Roku is a versatile streaming platform that gives users access to a massive and diverse range of channels, from popular paid subscriptions to a huge library of free, ad-supported content. The ultimate selection depends on whether you opt for free channels, subscribe to premium services, or use a live TV streaming package. The options are easily accessible through the Roku Channel Store.
Free Streaming Channels on Roku
For viewers looking to cut costs, Roku offers a wealth of completely free, ad-supported options. The most prominent of these is The Roku Channel, which features thousands of free movies, TV episodes, and original content. Many other channels also follow this free-with-ads model.
- The Roku Channel: As Roku's own service, it includes 500+ free live TV channels covering news, weather, and entertainment, plus a large on-demand library of movies and TV shows.
- Pluto TV: This channel features hundreds of free live TV channels, organized into categories like news, movies, and sports.
- Tubi: Known for its extensive library of free movies and TV series, Tubi offers a deep catalog for those who enjoy exploring new content.
- Crackle: This service features a selection of popular movies and TV series, requiring no sign-up to watch.
- Freevee: Amazon's free, ad-supported streaming service is also available on Roku, offering a collection of movies, TV series, and original productions.
- Plex: While it functions as a media server for personal content, Plex also has a free, ad-supported library of movies and live TV channels.
Popular Premium Subscription Channels
For those willing to pay, Roku provides access to all the major premium streaming services. Users simply add the channel from the Roku Channel Store and log in with their existing subscription. This includes everything from blockbuster movies to critically acclaimed original series.
- Netflix: The global streaming giant offers a vast, ad-free library of movies, TV shows, and original content, with some plans offering ad-supported options as well.
- Max (formerly HBO Max): This service is home to HBO originals, Warner Bros. movies, and content from Discovery, HGTV, and more.
- Disney+: Features a family-friendly catalog of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.
- Hulu: Offers an extensive on-demand library of current and past TV seasons, along with original series.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available to Amazon Prime members, this service provides a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content.
- Peacock: The streaming home for NBCUniversal, with movies, shows, and original programming, plus live sports.
Live TV Streaming Services
If you want to replicate a traditional cable TV experience, several services with live local and cable channels can be added through your Roku device. Some of these can be viewed within The Roku Channel itself, while others are separate apps.
- Hulu + Live TV: Combines Hulu's on-demand library with nearly 100 live channels, including local news and major cable networks.
- YouTube TV: Provides access to over 100 channels, covering news, sports, and entertainment, and offers nationwide coverage of local stations.
- Sling TV: Offers more customizable channel packages at different price points, though local channel availability can be limited.
- Fubo: Focuses heavily on live sports coverage, along with news and entertainment channels.
Comparison of Popular Roku Channel Categories
To help you decide which channels best fit your needs, here is a comparison of what's available through some of Roku's most popular free and paid services.
| Feature | The Roku Channel | Netflix | Hulu + Live TV | Pluto TV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (ad-supported) | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Free (ad-supported) |
| Content Type | Movies, TV shows, Originals, Live TV | Movies, TV shows, Originals | On-demand TV, Originals, Live TV | Movies, TV shows, Live TV |
| Live TV | 500+ free channels, including news | No | 100+ live channels | Hundreds of free channels |
| Key Strengths | Huge variety of free content, user-friendly interface | Extensive library of original series and films | Combines on-demand with live cable channels | Huge selection of themed live channels |
| Advertising | Yes | No (Ad-Free plan), Yes (Ad-supported plan) | Yes (Live TV), Varies (On-demand) | Yes |
How to Find and Add Channels
Adding new channels is a straightforward process on your Roku device.
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
- Scroll down to Streaming Channels to open the Roku Channel Store.
- You can browse popular categories or use the Search Channels function to find a specific service.
- Once you find the channel you want, select it and choose Add channel.
- The new channel will appear on your home screen. If you have a Roku account PIN, you may need to enter it to confirm the installation.
Conclusion
Whether you are a cord-cutter seeking free entertainment or a seasoned streamer looking to consolidate your paid subscriptions, Roku's Channel Store provides a wealth of options. With thousands of channels available, including free ad-supported content, major premium services, and comprehensive live TV packages, Roku gives you the flexibility to build a personalized viewing experience that fits your budget and preferences. By understanding the different types of channels offered and how to navigate the Channel Store, you can unlock a vast world of movies, shows, and live programming on your device.
How to Find and Add Channels
Adding new channels is a straightforward process on your Roku device.
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
- Scroll down to Streaming Channels to open the Roku Channel Store.
- You can browse popular categories or use the Search Channels function to find a specific service.
- Once you find the channel you want, select it and choose Add channel.
- The new channel will appear on your home screen. If you have a Roku account PIN, you may need to enter it to confirm the installation.
Conclusion
Whether you are a cord-cutter seeking free entertainment or a seasoned streamer looking to consolidate your paid subscriptions, Roku's Channel Store provides a wealth of options. With thousands of channels available, including free ad-supported content, major premium services, and comprehensive live TV packages, Roku gives you the flexibility to build a personalized viewing experience that fits your budget and preferences. By understanding the different types of channels offered and how to navigate the Channel Store, you can unlock a vast world of movies, shows, and live programming on your device.
