How to Watch Local Channels on Roku: Your Ultimate Guide
If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of missing out on your favorite local news, sports, or entertainment channels because your cable service does not offer them, fear not! You can stream local channels on Roku and enjoy your favorite shows without having to subscribe to pricey cable services.
Cut the Cord: How to Watch Local Channels on Roku and Ditch Cable for Good!
Streaming local channels on Roku comes with many benefits over using cable services. For one, it is more affordable as you can access local programming without having to pay for expensive cable packages. Roku also offers greater flexibility as you can watch your preferred content on demand and on multiple devices.
If you’re ready to cut the cord and start streaming local channels on your Roku, here’s what you need to do:
- Turn on your Roku device and connect it to the internet.
- Navigate to the Roku Channel Store and search for local channels in your area, which may include services like Sling TV, Hulu, or Philo.
- Select the channel you want and add it to your Roku device.
- Sign up for the specific channel or service you’ve added, then enter your payment details via the channel provider’s website or app to start streaming.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to start streaming local channels on your Roku!
5 Ways to Stream Live Local Channels on Roku: A Beginner’s Guide
There are different ways to stream live local channels on Roku. Here are the most popular options:
- Through subscription services: you can subscribe to live TV streaming services like Sling TV, Hulu, or Philo, which offer local channels as part of their packages.
- Using live TV streaming apps: some channels offer standalone apps that allow you to stream their content on Roku. Examples include ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and PBS.
- Using digital antennas: you can use a digital antenna to access local channels for free on your Roku device. However, this may not be the most reliable option in areas with poor reception.
- Opting for cable-replacement services: these services like PlayStation Vue, YouTube TV, and DirecTV Now offer local channels along with other cable channels. Some of these services are costly, but they provide a massive selection of channels and live events.
- Using network apps: Roku offers network apps for CBS, NBC, ABC and FOX. If you subscribe to a cable package, you can log in with your cable account to access the live broadcast on your Roku device.
When choosing a service to subscribe to, keep in mind factors like pricing, channel selection, and quality of service. For example, if you’re primarily interested in watching local sports coverage, you may wish to subscribe to a service that offers regional sports networks. Similarly, if you’re on a budget, you may prefer a service with a lower monthly subscription cost.
Our Top 3 Picks for Streaming Local Channels on Roku
When it comes to streaming local channels on Roku, some services stand out among the rest for their affordability and features. Here are our top three picks:
- Philo: Philo is a great option for budget-minded viewers who want access to local channels without breaking the bank. For just $20 per month, you get access to over 60 channels, including popular channels like ABC, NBC, and Fox. However, the service does not offer local news or sports coverage.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV combines its famous on-demand streaming services with live programming, including local channels for access to local news and sports. The service costs $54.99 per month and offers a mix of live and on-demand content, including Hulu Original Shows.
- Sling TV: Sling TV provides affordable options to users, starting at $30 a month. Sling allows you to build your package catered to your viewing preference. With focus on live national news, sports and major broadcast networks such as NBC and ABC Sling TV is a great value pick for cord cutters.
Is It Really Possible to Watch Local Channels on Roku? Our Experience and Tips
As we can attest, streaming local channels on Roku is not only possible but also easy and cost-effective. We’ve recommended our consumer pick for those looking to switch from cable to a streaming service that offers local channels and have found excellent subjective experience. However, before making the switch, we recommend that you evaluate your specific local channel requirements and compare them to the channel offerings of streaming services for you to get all that you need.
Breaking News: Roku Now Offers Local Channels — Here’s How to Get Them!
Roku’s latest software update includes an automatic feature that recognizes the user’s location with the help of IP addresses and offers users, content from local channels based on their location. This functionality is part of support for the TVision services from T-Mobile, so it will only work if you have subscribed to T-Mobile’s TVision service.
To take advantage of this new feature:
- Switch on your Roku device and connect to the internet.
- Install the TVision app on your Roku device.
- Log in to the TVision app with your T-Mobile account details.
- Enjoy your local news and sports coverage on your Roku device!
The Pros and Cons of Watching Local Channels on Roku
Now that you know how to watch local channels on Roku, it’s time to weigh the pros and cons to arrive at a conclusion. Here are the key benefits and drawbacks of streaming local channels on Roku:
Pros:
- It is less expensive than cable services.
- You can watch local programming on multiple devices from any location with internet access.
- Provides greater flexibility as you can access local content on demand.
- Provides greater control over what channels to buy.
Cons:
- Some services may not provide access to local sports events or channels.
- The picture quality of the broadcasting might be less than that of cable service
- Network programming may be blacked out in some areas, or the service may not offer the specific local channels that you want to watch.
- You may need to subscribe to multiple services to access all the channels you want to watch, which can add up quickly in monthly fees.
Conclusion
If you are still paying for cable and missing out on local channel service, it’s time to make the switch and start streaming local channels on your Roku device. With our guide, you can easily access local channels on Roku and subscribe to a service that best suits your needs.
