Table of Contents

In a world where everything is streaming, there are a number of brands you may use to get your internet-connected movie and TV show watching off to a good start. Roku is among the most often used choices.

Roku, which also offers an amazing user experience and a wide range of features and customizations that showcase the shows, movies, and sports you enjoy watching, makes it possible for several of the most well-known standalone streaming devices and smart TVs with Roku integration.

Top 12 Best Free Channels On Roku You Can Watch
Top 12 Best Free Channels On Roku You Can Watch

What is Roku?

The company Roku produces a line of media-streaming gadgets that run the Roku operating system. Because Roku is the sixth business that its founder, Anthony Wood, has established, the name means "six" in Japanese. Since the debut of its first product, the Roku DVP, in 2008, the firm has been delivering updates for both its hardware and software on a regular basis.

Roku streaming media players have always concentrated on offering an incredibly easy way to access streaming video and music material on any TV, in contrast to home theater PCs, game consoles, or other internet-connected devices. A Roku device allows you to watch any and all of your favorite streaming services, including Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, and hundreds more. It also offers a vast array of specialty "channels" that stream anything from the bizarre to the spiritual.

Many iterations of the original streaming platform, smart TVs with Roku streaming software pre-installed, soundbars, speakers, home security systems, and the Roku Channel for live TV viewing are just a few of the items that Roku offers nowadays.

Is it software or is it a device?

Both of them are! The Roku players, which range in price from $30 for the entry-level Roku Express to $180 for the top-tier Roku Streambar Pro, Roku sells its own hardware. There are a number of models available in between, including stick-style players that connect straight to your TV. These players work with any TV that has an HDMI connection, but people without smart TVs with internet connections will find them extremely useful. A Roku remote is included with every device; the most recent models have voice control and Bluetooth. These are simple-to-use gadgets that enable you to manage streaming media playback and browse the Roku on-screen menus. With a few extra capabilities and a simpler way to search using the on-screen keyboard, you can also operate the system with the Roku app on your smartphone (more on the remote later).

Additionally, Roku has integrated the Roku OS into its high-end streaming device and soundbar combo, the Streambar Pro, as well as affordable soundbars. Roku's wireless speakers and subwoofers allow these soundbars to be developed into complete wireless surround systems.

In addition, Roku licenses its Roku OS—which powers its players—to other companies, including as TV makers TCL, Hisense, RCA, Onn, and Toshiba. These TVs with Roku built in are referred to as Roku TVs, and depending on the model, they include all of the Roku experience along with control over the TV's specific features, such as inputs, channels, and volume, all within the straightforward Roku interface. It is a compelling argument for many people to get a Roku TV. The business most recently introduced its line of Roku-branded TVs, which are only available at Best Buy.

Something more to justify purchasing a Roku TV? Dolby Vision is a high dynamic range (HDR) video format that looks better than regular HDR10, and several of these devices support it. This is significant because Roku now only offers Dolby Vision on a small number of standalone devices: the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, Roku Streaming Stick 4K+, and Roku Ultra.

Must I pay a subscription fee?

No. Whether you purchase a Roku player, Roku TV, or Roku Soundbar, you are not charged a membership fee to access any of Roku's features. But you can access a lot of streaming services that do require a membership using Roku. Well-known providers of subscription-based content include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and Hulu. It's also feasible to access facilities for buying or renting movies, both of which demand payment.

There are a ton of totally free content options available in addition to the premium options. The Roku Channel's Live TV Channel Guide provides access to 350 live TV stations. Additionally, you may access your library of films, TV series, images, and music on the majority of Roku devices. Certain Roku players, such as the Ultra, have a specific USB connector that allows you to play files straight from an external hard drive.

How to search for channels on Roku

Top 12 Best Free Channels On Roku You Can Watch

While having access to thousands of channels is undoubtedly one of Roku's many advantages, the volume of content available might be daunting. Fortunately, Roku offers a useful universal search function that allows you to search for material by director, actor, or title. You may also conduct a search using well-known dialogue phrases like "Hamburgers!" or "I can do this all day." the foundation of any wholesome breakfast.

It retrieves content from more than 500 of the most popular streaming channels; some of the more obscure stuff might not appear, but the most well-liked content will. You can also view content matches from available TV channels if your Roku TV is attached to an over-the-air antenna.

Prices are used to arrange the matches, and symbols next to the names designate if the content is a TV show, movie, or channel. You may get more facts on the item, like a cast and crew list and the channels you can watch it on, by clicking on these search results. The ability to see which movies or TV shows are included in your subscriptions is the nicest aspect.

Top 12 Best Free Channels On Roku You Can Watch

1. The Roku Channel

Link: https://therokuchannel.roku.com/browse/free-movies-and-tv

With live TV stations, movies, documentaries, and TV series, The Roku Channel offers a wide variety of entertainment options. It features a layout akin to Netflix on Roku and may satisfy the whole family. Premium content can be purchased, although it's not necessary. Watch a show like The Nanny, rewatch a classic film like Armageddon, or entertain the kids with Peppa Pig; there's something for everyone.

2. Vevo

Link: https://www.hq.vevo.com/

The Vevo channel has all the information about music you never knew you wanted. You can view artist interviews, behind-the-scenes videos, and your favorite music videos. Discover a wide variety of singers, bands, and genres, including pop, country, jazz, rock, R&B, hip-hop, and more.

3. Pluto TV

Link: https://pluto.tv/

Thousands of movies and more than 100 channels are available for free viewing on Pluto TV.

Thousands of movies and over 100 channels are available for free on Pluto TV. Additionally, you can browse live TV for free; it works similarly to having a cable subscription. Alright, so you won't get the newest stuff, but you can browse by genre and watch everything from kids' TV to drama, cooking, and sports to classic shows like CSI, Hell's Kitchen, and Unsolved Mysteries.

4. Xumo

Link: https://www.xumo.com/

Over 190 channels, including live TV and on-demand streaming, are available on Xumo.

Free live TV and on-demand streaming are provided by Xumo. You can browse among more than 190 channels, which provide humor, horror films, sports, local news, and much more. Enjoy some quality family time with Family Feud or laugh uncontrollably at the FailArmy channel. FOX Sports, the PGA Tour, and other sports highlights are also available for you to watch.

READ MORE: Top 10 Best Free Sites To Watch/Download Japanese Dramas

5. HappyKids

Link: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/8adb4b94cbfb9707301712826b98307c/happykids-kids-tv-shows-and-movies

The HappyKids Roku channel has content for kids who enjoy Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, and Pup Tales, among other shows. You're guaranteed to find a new program or see one of the over 70,000 amusing shows available for kids of all ages.

Stream poetry, music, stories, workouts, and DIY in addition to concerts. For the special child in your home, you'll also love the holiday-themed content, entertaining games and activities, and an endless supply of entertainment alternatives.

HappyKids is kidSAFE+ COPPA certified and the 2022 winner of the Mom's Choice Awards Gold Award and the National Parenting Product Awards (NAPPA).

6. CBS Sports

Link: https://www.cbssports.com/nba/

The CBS Sports Stream & Watch Live channel might be your best bet for keeping up with the newest sporting events if you're a sports lover. You can watch live sports news and highlights, as well as pre- and post-game programming, from all major sports, including the NFL, PGA Tour events, National Women's Soccer League, and much more.

READ MORE: Top 10 Free Websites To Watch HD Movies Online

7. Comet TV

Link: https://comettv.com/

Science fiction enthusiasts will value Comet TV's efforts to provide free science fiction streaming content, which is packed with beloved classics and current series. Its schedule features films and television series, including 10 seasons of Stargate SG-1 and the 1933 horror film The Vampire Bat. For those who missed the early days of the SyFy channel, Comet TV is a terrific alternative.

8. TED

Link: https://www.ted.com/

You may view hundreds of talks and presentations on a wide range of topics from knowledgeable speakers on the TED channel. Choose from the newest releases, the most popular lectures, or categories like Jaw-Dropping, Funny, Inspiring, and Courageous. Additionally, there are themed playlists for every mood, ranging from "The pursuit of justice" to "What makes you happy." Alternatively, look up a speaker or subject you have in mind.

9. The Bob Ross Channel

Link: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/95f30ad1e9a3c9bd667e37795b422fab/the-bob-ross-channel

The Bob Ross Channel can help you unleash your inner creative. You may watch all 380 of the Joy of Painting series' classic episodes if you add it to your list of free Roku channels. Perhaps observing Bob Ross paint will inspire you to grab a paintbrush. Alternatively, just listen to the channel as calming background music while doing laundry. Bob Ross is excellent at both.

10. Fawesome

Link: https://fawesome.tv/

Fawesome encompasses a wide range of films and television series, including anime.

You can watch fantastic movies, TV series, and more for free when you use the app Fawesome, which combines the words "free" and "awesome." Thousands of movies in genres ranging from action and horror to family friendly films and romantic comedies make up this channel's collection, which is continuously updated with new material.

Fawesome features an anime genre in addition to the standard genres. Furthermore, its parent firm has produced a number of distinct, free streaming channels catering to specific niches, such Fawesome LGBTQ, Fawesome Black Cinema, and Fawesome Bollymix, to mention a few.

11. Tubi

Link: https://tubitv.com/

There are many different genres available on the free channel Tubi.

Another multi-content channel where you may watch a variety of TV series and films for free is Tubi. On Tubi, you may find anything from the horror film Resident Evil to the Western drama True Grit. There is something for everyone among the many genres available, which include children's, drama, comedy, horror, and even some specialized categories like anime and Korean dramas.

12. iFoodTV

Link: https://ifood.tv/

You don’t have to love cooking shows to watch iFood.tv on Roku, you just have to like food. And who doesn’t like food?

You can watch walk-throughs on preparing classic dishes or new cuisine, find recipes based on ingredients, or scope out fresh ideas for specific dietary needs. If you do enjoy cooking shows like Positively Paula or Michael Chiarello’s Napa, you can tune in to a single episode or watch the whole library.

In summary

Although Rokus let you have numerous paying services on one device, having multiple streaming services on one device can get expensive. Fortunately, there are channels that are available for free.

The Roku Channel Store menu lists all of those channels. In order to stay updated on local happenings, you may also add local channels to Roku and watch sports on ESPN.

Remember, these channels are free to download and use, so you can enjoy a variety of content without spending a dime!

Easy Steps To Move and Delete Channels on The Roku Home Screen Easy Steps To Move and Delete Channels on The Roku Home Screen

Here’s how to move or delete just about anything from your Roku home screen and even get alerts when movies and shows become available.

How To Watch TNT On Roku For Free How To Watch TNT On Roku For Free

Roku is a brand of hardware digital media players manufactured by American company Roku, Inc. They offer access to streaming media content from various online ...

Top 15 Best Free Channels on Roku to Download for Watching Top 15 Best Free Channels on Roku to Download for Watching

With over 5,000 channels, Roku offers a great selection of free Roku channels that you can download and stream right now.