The anime streaming landscape has consolidated. Crunchyroll absorbed Funimation. Here’s what it means for viewers in 2026.
The Merger
Sony acquired Crunchyroll in 2021 after already owning Funimation. By 2024, Funimation fully merged into Crunchyroll. The competition is over—Crunchyroll won.
What This Means
Pros
- One subscription covers most anime
- Funimation’s dub library moved to Crunchyroll
- Simpler landscape for new fans
- No more splitting seasonal shows between platforms
Cons
- Monopoly pricing concerns
- Some Funimation content didn’t transfer
- Less competition means less consumer benefit
- Regional availability still complicated
Current Alternatives
Netflix
Anime originals and exclusives. Devilman Crybaby, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, various Netflix Jail titles (weekly release vs. binge model debate). Growing anime investment but inconsistent library.
HIDIVE
Sentai Filmworks’ platform. Smaller library but exclusive titles. Oshi no Ko, some older licenses. Worth it for specific shows.
Amazon Prime
Vinland Saga exclusivity, various licenses. Anime included with Prime subscription, making it decent value if you already subscribe.
Hulu
Some simulcasts, back catalog titles. Less anime-focused but occasionally has exclusives.
Disney+
Star section has anime in some regions. Tokyo Revengers, Bleach TYBW distribution varies by country.
The Piracy Question
Legal streaming is preferable for industry support. However, regional restrictions, exclusive fragmentation, and pricing drive viewers to alternatives. The industry’s failure to provide unified access enables piracy.
Best Approach 2026
Crunchyroll Premium: Essential for simulcasts and largest library
Netflix: If you have it anyway, check anime section
HIDIVE: For specific exclusives like Oshi no Ko
Rotate subscriptions: Subscribe, binge desired shows, cancel, move to next platform
International Variation
Availability varies dramatically by country. VPNs work but violate terms of service. Regional licensing remains anime streaming’s biggest problem.
The Future
Japanese companies are launching their own platforms (Anime Times, various studio channels). Fragmentation may increase before improving. For now, Crunchyroll remains the default recommendation despite imperfection.