Roku is primarily recognized for its streaming devices, but it also boasts the Roku Channel, where you can access a variety of free TV entertainment. This includes live TV and original films, all without needing a Roku device or Roku TV. Here’s how to make the most of what Roku has to offer.
You can easily watch the Roku Channel through a web browser or by using Roku’s mobile apps available for both Android and iOS. If you’d like to stream on a smart TV or another brand of streaming device like Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, or Samsung smart TVs, simply download the Roku Channel app from that device’s app store.
However, keep in mind that Roku hasn’t developed an app for LG smart TVs or the Apple TV streaming device. We’ll discuss some alternative methods for those platforms later.
If you’re considering getting a Roku streamer, we’re here to help you choose the best one.
You don’t need a Roku streaming device or TV to enjoy free entertainment on the Roku Channel. Just visit theRokuChannel.com to start watching.
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What Can You Find on the Roku Channel?
The Roku Channel features an extensive lineup of FAST (free ad-supported television) channels, on-demand films, and TV series, in addition to live linear TV. You might recall the traditional broadcasting days—this content streams on a set schedule, but you can join in whenever you wish.
While some of the offerings overlap with other FAST platforms, like Pluto and Tubi, the Roku Channel also presents exclusive films and shows. One standout original feature is the Emmy-winning Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, featuring Daniel Radcliffe as the comedic musician.
The Roku Channel is home to some original programming, including Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, starring Daniel Radcliffe.
Jared Newman / Foundry
Other originals include The Great American Baking Show, Honest Renovations, and Visionaries: The Arch Project, featuring Keanu Reeves. While this selection may be limited in comparison to platforms like Max or Netflix, the good news is that these shows are available for free (with ads).
Roku has also strategically acquired content that other streaming services have abandoned, including the full library of Quibi, the short-form video service created by Hollywood mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg.
This acquisition includes titles like Die Hart featuring Kevin Hart, Most Dangerous Game, a revamped Punk’d with Chance the Rapper, a new run of Reno 911!, and Bill Burr Presents Immoral Compass. Roku also secured The Spiderwick Chronicles TV series, previously a Disney+ exclusive.
Roku has made the entire library of Quibi available for free on the Roku Channel.
Quibi
Created to serve as a hub for its streaming devices, The Roku Channel prominently features options for subscribing to additional services like Prime Video, Peacock, MGM+, and Paramount+. If you explore these titles, you’ll often be directed to the corresponding apps or websites.
It’s advisable to register for these subscription services directly to maintain a clear relationship with them rather than going through Roku.
Using a Browser to Watch the Roku Channel
Start by navigating to therokuchannel.com. You’ll be greeted with a grid of thumbnails showcasing available movies and TV shows. Although most content is free with ads, some may require a subscription; the Roku Channel interface clearly distinguishes between the two.
When using the Roku Channel in a web browser on an iPhone, you might have to scroll three times to view the entire user interface.
Michael Brown/Foundry
One limitation is that you can’t hide the Premium Subscription content, which is understandable from Roku’s perspective, as their business model includes earning commissions from subscriptions. However, it would be beneficial if users could filter out options they don’t intend to use.
The Browse tab allows you to explore categories like Roku Originals, Movies, Series, Comedy, and Drama. You can save shows by clicking the + button next to their descriptions.
Meanwhile, the Live TV tab displays currently streaming content using the same sliding tile interface, which may feel a bit unconventional for those accustomed to traditional cable guides.
Using the Roku Channel Mobile App
To access the Roku Channel, you’ll need the Roku app available for iOS and Android. While the app primarily functions as a remote for Roku devices or TVs, adapting to use it just for watching the Roku Channel might take some getting used to.
If you have an Apple TV, you can use your phone to access the Roku Channel and cast it to your TV screen via Apple AirPlay.
Michael Brown/Foundry
For instance, if I use an Apple TV with a TCL television that has Roku built-in, selecting the wrong icon may inadvertently launch the Roku interface. Unfortunately, there’s no way to disable this functionality.
The mobile app employs the same sliding tile format as the web, which can be cumbersome on smaller screens. It lacks a live streaming overview, and filtering out Roku Originals can be challenging if you’re specifically searching for exclusive content.
For Apple TV users, you can mirror The Roku Channel on your screen, though AirPlay support is limited. You’ll only be able to watch streaming video without any other app offerings.
What’s the Best Way to Enjoy the Roku Channel?
If you own a Google, Amazon Fire, or Roku-powered streaming device or TV, downloading the Roku Channel app is the simplest way to access the service using a remote control. If you don’t have one of these devices, it’s easiest to watch the Roku Channel through a web browser on a computer or tablet.
If you prefer your mobile device and want to access the complete catalog of films and shows, logging in through a web browser and adding titles to your Save List is ideal. This way, you can conveniently find your content in the mobile app.
Free streaming is an increasingly vital part of home entertainment. As long as you’re okay with a few advertisements (and sometimes seeing the same ones repeatedly), there’s a vast assortment of classic and newer movies and series available on the Roku Channel and other FAST platforms to keep you entertained.
