RokuUncategorized

Is Netflix Free On Roku?

With all the talk about streaming devices such as Roku, you’re probably considering adding one to your setup. However, as with many new devices, it can be quite confusing to know what’s included with your purchase. Starting with popular streaming services such as Netflix, does it come free with Roku?

The Netflix app is free to download on Roku, but it does not come with a free Netflix subscription. A Netflix subscription costs $9.99 for its basic plan and $19.99 for its premium plan. You can sign up for this through the Roku app or through Netflix’s official website.

Let’s take a look at your options for watching Netflix on Roku, as well as what you get for free with your Roku device and what you will need a subscription for. Let’s dive in!

Is Netflix Free On Roku?

All Roku devices come with Netflix pre-installed; however, in order to use the app, you will require a subscription. Netflix offers two plans; the first is its basic plan which allows you to watch Netflix on. one screen at a time which costs $8.99. The second plan Netflix offers is its premium plan which costs $17.99 & allows you to view Netflix on multiple screens simultaneously. This is a great option if you have several users, allowing each user to have their own profile, allowing Netflix to personalize movie & TV show recommendations.

Premium streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus will all require a subscription in order to be viewed on Roku. However, Roku offers a selection of free channels that offer a wide variety of popular movies, TV Shows, and sporting events & news.

Also, it’s worth mentioning if you are an Amazon Prime member, you will have access to Amazon Prime Video, which is Amazon’s premium streaming service—providing you access to Amazon’s vast collection of movies, TV shows, as well as Amazon Original Content.

Now let’s take a look at popular streaming services and channels on Roku, both Free and subscription-based models.

Premium Streaming Services on Roku: (Services & Channels that require a subscription)

  • Disney Plus
  • Netflix
  • Hulu
  • HBO Go/Now
  • Apple TV
  • Showtime
  • CBS All Access
  • Plex
  • Starz 
  • Sling TV
  • MLB.TV
  • CuriosityStream
  • WatchESPN 
  • NFL
  • PlayOn
  • DC Universe

What is Free on Roku?

Roku does offer several channels and apps for free, which offer a wide selection of popular movies, shows, live events, and more. Here’s a list of some of the popular channels & apps on Roku.

Popular Free Channels & Services on Roku: (No Subscription Required)

  • Roku Channel
  • Peacock
  • Tubi
  • Crackle
  • FilmRise
  • Pluto TV
  • XUMO
  • Newsy Channel
  • PBS and PBS Kids
  • The Weather Network 
  • Youtube
  • Spotify (fr version)
  • Twitch

For an extensive list of free channels, services & apps on Roku, click here.

Can You Get Local Channels on Roku?

There are several apps & channels that offer local live channels. Some are free, while others are subscription-based services. Here is a list of the most popular ones:

Subscription-based Channels:

  • Fubo TV
  • Hulu Live+ TV
  • Sling TV
  • CBS All Access
  • Youtube TV

Free channels:

  • NewsOn
  • PlutoTV
  • Newsy
  • HayStack
  • WeatherNation
  • The Weather Network

How Much Does Roku Cost Per Month?

The Roku device itself does not require a subscription, nor does it require any monthly fee. It is a one-time purchase. You can use Roku’s free channels listed above at no added cost. However, if you want access to premium streaming services and cable alternative services such as Sling TV, Netflix, Hulu, & Disney Plus, you will need a subscription to those services.

Alternatively, you will be able to playback digital media by using a USB & the Roku media player app. This is only if your device is equipped with a USB port.

Can I use Roku Without Internet?

Roku does require an internet connection, particularly a WIFI connection, the Roku Ultra being the only device currently that supports an ethernet connection. However, with that being said, there are several ways in which you can still use your device for viewing purposes without needing an internet connection. The first is if you own a subscription to a premium streaming service such as Netflix, you will be able to download movies & TV shows and use them on offline mode. However, streaming services such as Netflix only allows you to download content through your phone, which means you will need to screen mirror your device to your Roku in order to watch films and shows offline.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it; although the Roku comes with a selection of free channels, premium streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and more will require a subscription on their own platform to be used. Alternatively, if you have an Amazon Prime membership, you will have access to Amazon Prime Video, which is Amazon’s own video streaming service that features thousands of popular movies and TV shows. The good news is Roku provides its own channel, “Roku Channel,” which offers premium content for free!

Steven Carr

Steven is a certified IT professional and gaming enthusiast. He has been working in the tech industry for over 10 years, and specializes in all things Tech-related. When he's not geeking out over the latest hardware or software release, he can be found testing out the latest video game.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button