Survey claims Netflix is the biggest anime streaming platform but there’s a problem

by

A recently conducted study indicates that Netflix is the preferred streaming service for anime enthusiasts worldwide; however, an unexpected oversight has been noted.

Over the last decade, the interest in anime and manga has significantly increased; it’s no wonder that Netflix has created live-action versions of shows like One Piece, Bet, and Cowboy Bebop (and is even working on a remake of One Piece).

In 2020, when worldwide production restrictions affected films and TV shows, US box office earnings dropped an astonishing 80%. However, in stark contrast, the Japanese anime industry experienced a mere 3.5% decrease, and Demon Slayer: The Movie – Mugen Train generated over half a billion dollars in global revenue.

Essentially, this refers to a continually expanding trend. According to a report in Variety based on a Dentsu study, it’s becoming a significant factor for users when deciding which streaming platforms to subscribe to.

Netflix is a big platform for anime, but what about Crunchyroll?

Based on a study, nearly half (48%) of Netflix users worldwide subscribe primarily to watch anime. Approximately one-third (32%) do the same for Disney+, while roughly one-quarter (29%) of Amazon Prime Video subscribers joined mainly for its anime offerings.

Initially, a survey conducted by Dentsu involved questioning 8,600 participants from various nations (specifically 10), which is less comprehensive compared to Crunchyroll and the National Research Group’s upcoming study in 2024 that will poll 28,000 “general entertainment consumers.

In addition, it’s worth noting that Variety’s report fails to acknowledge Crunchyroll at all. Despite its significant presence as one of the biggest and most respected anime sources online, and its involvement in ten of the top-performing anime films in US box office history (such as One Piece Film: Red and Jujutsu Kaisen 0).

By 2024, Crunchyroll confirmed it surpassed 15 million paid subscribers and can be accessed as a channel through Amazon Prime Video. It self-proclaims as the “global hub for anime” and prides itself on having the largest library dedicated to streaming anime, boasting over 50,000 episodes and more than 25,000 hours of various series, music, and films.

It’s important to note that Netflix isn’t necessarily the only massive anime platform globally. However, with approximately 48% of its subscribers joining for anime content alone, that equates to roughly 144 million viewers worldwide. This figure is nearly ten times greater than Crunchyroll’s total number of subscribers.

The research presents additional insights. According to our poll, about half of Generation Z and Millennials watch anime at least once a week, a pastime that is enjoyed by just 9% of Baby Boomers. Moreover, it appears that Americans are the biggest spenders on anime annually, with enthusiasts shelling out over $200 on merchandise each year.

TopMob has contacted Crunchyroll for comment.

Explore our collection of top-rated anime films throughout history, and stay updated with our 2025 television schedule for upcoming premieres.

Read More

2025-07-03 16:19