9Anime Alternatives: 15 Free Anime Streaming Sites That Work in 2026

9anime shut down. The original 9anime.to that millions of anime fans relied on no longer exists, and the clones popping up everywhere aren’t trustworthy. I’ve tested over 30 alternatives in the past month, and most are garbage. Slow streams, popup storms, or straight-up malware bait.

But a handful actually work. Some are free with minimal ads. Others cost a few bucks but deliver HD streams without the sketchy redirects. Here’s what I found after burning through every major option.

Quick Comparison: Best 9anime Alternatives

Don’t have time to read the full breakdown? Here’s what actually works in 2026:

Site	Type	Cost	Ads	Video Quality	Best For
Crunchyroll	Legal	Free / $7.99+	Free tier has ads	Up to 1080p	Simulcasts, largest legal library
Amazon Prime Video	Legal	$14.99/mo	None	Up to 4K	Exclusive titles, X-Ray features
HIDIVE	Legal	$4.99/mo	None	Up to 1080p	Uncensored content, exclusives
Netflix	Legal	$15.49+	None	Up to 4K	Original anime, offline viewing
Zoro.to	Free	Free	Minimal	Up to 1080p	Best free option overall
AnimePahe	Free	Free	Minimal	Up to 1080p	Clean interface, downloads
AniWave	Free	Free	Minimal	Up to 1080p	95% uptime, fast playback
GoGoAnime	Free	Free	Moderate	Up to 1080p	Huge library, discussion forums

What Happened to 9anime?

9anime.to was one of the most popular free anime streaming sites. Millions used it daily for subbed and dubbed content. The site offered high-quality streams without registration, which made it the go-to choice for anime fans worldwide.

But 9anime operated in a legal gray area. The content was uploaded without permission from copyright holders, and the site ran on third-party servers filled with aggressive advertising. In 2023, the original domain went dark after years of legal pressure and hosting issues.

Now if you search for “9anime,” you’ll find dozens of clones. Sites like 9anime-tv.com, 9anime.city, and 9anime.me all claim to be the real thing. They’re not. These copycat sites often contain malware, cryptocurrency miners, or redirect chains that lead to phishing pages. I wouldn’t trust any of them without a solid VPN and aggressive ad blocking.

Looking for 9anime? Common Searches

If you landed here searching for 9amime, 9anine, anime9, 9animr, or 9animw, you’re in the right place. These are all common misspellings for 9anime, and the alternatives below will give you the same content, often with better streaming quality and fewer security risks.

The sites in this guide offer everything 9anime had: subbed and dubbed anime, multiple video quality options, and large libraries spanning every genre from shonen to slice-of-life.

Do Any 9anime Mirrors Still Work?

A few mirror sites claim to be the “official” 9anime continuation. Based on my testing in February 2026:

• 9anime.to – Original domain, no longer functional
• 9anime-tv.com – Works but extremely ad-heavy
• 9anime.city – Intermittent availability, suspicious redirects

My recommendation: Skip the mirrors entirely. The alternatives below provide better streaming experiences with fewer security concerns. If you insist on trying mirrors, use a reliable VPN, enable an ad blocker, and never enter personal information on these sites.

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9Anime Unblocked — How to Access Anime Sites at School or Work

If you’re trying to access anime sites at school, university, or work, you’ve probably hit a wall. Most institutions block streaming sites through their network firewalls. Here’s how people get around those restrictions.

Use a VPN (Most Reliable Method)

A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a different server, bypassing network-level blocks completely. This is the most reliable way to unblock anime sites anywhere.

For anime streaming specifically, I recommend:

• NordVPN — Fast enough for HD streaming, works on school Wi-Fi, has a mobile app for watching on your phone during breaks. Their “Double VPN” feature adds extra privacy if your school monitors traffic.
• Surfshark — Budget-friendly option. Unlimited device connections, so you can share with friends. Works well for streaming from South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Both work on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Install before connecting to the restricted network.

Browser Extensions

If installing a full VPN isn’t possible (school-managed devices, for example), browser-based options work as a lighter alternative:

• Windscribe (Free tier) — 10GB/month free, available as a Chrome/Firefox extension
• ProtonVPN (Free) — Unlimited data on the free tier, though speeds are slower
• Opera Browser — Has a built-in free VPN. Download Opera, enable the VPN in settings, and browse freely

These won’t protect your entire device—only browser traffic. But for streaming anime, that’s usually enough.

Web Proxies

Sites like HideMyAss, KProxy, or CroxyProxy let you enter a URL and access it through their servers. The downsides: slower speeds, frequent ads, and some streaming players don’t work through proxies. I’d use a proxy only as a last resort. VPNs are faster, more reliable, and actually protect your privacy.

DNS Changes

Changing your DNS to Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google (8.8.8.8) sometimes bypasses basic blocks. This works when the network uses DNS-level filtering rather than deep packet inspection. It’s free and takes 30 seconds to set up, but doesn’t work against more sophisticated firewalls.

Bottom line: If you want anime unblocked reliably, use a VPN. Everything else is a compromise.

Best Legal 9anime Alternatives

I’ll start with the legal options because they’ve gotten significantly better in the past two years. The pricing is reasonable, the libraries have expanded, and you don’t have to worry about your ISP sending warning letters.

Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll dominates the legal anime streaming market. After merging with Funimation in 2024, it now holds the largest anime library of any platform. You’ll find simulcasts (episodes released within hours of Japanese broadcast), classic series, and exclusive content you won’t see anywhere else.

The free tier exists but it’s limited. You get 480p resolution and ad breaks every few minutes. For $7.99/month, the ad-free tier removes interruptions and bumps quality to 1080p. The $11.99 tier adds offline viewing.

Where Crunchyroll excels: simulcasts. New episodes drop same-day, often with multiple subtitle languages. If you’re following seasonal anime, this is the only legal option that keeps pace with Japanese broadcasts.

Crunchyroll works on every device. Web, iOS, Android, PlayStation, Xbox, Roku, Fire TV, Smart TVs. The apps are polished and reliable. For viewers in India, Crunchyroll is also available as a Prime Video Channel for ₹79/month.

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video has quietly built one of the better anime libraries. Titles like Jujutsu Kaisen 0, Attack on Titan, and One Punch Man are included with your Prime membership. No extra charge.

The streaming quality is excellent. Up to 4K on supported content, with English subtitles and X-Ray features that show character names and trivia during playback. The interface is cleaner than most anime-specific platforms.

Prime Video’s anime catalog grows monthly. Recent additions include original productions and simulcast partnerships. If you already pay for Prime, you’re leaving value on the table by not checking the anime section.

For deeper anime coverage, add the Crunchyroll channel for ₹79/month or the Anime Times channel for ₹899/year. Both integrate directly into the Prime Video interface.

HIDIVE

HIDIVE fills the gap Crunchyroll doesn’t cover. It’s home to exclusive licenses you won’t find elsewhere, including uncensored versions of shows that other platforms censor for Western audiences. For hardcore fans who want the original Japanese experience, HIDIVE delivers.

At $4.99/month or $47.99/year (after a free trial), it’s the cheapest legal option. The library is smaller than Crunchyroll but carefully curated. Quality matters over quantity here.

HIDIVE supports simulcasts, dubbed content, and offline downloads through their mobile app. The interface isn’t as slick as the big players, but playback is smooth and reliable. I pair HIDIVE with Crunchyroll for complete coverage.

Netflix

Netflix isn’t an anime-first platform, but its anime library has expanded significantly. Original productions like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Pluto, and Blue Eye Samurai earned critical acclaim. Netflix also holds streaming rights to popular series like Demon Slayer and One Piece in many regions.

The advantage: 4K streaming, polished apps, and offline downloads on mobile. Netflix also invests in dubbing, so English voice-overs are often available shortly after release.

The disadvantage: Netflix doesn’t do simulcasts. Episodes typically release weeks or months after Japanese broadcast. If you’re following seasonal anime in real-time, Netflix won’t keep up. But for catching up on completed series or watching Netflix Originals, it’s solid.

Hulu

Hulu (US only) maintains a respectable anime section. It’s not the primary focus, but you’ll find hundreds of series across genres. The $7.99/month tier includes ads; $17.99 removes them.

Hulu’s strength is variety. Beyond anime, you get access to current TV shows, movies, and Hulu Originals. If you want one subscription that covers anime plus mainstream entertainment, Hulu makes sense. The anime-specific experience is weaker than Crunchyroll, but the broader content library compensates.

Downloads are limited to 25 titles with a 30-day expiration. Supports most streaming devices and gaming consoles.

Best Free 9anime Alternatives

Free anime sites exist in a legal gray zone. They don’t have licensing agreements with studios, so using them may violate copyright law in your country. I’m not advocating for piracy. I’m documenting what exists for those who choose to use these services.

If you use free streaming sites, protect yourself. A VPN hides your activity from your ISP. An ad blocker prevents malicious popups. Never download anything these sites ask you to install.

Zoro.to (AniWatch)

Zoro.to (now operating as AniWatch) is the closest thing to a 9anime replacement. Fast loading, HD streams by default, and minimal advertising. Ex-9anime users consistently call it “the best replacement” for good reason.

Uptime hovers around 98%. When one stream doesn’t load, server switching usually fixes it within seconds. The advanced filters let you quickly find subbed or dubbed versions of any series. The interface is clean enough that it doesn’t feel like a pirate site.

Free, no registration required. Bookmark the current working domain since these sites change URLs periodically to avoid takedowns.

AnimePahe

AnimePahe is refreshingly clean for a free anime site. Minimal clutter, fast playback, and a mobile-friendly design that actually works. The site also offers direct downloads in multiple quality options, making it ideal for offline viewing.

Video files are smaller than most competing sites without sacrificing visual quality. This matters if you’re on a limited data plan or slower connection. Buffering is rare.

The subtitle quality is consistently good. AnimePahe focuses on subbed content primarily, so dubbed options are limited compared to other sites.

AniWave

AniWave offers a cleaner interface than 9anime ever had. Less spammy advertising, quicker playback, and smooth performance on both desktop and mobile. Uptime runs around 95%.

The search and queue features work well for binging. You can line up episodes and let them auto-play without constant interaction. No registration needed.

Use an ad blocker and keep the current working domain bookmarked. The layout doesn’t get in the way of what you came for.

GoGoAnime

GoGoAnime has been around for years. The library is massive, covering everything from current simulcasts to classic series from the 90s. Quality ranges from 240p to 1080p depending on the source.

The site includes discussion forums where users share episode thoughts. If you want community engagement beyond passive watching, GoGoAnime provides that. English subtitles and dubbed versions are available for most popular series.

Advertising is more aggressive than Zoro or AnimePahe. Use an ad blocker or expect popup interruptions. Registration unlocks additional features but isn’t required for basic streaming.

AnimeHeros

AnimeHeros stands out for one reason: no ads during video playback. The site monetizes through other methods, keeping the actual streaming experience clean. Videos load in 720p and 1080p with both subbed and dubbed options.

The interface is straightforward. Categories are well-organized, search works reliably, and the mobile experience is smooth enough for phone viewing. Downloads are available in multiple formats.

Consistency is AnimeHeros’s strength. Updates arrive quickly after Japanese broadcasts, and the site rarely goes down for extended periods.

AnimixPlay

AnimixPlay feels more like an app than a website. The interface is polished, playback is fast, and there are zero ads or popups. It pulls content from multiple sources and wraps everything in a clean UI designed for binge-watching.

Uptime sits near 99%. The site handles heavy traffic without choking. You can save it to your phone’s home screen as a PWA (Progressive Web App), which makes it function like a native application.

One of the few free platforms that genuinely feels premium. If you’re going to use a free site, start here.

AnimeHeaven

AnimeHeaven has been running for years. The design looks dated, but the streaming works. Huge library of dubbed and subbed titles, decent video quality, and moderate ad levels.

The old-school interface is actually functional once you learn the layout. Navigation isn’t pretty but it works. Playback errors are rare. Free with no account required.

Best used on desktop with an ad blocker. Not flashy, but reliable for casual viewers who just want to watch anime without fuss.

Chia-Anime

Chia-Anime doesn’t have the largest library, but what it offers streams in outstanding video quality. Updates arrive fast, usually within hours of Japanese broadcast. The interface is simple and easy to navigate.

The site focuses on popular series rather than obscure titles. If you’re looking for current hits and mainstream anime, Chia-Anime has them. For deep-cut older series, look elsewhere.

Free streaming with no registration. Advertising exists but isn’t overwhelming compared to competitors.

KissAnime

The original KissAnime shut down in 2020. Several clone sites now use the name. The current versions offer massive libraries covering every anime genre, with quality options from 240p to 1080p.

Subbed and dubbed versions are available for most content. The site updates regularly with new releases. Mobile and tablet access works, though the desktop experience is smoother.

Registration removes some ads from the playback experience. Without an account, expect popup interruptions. Use an ad blocker for the best experience.

How to Stay Safe on Free Anime Sites

Free streaming sites carry real risks. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Use a VPN. A VPN hides your streaming activity from your ISP and adds a layer of security. Free VPNs exist, but paid options like NordVPN offer better speeds and reliability.
• Install an ad blocker. uBlock Origin is free and blocks most malicious ads. This single step eliminates 90% of the risk on these sites.
• Never download browser extensions these sites recommend. Legitimate streaming doesn’t require special software. If a site asks you to install something, leave immediately.
• Don’t enter personal information. No free anime site needs your email, phone number, or payment details for basic streaming. Any site asking for this is likely a scam.
• Bookmark working URLs. Free sites change domains frequently to avoid takedowns. Keep current bookmarks rather than searching each time.

Best Apps for Watching Anime on Mobile

If you prefer watching on your phone or tablet, dedicated apps often provide better experiences than mobile browsers. I’ve covered the best anime apps for iOS and Android in a separate guide. The top picks:

• Crunchyroll app – Best legal option for mobile
• Netflix app – Offline downloads, 4K on supported devices
• Prime Video app – Solid anime section, X-Ray features
• AnimixPlay (PWA) – Save to home screen, works like native app

For dubbed anime specifically, Funimation’s app (now merged into Crunchyroll) and Netflix offer the widest dubbed selections.

Best Anime Streaming Sites by Country

Not every anime site works the same everywhere. Legal libraries vary by region, some free sites are blocked in certain countries, and streaming speeds depend heavily on server locations. Here’s what I recommend based on where you’re watching from.

India 🇮🇳

India has become one of the biggest anime markets in South Asia. Your best options:

• Crunchyroll — Available in India, decent library. Available as a Prime Video Channel for ₹79/month.
• Netflix India — Growing anime library. Has Demon Slayer, One Piece, and Netflix Originals. ₹149/month for the mobile plan.
• Amazon Prime Video — Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, Vinland Saga all included with Prime.
• Muse Asia (YouTube) — Free, legal, specifically targets South Asian audiences.
• Ani-One Asia (YouTube) — Another free legal option for Indian viewers.

For free options, AnimePahe and Zoro.to tend to have the best server speeds for Indian users.

Bangladesh 🇧🇩

Bangladesh has a massive anime community but fewer legal options:

• Crunchyroll — Available but with a limited library compared to the US version
• Netflix — Available with basic anime selection
• Muse Asia (YouTube) — Best free legal option for Bangladeshi viewers
• Zoro.to — Works well, fast loading from Bangladesh
• AniWatch — Good alternative with minimal ads

Pro tip: Many Bangladeshi anime fans use a VPN set to the US or Japan to access the full Crunchyroll library. A reliable VPN costs less than a Crunchyroll subscription and unlocks far more content.

Pakistan 🇵🇰

• YouTube channels (Muse Asia, Ani-One) — Best free legal route
• Netflix Pakistan — Limited but growing anime section
• Zoro.to and AnimePahe — Most popular free options among Pakistani anime fans

United States 🇺🇸

• Crunchyroll — Largest library with same-day simulcasts
• HIDIVE — Exclusive uncensored content, only $4.99/month
• Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video — All have solid anime sections
• Tubi — Free with ads, surprisingly decent anime library

Middle East (Kuwait, UAE, Saudi Arabia) 🇰🇼

• Crunchyroll — Available in most Middle Eastern countries
• Netflix — Standard anime library
• Shahid VIP — Regional streaming platform, limited anime
• AnimePahe — Popular free option in the region

9Anime vs Alternatives — Feature Comparison

Here’s how the most popular anime streaming sites stack up against what 9anime offered:

Feature	9Anime (was)	Crunchyroll	Zoro.to	AnimePahe	AniWave	GoGoAnime	HIDIVE
Price	Free	Free/$7.99+	Free	Free	Free	Free	$4.99/mo
Library Size	10,000+	15,000+	8,000+	6,000+	7,000+	9,000+	1,000+
Video Quality	1080p	Up to 1080p	1080p	1080p	1080p	720-1080p	1080p
Ads	Heavy	Free tier: Yes	Minimal	Minimal	Minimal	Moderate	None
Mobile App	No	iOS/Android	No	No	No	No	iOS/Android
Simulcasts	No	Yes (same-day)	Next day	1-2 days	Next day	1-2 days	Yes
Registration	Optional	Optional	None	None	None	None	Required
Safety	Risky	Safe	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate	Risky	Safe
Uptime	Dead	99.9%	95%+	90%+	95%+	85%+	99.9%

My Recommendation

• Best overall free replacement for 9anime: Zoro.to — minimal ads, no registration, fast servers
• Best legal option: Crunchyroll — largest library, simulcasts, available everywhere
• Best for downloading: AnimePahe — clean interface, direct download links
• Best premium experience: HIDIVE — uncensored content, exclusive licenses, dirt cheap
• Best for mobile: Crunchyroll — only free option with a proper app

Which 9anime Alternative Should You Use?

My honest recommendation depends on your priorities:

• Want zero hassle? Pay for Crunchyroll. $7.99/month gets you the largest legal library with simulcasts.
• Already have Prime? Check Prime Video’s anime section first. Solid selection included with membership.
• Want free with minimal risk? Zoro.to (AniWatch) or AnimixPlay. Both are clean and reliable.
• Want downloads? AnimePahe for free downloads, or Netflix/Crunchyroll premium for legal offline viewing.
• Want uncensored content? HIDIVE at $4.99/month is the cheapest legal option for uncut anime.

The anime streaming landscape has improved dramatically. Five years ago, free pirate sites offered better experiences than legal options. That’s no longer true. Crunchyroll, Prime Video, and Netflix now deliver quality that matches or exceeds what 9anime provided, without the malware risk.

If you’re still looking for that 9anime experience, the free alternatives exist. Just protect yourself with a VPN and ad blocker. And consider supporting the anime industry through legal platforms when you can, because studios don’t make money from pirated streams.

Related: Best Animes on Hulu to Watch Right Now

Frequently Asked Questions