The 10 best 9anime alternatives for anime fans in 2025

9anime, rebranded as AniWave, has long been a popular hub for anime lovers, offering a huge library of Japanese shows and movies. It was the go-to spot for streaming everything from trending hits to hidden gems. Since its shutdown, it has been illegal and unsafe to rely on unofficial sources.

That’s why I search for legal, reliable alternatives that still allow you to watch your favorite shows in HD, with proper subtitles, an ad-free viewing experience, and a wide selection of anime. I also looked for platforms that have the licenses to stream anime legally, ensuring that the creators of these shows are fairly supported. Below, you will find a list of the 10 best legal 9anime alternatives, allowing you to stream securely without annoying pop-ups, malware, or legal gray areas.

Top 10 9anime alternatives that are working in 2025

Here are my top 10 legal alternatives to 9anime that still work in 2025. I tested each one myself to ensure it is safe, reliable, and that the library has full anime content.

10 Top sites like 9anime: a quick summary

1. Crunchyroll – Go-to legal hub for the largest library of anime which simulcasts from Japan.
2. HIDIVE – A niche gem with exclusives, uncensored titles, and hidden classics you won’t find elsewhere.
3. Netflix – A premium platform with slick original anime, high-quality dubbing, and binge-worthy classics.
4. Hulu – A versatile streaming platform with top anime titles, simulcasts, and mainstream TV.
5. Amazon Prime Video – Huge variety of anime, with a mix of classic and new series available to Prime subscribers.
6. Tubi – A completely free, ad-supported streaming service offering a robust collection of anime.
7. RetroCrush – Perfect for old-school anime fans craving classics from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s.
8. Pluto TV – Free live-streaming channels and a small on-demand anime selection for casual watching.
9. Plex – Free anime streaming with a growing library and a simple, ad-supported interface.
10. The Roku Channel – A rotating collection of free anime movies and series, easily accessible without a subscription.

The alternatives I’ve selected include a mix of free platforms supported by ads and premium services that offer free trials, letting you watch anime legally and safely. Some even feature exclusive content and simulcasts from Japan. By choosing these legal sites, you avoid the risks of copyright infringement and potential legal consequences that come with unofficial streaming.

That’s why I recommend using a VPN with an ad blocker, as it protects your data and lets you stream without constant pop-ups and distracting banners. Plus, a VPN can unblock anime libraries from other regions, expanding your watch options and helping you discover even more great shows.

Why do you need a 9anime alternative?

Since AniWave, the latest 9anime version, was taken down, finding a reliable and legal place to stream anime has become a real challenge. Many of the free sites that appear afterwards aren’t just unreliable, but also potentially illegal. Watching content on these platforms can put you at risk of malware, data tracking, or even notice from your ISP if copyright laws are violated.

That’s why I focused on finding legal, trustworthy platforms. Additionally, they provide consistent, high-quality streams that won’t disappear overnight, ensuring your privacy and device security. Plus, by using official services, you’re directly supporting the studios, animators, and voice actors who make anime possible.

The best 9anime alternatives

Let’s be real, most sites that pop up after 9anime’s shutdown are unofficial and come with real risks. I’ve seen platforms flooded with shady ads, poor-quality streams, or even worse, exposing users to legal trouble for watching shows they like. That’s why I carefully selected alternative 9anime sites that are safe, reliable, and legal so you can enjoy your favorite anime series. These are the best 9anime alternatives in 2025:

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1. Crunchyroll: the best all-in-one legal anime platform

• Top choice for anime fans – includes anime, manga, games, and a full fan store
• Runs smoothly on all major devices, including PC, Android, and iOS
• Extensive catalog includes Japanese simulcasts, classics, and exclusives that are updated as soon as they air

I chose Crunchyroll because it’s more than just a streaming site – it’s a whole anime hub. I tested it on my laptop and phone, and everything from episodes to digital manga ran flawlessly. Whether you’re into classics like Naruto or new hits like Jujutsu Kaisen and Frieren, Crunchyroll’s huge, fast-updating catalog truly stands out.

Beyond streaming, Crunchyroll offers digital manga, anime-themed games, and even a fan store with tempting merch. Moreover, there is a free version with ads, but I recommend using NordVPN with an ad blocker to avoid suspicious ad behavior and protect your privacy. However, if you want zero ads, offline viewing, and broadcasts, you can try a premium plan starting at $7.99 per month after a 7-day free trial.

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2. HIDIVE: a niche gem for uncensored exclusives and overlooked classics

• Rare titles you won’t find anywhere else
• Streams uncensored versions and bold genres
• Affordable at $4.99/month with a 7-day free trial

I picked HIDIVE because it brings something totally different to the table. While testing legal alternatives to 9anime, I discovered that HIDIVE offers content for fans seeking unique, older titles and more mature, uncensored material. It’s not trying to be everything for everyone, but that’s exactly why I love it.

I streamed on both desktop and mobile, and the platform handled it smoothly. HIDIVE’s interface is simple yet effective, and it’s the only place I’ve found that shows like Made in Abyss and Legend of the Galactic Heroes. It’s also great for exploring genres that aren’t typically featured on mainstream services.

There are no free tiers, but the subscription is budget-friendly at just $4.99/month, and a 7-day free trial lets you test it out freely. I always use NordVPN to stream safely, especially on niche platforms, as it keeps my connection secure and blocks ads that might slip through.

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3. Netflix: a premium pick for original anime, top-tier dubs, and binge-worthy classics

• Premium platform for Netflix Originals
• Stunning video quality and some of the best anime dubbing I’ve seen
• Wide range of genres, from slice-of-life to sci-fi epics

Netflix was a must-have on my list, as it is not only anime-focused but also offers a wide variety of genres, high-quality original movies and series, and even built-in games. During testing, I was able to stream it seamlessly across a PC, a smart TV, and a phone, with crisp resolution and excellent audio. Netflix has really stepped up its anime game, offering hits like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Beastars, and Violet Evergarden, plus exclusive originals that often look and feel like feature films.

Netflix stands out for production value. The dubs are polished, the subtitles are spot-on, and all the new seasons drop at once, ideal for a weekend binge. While there’s no free trial anymore, you can start with the Standard with ads plan for $7.99/month, or upgrade to ad-free for $17.99/month.

Since Netflix’s catalog varies by region, I recommend NordVPN to unlock the full global anime lineup. It helped me access titles only available in Japan or Europe without any problems.

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4. Hulu: a broad anime selection with a variety of TV and film

• Combines top anime with popular TV shows and movies
• Includes simulcasts of current anime airing in Japan
• Works flawlessly on mobile, desktop, and smart TVs

Hulu was a no-brainer when I explored legal alternatives to 9anime. Although it’s not strictly anime-focused, that’s actually a plus if you’re like me and enjoy switching between Jujutsu Kaisen binges and classic X-Files episodes or current TV shows. I tested Hulu on multiple devices, and it performed smoothly across the board, with fast loading times and clear HD video.

Anime fans will find a solid selection here, including Attack on Titan, My Hero Academia, and Tokyo Revengers. These shows are often available as simulcasts or shortly after airing in Japan. While the basic plan includes ads, you can opt for the ad-free version for $18.99 per month. Plus, Hulu offers a 7-day (or sometimes 30-day) free trial, which is a great way to test the waters.

To get the most out of Hulu, especially if you’re traveling, I recommend pairing it with NordVPN. It helps bypass regional restrictions and keeps your connection safe, especially useful if you’re accessing Hulu from outside the US.

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5. Amazon Prime Video: a legal anime library wrapped up in a full entertainment package

• Prime subscribers get a large anime library
• Streams in HD and 4K on most devices
• 30-day free trial

Amazon Prime Video stood out to me while testing legal 9anime alternatives, as it offers a surprisingly deep and varied anime catalog that spans different genres, eras, and styles. I found everything from cult classics like Toradora! and Great Teacher Onizuka to newer gems like Vinland Saga and Made in Abyss.

Prime Video is even more appealing because it includes many anime series with Prime membership. This also offers perks, such as free shipping and Prime Music when shopping on Amazon. During my tests, streaming quality was excellent across PC, Fire Stick, and phone, with support for 1080p and even 4K.

While you won’t find simulcasts as fast as Crunchyroll or HIDIVE, the selection is still pretty generous, and new titles are added regularly. You can try Prime Video for 30 days for free and then pay $14.99/month.

Since Amazon’s anime catalog varies depending on your location, I used NordVPN to explore international libraries. It unlocked region-exclusive content from Japan and Europe with zero buffering.

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6. Tubi: a free and underrated treasure trove for anime fans

• 100% free to use with no subscription required
• Large, well-organized anime collection
• Works smoothly on mobile, desktop, and smart TVs

Tubi surprised me as it’s totally free, no strings attached, like limited trials or hidden paywalls. You just sign in (or not), watch what you want, and deal with a few ads here and there. Additionally, it boasts a solid anime library that includes everything from nostalgic favorites to rare gems that may have been overlooked elsewhere.

I tested Tubi on my laptop, smart TV, and Android phone, and everything ran smoothly. The interface is slick and responsive, and I appreciated how easy it was to jump into an episode or resume where I left off. There are a variety of anime shows to choose from, including classic series like Yu-Gi-Oh! and Naruto, plus titles you don’t often see on bigger platforms, like Berserk (1997) and Toriko.

Moreover, there’s no subscription or payment method required; simply hit play and enjoy. Also, I liked how the platform organizes content by genre and theme, making it easier to discover new anime I might enjoy. Since Tubi is region-specific, I used NordVPN to unlock international content libraries, stream safely, and reduce malicious ads.

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7. RetroCrush: the best 9anime alternative for vintage anime lovers

• Free, ad-supported platform dedicated to retro anime classics
• Includes rare titles from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s
• Available on mobile, desktop, smart TVs, and streaming devices

RetroCrush will feel like a warm, nostalgic hug if you grew up watching hand-drawn animation and listening to retro soundtracks. RetroCrush fills a unique niche when it comes to classic anime from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, titles that modern platforms often overlook.

I tested it on my laptop and phone, and both streamed without a hitch. The design is simple but charming, and the curated library is packed with cult hits like Devil Lady, Urusei Yatsura, and Magical Emi. There’s even a live channel feature, allowing you to drop in and watch whatever’s playing, which feels like old-school TV.

Best of all, RetroCrush is free and ad-supported. However, a premium option is available for anyone who wants ad-free content, and it includes a 7-day free trial. I kept using the free version and didn’t find the ads too invasive, though I always stream with NordVPN to block the more aggressive ones and protect my data. Plus, a VPN helped me access the full catalog, as content availability varies depending on your location.

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8. Pluto TV: casual anime-watching and free live-streaming channels

• You don’t have to sign up, it’s free and ad-supported
• You can watch anime live and on-demand
• Available on desktop, mobile, smart TVs, and streaming devices

When I was exploring legal alternatives to 9anime, Pluto TV really caught my attention. It’s a surprisingly valuable option for anyone who wants a completely free way to stream anime. It’s a moderate catalog, similar to Crunchyroll or HIDIVE, but it’s a great option if you just want to sit back and watch whatever’s on.

Pluto TV offers dubbed classics like Bleach and Naruto, as well as on-demand clips that rotate regularly. I also tested it on my smart TV and phone, and it worked smoothly. There was no buffering, no registration, and the interface was easy to navigate.

Since it’s ad-supported, you’ll get a few commercial breaks, but I didn’t find them too annoying. To avoid tracking and minimize disruptive pop-ups, I recommend using a VPN like NordVPN, which features built-in Threat Protection. Overall, Pluto TV isn’t for hardcore anime collectors, but it’s perfect for casual sessions or background viewing.

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9. Plex – free 9anime alternative with bonus features

• Clean, intuitive anime streaming with ads
• Streams your own legal media collection across all major devices
• Bonus features include universal watchlists, live TV, and cross-platform syncing

Plex is more like a complete media center where you can stream free content and manage your own legal download collection.

I tested Plex on my iPhone, Android tablet, and laptop, and everything worked seamlessly. Anime content is available through its free, ad-supported library, and it’s perfect for casual watching. I watched the content in HD without any buffering, even during live TV.

Plex also lets me track shows from services like Netflix or Prime Video, create unified Watchlists, and stream my own media files across devices. It’s completely legal to use as long as the content you’re streaming is yours or licensed. Plus, there’s no need to create an account, but signing up unlocks extra features, including syncing and personalized recommendations.

Although Plex is free, there’s also a premium version (Plex Pass) that comes with perks like mobile sync and early access to features, and you can try it out with a 14-day free trial. Personally, I recommend pairing Plex with a VPN that has ad-blocking built in, just to smooth out the streaming and keep your activity private, especially since Plex shows ads.

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10. The Roku Channel – a solid option for casual anime streaming

• Totally free streaming with no subscription required
• Runs smoothly on smart TVs, mobile devices, and web browsers
• Rotating library includes well-known anime films and series in HD

The Roku Channel offers a rotating lineup of free anime movies and series to stream. The Roku provided a simple, no-commitment way for me to watch legal anime. You don’t need to sign up or pay anything to start using the app or website.

The selection is dynamic enough to keep things interesting, with titles like Akira and Your Name, as well as episodes of classic series. Moreover, the interface is clean and easy to use, whether you’re watching on a Roku device, a smart TV, or just on your phone. During my tests, I streamed anime in HD without any lag, and even the ads were minimal compared to other free platforms.

You can choose between free content and optional paid channels available through Roku, all with a 30-day free trial. Either way, I recommend using a VPN with ad-blocking to keep your connection secure from malicious trackers.

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How I selected the best 9anime alternatives

My priority was to select 9anime alternatives that respected copyright laws and licensing agreements. This approach ensures you can enjoy anime safely and responsibly, without risking access issues or legal complications. My selection process focused on sites that offered officially licensed content, a wide variety of titles, and high-quality streaming.

I have personally tested each platform, including those with free trials, to confirm their reliability and user experience. Plus, choosing these legal alternatives ensures a safe and stable streaming, while also directly supporting your favorite anime creators. Here’s what I focused on while selecting each alternative:

• Licensed libraries. Every platform I selected hosts officially licensed anime. That means you’re not violating any copyright laws, and the content you’re enjoying is distributed with proper rights.
• Diverse content selection. I prioritized platforms with a mix of new releases, hidden gems, and timeless classics.
• HD streaming quality. I made sure every platform supports high-definition playback with smooth, reliable streams.
• Safe and clean experience. I pay close attention to platforms that are free of sketchy ads, pop-ups, and shady redirects. This is important to protect your device and personal data from potential threats.

Best VPN for anime sites like 9anime

Streaming legal anime requires a good VPN, not just for privacy but to unlock region-locked content and enjoy smooth streaming. For this reason, I focused on VPNs that protect your privacy, deliver smooth streaming with minimal buffering, and effortlessly bypass geo-restrictions. After testing many, here are my top picks for streaming anime safely and easily:

• NordVPN. This VPN tops my list for a reason. Thanks to its NordLynx protocol, it delivers consistently fast speeds and reliable access to anime platforms worldwide. During my tests, NordVPN easily unblocked region-restricted libraries while maintaining HD quality. Plus, its advanced obfuscation technology hides your VPN use from ISPs, and Threat Protection blocks malicious ads and trackers, making anime-watching seamless, private, and safe.
• Surfshark. It is the best VPN VPN that combines strong performance with excellent value. Powered by the fast and secure WireGuard protocol, it delivers smooth, buffer-free streaming on every anime site I tested. I could easily access region-locked content, and thanks to MultiHop, I got an extra layer of privacy by routing my traffic through two servers instead of one. Plus, the built-in CleanWeb feature automatically blocked intrusive ads, and with support for unlimited devices, I could watch anime on all my screens without logging out.
• Proton VPN. It’s designed for users who prioritize security and includes advanced features like Secure Core, which routes your traffic through multiple hardened servers for added protection. I tested its Stealth protocol and VPN Accelerator, which helped improve speed even when connecting to restrictive networks. While it’s not always as fast as NordVPN or Surfshark, it reliably unblocked several anime platforms and maintained solid performance. It’s also one of the few premium VPNs with a genuinely usable free plan, which is great for trying things out without commitment.

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Does 9anime still exist?

Right now, 9anime is no longer available. Originally, it disappeared offline and reappeared under the name AniWave, but that site has also disappeared. These takedowns typically follow copyright enforcement actions, such as DMCA requests, which are issued when content creators or rights holders report the illegal distribution of their work.

I don’t recommend relying on mirror sites or clones, especially since they often pose serious risks, such as malware, invasive ads, or even legal trouble. That’s why I focused only on legal options when looking for reliable 9anime alternatives. The goal is to help you keep watching your favorite anime, without compromising safety or violating copyright laws.

Final throughts: best 9anime alternatives working right now

Legal anime streaming sites like Crunchyroll and HIDIVE are the best 9anime alternatives right now. With 9anime and its mirror AniWave no longer accessible, it’s clear that many unofficial platforms face takedowns due to copyright infringement. There are still many anime sites circulating online, but many operate in legal gray areas and pose serious security risks, including malware and phishing attacks.

I focused only on safe and legal platforms during my search. Services like Crunchyroll, HIDIVE, and RetroCrush offer extensive anime libraries, official licenses, and clean interfaces, free of shady redirects and sketchy ads. If you’re outside the supported regions or want access to a wider catalog, using a reliable VPN is the smartest way forward.

NordVPN is my top pick for safely streaming anime online. Its global server coverage helps you unlock region-locked libraries, while the NordLynx protocol ensures fast, buffer-free playback. It also features built-in Threat Protection to block pop-ups, trackers, and malware, ensuring a smooth and secure streaming experience.

If you’re curious about my experience with other streaming alternatives, check out the related guides below:

• Best KissAnime Alternatives
• Best Popcorn Time Alternatives
• Best Putlocker Alternatives

The best 9anime alternatives: frequently asked questions

I’ve rounded up some of the most common questions below. If you don’t find an answer, leave a comment!

What are the best 9anime alternatives in 2025?

The best 9anime alternatives in 2025 are legal streaming platforms that offer extensive anime libraries while respecting copyright laws. Since 9anime and its rebranded site, AniWave, are no longer operating, I’ve focused my search on legitimate streaming services. Here are the top legal alternatives that I recommend:

1. Crunchyroll
2. HIDIVE
3. Netflix
4. Hulu
5. Amazon Prime Video
6. Tubi
7. RetroCrush
8. Pluto TV
9. Plex
10. The Roku Channel

Is 9anime banned?

Yes, 9anime itself and its rebranded site, AniWave, are no longer operational. However, sites like 9anime often face bans or blocks depending on your country or internet provider because they operate in legal gray areas. Our main goal is to promote legal and safe viewing, which is why I’ve focused my research on legitimate alternatives. For anime fans who want to watch content legally and securely, I recommend using a reliable VPN, such as NordVPN. It helps protect you from potential copyright issues and prevents penalties from your ISP.

Which website is best for watching anime?

I recommend sticking with legal platforms like Crunchyroll, HIDIVE, and Netflix. These sites offer large, officially licensed anime libraries with high-quality streams and reliable updates. Watching on legal platforms supports the creators and avoids the risks associated with unofficial sites. To ensure you always have access to the full library of your chosen legal service, especially if it’s region-locked, I also recommend using a reliable VPN like NordVPN.

Erica Greenwood Author

Tech Journalist

Erica is a seasoned tech journalist with a lot of experience in the privacy and cybersecurity field. She has a passion for getting to the bottom of cybersecurity news and sharing it with others.

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