Anime has rapidly grown in global popularity, thanks to streaming services making it easier than ever to watch series and films with either subtitles or English dubs. One such popular platform was AniWave, known for its wide availability of anime content. However, with changes in accessibility, regional restrictions, or users seeking better alternatives, many have started searching for viable AniWave replacements in 2025.
TL;DR
If you’re looking to switch from AniWave or want more robust options for streaming anime, there are many platforms that offer a blend of free and paid services. From official licensed platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation to more niche or community-driven sites, you won’t be short on choices. Whether you prefer watching anime subbed or dubbed, these alternatives can provide a seamless viewing experience on both desktop and mobile. Explore all 15 to find the one that best fits your anime-watching needs in 2025.
1. Crunchyroll
Best for: Official subtitles and new releases. Crunchyroll is one of the oldest and most trusted platforms for streaming anime legally. With a huge catalog that includes simulcasts from Japan, it’s a go-to destination for subtitle enthusiasts. Premium members get better video quality and no ads.
2. Funimation
Best for: English dubs and high-quality streaming. Funimation is widely respected for its vast selection of dubbed anime. It often complements Crunchyroll’s subbed content, and the two are now under the same parent company, Sony. Funimation remains the first choice for dubbed anime lovers.
3. Netflix
Best for: Mainstream anime and exclusive titles. Netflix has heavily invested in anime over the years. It offers both subbed and dubbed versions of popular series like Demon Slayer and One Piece, and also produces its own anime like Castlevania.
4. HIDIVE
Best for: Underrated and classic anime titles. HIDIVE focuses on more obscure or niche anime series. It’s the place to go if you’re searching for content that isn’t available on Crunchyroll or Netflix.
5. 9anime
Best for: Free streaming and wide availability. While not officially licensed, 9anime offers a wide range of anime titles, both subbed and dubbed. It’s constantly updated and has a minimal ad experience when using ad blockers.
6. AnimeFreak
Best for: Sub-heavy users looking for variety. AnimeFreak is an ad-supported, free-to-use platform offering countless titles organized by genre and popularity. It’s known for its consistent update schedule and subtitle availability.
7. Gogoanime
Best for: Fast updates and good video quality. Gogoanime remains a fan favorite, especially for simulcasts that air shortly after Japan releases them. It provides both subtitle and English dubbed versions and is easy to navigate.
8. AnimeHeaven
Best for: User-friendly interface and variety. AnimeHeaven caters to both casual and dedicated anime fans. The platform’s clean layout, along with sub and dub options, makes it a worthy replacement for AniWave.
9. AnimeLab
Best for: Australian and New Zealand viewers. If you’re residing in Australia or New Zealand, AnimeLab (now merging into Funimation) is a legal streaming service with thousands of anime available in high definition, both subbed and dubbed.
10. VRV
Best for: Bundled services and unique anime choices. VRV bundles multiple streaming services, including Crunchyroll and HIDIVE. It’s ideal for viewers who want more than just anime, offering offline viewing and multiple access points.
11. Tubi TV
Best for: Free legal anime with fewer ads. Tubi TV has a growing anime section and is completely legal. It’s free to use with ad support and includes dubbed and subbed options across a variety of genres.
12. RetroCrush
Best for: Classic anime lovers. RetroCrush is perfect for those who appreciate anime from the ’70s to early 2000s. All content is legally available and free to stream with ads. A premium subscription removes ads and improves video quality.
13. AnimeDao
Best for: Fast streaming speeds and simplified UI. AnimeDao focuses on subbed content with minimal buffering. It’s a favorite for people with slower internet connections or those seeking new episodes undelayed.
14. Masterani Redux
Best for: Community-driven streaming. This reboot of the previous Masterani website features community engagement, upvotes, and a neat library of both dubbed and subbed series. Its curated picks are often based on popular demand.
15. Bilibili TV
Best for: Asian anime fans looking for subtitles in various languages. Originally a Chinese platform, Bilibili has expanded its English-language content and provides unique anime series not available elsewhere, often with multi-language subtitle support.
Conclusion
Whether you’re someone who strictly watches subtitled anime for authenticity or prefers English dubs for convenience, these 15 AniWave alternatives offer something for every viewer in 2025. From trusted corporate platforms to dedicated fan hubs, these services provide legal access, variety, and timely content updates. Choosing the right one depends on preference, region, and how you like to experience anime.
FAQs
- Q: Are all the listed sites legal?
A: No. Some services like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix are licensed and legal. Others, like 9anime and Gogoanime, operate in a legal grey area. - Q: Which is the best AniWave alternative for subbed anime?
A: Crunchyroll and HIDIVE are among the best for high-quality subbed anime with regular updates and legal access. - Q: What’s the best site for dubbed anime?
A: Funimation and Netflix offer some of the top English dubbed anime with high production values and wide selection. - Q: Are these services accessible worldwide?
A: Not all platforms are available in every country. Some like AnimeLab are region-specific, while others may require a VPN for access. - Q: Can I watch anime offline with any of these services?
A: Yes, premium subscriptions for platforms like Netflix, Funimation, and Crunchyroll allow downloads for offline viewing. - Q: Do I need to pay to watch anime on these sites?
A: Many platforms offer free options with ads (like Tubi or RetroCrush), while others offer subscription plans for added features and no ads.
- How Web3 Website Design Impacts Trust, Conversions, and User Adoption - February 6, 2026
- Expert Tips For Beating Outbreak: Find The Cure Escape Room In Under 60 Minutes - February 5, 2026
- 15 Best AniWave Alternatives In 2025: Where To Stream Anime With Subtitles & Dubs - February 5, 2026