Roku is a popular streaming media player that offers users a wide range of entertainment options, from movies and TV shows to music and games. But what does Roku work with? In this article, we’ll explore the various devices and services that are compatible with Roku, making it easy for you to get the most out of your streaming experience.
Devices Compatible with Roku
Roku is compatible with a variety of devices, including:
Smart TVs
Many smart TVs come with Roku built-in, eliminating the need for a separate streaming device. Some of the TV brands that offer Roku TVs include:
- TCL
- Hisense
- Insignia (Best Buy’s in-house brand)
- Sharp
- Hitachi
These TVs offer all the features of a Roku streaming device, including access to the Roku Channel Store, voice control, and more.
Streaming Devices
Roku offers a range of streaming devices, including:
- Roku Express: A budget-friendly option that streams in HD.
- Roku Express+: A step up from the Express, offering HD streaming and the ability to connect to older TVs via composite cables.
- Roku Streaming Stick: A compact device that streams in HD and offers voice control.
- Roku Streaming Stick+: A higher-end option that streams in 4K and offers voice control.
- Roku Ultra: A top-of-the-line device that streams in 4K, offers voice control, and includes a remote with a headphone jack.
Mobile Devices
Roku has mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to control your Roku device, stream content, and more. The Roku mobile app offers features such as:
- Voice control: Use your mobile device to control your Roku device with voice commands.
- Remote control: Use your mobile device as a remote control for your Roku device.
- Streaming: Stream content from your mobile device to your Roku device.
- Channel management: Add, remove, and manage channels on your Roku device.
Gaming Consoles
Roku is compatible with some gaming consoles, including:
- Xbox One: You can access the Roku app on your Xbox One, allowing you to stream content and more.
- PlayStation 4: While there isn’t a native Roku app on the PS4, you can still access Roku content through the PlayStation’s web browser.
Services Compatible with Roku
Roku is compatible with a wide range of services, including:
Streaming Services
Some of the popular streaming services available on Roku include:
- Netflix
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney+
- HBO Max
- Apple TV+
These services offer a wide range of content, from movies and TV shows to original content and more.
Music Services
Roku is also compatible with various music services, including:
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Amazon Music
- Google Play Music
- Pandora
These services offer access to millions of songs, playlists, and radio stations.
Live TV Services
If you’re looking for live TV, Roku offers several options, including:
- Sling TV
- YouTube TV
- Hulu with Live TV
- AT&T TV Now
- Philo
These services offer access to live TV channels, sports, and news.
Gaming Services
Roku also offers several gaming services, including:
- Apple Arcade
- Google Stadia
- NVIDIA GeForce Now
These services offer access to a wide range of games, from casual titles to more complex games.
Other Devices and Services Compatible with Roku
In addition to the devices and services mentioned above, Roku is also compatible with:
Virtual Assistants
Roku is compatible with several virtual assistants, including:
- Amazon Alexa
- Google Assistant
These virtual assistants allow you to control your Roku device with voice commands, making it easy to find and play content.
Smart Home Devices
Roku is also compatible with several smart home devices, including:
- Amazon Echo
- Google Home
- Samsung SmartThings
These devices allow you to control your Roku device and other smart home devices with voice commands.
Conclusion
Roku is a versatile streaming media player that offers compatibility with a wide range of devices and services. From smart TVs and streaming devices to mobile devices and gaming consoles, Roku makes it easy to access your favorite content. With its compatibility with various streaming services, music services, live TV services, and gaming services, Roku is an excellent choice for anyone looking to cut the cord and stream their favorite content.
By understanding what devices and services are compatible with Roku, you can get the most out of your streaming experience and enjoy a wide range of entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for movies, TV shows, music, or games, Roku has something for everyone.
What devices are compatible with Roku?
Roku is compatible with a wide range of devices, including TVs, streaming media players, soundbars, and mobile devices. For TVs, Roku is available on select models from brands like TCL, Hisense, Insignia, and Hitachi. Roku streaming media players, such as Roku Express, Roku Streaming Stick, and Roku Ultra, can be connected to any TV with an HDMI port. Additionally, Roku is compatible with mobile devices running Android 5.0 or later and iOS 9.0 or later.
It’s essential to note that not all devices support all Roku features. For example, some older devices may not support 4K or HDR streaming. Before purchasing a device, ensure it meets the minimum system requirements for the Roku features you want to use. You can check the Roku website for a list of compatible devices and their specifications.
Can I use Roku with my existing TV?
Yes, you can use Roku with your existing TV, as long as it has an HDMI port. Roku streaming media players can be connected to any TV with an HDMI port, allowing you to access various streaming services and channels. If your TV is older and doesn’t have an HDMI port, you may need to use an adapter or consider upgrading to a newer TV.
Before connecting your Roku device to your TV, ensure that your TV is set to the correct input. You can usually do this by pressing the “Input” or “Source” button on your TV remote and selecting the HDMI port that your Roku device is connected to. Once you’ve set up your Roku device, you can access various streaming services and channels, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
Is Roku compatible with all streaming services?
Roku is compatible with most popular streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max. However, some services may not be available on Roku, or may require a separate subscription or authentication. For example, Apple TV+ is available on Roku, but you need to have an Apple ID and a subscription to the service.
It’s also worth noting that some streaming services may have limited features or content on Roku compared to other platforms. For example, some services may not offer 4K or HDR streaming on Roku, or may have limited content selection. Before subscribing to a streaming service, check its compatibility with Roku and the features it offers.
Can I use Roku with my soundbar or home theater system?
Yes, you can use Roku with your soundbar or home theater system. Roku devices have an optical audio output, which can be connected to a soundbar or home theater system. This allows you to enjoy high-quality audio with your streaming content. Some Roku devices, such as Roku Ultra, also support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats.
Before connecting your Roku device to your soundbar or home theater system, ensure that it is set to the correct input. You can usually do this by pressing the “Input” or “Source” button on your soundbar or home theater system remote and selecting the optical audio input. Once you’ve set up your Roku device, you can enjoy immersive audio with your streaming content.
Is Roku compatible with my mobile device?
Yes, Roku is compatible with mobile devices running Android 5.0 or later and iOS 9.0 or later. The Roku mobile app allows you to control your Roku device, stream content from your mobile device to your TV, and access various streaming services. You can also use the Roku mobile app to cast content from your mobile device to your TV.
Before using the Roku mobile app, ensure that your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device. You can then launch the Roku mobile app and follow the prompts to connect to your Roku device. Once you’ve connected, you can use the app to control your Roku device, stream content, and access various streaming services.
Can I use Roku with my gaming console?
Yes, you can use Roku with your gaming console. Roku devices can be connected to gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, allowing you to access various streaming services and channels. However, some features may not be available on Roku when connected to a gaming console.
Before connecting your Roku device to your gaming console, ensure that it is set to the correct input. You can usually do this by pressing the “Input” or “Source” button on your gaming console remote and selecting the HDMI port that your Roku device is connected to. Once you’ve set up your Roku device, you can access various streaming services and channels, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
Is Roku compatible with my antenna or cable box?
Yes, Roku is compatible with antennas and cable boxes. Roku devices have an HDMI input, which can be connected to an antenna or cable box. This allows you to access live TV and DVR content alongside your streaming services.
Before connecting your antenna or cable box to your Roku device, ensure that it is set to the correct input. You can usually do this by pressing the “Input” or “Source” button on your Roku remote and selecting the HDMI port that your antenna or cable box is connected to. Once you’ve set up your antenna or cable box, you can access live TV and DVR content, as well as various streaming services and channels.