Anime has always been close to my heart, and Crunchyroll has been my go-to platform for years. But sometimes, I feel like exploring different apps like Crunchyroll, either for exclusive titles, offline features, or even just a different streaming experience.
I know many fans share this feeling because Crunchyroll, as good as it is, does not have everything. That is why I want to share with you the top 10 best Crunchyroll alternatives. Each of these apps offers something unique.
And depending on your taste, you may even end up preferring them over Crunchyroll.
What is Crunchyroll?
Crunchyroll is one of the world’s leading streaming platforms dedicated to anime, manga, and Asian dramas.
Launched in 2006, it has grown into the go-to service for anime fans, offering a massive library that includes both classic series and the latest simulcasts released shortly after airing in Japan. Crunchyroll is available across multiple devices through its website and mobile app.
These aspects make it easy for users to watch their favorite shows anytime, anywhere. It provides both free ad-supported streaming and premium subscriptions with added benefits like offline downloads, ad-free viewing, and early access to new episodes.
Top 10 Best Apps Like Crunchyroll
List of Best Apps Like Crunchyroll
- iQIYI
- Netflix
- Hulu
- HiDive
- Peacock
- Amazon Prime Video
- Bilibili
- YouTube
- RetroCrush
- Tubi TV
Crunchyroll is excellent, but it is not perfect. Some shows are unavailable due to regional restrictions, and sometimes the subscription price does not feel justified if you only want to watch a few specific titles. On top of that, Crunchyroll’s offline options are limited compared to other streaming platforms.
It is why Crunchyroll alternatives make sense. Different streaming apps bring new features, exclusive anime, and flexible viewing options, which give you more freedom to enjoy anime the way you want.
In the under section, I have mentioned the top 10 best apps like Crunchyroll that I have tried personally and found them very effective.
1. iQIYI
iQIYI is a great pick if you enjoy a mix of anime with Asian dramas and variety shows. The app is polished, subtitles are available in many languages, and downloads are quick. I like that it keeps seasonal anime alongside big name dramas
So, you can switch moods without changing platforms. If you are exploring beyond mainstream titles, you will find pleasant surprises here.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge library of Asian dramas, anime, and movies | Limited free content, premium needed for most shows |
| Offers simulcasts of popular anime | Ads can be intrusive in free version |
| User-friendly interface | Some regional restrictions |
| Affordable subscription plans | |
| Subtitles in multiple languages |
2. Netflix
Another great option is Netflix, which has expanded its anime library massively in recent years. While Netflix is not just about anime, it has invested heavily in original productions such as Castlevania and Devilman Crybaby.
What I love about Netflix is that I can enjoy both anime and other genres like movies, dramas, and documentaries all in one place. It also allows offline downloads, which is a huge advantage when traveling.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Vast library of shows, movies, and anime | Anime library is limited compared to dedicated platforms |
| High-quality streaming up to 4K HDR | |
| Original anime productions | |
| Supports multiple devices and profiles | |
| Offline downloads available |
3. Hulu
Hulu is another service worth mentioning. It has a wide variety of anime shows ranging from classics like Naruto to modern hits such as My Hero Academia. What makes Hulu appealing is that it combines anime with TV shows, movies, and original series.
Thus, you will get a complete entertainment package. The subscription plans are also flexible, and the app works smoothly across multiple devices, making it convenient for everyday use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers both anime and mainstream shows | Only available in the US and Japan |
| Affordable pricing with bundles | |
| New episodes often available quickly | |
| Good mix of dubbed and subbed anime | |
| Supports multiple devices |
4. HiDive
For those who love hidden gems, HiDive is an underrated platform that deserves more recognition. HiDive has a good collection of rare titles and older classics that are often missing from bigger platforms.
It also offers simulcasts, letting fans watch new shows soon after their Japanese release. The best part is its affordability, making it a great option for anime lovers on a budget.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong focus on niche and classic anime | Smaller library compared to competitors |
| Simulcasts available | |
| Affordable subscription | |
| Offers both subs and dubs | |
| User-friendly anime-focused design |
5. Peacock
Peacock is NBCUniversal’s streaming app that primarily focuses on TV shows, movies, and original content, but it has also started including anime titles in its library. While it does not specialize in anime like Crunchyroll, it offers popular series that give fans another platform to enjoy Japanese animation alongside mainstream entertainment.
The app is well-designed, easy to navigate, and available on mobile devices, and makes it a convenient choice for viewers who want both anime and other streaming content in one place.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Decent selection of anime along with mainstream content | Anime catalog is limited |
| Free tier available with ads | |
| Offers both on-demand and live TV | |
| User-friendly streaming app | |
| Affordable premium plans |
6. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video has become surprisingly good for anime streaming. It has licensed popular titles like Attack on Titan and Vinland Saga, which makes it a solid alternative. The best part is that with Prime Video, you are not getting more than anime.
You can amuse yourself with your favorite movies, TV shows, and even music under the same subscription. Plus, it allows offline downloads, so you can enjoy your favorite anime on the go.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Decent anime selection including exclusives | Anime section is harder to navigate |
| High-quality streaming | |
| Comes bundled with Prime benefits (shipping, music, etc.) | |
| Available in many regions | |
| Offline downloads supported |
7. Bilibili
A platform I personally enjoy exploring is Bilibili. Originally from China, Bilibili has been expanding its anime offerings and is now a major hub for both anime and fan-made content. What makes it unique is that you do not just get to watch anime.
Even, you can also find a thriving community where people discuss shows, share reviews, and upload creative content. It feels more interactive than just a streaming service.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Popular in Asia for anime and fan content | Limited availability outside Asia |
| Free access to lots of anime | |
| Active community with comments and reviews | |
| Offers both subs and dubs | |
| Mobile-friendly app |
8. YouTube
Although many people do not immediately think of it, YouTube can also be a good place to watch anime. Several official distributors upload full-length episodes and even complete series legally on YouTube.
It means you can enjoy anime for free, and since YouTube is available on practically every device, it is one of the most accessible options. Beyond full shows, you can also find clips, reviews, and fan discussions, and turn it into a diverse anime space.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free access to official anime episodes and clips | Full anime series are limited |
| Channels like Ani-One Asia and Muse Asia stream anime legally | |
| Easy accessibility worldwide | |
| Supports multiple resolutions including 4K | |
| Works on any device |
9. RetroCrush
If you are into classic anime, then RetroCrush is the perfect app for you. Unlike modern streaming platforms that focus on new releases, RetroCrush is dedicated to vintage anime. It offers a nostalgic experience with timeless shows from earlier decades.
The best part is that it is free, supported by ads, so you can enjoy these classics without spending a dime. For fans who appreciate the roots of anime, RetroCrush is a hidden treasure.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focused entirely on classic anime | Library mainly includes older shows |
| Free with ads | |
| Curated niche selection for anime fans | |
| Subtitles available in English | |
| User-friendly anime-focused design |
10. Tubi TV
Lastly, Tubi TV is another free option worth considering. While its anime library is not as vast as Crunchyroll’s, it still provides a decent selection of popular shows. Since it is completely free, the only trade-off is the presence of ads.
However, Tubi works on a wide range of devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles, making it accessible to almost everyone. It is a great option for casual viewers who want free anime streaming without committing to a subscription.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free to watch with ads | Limited selection of newer anime |
| Decent library of anime and movies | |
| No subscription required | |
| Available on many devices | |
| Supports HD streaming |
Final Thoughts
These are the details about the top 10 most popular apps like Crunchyroll.
Even though Crunchyroll remains one of the best platforms for anime streaming, exploring alternatives can make your anime experience richer and more exciting. From iQIYI’s focus on dubbed anime to Netflix’s original productions and RetroCrush’s nostalgic classics, every app I mentioned has something unique to offer.
Depending on your budget, taste, and viewing habits, you can pick the platform that suits you best. Personally, I like switching between a few of them because it keeps my anime journey fresh and diverse. No matter which one you choose, your love for anime will only grow stronger.
