Is Crunchyroll Better Than Funimation For Classic Series

For fans of classic anime—those timeless titles that helped define the genre in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s—the choice of streaming platform can significantly impact access, viewing experience, and overall enjoyment. Two major players dominate the legal anime streaming space: Crunchyroll and Funimation. While both services have evolved through mergers and shifts in licensing strategy, their approaches to classic series differ in meaningful ways. Understanding these differences is essential for viewers who value nostalgia, cultural context, and high-quality restorations of legendary shows.

This article explores whether Crunchyroll outperforms Funimation when it comes to classic anime offerings. We’ll examine content libraries, audio and subtitle options, video quality, exclusivity models, and long-term availability—all critical factors for collectors and purists alike.

Defining \"Classic Series\" in Modern Anime Streaming

The term “classic series” in anime typically refers to influential or historically significant shows released before the mid-2000s. These include foundational works such as Mobile Suit Gundam, Cowboy Bebop, Ranma ½, Sailor Moon, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Yu Yu Hakusho. These series shaped genres, introduced iconic characters, and often pioneered animation techniques still admired today.

Streaming platforms treat these titles differently based on regional licensing agreements, restoration efforts, and business priorities. Some classics are available only with older dubs or subbed versions; others receive 4K remasters and modern voice acting. The way a service curates its retro catalog reflects its commitment to both legacy and accessibility.

“Preserving classic anime isn’t just about availability—it’s about honoring the original intent through faithful presentation.” — Akira Tanaka, Anime Archivist & Restoration Consultant

Content Library Comparison: Breadth vs. Depth

When comparing Crunchyroll and Funimation (now largely merged under the Crunchyroll brand), one must consider how each service built its library over time. Historically, Funimation focused heavily on English-dubbed content, particularly from studios like Toei Animation and ADV Films, giving it strong ownership of popular 90s and early 2000s dubs. Crunchyroll, by contrast, emphasized simulcasts and subtitled releases but expanded aggressively into retro content after acquiring Funimation in 2021.

Today, most Funimation-exclusive titles have migrated to Crunchyroll, making the latter the de facto home for nearly all former Funimation content. However, integration has been uneven—some classic series remain missing or were removed due to expiring licenses.

Tip: If you're searching for a specific classic title, use Crunchyroll’s advanced search filter and check regional availability settings, as catalogs vary by country.

Key Classic Titles Availability (as of 2024)

Series	Crunchyroll (US)	Funimation (Legacy)	Notes
Cowboy Bebop (1998)	Yes – Sub & Dub	Yes – Original Sony Dub	Dub temporarily unavailable in 2022; restored later
Ranma ½	No	Yes (Full series, Viz dub)	Licensed by Viz; not currently on either platform
Dragon Ball Z	No	Yes (Original & Kai versions)	Exclusively licensed to Crunchyroll via special deal; varies by region
Sailor Moon (Classic)	Yes (Viz Media version)	Yes (Same as Crunchyroll)	Available with updated dubs and subtitles
Yu Yu Hakusho	Yes	Yes	Complete series with both sub and dub
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex	Yes	Yes	HD remaster available
Trigun (1998)	No (removed in 2023)	Was available	License expired; now on Hulu/Disney+ in some regions

The table illustrates a key point: while Crunchyroll aims to be the unified hub for classic anime, gaps persist. Licensing complexities mean certain fan favorites rotate in and out of availability. Funimation, during its prime, secured long-term rights to many dubs that are now preserved—but not always easily discoverable—within the Crunchyroll ecosystem.

Audio and Subtitle Quality: Preserving Legacy Dubs

One of the most passionate debates among classic anime fans centers on dubs. Many grew up watching Funimation’s early 2000s English adaptations, which, while sometimes criticized for heavy editing or altered dialogue, carry nostalgic value and vocal performances that became iconic.

Crunchyroll generally preserves these legacy dubs where possible. For example, the original Dragon Ball Z Ocean Group dub and the uncut InuYasha dub are available. However, there have been instances where updated dubs replaced originals without offering a toggle option—a move that frustrated long-time viewers.

Subtitles also vary in quality. Crunchyroll tends to use newer, more accurate translations for older series, often correcting outdated terminology or cultural references. Yet some purists argue that revised subtitles lose the charm of earlier interpretations, especially when jokes or idioms unique to past eras are rewritten.

Tip: Always check audio settings before starting an episode. Some series offer multiple language tracks, including original Japanese and various English dubs.

Restoration and Video Fidelity

Classic anime was often produced on film or analog tape, leading to degradation over time. High-definition remasters require frame-by-frame cleanup, color correction, and sound remastering. Both companies have invested in this process, but their priorities differ.

• Funimation led the charge in HD remastering Dragon Ball Z Kai and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, using original masters when available.
• Crunchyroll has partnered with Japanese studios to restore series like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo, releasing them in 1080p with improved aspect ratios and stabilized audio.

However, not all classics receive equal treatment. Lower-profile titles may stream in standard definition (480p) with minimal enhancement. Users should expect inconsistency across the board, though Crunchyroll’s recent investments suggest a growing focus on archival quality.

User Experience and Accessibility Features

Beyond content, the viewer experience matters. Navigation, playlist functionality, offline viewing, and device compatibility influence how enjoyable it is to revisit classic series.

Crunchyroll offers a more modern interface with personalized recommendations, watch parties, and integrated manga reading (for select titles). Its mobile app allows downloads for offline viewing—an advantage for fans traveling or avoiding data usage.

Funimation’s interface, now retired, was functional but clunkier, with fewer social features and limited cross-device sync. With full migration to Crunchyroll complete, users benefit from a centralized account system and consistent playback settings.

Checklist: How to Maximize Your Classic Anime Viewing on Crunchyroll

1. Verify your region’s catalog using a reliable third-party database like MyAnimeList or JustWatch.
2. Enable premium membership for HD streaming and ad-free playback.
3. Explore the “Classics” or “90s Anime” curated collections within the app.
4. Use filters to sort by decade, studio, or availability of English dub.
5. Download episodes in advance if planning offline viewing.
6. Report missing titles via customer support to signal demand.

Mini Case Study: Revisiting Neon Genesis Evangelion

Consider the case of Neon Genesis Evangelion, one of the most analyzed and influential anime of all time. In 2021, Netflix removed the series globally, creating a scramble among fans to find legal viewing options. Initially, Crunchyroll held the license in select regions, but availability fluctuated.

Funimation had previously released the Platinum Edition DVD set with extensive extras, commentary, and multiple language options. When the show moved to Crunchyroll, many expected a digital version of that depth. Instead, only the original series was available—without the Director’s Cut episodes or supplemental materials.

This example highlights a broader issue: streaming platforms prioritize accessibility over archival completeness. While convenient, the loss of supplementary content (director interviews, art books, behind-the-scenes docs) diminishes the educational and historical value of classic series.

“We’re preserving the video, but losing the context. That’s a trade-off we need to talk about.” — Dr. Lena Park, Media Historian at Kyoto University of the Arts

FAQ

Why did some classic anime disappear from Crunchyroll?

Licensing agreements for older anime are often short-term and region-specific. Even after the Funimation merger, certain titles revert to other distributors (e.g., Discotek Media, Hulu, Retro Crave) when contracts expire. This results in periodic removals.

Can I still watch Funimation dubs on Crunchyroll?

Yes, in most cases. Nearly all Funimation-produced dubs have been transferred to Crunchyroll. However, audio track availability depends on current licensing—some dubs may be labeled as “legacy” or hidden under alternate profiles.

Is Crunchyroll worth it just for classic anime?

If your primary interest is pre-2000s series, the answer depends on your favorites. For fans of Sailor Moon, Yu Yu Hakusho, or Ghost in the Shell, yes. But if you’re seeking Ranma ½ or uncut Trigun, you may need supplementary services. Consider a rotating subscription model to access different platforms as titles shift.

Conclusion: Is Crunchyroll Better Than Funimation for Classic Series?

The short answer is: generally, yes—but with important caveats. As the successor to Funimation’s catalog, Crunchyroll now hosts the largest consolidated collection of classic anime available legally in North America and many international markets. Its superior interface, download capabilities, and ongoing restoration projects make it the more practical and future-proof option.

Yet, the transition hasn’t been seamless. Missing titles, inconsistent remastering, and the absence of bonus features represent real drawbacks for collectors and historians. Moreover, the centralization of anime under one corporate umbrella raises concerns about long-term preservation and diversity of access.

Ultimately, Crunchyroll is currently the best single destination for classic anime—but it shouldn’t be the only one. Savvy viewers will combine subscriptions, physical media, and community resources to ensure they don’t miss out on the full legacy of the medium.

💬 What classic anime are you hoping returns to streaming? Share your must-have titles and help shape future licensing demands. Your voice matters in preserving anime history.