The world of television has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the rise of streaming services and devices like Roku. While many people have cut the cord and abandoned traditional TV, others still want to access their favorite channels and shows without the need for a cable subscription. If you’re wondering if you can get regular TV on Roku, the answer is a resounding yes. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways to access regular TV on Roku, including live TV streaming services, TV antennas, and more.
What is Roku?
Before we dive into the details of getting regular TV on Roku, let’s take a brief look at what Roku is and how it works. Roku is a streaming media player that allows users to access a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Roku devices come in various forms, including set-top boxes, streaming sticks, and smart TVs with built-in Roku software.
Roku devices connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, allowing users to stream content from various services. The Roku platform is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for anyone to navigate and find their favorite shows and movies.
Live TV Streaming Services on Roku
One of the easiest ways to get regular TV on Roku is through live TV streaming services. These services offer a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news, without the need for a cable subscription. Some popular live TV streaming services available on Roku include:
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers a range of channels, including ESPN, CNN, and HGTV, starting at $25 per month.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news, starting at $50 per month.
- Hulu with Live TV: Hulu with Live TV offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news, starting at $54.99 per month.
- AT&T TV Now: AT&T TV Now offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news, starting at $50 per month.
These services often offer free trials, allowing you to test them out before committing to a subscription.
Channel Lineups
Each live TV streaming service has its own unique channel lineup, so it’s essential to check what channels are available before signing up. Some services may offer more channels than others, while some may specialize in specific types of content, such as sports or news.
For example, Sling TV offers a range of channels, including ESPN, CNN, and HGTV, but it does not offer local networks. YouTube TV, on the other hand, offers local networks, sports, and news, but it does not offer as many channels as Sling TV.
TV Antennas and Roku
Another way to get regular TV on Roku is by using a TV antenna. TV antennas allow you to receive over-the-air (OTA) signals from local networks, such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. These signals are free and do not require a cable subscription.
To use a TV antenna with Roku, you’ll need to connect the antenna to your Roku device using an HDMI cable. You can then use the Roku’s built-in TV tuner app to scan for available channels and watch live TV.
Types of TV Antennas
There are several types of TV antennas available, including:
- Indoor antennas: Indoor antennas are compact and easy to install, making them perfect for small spaces.
- Outdoor antennas: Outdoor antennas are more powerful and can receive signals from farther away, making them ideal for rural areas.
- Amplified antennas: Amplified antennas have built-in amplifiers that boost the signal, making them perfect for areas with weak signals.
Other Ways to Get Regular TV on Roku
In addition to live TV streaming services and TV antennas, there are other ways to get regular TV on Roku. Some cable providers, such as Comcast and Spectrum, offer streaming apps that allow you to access your cable subscription on Roku.
You can also use the Roku’s built-in TV Everywhere feature, which allows you to access content from various networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, using your cable subscription credentials.
Cable Provider Apps
Some cable providers offer streaming apps that allow you to access your cable subscription on Roku. These apps often require you to log in with your cable subscription credentials and may offer a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news.
For example, the Comcast Xfinity app allows you to access your Xfinity cable subscription on Roku, while the Spectrum TV app allows you to access your Spectrum cable subscription.
Conclusion
Getting regular TV on Roku is easier than ever, with a range of options available, including live TV streaming services, TV antennas, and cable provider apps. Whether you’re looking for local networks, sports, or news, there’s a solution for you.
Before choosing a method, consider your budget, channel preferences, and viewing habits. Live TV streaming services offer a range of channels, but may require a subscription. TV antennas offer free OTA signals, but may require an initial investment in the antenna. Cable provider apps offer access to your cable subscription, but may require a cable subscription.
Ultimately, the best way to get regular TV on Roku is the one that meets your needs and budget. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a solution that works for you.
| Method | Cost | Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Live TV Streaming Services | $25-$50 per month | Local networks, sports, news |
| TV Antennas | $20-$100 (one-time purchase) | Local networks (OTA signals) |
| Cable Provider Apps | Varies (requires cable subscription) | Local networks, sports, news |
By considering your options and choosing the best method for you, you can enjoy regular TV on Roku and access your favorite channels and shows without the need for a cable subscription.
Can I Get Regular TV on Roku?
You can get regular TV on Roku through various channels and services. Roku offers a range of options, including live TV streaming services, TV network apps, and digital antenna support. With these options, you can access your favorite TV shows, sports, and news on your Roku device.
Some popular live TV streaming services available on Roku include Sling TV, Hulu with Live TV, and YouTube TV. These services offer a range of channels, including local networks, sports, and news. You can also access TV network apps, such as ABC, CBS, and NBC, to watch your favorite shows on demand.
What Channels Are Available on Roku?
Roku offers a wide range of channels, including live TV streaming services, TV network apps, and on-demand content providers. You can access popular channels like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as live TV services like Sling TV and YouTube TV. Roku also offers a range of free channels, including Pluto TV and Tubi, which offer a variety of TV shows and movies.
In addition to these channels, Roku also offers a range of niche channels, including sports, news, and entertainment options. You can browse the Roku Channel Store to discover new channels and add them to your Roku device. With thousands of channels to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests.
Do I Need a Cable Subscription to Watch Regular TV on Roku?
No, you don’t need a cable subscription to watch regular TV on Roku. Many live TV streaming services, such as Sling TV and YouTube TV, offer affordable monthly plans that include access to local networks, sports, and news. You can also access TV network apps, such as ABC and CBS, to watch your favorite shows on demand without a cable subscription.
However, some channels may require a cable subscription to access certain content. For example, some sports channels may require a cable subscription to watch live games. But with the range of options available on Roku, you can often find alternative ways to access the content you want without a cable subscription.
Can I Watch Local Channels on Roku?
Yes, you can watch local channels on Roku through various options. Many live TV streaming services, such as Sling TV and YouTube TV, offer access to local networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. You can also use a digital antenna to receive over-the-air signals and watch local channels on your Roku device.
To access local channels on Roku, you can also use the Roku Channel Store to add local network apps, such as ABC and CBS. These apps often offer a range of content, including live TV and on-demand shows. With these options, you can stay up to date with local news, sports, and events on your Roku device.
How Much Does it Cost to Watch Regular TV on Roku?
The cost of watching regular TV on Roku varies depending on the channels and services you choose. Many live TV streaming services, such as Sling TV and YouTube TV, offer affordable monthly plans that start at around $25-$35 per month. You can also access TV network apps, such as ABC and CBS, for free with ads.
Some channels may require a subscription or a one-time fee to access certain content. For example, some sports channels may require a subscription to watch live games. But with the range of options available on Roku, you can often find affordable ways to access the content you want.
Do I Need a Smart TV to Use Roku?
No, you don’t need a smart TV to use Roku. Roku devices are designed to work with any TV, regardless of whether it’s a smart TV or not. You can connect a Roku device to your TV using an HDMI cable, and then access a range of channels and services.
Roku devices are available in a range of models, including streaming sticks, boxes, and smart soundbars. You can choose the model that best suits your needs and budget, and then connect it to your TV to start streaming your favorite content.
Is Roku Easy to Set Up and Use?
Yes, Roku is easy to set up and use. Roku devices come with a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate and find the content you want. You can use the Roku remote control to browse channels, search for content, and adjust settings.
Roku also offers a range of features to make it easy to use, including voice control and mobile app support. You can use the Roku mobile app to control your device, search for content, and even stream content from your phone or tablet to your TV. With Roku, you can start streaming your favorite content in just a few minutes.