Anime has always had a special way of capturing our hearts. From epic battles that push characters to their limits to quiet, heartfelt moments that make us reflect on life, anime has the unique ability to blend emotion, art, and storytelling in ways that often leave us breathless.
Whether you grew up watching classics like Dragon Ball Z or Naruto, or you’ve recently been pulled into the enchanting worlds of Demon Slayer or Attack on Titan, one thing is for sure: anime is more than just “cartoons.” It’s a cultural phenomenon, a moving story that connects people across the world.
And in 2025, anime is more accessible than ever. Gone are the days when fans had to wait months for VHS tapes or unofficial DVDs. Today, with just a smartphone or smart TV, you can immerse yourself in countless anime titles from virtually anywhere.
But with so many streaming options out there, how do you choose the best apps to watch anime legally and comfortably with your friends? That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this article.
Get ready, because we’ve compiled a detailed guide to the best anime streaming apps, their features, pros and cons, and why they might be the right choice for you.
Why Anime Captures Our Hearts
Before we dive into the apps, let’s pause and reflect: Why is anime so emotionally powerful?
- Deep Character Development – Anime often spends significant time fleshing out characters. From Shinji Ikari’s existential struggles in Neon Genesis Evangelion to Tanjiro’s unwavering determination in Demon Slayer, viewers connect with characters on a deeply personal level.
- Unique Storytelling – Unlike much of Western animation, anime frequently tackles mature themes—love, death, war, trauma, friendship, and redemption—through creative plots.
- Cultural Nuances – Japanese storytelling often highlights values like perseverance (ganbaru), teamwork, and respect for nature, making anime rich in philosophy and reflection.
- Art and Soundtracks – From Studio Ghibli’s breathtaking backgrounds to Hiroyuki Sawano’s heart-pounding scores (Attack on Titan), anime is as much a sensory experience as it is a narrative one.
This emotional connection is what drives us to search for the best platforms to enjoy anime whenever and wherever we want.
The Best Apps to Watch Anime in 2025
Now, let’s get into the real reason you’re here: the best apps to watch anime with your friends. We’ll review the classics on your list—Hidive, Netflix, Giganima, Viewster, and Crunchyroll—and add other fan favorites to give you a complete picture.
1. Hidive
Hidive may not be as mainstream as Netflix or Crunchyroll, but it has carved a niche for itself in the anime world. Known for its exclusive titles, Hidive offers anime you often can’t find anywhere else.
Key Features:
- Extensive catalog, including simulcasts.
- Anime available in original Japanese audio with multiple subtitle options, including Portuguese.
- 7-day free trial before committing to a monthly or yearly plan.
- Curated genre lists and the ability to create personalized watchlists.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing compared to competitors.
- Exclusive titles not on other platforms.
- Clean, easy-to-navigate interface.
Cons:
- Smaller library compared to Crunchyroll or Netflix.
- Some users report occasional subtitle sync issues.
If you’re looking for hidden gems in the anime world, Hidive is worth exploring.
2. Netflix
At first glance, you might not think of Netflix as an anime hub, but in recent years, it has aggressively expanded into the anime market. With original productions like Yasuke, Eden, and Devilman Crybaby, plus licensing beloved classics, Netflix has become a serious contender.
Key Features:
- Wide variety of anime—from blockbuster shonen titles to experimental originals.
- Availability on virtually every device: smartphones, laptops, smart TVs.
- Strong dubbing and subtitle support in multiple languages.
Pros:
- High-quality original anime productions.
- Seamless streaming technology with offline downloads.
- Affordable entry-level plans.
Cons:
- Catalog varies significantly by country.
- Anime selection, while strong, is still smaller than specialized platforms.
For casual fans who already have Netflix, it’s an excellent starting point without needing extra subscriptions.
3. Giganima
Giganima is especially popular among fans who want flexibility. Unlike some platforms that lock content behind strict streaming-only policies, Giganima lets users download their favorite anime for offline viewing.
Key Features:
- Free and accessible on Android devices.
- Option to download certain anime titles.
- Alphabetical sorting and genre filtering for easier discovery.
Pros:
- Offline access—a huge plus for those with limited internet.
- Classics like Naruto, Dragon Ball, and Death Note.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- Limited availability (mostly Android users).
- Not all titles are available for download.
If you’re often on the go and don’t always have stable Wi-Fi, Giganima is a practical choice.
4. Viewster
Though less talked about today, Viewster remains an option for anime fans seeking legal and safe content. It focuses on anime series and films while also offering other geek-related media.
Key Features:
- Risk-free, legally licensed content.
- Solid catalog, including classics like Log Horizon, Naruto, and Samurai Warrior.
- Simple, easy-to-use app.
Pros:
- Legal and safe access to anime.
- Niche content, including older series.
Cons:
- Catalog is not as extensive as larger platforms.
- Fewer simulcasts and exclusives compared to Crunchyroll.
For fans who like exploring beyond the mainstream, Viewster can be a refreshing alternative.
5. Crunchyroll
No list of anime platforms is complete without Crunchyroll. It’s arguably the most popular anime streaming service in the world, known for its enormous library and same-day simulcasts straight from Japan.
Key Features:
- Massive catalog of anime, including classics and brand-new releases.
- Available on Android, iOS, web, gaming consoles, and smart TVs.
- Options to create lists and follow seasonal simulcasts.
- Some live-action adaptations and original productions.
Pros:
- Largest anime library globally.
- Subbed episodes released within hours of Japanese broadcasts.
- Affordable plans with ad-supported free options.
Cons:
- Free version has ads and some quality limitations.
- Occasional server issues during peak release times.
For hardcore anime fans, Crunchyroll is almost a must-have.
Additional Apps Worth Considering
To make our guide more complete, here are other platforms you should check out:
6. Funimation
Specializes in dubbed anime. Great for fans who prefer English audio.
7. Amazon Prime Video
Not anime-focused, but has gems like Vinland Saga, Made in Abyss, and Ghibli films in certain regions.
8. AnimeLab (now part of Crunchyroll in some regions)
Known for high-quality simulcasts in Australia and New Zealand.
9. YouTube Anime Channels
Official channels like Toei Animation often stream episodes or full series legally.
10. Disney+
Recently began hosting anime like Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, surprising many fans.
Comparing the Platforms
| App | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hidive | Exclusive anime, affordable plans | Smaller library | Hardcore fans hunting unique titles |
| Netflix | Originals + classics, global access | Regional catalog differences | Casual fans already subscribed |
| Giganima | Download option, classics | Limited to Android, not all downloads | Fans on the go |
| Viewster | Legal, niche anime | Smaller catalog | Nostalgic anime lovers |
| Crunchyroll | Huge library, simulcasts | Ads/free limitations | Hardcore anime fans |
| Funimation | English dubs, good library | Region restrictions | Dub fans |
| Amazon Prime | Ghibli & exclusives | Limited selection | Anime + general content viewers |
| Disney+ | Bleach, unique titles | Very limited overall catalog | Fans of anime crossovers |
How to Choose the Right Anime App for You
- Budget: Are you looking for free content (like Pluto TV-style ad support) or willing to pay for premium features?
- Preferred Language: Do you prefer subs or dubs? Crunchyroll excels at subs, while Funimation is king of dubs.
- Device Use: Do you mostly watch on mobile, console, or smart TV?
- Anime Taste: Love classics? Try Giganima. Want new simulcasts? Crunchyroll is unbeatable. Looking for originals? Netflix is strong.
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Tips for Enjoying Anime with Friends
- Host Watch Parties: Many apps (Netflix, Crunchyroll, Amazon) now offer watch party features.
- Try Niche Genres Together: Don’t just stick to shonen—explore romance (Your Lie in April), horror (Another), or slice-of-life (Clannad).
- Create Shared Lists: Use apps that let you build custom playlists. Perfect for group anime nights.
Final Thoughts
Anime is more than entertainment—it’s a moving story that connects us deeply to characters and worlds. Thanks to streaming platforms, enjoying anime in 2025 is easier, safer, and more fun than ever before.
Whether you choose Hidive for exclusives, Crunchyroll for sheer volume, or Netflix for originals, each app brings something unique to the table. The key is finding the platform that matches your taste, budget, and lifestyle.
So grab your friends, pick a platform, and dive into the incredible universe of Japanese storytelling. After all, anime isn’t just something you watch—it’s something you experience.
