Funimation is a prominent platform for anime streaming, offering a range of content that includes both subbed and dubbed series. The service provides a library of popular titles such as My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan, and One Piece, along with exclusive series. A key feature of the platform is its commitment to simulcasting episodes directly from Japan, allowing viewers to stay current with new releases. The platform also provides high-quality video streaming with various resolution options. For users seeking an ad-free experience, premium subscriptions are available that unlock additional features.
The platform operates with a free plan, but this tier comes with specific limitations. The free plan provides access to only a portion of the Funimation library, and the content available is supported by advertisements. This means that users on the free plan will encounter ad interruptions while streaming. In contrast, paid subscription plans remove advertisements and provide access to the full library of content.
Funimation offers several subscription tiers, each with a 14-day free trial for new customers. The available plans are structured as follows:
- Premium Plan: This plan is priced at £5.99 per month or £59.99 per year. It includes ad-free viewing, access to both dubbed and subtitled content, and the right to have two simultaneous streams.
- Premium Plus Plan: Priced at £7.99 per month or £79.99 per year, this tier includes all features of the Premium plan. Additional benefits are the ability to view videos offline, early access to Funimation sales, access to exclusive members-only events and offers, and up to five simultaneous streams.
- Premium Plus Ultra Plan: This is an annual-only subscription priced at £99.99 per year. It includes all features from the Premium Plus plan, plus two free rentals per year, free shipping on all orders, and an anniversary gift.
For UK users, accessing Funimation requires consideration of regional availability. The platform is officially available in a select number of countries, which include the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. For users outside these supported regions, the service is geo-restricted. To access Funimation from a non-supported location, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is often used to change the user's IP address to appear as if they are in a permitted country. Some regions may have limited access or specific licensing agreements that affect which shows are available; using a VPN with servers in different regions can sometimes help unlock more content.
The platform is compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS and Android smartphones, Smart TVs, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Amazon Kindle. For Amazon Fire TV Stick users, Funimation can be installed via the official Amazon App Store. The process involves searching for the Funimation app on the FireStick home screen, selecting the app, and clicking 'Get' to install. Once installed, users can open the app and sign in with their credentials.
Regarding payment methods for subscriptions, Funimation accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, and Funimation gift cards. It is important to note that charges for website purchases are non-refundable. Users should ensure their payment method is accepted in the region from which they are accessing the service.
Conclusion
Funimation provides a structured offering for anime enthusiasts, with a free, ad-supported plan that grants limited access to its library. For full access without advertisements, users can select from three paid subscription plans: Premium, Premium Plus, and Premium Plus Ultra. Each plan includes a 14-day free trial for new subscribers. The service is officially available in the UK, and the app is compatible with numerous devices, including Amazon Fire TV Stick. For users outside supported regions, a VPN may be required to access the service. Payment can be made using several common methods, though transactions are non-refundable.