4 Things Roku Owners Should Know About Their Streaming Device - The TV Answer Man! (2025)

By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man – Follow me on X.

Roku is the leading streaming device in the nation with nearly 90 million active subscriptions, according to the company. However, despite its popularity, many Roku owners may not be aware of the many features and benefits the device offers. Here are four things you may not know about Roku:

1. You can watch Comcast’s Xfinity TV and Charter’s Spectrum TV on Roku.

Comcast and Charter’s Spectrum TV, the nation’s two largest cable operators, both have an app on Roku (Xfinity Stream for Comcast and Spectrum TV for the Charter service) that allows you to watch the same channels that you subscribe to via your cable set-tops. For example, if have the set-top connected to a living room TV, you could watch your cable programming lineup on another TV in a different room by simply connecting the Roku to the second set.This is a nice feature for Comcast and Spectrum TV subscribers who want TV in multiple rooms without paying for additional set-tops. To learn more about Spectrum TV on Roku,click here. To learn more about how to watch Comcast Xfinity on Roku,click here.

2. You can get a Roku replacement remote for free.

If you lose your Roku remote, Roku.com, the streamer’s web site,sellsseveral different remotes including one that is voice-activated as well as a basic one that’s no-frills. The cost ranges from $9.99 for the basic remote to $29.99 for a voice-activated model (Roku Voice Remote Pro) that includes a headphone jack. The Roku site lists each Roku model that is compatible with each remote so you’ll know which one to buy.

But, you ask, what about that free version of a Roku remote I referred to?

Roku has a downloadable mobile app in the Apple app store (Look for ‘The Roku App, Official’) and Google Play that includes a remote control. The app enables you to search for channels, connect headphones, turn up the volume, pause and do everything else that the physical remote does. And best of all, it’s free. I have used it many times and it’s been a life saver. So if you’re okay with using your smart phone as your new Roku remote, you can replace that lost one for zero dollars. (The free remote works with either a Roku TV or streaming device.)

3. You can connect Roku to any television.

Roku (streaming stick or device) is a great starter product for those who are unfamiliar with watching programming on the Internet. The product delivers thousands of channels for free as well as popular subscription channels such as Netflix and Amazon’s Prime Video.Best of all, the Roku Streaming Stick can be connected with a single cable.But will that single cable connect toyour TV, you ask?

I don’t know what kind of set you own, but the Roku Streaming Stick will work with anytelevisionthat has an HDMI port connection. You take the HDMI cable, which is connected to the stick, and connect it to the HDMI port on your set. If you’re not sure yourTV has an HDMI connection, most sets made in the last decade do. But you can also consult your TV’s manual or just look at the set yourself. The HDMI connection is usually in the back of the set, although sometimes it’s on the side.

4. You can connect your Roku to a television in six easy steps:

Step 1. Gather Your Gear
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary equipment:

* A Roku streaming device (such as Roku Express, Roku Streaming Stick, or Roku Ultra)

* An HDMI cable (included with most Roku devices)

* A compatible TV with an available HDMI port

* A power source (either a power outlet or USB port on your TV)

* A Roku remote control (included with Roku devices)

Step 2: Choose the Right HDMI Port

* Locate an available HDMI port on your TV. Most modern TVs have multiple HDMI ports, so choose one that is convenient for you and remember the corresponding number (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.).

Step 3: Connect the Roku to Your TV

* Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the Roku device.

* Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the selected HDMI port on your TV.

* If your Roku device requires external power, connect it to a power outlet using the provided power adapter and cable. Alternatively, some Roku devices can be powered through a USB port on your TV.

Step 4: Set Up the Roku

* Turn on your TV and select the HDMI input channel to which the Roku is connected (e.g., HDMI 1).

* You should see the Roku welcome screen. If not, make sure the TV is set to the correct input source.

* Insert batteries into your Roku remote control and pair it with the Roku device. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.

* Choose your preferred language and connect the Roku to your Wi-Fi network. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.

Step 5: Update and Sign In

* Once connected to Wi-Fi, your Roku device may check for software updates. If an update is available, allow the device to install it to ensure you have the latest features and improvements.

* After updating, sign in to your Roku account. If you don’t have one, you can create a new account on the Roku website.

Step 6: Add Channels and Start Streaming

* After signing in, you can start adding your favorite channels. Roku offers a wide range of free and paid channels, including popular streaming services, movies, TV shows, and games.

* Navigate to the Roku Channel Store from your Roku device or the Roku website. Browse through the available channels and select the ones you want to add. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the channels.

Bonus Fifth Point: The last pro tip I’ll note is that Roku is frequently adding channels on numerous subjects and interests. So occasionally click on the Streaming Channels in the Roku menu to see new additions.

Have a Question? Ask The TV Answer Man!

Have a question about a favorite show, streaming service or new TV product? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com. Please include your first name and hometown in your message.

The TV Answer Manis veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered television for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch television. See the bio forPhillip Swann here.

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