Yes, Netflix can be worth it for anime-only viewers—but it depends on your tastes. While Netflix doesn’t have every anime, its growing library of exclusive series, high-quality dubs/subs, and offline viewing makes it a strong option for casual fans. Hardcore otaku may still need Crunchyroll or HIDIVE for deeper catalogs.
Netflix for Anime: Pros & Cons.
✅ Pros
✔ Netflix Originals – Exclusive shows like Pluto, Blue Eye Samurai, and Devilman Crybaby.
✔ High-quality dubs/subs – Better translation & voice acting than many pirate sites.
✔ No ads – Unlike free anime platforms.
✔ Offline downloads – Watch on flights/commutes without Wi-Fi.
✔ Family-friendly – Great for beginners with Studio Ghibli, Pokémon, and Komi Can’t Communicate.
❌ Cons
✖ Smaller catalog – Missing classics (One Piece, Attack on Titan’s full run)
✖ Delayed releases – New episodes often drop weeks/months after Japan
✖ No simulcasts – Can’t watch seasonal anime immediately
✖ Region locks – Some titles unavailable outside certain countries
Netflix Anime Library: What’s Actually Available?
Best Netflix-Exclusive Anime.
- Arcane (Western anime-style hit)
- Castlevania & Castlevania: Nocturne
- Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (by Studio Trigger)
- Scott Pilgrim Takes Off (2023 surprise hit)
Popular Licensed Anime.
- Demon Slayer (Entertainment District Arc)
- Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 1 + Movie)
- Vinland Saga (Seasons 1-2)
- Death Note, Hunter x Hunter, Neon Genesis Evangelion
Netflix vs. Dedicated Anime Streamers.
| Service | Price | Anime Library | Simulcasts | Dubs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix | 6.99−6.99−22.99/month | 300+ titles | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (High quality) |
| Crunchyroll | 7.99−7.99−14.99/month | 1,400+ titles | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| HIDIVE | $4.99/month | 500+ titles | ✅ Yes | ✅ Some |
| Hulu | $7.99+/month | 200+ titles | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Verdict:
- Casual fans → Netflix (+ maybe Hulu)
- Hardcore fans → Crunchyroll/HIDIVE (+ VPN for region-locked titles)
How to Improve Netflix for Anime.
🔹 Use a VPN to access different regional libraries (Japan Netflix has more titles)
🔹 Check JustWatch.com to see if your favorites are available
🔹 Download before traveling (some anime disappear across borders)
Final Verdict: Should Anime Fans Subscribe?
Worth it if you:
- Prefer dubbed anime
- Want high-budget originals
- Like offline viewing
Not worth it if you:
- Need seasonal simulcasts
- Only watch long-running shonen (e.g., One Piece)
- Want a complete classic anime library
Alternatives:
- Free (ads): Tubi, Pluto TV (limited anime)
- Best overall: Crunchyroll
- Best budget: HIDIVE ($4.99/month)
Still unsure? Try Netflix’s 1-month free trial (cancel anytime)!
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