Anime has gained massive popularity worldwide, and for fans who want to watch their favorite shows on the go, finding the best app to stream anime on mobile is crucial. There are several apps available, each offering different features, content libraries, and user experiences. Here, we’ll explore some of the top anime streaming apps for mobile devices, considering factors like content variety, user interface, availability, and cost.
- Crunchyroll
Overview:
Crunchyroll is one of the most popular and widely used anime streaming apps globally. It offers a vast library of anime titles, including popular series like Naruto, Attack on Titan, and One Piece, as well as a large selection of lesser-known shows.
Features:
- Vast Library: Crunchyroll boasts over 1,000 anime titles and more than 30,000 episodes, making it one of the largest anime streaming platforms.
- Simulcast: The app offers simulcast episodes, which means you can watch the latest anime episodes shortly after they air in Japan.
- User Experience: The app has a clean, user-friendly interface, with easy navigation and customization options.
- Subtitles: Most of the content is available with subtitles, catering to non-Japanese speakers.
Cost:
Crunchyroll offers a free version with ads, but for an ad-free experience and access to the latest simulcast episodes, users can subscribe to Crunchyroll Premium. The premium version also offers higher-quality video and access to exclusive content.
- Funimation
Overview:
Funimation is another leading anime streaming service, especially popular among fans who prefer dubbed anime. It features a wide range of anime series and movies, including both classic titles and new releases.
Features:
- Dubbed Content: Funimation is known for its extensive collection of dubbed anime, making it a great choice for those who prefer watching anime in English.
- Content Variety: The app offers a mix of popular anime, movies, and exclusive content.
- Offline Viewing: Funimation allows users to download episodes for offline viewing, which is perfect for watching anime without an internet connection.
- User Interface: The app is intuitive and offers personalized recommendations based on viewing history.
Cost:
Funimation offers both free and premium versions. The free version includes ads and limited access to content, while the premium subscription removes ads, provides early access to simulcast shows, and allows offline downloads.
- Netflix
Overview:
While not exclusively an anime platform, Netflix has significantly expanded its anime library in recent years, offering a variety of anime series and movies, including popular titles and Netflix Originals.
Features:
- Original Content: Netflix produces and streams exclusive anime titles like Castlevania and Devilman Crybaby.
- High-Quality Streaming: The app provides high-definition streaming, making it a great choice for users who value video quality.
- User Experience: Netflix is known for its excellent user interface, personalized recommendations, and multi-language support.
- Cross-Platform Availability: You can start watching on your mobile and continue on other devices seamlessly.
Cost:
Netflix does not offer a free version, but it provides several subscription tiers, with the basic plan offering standard definition streaming and higher tiers providing HD and 4K options.
- VRV
Overview:
VRV is a streaming service that combines content from multiple channels, including Crunchyroll, HiDive, and Rooster Teeth, under one subscription. It’s ideal for users who want access to a variety of content, not just anime.
Features:
- Bundled Content: VRV offers content from multiple sources, giving users access to a wide range of anime, cartoons, and even gaming-related videos.
- Simulcasts: Like Crunchyroll, VRV provides access to the latest anime episodes shortly after they air in Japan.
- Offline Viewing: VRV allows for offline downloads, letting you watch anime without an internet connection.
- Customization: The app has a customizable user interface and offers various viewing options.
Cost:
VRV offers a free version with ads, but the premium version, known as VRV Premium, provides ad-free streaming, offline viewing, and access to additional content channels.
- HiDive
Overview:
HiDive is a lesser-known but rapidly growing anime streaming service. It offers a variety of anime, including both classic series and new releases, and is particularly known for its unique and rare titles.
Features:
- Exclusive Content: HiDive offers titles that are not available on other platforms, making it a unique addition to any anime fan’s app collection.
- Customization: The app allows users to customize their viewing experience with options like different subtitle styles and video settings.
- Offline Viewing: Users can download episodes for offline viewing, a handy feature for mobile users.
Cost:
HiDive offers a limited free trial, after which a subscription is required for continued access to content. The subscription is relatively affordable compared to other services.
Choosing the best app to watch anime on mobile depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for the largest library with a focus on subtitles, Crunchyroll is a great choice. For fans of dubbed anime, Funimation stands out. Netflix offers a good selection of high-quality, exclusive content, while VRV provides a broad array of shows across multiple genres. HiDive is ideal for those seeking rare and exclusive anime titles. Each of these apps has its strengths, and the best choice will depend on your specific needs, such as the type of anime you prefer, your budget, and whether you want access to offline viewing.
