The anime industry has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, leading to a proliferation of streaming platforms dedicated to anime. Among them, Crunchyroll, ADN (Anime Digital Network) and Wakanim top the list. These three platforms have captured the hearts of anime fans, but they each have their own peculiarities that make choosing between them a real ordeal for anime fans 🤯. Let’s take a look at their differences.
Launched in 2006, Crunchyroll is a platform offering a wide catalog of anime, dramas and manga in original version with subtitles. ADN, created in 2013, is a joint venture between publishers Kazé and Kana Home Video. The platform offers mainly anime, but also a few films and dramas. Wakanim, meanwhile, is a French platform launched in 2011 that offers anime in original version with subtitles and in French version, which recently merged with Crunchyroll.
A major distinction between these platforms lies in their business model:
– Crunchyroll is not free, but offers limited free access with advertising.
– ADN also offers free access with advertising, but with a delayed broadcast window.
– Wakanim is a former pay platform that is now included in Crunchyroll’s premium offer.
| Comparison table | Crunchyroll | DNA | Wakanim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creation date | 2006 | 2013 | 2011 |
| Catalog | Anime, dramas, manga and movies | Anime, some movies and dramas | Anime |
| Business model | Freemium (limited free and pay) | Freemium (Delayed free and paid) | included with Crunchyroll |
| Versions | VOSTFR, VF (on some titles) | VOSTFR, some VF | VOSTFR, VF |
| Subscription price | from €4.99/month | from €6.99/month | included in Crunchyroll |
| Free resolution | 480p | 480p | Not applicable |
| Resolution by paying | Up to 1080p (HD) | Up to 1080p (HD) | Up to 1080p (HD) |
| Anime exclusivity | “Attack on TItan”, “Jujutsu Kaisen” and much more | “One Piece, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations | “Sword Art Online, Attack on Titan |
One way to avoid choosing: share your subscriptions
If the choice is too difficult, you can share your subscriptions to pay only a fraction of the price, giving you access to all platforms. Using Sharesub, you can offer your free seats if you’re already a subscriber, or find seats in Crunchyroll, ADN, or Wakanim subscriptions.
How can I get a cheaper subscription?
If you want to join a Crunchyroll, ADN or Wakanim subscription for less, it couldn’t be easier. All you have to do is join a subscription available on Sharesub. You’ll find Crunchyroll subscriptions from €2.09/month and ADN from €2.22/month.
What’s the difference between ADN and Crunchyroll?
The major difference lies in their catalog and business model. Crunchyroll boasts the largest anime catalog on the market, with films and manga available on the platform. While ADN focuses more on anime, with some interesting exclusives. In terms of business model, both platforms offer a freemium service, but ADN has a delayed release window for free users.
Which is better between ADN, Crunchyroll and Wakanim?
It all depends on individual preferences. If you appreciate diversity of content and free access, Crunchyroll could be the best choice, in addition to benefiting from the Wakanim catalog since 2022. If you prefer an anime-focused catalog and don’t mind the delay, ADN might be the best choice.
So, what’s the best platform for watching anime?
Once again, it all depends on individual preferences. All platforms offer a wide catalog of anime. However, if free access is important to you, Crunchyroll or ADN might be preferable.
Our advice: consult the respective catalogs of these platforms before making a decision, as this will undoubtedly have an impact on your decision.
Why is Crunchyroll no longer free? Why is Crunchyroll paying?
Crunchyroll still offers a free version of its platform, but with limitations. The paid version offers more benefits, such as faster access to new releases, an ad-free experience and access to the entire catalog.
Where can I watch anime for free?
1.Crunchyroll: offers a free version of its platform with limitations on video resolution and access to new releases. The free version also comes with advertising.
2. ADN (Anime Digital Network): offers a selection of free-access anime, but with a later broadcast window than the pay version.
3. Funimation: also offers a free, ad-supported version of its platform.
4. 9anime: an unofficial platform offering a vast catalog of anime. However, its unofficial status means that it doesn’t necessarily have the rights to broadcast the anime it offers, which can pose problems in terms of respecting copyright.
5. Tubi: a free streaming platform with an anime section.
Economic activity of these platforms
When did ADN merge with Crunchyroll?
There has been no official merger between ADN and Crunchyroll. However, in 2022, it was announced that Sony-owned Crunchyroll would join ADN’s catalog.
Why does Wakanim still exist?
Wakanim continues to exist due to its success and popularity among anime fans, especially those who prefer the French versions of anime. The platform’s positioning is therefore more focused on the French or French-speaking market. What’s more, since 2022 the platform has merged with Crunchyroll, further enriching the orange platform’s catalog.
Who bought Crunchyroll?
In December 2020, Sony, via its Funimation subsidiary, announced the acquisition of Crunchyroll from AT&T. The deal was finalized in August 2021, consolidating Sony’s position as a major player in the global anime industry.
Why is Jojo no longer on ADN?
This may be due to licensing problems. Broadcast rights for a series may expire or be sold to another platform, and are negotiated on a case-by-case basis with the creators or owner studios.
