Crunchyroll vs Bilibili | Which App is Better?
If you’re an anime fan, you’ve probably heard of Crunchyroll and Bilibili. Both apps let you stream anime, but they’re built for very different audiences. Crunchyroll is known for its licensed catalog, English dubs, and global reach. Bilibili, a Chinese platform, blends anime with user-generated content (UGC), fan subs, and a strong online community.
But which one actually works better for your needs in 2025?
This guide compares Crunchyroll vs BiliBili — from anime libraries and subtitle options to pricing and global access. Whether you care about English dubs, offline viewing, or free access without ads, we’ll help you figure out which platform fits you best.
Crunchyroll vs BiliBili Overview
Crunchyroll
A leader in anime streaming, Crunchyroll launched in 2006 and now boasts over 1,200 titles, as per Anime News Network data. It licenses hits like Demon Slayer and My Hero Academia, serving global fans with subs and dubs across Android, iOS, and smart TVs. Its premium plans unlock ad-free viewing and offline downloads.
BiliBili
Originating in China in 2009, Bilibili shines as a video-sharing hub, blending licensed anime with fan-made content. Popular in Asia, especially China, it hosts titles like Attack on Titan alongside user comments scrolling live on-screen. It’s free but trickier for non-Chinese speakers, with apps on Android, iOS, and web.
Quick Comparison Table
In the table below, there is a quick comparison of the key features of Crunchyroll vs BiliBili
| Feature | Crunchyroll | BiliBili |
| Library Size | Licensed catalog, over 1,000 titles | Mix of licensed anime and UGC |
| English Dubs | Available for major titles | Rare, mostly in Chinese |
| Subtitle Support | Multi-language support (EN, FR, ES, etc.) | Chinese-first; English subs vary |
| UI/UX | Clean, minimal, easy to navigate | Danmu overlay by default |
| App Availability | Android, iOS, Smart TV, Web | Android, iOS, Web |
| Offline Downloads | Premium-only | Limited to selected regions |
| Community & Social | Minimal (no live chat or fan forums) | Active — includes danmu, fan clubs, comments |
Crunchyroll vs BiliBili Comparison
Content Library
Crunchyroll offers one of the largest official anime libraries outside Japan. New episodes often land within hours of airing in Japan. Major titles include Attack on Titan: Final Season, Chainsaw Man, and One Piece.
Bilibili’s library depends on the version you’re using. In China, Bilibili holds licenses for popular series, but global users see a trimmed-down version. Some users upload episodes manually, which brings in fan-favorite shows but raises questions about legality.
Verdict:
If you want consistent access to new, high-quality anime with subtitles or dubs, Crunchyroll wins. Bilibili works better if you’re in China or enjoy fan-driven content.
User Interface & Experience
Crunchyroll’s interface is built for speed. Navigation is smooth, menus are clear, and switching between seasons or languages takes seconds. Watchlists, history, and downloads are easy to access.
Bilibili’s interface is louder. The app feels like a mix of YouTube and Reddit — with floating comments, layered menus, and community tools. It’s built around interaction, not simplicity.
Verdict:
Crunchyroll is easier to use, especially for international users. Bilibili offers more social features but can feel overwhelming.
Language Support
Crunchyroll supports a wide range of subtitle options — including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and German. Many shows come with dubbed audio too.
Bilibili focuses on Chinese users. English subs are available on select shows, but not always accurate. You may find some fan-subbed uploads, but quality and availability vary.
Verdict:
For English-speaking anime fans, Crunchyroll is the safer choice. Bilibili still feels local-first, global-second.
Subscription Comparison
Crunchyroll
- Free plan with ads and limited resolution
- Premium starts at around $7.99/month
- Premium perks: HD/4K, no ads, offline downloads, simulcasts
Note: You can also download Crunchyroll Mod APK for a premium unlocked anime viewing experience.
BiliBili
- Mostly free in the global app
- Some content requires login or region-specific access
- Premium options are available in China, not everywhere else
Both platforms block some content depending on your country. Crunchyroll isn’t available in China. Bilibili blocks most content outside of East Asia unless you use workarounds.
Global Availability
Crunchyroll is accessible in over 100 countries, including the U.S., India, the Philippines, and much of Europe. Some titles are geo-restricted due to licensing, but most of its content is open with a standard account.
Bilibili’s global app is limited. Outside China, users may find fewer titles and slower updates. Without a VPN, access to Chinese-only content is difficult.
Pros and Cons
Crunchyroll
BiliBili
Which App Is Right for You?
If you want a clean, legal, and global anime experience, Crunchyroll is the clear pick. It’s built for international fans and supports English dubs, HD playback, and stable updates.
Bilibili is better suited for Chinese-speaking users or hardcore fans who don’t mind digging for content. The community features are rich, but the app feels rough around the edges for outsiders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
If you’re watching anime in English, Crunchyroll gives you more value. It’s legal, easy to use, and works in most countries. You get licensed shows, fast updates, subtitles, and dubs — all in one place.
Bilibili offers something different. It’s more social, full of fan energy, and useful if you speak Chinese or want niche titles. But it’s harder to use outside China, and the global version feels limited.
