Everybody knows Crunchyroll for being one of the largest anime streaming platforms of all time. However, a new streaming platform called VRV (pronounced “Verve”) has been making waves in the anime community. It allows users to add on subscriptions and link multiple streaming services (including Crunchyroll) to their VRV account.
So, what’s the difference between Crunchyroll and VRV?
While Crunchyroll is a standalone anime streaming platform, VRV is more of a “hub” that allows you to add on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll. With a VRV membership, you’ll have access to VRV originals and you’ll also be able to pay an extra monthly fee to gain access to all of Crunchyroll’s content as well.
If you’re new to VRV, then this whole setup may be a little bit confusing. I know I was a bit mind-boggled when I first learned about it! Recently, I canceled my standalone Crunchyroll subscription, though, and switched to watching Crunchyroll through my VRV account. That being said, I’ve had some time to learn the ins and outs of it. So here’s what you need to know!
Comparing Crunchyroll and VRV
The best way that I can explain VRV to you is by explaining how Hulu works (also, don’t forget to check out my Crunchyroll vs. Hulu post here). When you sign up for a Hulu membership, you’ll pay a certain monthly amount to gain access to all of Hulu’s original content and a few other free shows that they add. However, Hulu also allows you to add additional channels so you can view other platforms’ content.
For example, you can add HBO, Starz, Paramount, or CBS to your Hulu account for an additional monthly fee. Essentially, the idea is to simplify your life by allowing you to view all of your streaming in one app instead of having to switch from one app to another and having to pay several monthly bills on different accounts. Instead, it will all be combined into a single monthly payment and you’ll be able to access all of your favorite channels through one app.
VRV basically offers the same exact service, except that it’s centered on the anime market. Once you sign up for VRV, you’ll have access to all VRV-exclusive content. Then, you’ll be able to add on your favorite channels such as Crunchyroll, Cartoon Hangover, Mondo, and more for an additional monthly fee.
Crunchyroll Vs. VRV: What’s Cheaper?
If you’re looking to save money, then you’re probably better off just signing up for a free Crunchyroll account. With a free account, you’ll be able to watch all of your favorites with ads.
If you add on Crunchyroll through VRV, though, you’ll be signing up for a Crunchyroll premium account. By itself, VRV costs $9.99 per month. By adding on Crunchyroll access, you’ll pay an extra $7.99 (plus tax) per month. This means your total monthly bill for VRV with Crunchyroll access will come out to just over $18.
The Membership Tier Options on Crunchyroll
One more thing that can help you decide between VRV or Crunchyroll is knowing the different approaches to pricing. While VRV offers you a free account and the VRV price for their Premium at $9.99 a month, Crunchyroll has different tiers, each with its own benefits. Here are all the Crunchyroll’s membership tier options:
- Their free account offers access to their library containing some anime shows and a choice of digital manga.
- The Fan option is $7.99 per month and you receive everything that comes with the free plan but free of any ads.
- The Mega Fan plan is $9.99 per month and also offers everything included in the Fan option. It also adds the ability to stream content on up to 4 different devices, and Crunchyroll’s exclusive coupons to use in their store.
- The Ultimate Fan tier option comes at $14.99. For this price, you get all the advantages of the Mega Fan option, but it also adds the possibility to stream content on two additional devices. You also get access to exclusive merch and an annual swag bag.
Crunchyroll Vs. VRV: Which Has More Shows?
True anime lovers are likely looking for the platform that offers the most variety. Whether you’re trying to catch up on the latest Boruto or Tokyo Revengers, you don’t want to miss a single episode! Crunchyroll, by itself, has a greater number of shows than VRV by itself. However, by signing up for VRV with Crunchyroll added-on, you’ll have access to all of Crunchyroll’s content and VRV-exclusive content.
Your VRV Membership Gives You Access To Crunchyroll Premium
As I mentioned earlier, when you add Crunchyroll access to your VRV account, you’ll be signed up for a Crunchyroll premium account by default. This will give you access to add-free content, premium Crunchyroll store discounts, and other perks not available to free Crunchyroll members. This kind of seems like the battle between VRV vs. Crunchyroll tips a bit in the favor of VRV, but there are still different benefits to paying exclusively to Crunchyroll.
Playback Speed: Crunchyroll Vs. VRV
Now, this is an important topic… The other day, I wrote a post about how to fix Crunchyroll’s slow playback speeds (which have become worse due to their reliance on outdated Adobe Flash technology). Nothing can ruin your viewing experience more than slow-buffering playback during an important scene.
In this aspect, VRV blows Crunchyroll out of the water. As a newer platform, they currently use the latest HTML5 video player. This means that you’ll be able to watch all of Crunchyroll’s content with HTML5 instead of Adobe Flash. The result is that your video quality will be higher, and you’ll experience fewer playback errors.
Final Thoughts on VRV vs. Crunchyroll
Although VRV is a good bit more expensive than Crunchyroll, your membership has several perks to it. For one, you’ll be able to combine your Crunchyroll membership and VRV and watch all of your favorite content in one place. For two, VRV utilizes the latest HTML5 video playback, which means better video quality and fewer glitches.
However, if you’re looking to cut costs, then you can still sign up for a free Crunchyroll account and watch all of your favorite ad-supported animes. So the final answer to the VRV Crunchyroll debate is that it all comes down to your needs and preferences!
