Short films on YouTube prove that big stories and big feels can unfold in just a few minutes. Compiled here are the best anime shorts worth checking out, fueled by the creative talents of both big companies and independent artists. Many of the shorts are wordless, propelled only by the actions of their characters and the rhythm of music. The incredible artwork displayed in these short pieces range from the welcome familiar to the unexpected and unique, each one paying testament to the spectrum of talent on this list.
There is plenty of genre diversity to boot, with this collection including romance, sci-fi, adventure, and more. Amongst these varying stories, the creators of these shorts really showcase relationships in all of their many forms, exploring all kinds of friendships and connections between people. If you need a quick dose of something funny, magical, or heart-rendering, these videos are exactly what you’re looking for. Vote up the best anime shorts!
Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Anime Shorts You Can Watch On YouTube Right Now
This list isdynamically rankedbased on user voting. The order reflects the consensus of our voters and is not influenced by paid placements or editorial bias.
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Photo: YouTube EDM duo Madeon and Porter Robinson lend their talent to this short about a girl who lives in her very own world. Heartbreaking and beautiful, this musical journey is worth taking.
Ranked #1 by 236 voters with an89% upvote rate
236 votes
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Photo: YouTube A young, timid girl befriends a magical chair. With Ghibli talent behind the artwork and a charming soundtrack, these three minutes will brighten your day.
Ranked #2 by 87 voters with an84% upvote rate
87 votes
Is this one of the best? Photo: YouTube A little girl spends a magical day in the rain. A contemplative tone with a peaceful soundtrack, this short is perfect for any day, not just rainy ones.
Ranked #3 by 53 voters with a75% upvote rate
53 votes
Is this one of the best?Photo: YouTube A teddy bear brings some wonder into a little girl’s day. Another Ghibli animator – you can be assured that there is a cuteness overload.
Ranked #4 by 61 voters with a74% upvote rate
61 votes
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Photo: YouTube Two school boys bond over their imaginative creations. The animation is enough to check this short out, but their adorable friendship really brings it home.
Ranked #5 by 29 voters with a76% upvote rate
29 votes
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Photo: YouTube A dreamlike and ethereal story that features the long friendship between a grandma and her goldfish.
Ranked #6 by 25 voters with a76% upvote rate
25 votes
Is this one of the best?
