Skip to content 
TL;DR: Roku devices themselves are not subscription-based, and you can indeed use Roku for free. However, while the device and Rokuโs own channels are free, you may still have to pay for subscriptions to access certain content from third-party providers like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+.
Scroll down to get a detailed answer
Table of Contents
What Exactly is Roku?
Before diving into whether Roku is free, itโs helpful to understand what Roku is. Roku is a brand of digital media players that allow you to access internet-streamed video or audio services through your television. These devices come in the form of set-top boxes, Roku sticks, and even TVs with Roku OS built-in.
Understanding the Costs of Roku
When you buy a Roku device, thereโs no recurring fee for the device itself. Once you own it, you own it. However, content can be a different story.
- Some channels or apps are free, offering their content without charge. These include platforms such as YouTube, PBS, and others.
- Certain channels require a one-time payment, while others operate on a subscription model, like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.
- Pay-per-view services like Amazon Video can also be accessed via Roku, where you pay for individual movies or shows.
In essence, Roku is like a gateway, connecting your television to thousands of streaming apps โ some free, some not.
Using Roku for Free
Yes, Roku can be used for free. The Roku Channel Store has a vast array of free channels to choose from, including news channels, free movie channels, and numerous specialty channels that cover a wide array of interests.
A few popular free channels include:
- The Roku Channel: This offers a constantly changing selection of movies and TV shows, as well as live news.
- Tubi TV and Crackle: These offer a vast array of free movies and TV shows. Theyโre ad-supported, but theyโre free!
- Pluto TV: This provides a broad selection of โliveโ channels sorted by category, similar to cable TV.
Note:
While many channels are free, they are often ad-supported, so you may need to sit through some commercials.Roku Premium Subscriptions
While thereโs plenty of free content available, I recommend considering premium subscriptions if youโre looking for more specific content or want to avoid ads. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and Disney+ all require separate subscriptions, but offer vast libraries of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and exclusive content.
Making the Most of Your Roku Experience
Although there are costs associated with some of the content available on Roku, there are ways to maximize your Roku experience even on a budget.
Free Trials
Many of the subscription services offered through Roku provide free trials. Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video all typically offer a trial period where you can access their services for free. I recommend taking advantage of these trials to get a feel for the service before committing to a monthly subscription.
Ad-Supported Channels
While ads might not be your favorite part of watching TV, ad-supported channels are a fantastic way to access content for free. As I mentioned before, channels like Pluto TV and Tubi TV offer a wealth of content thatโs free to stream, provided youโre willing to watch a few commercials.
Sharing Subscriptions
Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video allow their services to be used on multiple devices. I recommend discussing with friends or family members about sharing the cost of a subscription. This can be a great way to access these services at a lower cost.
Additional Tips on Using Roku
Roku is more than just a streaming device. It also provides additional features that can enhance your streaming experience.
- Private Listening: One standout feature of Roku is the Private Listening mode available on select models. This feature allows you to stream audio to your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to use headphones for private listening.
- Roku Search: This feature makes it easy to find content across a wide range of channels. Instead of having to search on individual channels, Roku Search pulls in results from several channels.
- Screen Mirroring: Roku devices also support screen mirroring for Android and Windows devices. This allows you to display your deviceโs screen on your TV.
Is Roku Worth It?
At the end of the day, whether Roku is worth it or not comes down to your personal viewing habits and needs. If youโre someone who enjoys the freedom to choose what to watch and when, Roku offers that flexibility. With both free and paid content available, you can tailor your viewing experience to fit your budget.
Even if you decide to subscribe to a few premium channels, Roku could still end up being a more cost-effective solution than traditional cable or satellite TV. Plus, the convenience of having all your favorite channels and streaming services in one place is hard to beat.
Conclusion
So, is Roku free? The answer is both yes and no. While the Roku platform itself is free to use and offers a wealth of free content, certain channels and content do come with a cost. Ultimately, the cost of using Roku can be tailored to your budget, making it a flexible option for streaming content to your TV.
FAQ
Is Roku completely free?
While the Roku device and access to the Roku platform are not associated with any recurring fees, accessing certain channels or content may require additional payment or subscription.
Is there a monthly fee for a Roku?
There is no mandatory monthly fee for Roku itself. However, some content providers accessible through Roku require a subscription or rental fees.
Do you have to pay money for Roku?
You need to purchase the Roku device, but there are no further mandatory costs associated with using the device or the Roku platform. Additional costs come from subscriptions or rentals for certain content.
How do I watch Roku for free?
You can watch free content on Roku by adding free channels from the Roku Channel Store, such as The Roku Channel, Tubi TV, Crackle, or Pluto TV. Please note that many free channels are ad-supported.
