From action-filled adventures to tear-jerking romances, anime has a way of offering audiences something that most other media are missing, making it global and accepted across age groups and cultures.
However, anime content can sometimes be hard to access. Most anime sites get blocked due to a host of reasons: geographic restrictions, institutional policies, or government censorship. Given that, accessing anime websites without considering the factor of legality and safety might turn out very risky since it exposes one to malware and exposure of personal information or even leads to legal penalties.
Why Anime Websites Get Blocked
Geographic Restrictions
Anime creators often make deals with streaming services that only have their content shown in certain countries. So, some anime may not be available in your country.
Schools and Workplaces' Restrictions
Many schools and workplaces bar access to entertainment sites, including anime sites, to help students and workers keep their focus on their tasks.
Countries That Strictly Censor Their Internet
Some countries have strict rules on what may be viewed online. Perhaps their governments block access to some anime websites so that their citizens cannot view what's inside.
Methods to Unblock Anime Websites
Using VPNs
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows surfing via a server, usually based in another country, and gives the impression of browsing from that country. Thus, in many cases, this skips over geo-restrictions of anime sites in places where they are blocked. VPNs also protect your internet traffic by encrypting it. Top VPN services have an easy-to-use approach and a huge number of servers placed all around the world to help get access to anime without problems.
Proxy Servers
Proxy servers work differently than a VPN; they only redirect specific types of internet traffic, such as web traffic, through another server. That allows you to access blocked websites, but most proxy servers don't encrypt your data, so they usually offer less security. Unlike VPNs, proxies are usually used for low-risk activities. If you do use a proxy server, be sure to use a credible service; never use free services because they are oftentimes unreliable.
Smart DNS Services
Smart DNS services configure your device's DNS settings so that it appears as though you're accessing the internet from a location other than the one you are actually in. Doing so will help unblock anime websites without affecting your speed, as Smart DNS services don't perform encryption on your data. Smart DNS is a great option if you just want to boost your streaming speeds and aren't concerned much about extra privacy. Keep the weaknesses in mind, then opt for a reliable Smart DNS service.
Google Translate
You can also use Google Translate to access blocked anime websites. Go to the website of Google Translate. Fill in the text box with the URL of the blocked anime website. You can select any language to translate from and "English" or whatever is your preferred language to translate to. Click the translated link that will appear in the right box. This will open the anime website, acting as if a proxy were to let you into the content. This may not help in every case, or limit the functionality of a website.
Top 5 Free Unblocked Anime Websites in 2024
1. Crunchyroll
Available in: 180 Countries
Price: Free; Premium subscription available
Pros: There is a huge collection of animes available at Crunchyroll; therefore, it is quite easy to get almost any show one wants. Its libraries also carry simulcasts, meaning that new episodes are available shortly after they air in Japan. High streaming quality allows enjoying favorite anime in great resolution.
Cons: Most notably, there will be ads if you are using the free version. Some shows also may be region-locked, which means not available in all countries.
2. AnimeHeaven
Available in: All Countries
Price: Free
Pros: AnimeHeaven is good for anime lovers, especially if you happen to be one of those who prefer dubbed versions. It has an extensive library with high-quality anime streams. One of the site's finest features is that you can watch new episodes shortly after they air in Japan due to their simulcasts.
Cons: You will have to bear the adverts. Also, some programs are not officially licensed, meaning that can be risky.
3. Tubi TV
Available in: USA, Australia, Canada
Price: Free
Pros: Tubi TV is free of charge, hence an excellent option for the anime lover who is on a tight budget. The library is good enough for any title, and you do not need to sign up to watch; hence, it is very friendly.
Cons: Although Tubi TV is another place where one may find most of the anime titles, its selection is not as big as on dedicated anime websites. Moreover, ads might become very intrusive and disruptive in your viewing process.
4. VIZ Media
Available in: All Countries
Price: Free; Premium subscription available
Pros: VIZ Media is an official source for some of the top anime titles out there, such as Naruto and One Piece, so you can be sure of high-quality streams. Besides, you may find a variety of manga on this platform, turning into the one-stop shop for anime and manga lovers.
Cons: VIZ Media has ads in the free version. Another disadvantage is that the number of anime hosted in it is relatively smaller compared to other anime streaming sites, so you may not find all the shows you want to watch.
5. 9Anime
Available in: All Countries
Price: Free
Pros: 9Anime has a really large collection of anime shows and movies. You are most likely going to have a lot of choices while selecting an anime to watch. Most episodes come with more than one streaming link, and if one is broken, then you can switch to another one. The quality of the video is mostly high, offering nice viewing.
Cons: Drawbacks would include that there are a lot of popups. Also, 9Anime does not have any sort of official license, so it works in some grey area of law. This can lead to risks like malware and legal threats.
Conclusion
Safe and legal access to anime websites goes a long way in having a secure and enjoyable viewing experience. VPN, proxy servers, Smart DNS services could be helpful in unblocking techniques. And if you really are going to resort to unblocking, then do so with reputed and safe ways to protect privacy and data.