Roku has become one of the most popular streaming platforms in the world, offering thousands of channels across various content categories. Whether you’re interested in movies, TV shows, live sports, news, or even niche programming, Roku provides an extensive selection of channels that can meet virtually every entertainment need. Understanding what you can stream on Roku helps you get the most out of your device and enhances your viewing experience.
From free channels to premium subscription services, Roku supports a wide array of streaming options. Its flexibility and accessibility make it a preferred choice for people looking to cut the cable cord without sacrificing content variety.
Major Streaming Services
Roku supports all of the major streaming platforms that you’d expect, including:
- Netflix: Watch thousands of movies, series, and original content including award-winning dramas and documentaries.
- Disney+: Access to everything Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic.
- HBO Max: Stream premium HBO shows, blockbuster movies, and exclusive originals.
- Amazon Prime Video: Offers a wide library of movies and TV series, as well as Amazon originals.
- Hulu: Wide variety of current TV episodes, full seasons, and original content available on-demand.
All these services are available as downloadable apps from the Roku Channel Store. You’ll need a subscription to access most of the content, but Roku makes it easy to manage these services through a single platform.
Free Streaming Channels
One of Roku’s major strengths is its support for free channels. These channels offer full-length TV shows, movies, and even live TV without requiring a subscription.
- The Roku Channel: Offers free access to movies, series, and even a selection of live TV stations. Paid subscriptions to premium services can also be managed here.
- Crackle: Provides a rotating selection of free movies and TV episodes, including some original content.
- Tubi: Well-known for its extensive library of free movies and shows across genres like action, drama, comedy, and more.
- PBS and PBS Kids: Free access to educational and informational content for both adults and children.
- Pluto TV: Offers over 250 live channels and thousands of on-demand titles, all for free.
These free channels are ad-supported, but offer remarkable value for cord-cutters who want a broad reach of content without monthly fees.
Live TV and Sports Channels
Streaming live TV is also possible on Roku through a variety of cable-alternative services:
- Sling TV: Offers multiple packages that include live channels such as ESPN, CNN, and AMC.
- FuboTV: Focuses on sports content and includes channels like NBC Sports, NFL Network, and regional sports networks.
- Hulu + Live TV: Bundle of live broadcast and cable channels in addition to Hulu’s on-demand library.
- YouTube TV: Includes a comprehensive list of popular cable channels, cloud DVR, and a family-sharing feature.
Many individual sports league channels like NBA TV, NFL, and MLB.TV also provide apps on Roku, although most require subscriptions directly through the provider.
News and Information Channels
Staying informed is easier than ever with dedicated news channels on Roku, many of which offer free live feeds or on-demand clips from recent broadcasts.
- ABC News
- NBC News
- CBS News (Now known as CBS News Streaming Network)
- Reuters TV
- NewsON: Provides access to live and on-demand local news from over 200 stations across the United States.
These networks ensure you’re never out of touch with national and international events, no matter when you tune in.
Specialty and Niche Channels
Roku also supports a broad range of specialty channels that cater to specific interests or demographics. Examples include:
- CuriosityStream: Educational documentaries on science, history, and technology.
- BritBox and Acorn TV: British television content, including mysteries, dramas, and comedies.
- Shudder: Horror movies and series.
- Anime Network and Crunchyroll: Extensive libraries of anime and Japanese pop culture content.
This variety ensures that every viewer—regardless of interests—can find content they’ll enjoy.
Conclusion
Roku offers an incredibly diverse collection of streaming channels that serve every type of viewer—from casual watchers to dedicated fans. Whether you’re looking for popular streaming giants, free content, live sports, or niche programming, Roku’s robust ecosystem has you covered. By leveraging the thousands of available channels, users can tailor their entertainment experience exactly the way they want it—affordable, flexible, and content-rich.
