14 Best AniWave / 9anime Alternatives (2024) – Working Anime Streaming Sites Now

_{NaniIsThis is reader supported, some products displayed may earn us a commission. Learn more.}

As anime enthusiasts know, 9anime and its successor, AniWave, have been taken down, leaving fans searching for reliable 9anime alternatives and anime streaming platforms. While these sites may be gone, the demand for high-quality anime streaming alternatives is higher than ever Don’t worry—whether you’re searching for 9anime alternatives or the latest anime streaming sites in 2024, this guide will walk you through the best free and paid platforms. Each one offers unique features, from low data usage to ad-free streaming.

Streaming on unofficial anime sites like 9anime (AniWave) and GoGoAnime can expose your device to malware, intrusive ads, and even ISP throttling. Using a reliable VPN such as NordVPN not only helps bypass geo-restrictions but also shields you from malicious threats. NordVPN provides an extra layer of protection by encrypting your connection, ensuring that you can stream your favorite anime safely and without interruption.

Why Do You Need a 9anime Alternative?

With the shutdown of 9anime (AniWave) and other anime streaming giants, finding trustworthy and stable platforms is crucial. Sites like 9anime have faced legal takedowns due to copyright issues. However, there are still several alternatives, offering similar or better features for anime streaming. Let’s dive into some of the best alternatives that are functional in 2024.

How We Selected the Best 9anime Alternatives

Our criteria for selecting these alternatives includes:

• High-quality streaming options
• Large anime library (both subbed and dubbed)
• Regularly updated content
• Minimal ads or the ability to block them
• No malicious software or intrusive tracking

For security-conscious users, pairing these alternatives with a strong VPN like NordVPN ensures an ad-free and private streaming experience.

Here’s a mix of well-known and lesser-known anime streaming sites to help you find specific anime, especially if you’re searching for the latest trending titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, My Hero Academia, Solo Leveling, Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer, and One Piece. Additionally, there are sites exclusive to retro classics, like RetroCrush for gems such as Astro Boy and Sailor Moon, as well as platforms catering to niche anime that you might not find on mainstream sites.

1. Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is one of the most popular and trusted names in the anime streaming world, making it the safest 9anime alternative. With a vast library that covers almost every genre, Crunchyroll offers something for every anime fan. It’s particularly known for its fast simulcast releases, letting you watch the latest episodes as soon as they air in Japan. The site is free to use with ads, but there are premium options available for an enhanced viewing experience.

PROS

• Extensive anime library
• Fast simulcast releases
• Multi-language support
• Available on multiple devices
• Includes manga and games

CONS

• Some features locked behind a paywall
• Ads on the free version

Solution: Consider upgrading to a premium plan for ad-free viewing and additional perks.

2. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video isn’t exclusively an anime platform, but it has a respectable selection of anime titles, including both classics and newer series. The platform is perfect for Prime members looking for 9anime alternatives, who want to enjoy anime without signing up for another service. While it may not have the latest simulcasts, it’s a great place to find hidden gems and binge-worthy classics.

PROS

• Ad-free streaming
• Accessible on a wide range of devices
• Curated selection of quality anime
• No additional cost for Prime members

CONS

• Limited anime library compared to dedicated anime services
• Few simulcast options

Solution: Use Amazon Prime Video for older or well-known series, and supplement with another service for the latest anime.

3. RetroCrush

RetroCrush is the go-to streaming service for fans of vintage anime. It may not have the vast collection size of 9anime, but its the perfect 9anime alternative for people with an interest in anime classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, this platform is perfect for those who want to relive the golden age of anime. RetroCrush offers a free tier with ads, but you can upgrade to the premium plan for an ad-free experience.

PROS

• Extensive library of classic anime
• Free ad-supported streaming
• Nostalgic content for longtime anime fans
• Available on various devices

CONS

• Limited to vintage anime content

4. GoGoanime / Anitaku

An OG site that has been around for a very long time. There are many versions of GoGoanime, but the original one has renamed to Anitaku. The general layout is the same grid style list of the latest anime episodes. The collection of anime series and upload rate are comparable to AniWave (9anime), however, the layout isn’t the best. The main advantage of this site is the ability to download the episodes so you can watch it at a later date. If downloading anime for later viewing is a plus for you, then this would actually be a better 9anime alternative.

PROS

• Download Episodes
• High Quality
• Fast at uploading latest episodes
• Large community
• Toggle Titles between English and Japanese

CONS

• Layout can be improved
• Lot of popups
  Solution: Adblocker, Adblocking browsers

5. AnimePahe

Main advantage of this site is data use. The majority of their anime have been re-encoded to use minimal data so that people with limited data will use far less data than the alternative while streaming anime. There is a loss of quality, but it isn’t noticeable on regular monitor sizes and especially not on mobile devices, making it the go to 9anime alternative when streaming with limited data.

PROS

• Low Data Use
• Download Episodes

CONS

• Quality may be lower
• Lot of popups
  Solution: Adblocker, Adblocking browsers

6. HIDIVE

HIDIVE is a niche streaming service that’s a treasure trove for anime enthusiasts looking for something different. The platform focuses on unique titles, cult classics, and simulcasts, offering a more curated experience. If you’re tired of mainstream anime and want to explore something new, HIDIVE is worth checking out.

PROS

• Curated selection of unique and cult classic anime
• Ad-free streaming
• Simulcast of new shows
• Available on multiple devices

CONS

• Smaller library focused on niche titles

Solution: Combine HIDIVE with another streaming service to cover all your anime needs.

7. HiAnime

This is probably the fastest site on this list. It has blazing fast performance and the ability download both subbed and dubbed series. Web design has incorporated a section for community where you can see posts and comments from other user. It creates and engaging community experience and not just limited to watching anime. This would probably make it the closest 9anime alternative with additional features that 9anime (AniWave) didn’t have.

PROS

• High Speed
• Engaging Community
• Download Episodes

CONS

• Lot of popups
  Solution: Adblocker, Adblocking browsers

8. YugenAnime

Differentiator of this site from the rest is the additional features to track and search for anime. The advanced search function allows for easier discovery of anime, although there are other database sites that can perform similar or even better for anime discovery. If you were looking for a 9anime alternative that gave you the ability to track and search anime on the same site, then this would be the one for you.

PROS

• Great Search function

CONS

• Lot of popups
  Solution: Adblocker, Adblocking browsers

9. HolyMix

HolyMix is probably the only FREE ad-free anime streaming site that is still up to date with the latest episodes. However, the site is a bit on the slower end. If you don’t have a VPN or ad-blocker, then this anime streaming site might be the best 9anime alternative for you.

PROS

• Ad-free

CONS

• Slower

10. Anime-Planet

Anime-Planet is a versatile platform offering a vast collection of anime episodes for free. The site is community-driven, with features like custom lists, character rankings, and discussion forums. It’s a fantastic resource for discovering new anime and connecting with other fans.

PROS

• Free access to over 45,000 anime episodes
• Community features like custom lists and forums
• Includes a manga library
• Compatible with multiple devices

CONS

• Interface could be more modern

Solution: Use the site’s community features to navigate and discover content more effectively.

Anime Streaming Apps

There are now Apps that you can install on your desktop to stream anime. The main advantage is that they are typically AD-FREE and they function by scrapping directly from one of the anime streaming sites mentioned above or from torrents real-time. These are basically 9anime alternative in the form of an app, probably the future of streaming anime.

11. Akuse

PROS

Desktop App. that streams primarily from anime streaming sites, AD-FREE, and synchronizes to your AniList account. It is more limited compared to the other apps, but the main reason it makes it to the list is for those who prefer not to stream from torrents. This does mean that it is dependent on existing working anime streaming sites, and with the current takedown rate there may not be many anime streaming sites left for this app to be still functioning in the near future.

• Works on all OS

CONS

• Not as feature rich as other apps
• No MacOS
• Only English and Italian subtitles

12. Miru

Works on all devices and OS. Streams real-time from torrents without looking for them or waiting for it to finish downloading. Full subtitle integration with many languages, track your progress, continue watching where you left off, and even watch with your friends.

PROS

• Ad-free
• Real-time stream from multiple torrent sites
• Most devices
• Download for Offline Viewing
• Tracking

CONS

• Missing a few features

13. Seanime

Similar to Miru but with the additional feature of manga as well. In addition to this they also have a feature for binge watchers, you can set up playlists to seamlesslly play the next episode. The app will automatically find the next episode and stream it without you having to do anything. A neat feature for binge watching a whole series. If you are willing to put in the effort to set it up, this is probably one of the the best 9anime alternatives for both online and offline anime streaming.

PROS

• Ad-free
• Real-time stream from multiple torrent sites
• Most devices
• Download for Offline Viewing
• Tracking
• Full Playlist watching
• Auto update AniList when 80% of an episode watched.

CONS

• none

14. Stremio + add-ons

This a slightly more complicated set-up, but the app itself is probably the best on the list. It supports most devices including a TV app for cinematic experience, but limited support for iPhones and iPads. It has cross device tracking of your progress, which means you can continue where you left off on another device with ease. Furthermore, its not limited to just anime, but virtually any content. Once installed you have to select the add-on to install such as: torrentio (for streaming from torrents), Anime Kitsu for anime search, Real Debrid for speed ($3 a month) might not be necessary if you don’t see any streaming lags.

PROS

• Ad-free
• Real-time stream from multiple torrent sites
• Most devices
• 100s of add-ons to add whatever feature you desire

CONS

• More Complex Set-up

Best VPN for Anime Streaming Sites: NordVPN

To protect yourself from malware, block intrusive ads, and maintain your privacy, using a VPN is crucial when streaming anime. NordVPN is ideal because it:

• Hides your IP address
• Bypasses geo-restrictions
• Blocks malicious websites
• Keeps your browsing data private

Check out my comparison blog for more VPNs tailored for security, privacy, and Mac users.

Does 9anime Still Exist?

The original 9anime was rebranded and relaunched as AniWave, but AniWave itself was eventually taken down. If you see websites claiming to be 9anime or AniWave now, they are most likely fake or replicas with potential malware risks. Be cautious and avoid these sites, instead check out the 9anime alternatives listed above.

The Best 9anime Alternatives: Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion:

Anime streaming has changed, but there are still many high-quality alternatives to 9anime available in 2024. Whether you choose a paid or free option, always prioritize your security by using a VPN like NordVPN to avoid malware and unblock restricted content.

These are the best platforms for streaming anime, offering options for both web browsers and dedicated apps. Using a VPN and adblocker is recommended. Whether you want fast uploads, low data usage, or a smooth binge-watching experience, you’ll find a suitable option here. Happy streaming!