted 9Anime alternatives is essential.
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What to Consider When Choosing a 9Anime Alternative
Before diving into our curated list, here are key features to evaluate when selecting an anime streaming platform:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Video Quality | HD or 4K streaming ensures an enjoyable viewing experience. |
| Subtitles & Dubs | Availability of both subbed and dubbed versions caters to preferences. |
| Legal Licensing | Supports content creators and avoids legal issues. |
| Library Size | A vast and diverse anime catalog keeps content fresh. |
| User Interface (UI) | Easy navigation improves user satisfaction. |
| Ad Experience | Minimal or no ads provide uninterrupted streaming. |
| Device Support | Compatibility with mobile, desktop, smart TVs, etc. |
| Cost | Free vs. paid options impact accessibility and features. |
Top 15 Best 9Anime Alternatives in 2025
1. Crunchyroll
Overview: As one of the largest legal anime streaming services, Crunchyroll boasts over 1,000 titles, simulcasts from Japan, and exclusive shows.
Features:
- HD streaming with subtitles
- Ad-supported free tier + premium subscription ($7.99/month)
- Large catalog of simulcasts and classics
- Available globally except some restrictions
Why Choose Crunchyroll: It’s a trusted platform with an extensive anime library, ideal for fans who want legal access to the latest episodes.
2. Funimation
Overview: Funimation is renowned for its extensive dubbed anime selection and high-quality streams.
Features:
- Subbed and dubbed anime
- Premium ad-free subscription (~$7.99/month)
- Offline downloads on mobile apps
- Exclusive titles and simulcasts
Why Choose Funimation: Perfect for viewers who prefer English dubs and want official, high-quality content.
3. Netflix Anime Section
Overview: Netflix has invested heavily in original anime productions, alongside licensed popular series.
Features:
- High-budget originals like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Violet Evergarden
- Global availability
- No ads, subscription-based ($9.99+ per month)
- Offline downloads
Why Choose Netflix: Great for casual viewers who want exclusive anime with excellent production value alongside general entertainment.
4. Hulu Anime Collection
Overview: Hulu offers a sizable anime catalog bundled with its mainstream TV shows and movies.
Features:
- Subbed and dubbed content
- Available in the US with subscription plans ($7.99+)
- Ad-supported and ad-free options
- Combines anime with other entertainment genres
Why Choose Hulu: Best for viewers who want anime alongside other streaming content in one platform.
5. Anime-Planet
Overview: Anime-Planet offers a free, legal streaming experience supported by partnerships with Crunchyroll and others.
Features:
- Completely free and ad-supported
- Over 45,000 anime and manga recommendations
- User-friendly interface with community features
- Personalized watchlists
Why Choose Anime-Planet: Ideal for budget-conscious anime fans wanting a legal and safe streaming source.
6. VRV
Overview: VRV aggregates content from multiple niche channels, including Crunchyroll and HIDIVE.
Features:
- Subscription-based ($9.99/month)
- Variety of anime, gaming, and geek culture shows
- Ad-free and offline viewing
- Multi-channel streaming bundle
Why Choose VRV: Great for those who want diverse content beyond anime, all in one subscription.
7. Amazon Prime Video (Anime Section)
Overview: Amazon Prime Video includes a growing library of popular and exclusive anime titles.
Features:
- Included with Amazon Prime subscription ($14.99/month or $139/year)
- Select anime exclusives like Vinland Saga
- HD streaming with subtitles and dubs
- Offline viewing
Why Choose Amazon Prime: Ideal for existing Prime members seeking additional anime content.
8. HIDIVE
Overview: HIDIVE specializes in anime catering to niche and hardcore fans, including simulcasts.
Features:
- Affordable subscription ($4.99/month)
- Subbed and dubbed anime
- Simulcasts and exclusive titles
- Ad-free experience with offline downloads
Why Choose HIDIVE: Great for fans looking for rare or specialized anime content.
9. RetroCrush
Overview: RetroCrush focuses exclusively on classic anime from the ’70s to ’90s.
Features:
- Free, ad-supported service
- Extensive library of nostalgic titles
- Available on multiple devices
Why Choose RetroCrush: Perfect for lovers of vintage anime classics.
10. AnimeLab (Australia/New Zealand)
Overview: AnimeLab is a regional service offering a wide range of anime with high-quality streams.
Features:
- Free and premium tiers
- Simulcasts, subbed and dubbed options
- Available only in Australia and New Zealand
Why Choose AnimeLab: Best for users in its supported regions seeking local streaming.
11. Tubi TV Anime Section
Overview: Tubi TV offers a free, legal anime streaming section supported by ads.
Features:
- No subscription required
- Growing anime catalog
- Ad-supported with decent quality streams
- Available globally
Why Choose Tubi TV: For free access to a respectable anime library with no commitment.
12. 4Anime
Overview: A free anime streaming site that closely resembles 9Anime’s interface.
Features:
- Large catalog of popular anime
- Free but heavy on ads
- Variable video quality
Note: 4Anime is unlicensed, so use with caution regarding legal and security risks.
13. AnimeFreak
Overview: Offers a wide range of anime episodes and manga online.
Features:
- Free streaming with ads
- Large library with regular updates
- User-friendly navigation
Note: Like 4Anime, it operates in a legal gray area.
14. GogoAnime
Overview: One of the most visited free anime streaming websites globally.
Features:
- Huge library of anime episodes
- Subbed and dubbed anime
- Free with ads and pop-ups
Note: GogoAnime is also unlicensed; caution is advised.
15. KissAnime (Now Shut Down)
Note: KissAnime, once a major player, shut down in 2020 due to copyright issues. Some copycat sites exist but are unsafe and illegal.
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Comparison Table: 9Anime Alternatives Overview
| Platform | Legal Status | Cost | Library Size | Sub/Dub Options | Ads | Offline Viewing | Global Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchyroll | Legal | Free/Paid | Very Large | Both | Yes (free) | Yes | Mostly Global |
| Funimation | Legal | Paid | Large | Both | No | Yes | Mostly Global |
| Netflix | Legal | Paid | Moderate | Both | No | Yes | Global |
| Hulu | Legal | Paid | Moderate | Both | Yes (free tier) | Yes | US Only |
| Anime-Planet | Legal | Free | Moderate | Sub only | Yes | No | Global |
| VRV | Legal | Paid | Large | Both | No | Yes | US Only |
| Amazon Prime | Legal | Paid | Moderate | Both | No | Yes | Global |
| HIDIVE | Legal | Paid | Moderate | Both | No | Yes | Global |
| RetroCrush | Legal | Free | Small (Classics) | Sub only | Yes | No | Global |
| AnimeLab | Legal | Free/Paid | Moderate | Both | Yes | Yes | AU/NZ |
| Tubi TV | Legal | Free | Moderate | Both | Yes | No | Global |
| 4Anime | Illegal | Free | Large | Both | Yes | No | Global |
| AnimeFreak | Illegal | Free | Large | Both | Yes | No | Global |
| GogoAnime | Illegal | Free | Large | Both | Yes | No | Global |
How to Choose the Best 9Anime Alternative for You
To select the best anime streaming site, consider:
- Budget: Are you willing to pay for premium quality or prefer free options?
- Legal Safety: Supporting licensed platforms helps creators and reduces risk.
- Region: Some services have geo-restrictions.
- Content Preferences: Do you want the latest simulcasts, classics, or niche genres?
- Viewing Devices: Check device compatibility (smartphones, tablets, smart TVs).
- Ad Tolerance: Free sites usually come with ads; premium removes them.
Legal Considerations of Streaming Anime Online
Streaming anime on unofficial sites may expose you to:
- Copyright infringement risks
- Malware and phishing attacks
- Poor video quality and unstable streaming
Using licensed platforms like Crunchyroll or Funimation supports the anime industry and guarantees safer viewing.
Staying Safe While Streaming Anime Online
- Use trusted platforms to avoid malware.
- Consider using a VPN to protect your privacy and bypass geo-restrictions.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or pop-ups.
- Use ad blockers on free sites to improve experience (where legal).
- Keep your antivirus software updated.
9Anime Alternatives FAQs
Q: Is 9Anime legal to use?
A: No, 9Anime operates without official licenses, making it illegal in many countries. Using it can expose users to legal and security risks.
Q: Are the alternatives listed free or paid?
A: Many platforms offer both free (ad-supported) and paid (ad-free with extra features) plans. Legal options like Crunchyroll and Funimation provide both tiers.
Q: Which alternative has the largest anime library?
A: Crunchyroll and Funimation are among the leaders with extensive catalogs and ongoing simulcasts.
Q: Can I watch dubbed anime on these alternatives?
A: Yes. Funimation, Hulu, Netflix, and many others offer both subbed and dubbed versions.
Q: Are there regional restrictions?
A: Some services like Hulu and AnimeLab are geo-restricted, but major platforms like Netflix and Crunchyroll have broad international availability.
Q: How can I watch anime offline?
A: Paid subscriptions on Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, and others allow offline downloads on mobile devices.
Q: Are these platforms safe from viruses and malware?
A: Licensed platforms are secure. Free unofficial sites like 9Anime or GogoAnime may carry risks.
Q: How do I get notified about new anime releases?
A: Subscribe to newsletters or enable notifications within streaming apps for updates.
Q: What devices support these streaming platforms?
A: Most platforms support web browsers, iOS, Android apps, Roku, Fire TV, and smart TVs.
Q: Is there a risk of account bans on these sites?
A: Using unofficial sites can risk IP bans or malware infections. Licensed platforms ensure account security.
Conclusion
While 9Anime remains a popular site, its legal and security issues drive anime fans to seek better alternatives. Platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, and Anime-Planet offer extensive, legal, and high-quality anime streaming options catering to all budgets and preferences. Choosing a legal alternative ensures a safer, smoother, and more rewarding anime experience while supporting the creators who bring these stories to life. Explore the options above and find the streaming service that fits your anime binge-watching needs in 2025 and beyond!
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