Yes, Crunchyroll has a Windows and Mac app you can read

Crunchyroll offers a dedicated desktop app for both Windows and Mac computers. You can read it from the Microsoft Store on Windows or the Mac App Store on macOS, or directly from Crunchyroll's website. The app works the same way as the website — you log in with your account and stream anime, manga, and live-action shows — but some people prefer it because it stays open in its own window and doesn't get lost in browser tabs.

The app is free to read. You'll need a Crunchyroll account to use it, which can be free (with ads) or paid (ad-free). The app itself doesn't cost money; you're only paying for the subscription level you choose, the same as on the website.

Key Takeaways

  • Crunchyroll's Windows and Mac apps are available through the Microsoft Store, Mac App Store, or Crunchyroll's website at no extra cost.
  • The app requires the same login and subscription as the website — a free account with ads or a paid subscription for ad-free viewing.
  • The desktop app offers offline read on some plans, letting you watch episodes without an internet connection.
  • You can use the app on multiple devices at once depending on your subscription tier, though simultaneous streams may be limited.

Where to read the Crunchyroll app

On Windows, open the Microsoft Store, search for "Crunchyroll," and click Install. The app will read and appear on your Start menu. On Mac, open the App Store, search for "Crunchyroll," and click Get. Both stores handle the read and installation automatically.

You can also go directly to Crunchyroll's website and look for a "read" or "Apps" link, usually in the footer or menu. This route gives you the same app but bypasses the store. All three methods install the identical software — the choice is just which platform you prefer to read from.

What the app can do that the website cannot

The main difference is offline viewing. If your subscription includes it, you can read episodes to your computer and watch them without internet. This is useful if you travel or have spotty connection. The website does not offer downloads — only the app does.

The app also stays in its own window, so you're less likely to lose it in a browser tab. Some people find this cleaner for watching. Otherwise, the app and website show the same content, have the same search and recommendation features, and let you pick up where you left off across devices.

Subscription tiers and what each includes

Crunchyroll offers a free tier with ads, a Standard plan (ad-free), and a Premium plan. The free tier works on the app and website equally. The paid plans cost the same whether you use the app or the website — there's no separate app fee.

Premium is the only tier that includes offline downloads. If offline viewing matters to you, you'll need Premium. Standard removes ads but does not include downloads. Check Crunchyroll's pricing page for current costs, as they vary by region and change periodically.

Device limits and simultaneous streaming

You can install the Crunchyroll app on as many computers as you own. However, how many can stream at the same time depends on your plan. Free and Standard plans typically allow one stream at a time. Premium allows multiple simultaneous streams, though the exact number varies by region.

This means you could have the app on your desktop and laptop, but on a free plan, only one can play at a time. If someone else in your household tries to stream while you're watching, one of you will get a message to stop. Premium removes this restriction for the number of streams included in your plan.

System requirements and performance

The Crunchyroll app requires Windows 10 or newer on PC, or macOS 10.13 or newer on Mac. Check your system settings to confirm your version before downloading. The app is not heavy — it doesn't need a gaming computer or lots of storage space.

If the app runs slowly or crashes, try closing other programs, restarting your computer, or uninstalling and reinstalling the app. These steps fix most problems. If issues persist, Crunchyroll's support page has troubleshooting steps specific to your operating system.

Comparing the app to the website and browser extensions

The app, website, and any browser extensions all connect to the same account and show the same library. The app is the only one that offers offline downloads. The website works in any browser without installation. Some people use the website for browsing and the app for watching, since the app window doesn't get buried under other tabs.

There is no performance difference between them — streaming quality and speed are the same. Your choice comes down to convenience: do you want a separate window (app), or do you prefer to keep everything in your browser (website)? Either way, your watch history and recommendations sync across devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch Crunchyroll on PC without downloading the app?

Yes. You can watch on Crunchyroll's website using any web browser on your PC. The website has the same content and features as the app, except for offline downloads. The app is optional — it's just another way to access your account.

Does the Crunchyroll app cost money?

The app itself is free to read. You only pay for a Crunchyroll subscription if you want ad-free viewing or premium features like offline downloads. A free account with ads works on the app at no cost.

Can I read episodes on the app to watch offline?

Only if you have a Premium subscription. Free and Standard plans do not include offline downloads. Premium subscribers can read episodes through the app and watch them without internet.

What if the app won't install or keeps crashing?

Make sure your Windows or Mac version is current. Restart your computer, then try installing again. If it still crashes, uninstall completely and reinstall from the Microsoft Store, Mac App Store, or Crunchyroll's website. Check Crunchyroll's support page for your operating system if the problem continues.

Can multiple people use the same Crunchyroll account on different PCs at the same time?

You can install the app on multiple computers, but simultaneous streaming depends on your plan. Free and Standard allow one stream at a time across all devices. Premium allows multiple streams, though the number varies by region. Check your plan details on Crunchyroll's website.