How to Watch Local Channels on Roku

So, when Roku calls it a Live TV Guide, know that some of its programming is live, and other content is not. To reduce the number of services I pay for monthly, I’ve made the switch to these excellent free alternative apps. The remote’s voice controls work just fine, although I typically don’t use them. I knew all about the initial setup process since I already own a 2024 Roku Ultra, but even newcomers shouldn’t have any issue getting their stick up and going. Another bonus is that you can ditch your old remote and control everything with the included Roku remote by following the steps during setup to make it control your TV.

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This post gives you more detail about Roku live TV – what it is, and which streaming services are available. Aside from the actual device, though, there are costs involved with certain channels and streaming services. Some channels and services are free, but others require you to set up a subscription or pay a one-off fee. The Roku Streaming Stick plugs directly into your TV and lets you start watching your shows and movies from your favorite streaming services.

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In addition to her professional life, she is passionate about sailing, dancing (especially salsa and swing) and outdoor activities like running and camping. That’s important, because while the grid of channels is organized by category, nobody wants to click through 100 channels to find the right one. The Star/Asterisk button lets you view channels by grouped lists. Roku Live TV Guide began appearing in the Roku Channel app on June 1.

You don’t have to be a DirecTV customer to access it, but you do need to create an account using an email address and download the DirecTV app on your preferred device. The app works fine on major streaming devices, including mobiles and TVs powered by Android and Apple. For now, MyFree DirecTV has a total of 70 free channels, but it’s announced more channels are on the way as it finalizes partnerships with studios like A&E, Fox, and Lionsgate. Many free streaming apps offer access to local channels on your Roku TV. These apps aggregate content from various sources, including local news stations, TV networks, and online streaming platforms.

Overview of Live TV Streaming Services Compatible with Roku

This move cements Roku’s dominance in the free space, hot on the heels of its Streaming Stick 4K sale at $23.40. NewsON is a TV service that scans your location and lets you watch live news that broadcasts from your area. Most channels will provide their regular news programming at the usual times. Some networks will also broadcast news-related shows during offset times. If you have high-speed internet, you do not need a cable subscription and can opt for an alternative option.

Hulu + Live TV is a streaming service that enables customers to stream more than 85 live channels, as well as a huge library of on-demand content. One of the best ways to watch the service, also known as  Hulu + Live TV , is through streaming media players like Roku, which are easy to connect to users’ TV sets. Univision NOW is a premium streaming service that specializes in Spanish-language content, both live and on-demand. Aside from hosting exclusive content, Univision NOW also makes its cable and daytime programs available online and on-demand the next day. DirecTV Stream’s cordless TV packages are pretty much the same as their cable counterparts.

How To Get Live TV on Roku

This app can be accessed via the Roku Channel or downloaded via the Roku Store if preferred. No, Roku offers both free and subscription-based live TV channels. Free options include Pluto TV and Tubi, while premium services like Hulu + Live TV require a subscription. Using a VPN may help you access certain content that is geo-restricted. However, it’s important to check the terms of service of the streaming service you’re using.

Can you watch Hulu + Live TV on older Roku models?

Rounding out the quartet, Fureza Informativa Azteca (Channel 912) delivers Spanish-language news and entertainment from TV Azteca, one of Mexico’s top broadcasters. This adapter is designed to deliver the correct amount of power your Roku needs. If, after switching to the included adapter, you still get the insufficient power warning, you should try plugging the adapter into a different power outlet. If you’re using a power strip or an extension cord, try plugging the adapter straight into a wall socket.

So, first of all, we will show you an omnipotent way that lets you record anything on your Roku TV. There will be a list of TV channels, so you can select the one you like and start to watch them. So consider signing up for a live TV streaming service such as DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Philo, Sling TV, Vidgo, and YouTube TV, and see which one works best for you. And so, when you experience Live TV channels issues, the conventional ones that is, look no further but the ports, the cables, and the very mode through which they are made available. And so, when facing issues with Live TV channels or any other issue such as poor download speed on Roku, check and update the Roku firmware.

Live TV on Hulu with 100+ top channels. No cable required.

Thanks to an agreement with Roku, it can also be found on the homepage of newer Roku devices. According to a recent survey conducted by the National Research Group (NRG), 1 out of 4 people have canceled their cable subscription in the past year. Now around 40% of viewers watch live sports and news on streaming services for half the price of a cable subscription on average.

Hulu with Live TV

For local news and broadcasts, you can connect an OTA (Over-The-Air) antenna to Roku and access local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and PBS stations for free. Most of the TV channels are niche and play reruns of old shows or movies, but there are more than a few that go beyond that. The Roku is a media streaming device that can be used to watch Live TV Streaming Services and On-Demand Streaming Services. Users can also utilize their new Roku streaming device to enjoy music via Spotify, learn new skills with the MasterClass channel, or even play fun games like the classic Snake. We may earn a commission when you buy a product through links on our site. For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure pages.

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Of course, Tubi doesn’t have the newer, high-profile titles that a subscription platform boasts, nor originals. But their catalog is still impressive for a free streaming service. If Live TV is not working on Roku, check for network issues and power cycle Roku and the Router. I am noticing now that it even locks up the picture to where I have to either channel up or down than back or turn the TV off and on. I think that when a USB is plugged in it plays through that and not direct. So if there is a problem with the USB then we see the audio and video issue.

#1. Use A Professional Video Recorder

Roku has an incredibly vast list of channels and apps available for download and use. You’ll find everything from the expected favorites to channels you never even knew existed. If you already have a TV, just grab a Roku streaming device and plug it in. If you want to streamline everything, Roku’s branded TVs come with all the functionality built right in, giving you an all-in-one experience without needing extra devices.

And with just a solid internet connection, you’re set to dive into everything Roku has to offer. Plex once centered entirely around its Media Server, which allows users to organize their personal media and play it across a myriad of devices. However, the service has increasingly pivoted to content discovery and streaming over the past few years. In fact, the “What is Plex?” section on the official website doesn’t even mention the media server functionality.The main attraction of Plex for streamers is its discovery functionality. You can add the services you have to your profile and manage your watchlist for all of them in one place.

• By following these steps and considering the pros and cons, you can effectively use an OTA antenna to enhance your Roku TV viewing experience and enjoy a wide range of free local channels.
• One of the most comprehensive live TV streaming services in the market, YouTube TV brings you 100+ channels for $72.99/mo.
• You can choose from Animal Planet Go, Happy Dog TV, PetTube, HorseTV, and so much more.
• On your app, go to Apps on Roku, download DirecTV Stream, and add it to one of your channels.
• Sling is one of the best cable TV alternatives in the market at $40 per month for 50-plus channels.

D. CBS News

I usually just do one update a month unless Roku removes or adds a whole bunch of channels mid-month or changes a whole bunch of channel numbers (as they do occasionally). This comes as The Roku Channel has added a lot of new channels, including channels from CBS and free channels from Hallmark to name a few. We’ll go over the basics of the different types of channels and costs you may come across, but you can check out our dedicated piece on Roku channels for more detailed information. Roku TV — This is the most expensive way to bag yourself a Roku player, but it could prove worthy if you’re already looking to upgrade your TV.

Some Wi-Fi routers let you create a guest network that is physically separated from your normal Wi-Fi network. It’s possible that your phone or your Roku are using these two different networks. If your device overheats, immediately turn it off, unplug the power, and disconnect all cables. Wait at least 10 minutes before reconnecting it and powering it back up. If you see the solid red light or warning message again, repeat this process. If it still happens, you should contact Roku Support, as it may indicate a more serious problem with your device.

This is not because your Roku has a built-in antenna, but because Roku offers more than 100 channels for free on its own using your internet connection. When you want to watch local TV with an antenna, this is where you will go, too. Similar to AVOD streamers, free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) platforms allow cord-cutters to watch their favorite programming at no cost! The Roku Channel offers more than 350 free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels, with linear and on-demand programming available. Click here to check out the full compliment of free offerings from Roku.

Enjoy cartoons, educational content, and family-friendly movies. If you are looking for a Soundbar for your living room, the Roku Streambar Pro is your best bet. However, if you want to improve the Roku Bet sound in your bedroom, the Roku Streambar is a worthy Soundbar with a built-in 4K streaming player.

Known formerly as VUIt, Zeam is a live TV streaming service that specializes in local channels. Zeam has agreements with 300 local stations across the country, including ABC, NBC, FOX, and ABC affiliates, so the exact channel lineup varies depending on where you live. However, most users will be able to access content from at least one of the major networks. The content in question is mostly news, though, since Zeam doesn’t stream primetime shows and live sports just yet. It can seem bare to some, but it’s a nifty service to tune into if you want to stay on top of community news and weather updates. It’s also completely free, and you don’t even have to create an account to start watching.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different methods to access free local channels and enhance your TV viewing experience. If you have a TV with Roku built in, over-the-air channels integrate seamlessly into the Roku interface. After scanning for channels, you can find them in the “Live TV” input on your home screen, alongside other streaming content. If your TV doesn’t have a built-in ATSC digital tuner, you may need an external one to access live channels. If your plan provides the necessary speed for the content you’re trying to watch, check to see if anyone else in your home is using high bandwidth applications on your other devices. You may also want to check your router’s administration settings to see if there are any unknown devices using your connection.

• It is one great way to truly “cut the cord” and eliminate the expensive costs that come with a cable subscription every month.
• This means you don’t need to find a power outlet that’s close to the screen, keeping your home entertainment setup looking relatively wire-free and the device itself tucked neatly behind the TV.
• Roku recommends a minimum download speed of 3.0 Mbps for standard definition and up to 9.0 Mbps for HD content.
• Older HDMI cables might lack the necessary bandwidth to carry all of that data reliably between devices, especially over longer distances like 10 feet or more.
• If your Wi-Fi connection is stable, it’s possible that your internet plan doesn’t provide sufficient bandwidth for the content you’re trying to stream.
• You’ll also be getting the DVR plus, which gives you access to 200 more hours of storage.
• Roku makes some of the cheapest streaming devices around, and traditionally one of the trade-offs for those affordable price points has been rather sluggish hardware.
• Plex once centered entirely around its Media Server, which allows users to organize their personal media and play it across a myriad of devices.

The completely free, ad-supported service has one of the most extensive title lineups, plus it’s compatible with most devices, making it an extremely popular option for cord-cutters. Though it has been noted to have a less than stellar resolution, most viewers don’t mind due to its easy interface, constantly updated library, and of course free titles. Parents will also be glad to know that the service has parental control features. Yes, all of the free streaming services we’ve included in this guide are 100% completely, totally free. Some require you to sign up with an account, and some don’t, but the cost of all of them is zero. And since they cost $0, you can check out all of the best free streaming services on our list.

While you can install apps like Max, Peacock, and many more, the remote only has quick launch buttons for Disney+, Apple TV+, Netflix, and Prime Video. If you have another Roku device, you can skip the sign-in process for all the apps just by linking your account to the new Roku. Signing into everything is a big hassle for me, so it was nice that I could just load up Disney+ and see my profile already there. Plus, the Streaming Stick Plus even offers 4K upscaling for TVs that support it. This means that 720p and 1080p content can be upscaled to 1080p and 4K, respectively, in certain scenarios.

How To Watch Free Local Channels On Roku TV? 4 Easy Ways

To test to see if this is the problem, try connecting your Roku directly to your TV. If the problem goes away, that’s a good sign your middle device isn’t HDCP 2.2-compliant. If you see Roku error code 009, it means that your Roku is successfully connected to your router, but it can’t reach the Internet. If your other Wi-Fi devices are operating normally, restart your Roku. If the other devices can’t connect either, try rebooting your modem and router, and then restart your devices.

There are hundreds of other SVOD services available on Roku devices, so if your favorite isn’t listed above, click here to see if you can access it with your device now. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the method that best suits your needs and enjoy a variety of free local channels on your Roku TV. Apple TV 4K — With 4K streaming, Airplay mirroring, iCloud syncing between your iOS devices, and plenty of apps, the Apple TV is a solid bet for media streaming (especially for Apple fans).

The children’s networks cater to kids of every age, so your toddlers and teenagers will all have something appropriate to watch. Other free TV and movie channels include The CW, Crackle, Plex, PBS, FilmRise, Pluto TV, YouTube, and more. They all offer a wide selection of on-demand content that you can watch at your leisure. Setting up the apps on the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is very straightforward as well.

• Roku Live TV is available through the “Live TV” tile on your Roku home screen.
• With that in mind, Roku offers a few free live TV choices and also provides network subscription options to increase live programming enjoyment.
• It’s here where you can check up on your Roku camera devices, like the Roku Indoor Camera SE, viewing feeds and Events, which are essentially favorited recordings.
• You can customize your feed to include your preferred local news sources.

On Roku’s website, it’s the model that shows up when you click on Roku Streaming Stick, but you’ll need to double-check what you’re buying at other stores. You don’t want to miss out on the stick that doesn’t need a wall outlet to power on, so look for model 3840R. We will be glad to assist you further with your problem with the Live TV pause, which suddenly stopped working. Use at least a 2.0 USB flash drive with 16 GB of memory to avoid recording and playback issues. Unfortunately, Roku’s smart home accessibility is sorely lacking in comparison to other major rivals, namely Google. But that doesn’t mean the Roku Streaming Stick Plus can’t still have its own smart home concepts, which rears its head in the Roku Cameras app.

We will also select a winner in each category, along with an overall winner, which will be revealed at the end. But none of those things will work if the app can’t find your Roku device. If your Roku is a stick-style device connected directly to your TV, you can skip this section. Obviously, relocating your TV won’t be an option very often, but you might still benefit from relocating the Roku itself. Roku Sticks are harder to reposition because they’re usually plugged right into the TV, but an HDMI extender cable can give you the extra play you need to reposition them.

Backdrops can be selected across a wide variety of different verticals, including general photos, artists, photographers, and institutions. Some of my favorite artworks include the “Morning after a Snowfall at Koishikawa” by Katsushika Hokusai, “El Jaleo” by John Singer Sargent, and “Impressions, Sunrise” by Claude Monet. I’ve discussed my love of Backdrops before and it’s no different here. It’s an ingenious new addition for Roku, providing loads and loads of art for users to personalize their TV standby settings in a myriad of ways. Of course, you will have to contend with a myriad of ads on Roku OS. Like I said, make sure to turn off automated videos so you aren’t bombarded with audio-intensive ads on startup and you should be fine.

Many skinny bundles include live local feeds of major networks like ABC and CBS, but availability depends on your location and the service you choose. Roku’s search allows you to search the name of the station or program you are looking for and the results will show which streaming services offer it. When comparing Roku to Apple TV, the differences become more pronounced. Apple TV has a smaller selection of available channels and focuses heavily on premium, paid content. While you can access services like Max, Hulu, and Disney+, Apple’s system requires navigating through its Apple TV app, which can feel a bit clunky. Roku, by contrast, offers a smoother experience with a mix of paid and free content options.