This post outlines how to watch IPTV on Roku.
What Is IPTV?
Before we dive into installing IPTV on Roku, let’s first understand what IPTV is.
IPTV, or Internet Protocol Television, is a service that provides live TV channels and on-demand content over the Internet.
Unlike traditional cable or satellite TV, IPTV offers greater flexibility, faster access, and a more versatile viewing experience.
IPTV channels come in HD high resolution, so you’re not compromising on quality.
There are many legal and official IPTV services you can install directly on Roku.
Benefits of IPTV on Roku
- Cost savings: Most IPTV services cost significantly less than traditional cable packages while offering similar or better channel lineups.
- Flexibility: Watch live TV anywhere with internet access, pause and rewind live broadcasts, and access on-demand libraries.
- No contracts: Many services offer month-to-month subscriptions without long-term commitments or early termination fees.
- Device compatibility: Roku’s user-friendly interface makes managing multiple IPTV services simple and intuitive.
- Customization: Choose services that match your viewing preferences rather than paying for hundreds of channels you never watch.
For IPTV Users!
ISPs, hackers, and other third-party entities worldwide may monitor your online activities. For security, privacy, and smooth streaming, it is recommended to use a reliable VPN. Your IP address is visible to sites you visit.
I recommend ExpressVPN, a fast and secure VPN in the industry. It is very easy to install on any device, including Amazon Fire TV Stick, PC, Mac, and Smartphones. Also, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t like their service, you can always ask for a refund. ExpressVPN also has a special deal where you can get 4 months free and save 61% on the 2-year plan.
10 Best Legal IPTV Apps for Roku
1. Sling TV
Price: Starting at $40/month Channels: 30+ in base package
Sling TV pioneered the cord-cutting movement by offering ESPN, CNN, HGTV, and other popular cable channels at fraction of traditional cable costs.
The service offers two base packages – Sling Orange and Sling Blue – that can be combined for more channels.
Key features:
- Cloud DVR with 50 hours of storage
- On-demand content from major networks
- Add-on packages for premium channels
- Multiple device streaming (varies by package)
2. YouTube TV
Price: $72.99/month Channels: 85+
YouTube TV provides one of the most comprehensive channel lineups among streaming services, including local broadcast networks, sports channels, and premium cable networks.
The service excels in sports coverage and local channel availability.
Key features:
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage
- Six user accounts per household
- 4K streaming on select content
- Strong local channel coverage in most markets
3. Hulu + Live TV
Price: Starting at $76.99/month Channels: 75+
Combining Hulu’s extensive on-demand library with live television, this service offers excellent value for viewers who want both live and on-demand content.
The package includes ESPN+, Disney+, and the full Hulu streaming library.
Key features:
- Massive on-demand content library
- Disney+ and ESPN+ included
- Unlimited DVR storage
- Next-day access to current TV episodes
4. Philo
Price: $25/month Channels: 70+
Philo focuses on entertainment and lifestyle channels while skipping expensive sports and news networks to keep costs low.
It’s perfect for viewers who want popular cable channels without paying for sports content they don’t watch.
Key features:
- Unlimited DVR storage
- Three simultaneous streams
- 30,000+ on-demand titles
- No sports channels (keeps costs down)
5. FuboTV
Price: Starting at $74.99/month Channels: 180+
Originally focused on sports streaming, FuboTV has expanded into a full-featured live TV service while maintaining its strength in sports coverage.
It offers one of the largest channel counts among streaming services.
Key features:
- Extensive sports channel coverage
- 1,000 hours of cloud DVR storage
- 4K streaming for select content
- International channel packages available
6. DirecTV Stream
Price: Starting at $69.99/month Channels: 65+ in base package
The streaming evolution of DirecTV satellite service, DirecTV Stream offers familiar channel packages without requiring satellite installation.
It provides good regional sports network coverage and premium channel options.
Key features:
- Regional sports networks included
- Cloud DVR with 20 hours storage (base plan)
- Premium channel add-ons available
- No annual contract required
7. Paramount+
Price: $5.99/month (Essential) / $11.99/month (with live TV) Channels: Local CBS affiliates plus on-demand content
While primarily known for on-demand content, Paramount+ offers live local CBS channels in most markets along with exclusive sports coverage including NFL games and March Madness.
Key features:
- Live local CBS channels
- Exclusive NFL on CBS games
- March Madness live coverage
- Extensive CBS/Paramount on-demand library
8. Peacock Premium Plus
Price: $11.99/month Channels: NBC live in select markets plus on-demand
NBCUniversal’s streaming service provides live NBC content in major markets along with exclusive sports coverage including Premier League soccer and Olympic content.
Key features:
- Live NBC in major markets
- Exclusive Premier League coverage
- Olympic Games streaming
- Ad-free on-demand content (Premium Plus)
9. Apple TV+
Price: $6.99/month Channels: Original content and select live events
While primarily focused on original programming, Apple TV+ occasionally offers live events and has been expanding into sports coverage with MLB Friday Night Baseball and MLS content.
Key features:
- High-quality original programming
- MLB Friday Night Baseball
- MLS Season Pass available
- 4K HDR streaming standard
10. Pluto TV
Price: Free with ads Channels: 250+
Pluto TV offers completely free live television with a mix of news, entertainment, and specialty channels.
While ad-supported, it provides a surprising variety and quality for a free service.
Key features:
- Completely free service
- 250+ live channels
- On-demand movie library
- News, sports, and entertainment content
How to Install IPTV Apps on Roku: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing IPTV apps on Roku is straightforward through the official Channel Store. Here’s how to install Sling TV as an example:
Step 1: Access the Roku Channel Store
- Turn on your Roku device and ensure it’s connected to the internet
- From the Roku home screen, navigate to “Streaming Channels” on the left sidebar
- Select “Search Channels” or browse through categories
Step 2: Search for Sling TV
- Use the search function and type “Sling TV”
- Select the official Sling TV app from the search results
- Verify it’s the official app (published by Sling TV LLC)
Step 3: Add the Channel
- Select “Add Channel” on the Sling TV page
- Wait for the download and installation to complete
- Select “OK” when the installation confirmation appears
Step 4: Launch and Set Up
- Return to the Roku home screen where Sling TV now appears
- Select the Sling TV app to launch it
- Choose “Sign In” if you have an existing account or “Start Free Trial” for new users
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete account setup
- Enter your credentials using the Roku remote or mobile app
Step 5: Start Watching
- Browse the available channels and content
- Select any live channel to start streaming
- Use the remote to access DVR, on-demand content, and settings
This same process works for installing any legal IPTV app from the Roku Channel Store.
Comparing IPTV Service Features
Channel Count Comparison
- FuboTV: 180+ channels (most comprehensive)
- YouTube TV: 85+ channels (best balance)
- Hulu + Live TV: 75+ channels (includes on-demand)
- DirecTV Stream: 65+ channels (regional sports focus)
- Philo: 70+ channels (entertainment-focused)
DVR Storage Options
- YouTube TV & Hulu + Live TV: Unlimited cloud DVR
- FuboTV: 1,000 hours of storage
- Sling TV: 50 hours included
- DirecTV Stream: 20 hours (base plan)
- Philo: Unlimited DVR
Sports Coverage
- FuboTV: Most comprehensive sports coverage
- YouTube TV: Excellent for local sports and ESPN
- Hulu + Live TV: Good sports selection with ESPN+
- Sling TV: ESPN available in Orange package
- Philo: No sports channels (by design)
Setting Up Multiple IPTV Services
Many Roku users combine multiple services to create a customized viewing experience:
Popular Combinations
Sports + Entertainment Bundle:
- Philo ($25) for entertainment channels
- ESPN+ ($10.99) for additional sports content
- Peacock Premium ($11.99) for Premier League and NBC content
Budget-Conscious Setup:
- Pluto TV (free) for basic live TV
- Philo ($25) for cable entertainment channels
- Paramount+ ($11.99) for CBS and sports
Premium Experience:
- YouTube TV ($72.99) for comprehensive live TV
- Apple TV+ ($6.99) for premium original content
- Individual network apps for additional on-demand content
Managing Multiple Services on Roku
- Home screen organization: Arrange your IPTV apps in order of most-used to least-used for easy access.
- Account management: Use a password manager to keep track of multiple service credentials.
- Subscription tracking: Set calendar reminders for free trial endings and subscription renewals.
- Bandwidth considerations: Monitor internet usage if you have data caps, as multiple HD streams can consume significant bandwidth.
Optimizing Your Roku for IPTV Streaming
Internet Requirements
- Minimum speed: 25 Mbps for 4K streaming, 10 Mbps for HD
- Wired connection: Use Ethernet when possible for most stable connection
- Router placement: Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal strength to your Roku device
- Network prioritization: Consider QoS settings on your router for streaming traffic
Roku Settings Optimization
- Display settings: Configure resolution and refresh rate to match your TV capabilities
- Audio settings: Set up surround sound if you have compatible audio equipment
- Network settings: Use 5GHz Wi-Fi band when available for better performance
- Power settings: Adjust sleep settings to balance convenience with energy usage
Troubleshooting Common IPTV Issues on Roku
Buffering and Quality Issues
- Check internet speed: Use Roku’s network test or external speed test tools
- Restart your router: Unplug for 30 seconds and restart both router and Roku
- Lower video quality: Temporarily reduce stream quality in app settings
- Close unused apps: Exit other streaming apps to free up system resources
App Installation Problems
- Check Roku compatibility: Ensure your Roku model supports the specific app
- Clear Roku cache: Restart your Roku device to clear temporary files
- Update Roku software: Go to Settings > System > System Update
- Check account status: Verify your Roku account is in good standing
Login and Authentication Issues
- Verify credentials: Double-check username and password for the service
- Use mobile app: Many services offer easier login through their mobile apps
- Check subscription status: Ensure your service subscription is active
- Contact support: Reach out to the specific service’s customer support
Legal Considerations and Best Practices
Staying Legal with IPTV
- Use official apps only: Install apps exclusively from the official Roku Channel Store
- Verify service legitimacy: Choose established services with proper licensing agreements
- Avoid unofficial channels: Never sideload unofficial IPTV apps or channels
- Respect terms of service: Follow each service’s usage guidelines and restrictions
Account Security
- Strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for each streaming service
- Enable two-factor authentication: When available, add extra security to your accounts
- Monitor account activity: Regularly check for unauthorized usage or charges
- Log out when sharing: Sign out of accounts when letting others use your Roku
Cost Analysis: IPTV vs Traditional Cable
Monthly Cost Comparison
Traditional Cable: $80-150/month with contracts and fees IPTV Combination: $30-80/month with flexibility
Example Budget Setup:
- Pluto TV: Free
- Philo: $25/month
- Paramount+: $11.99/month
- Total: $36.99/month
Example Premium Setup:
- YouTube TV: $72.99/month
- Apple TV+: $6.99/month
- Total: $79.98/month
Additional Savings
- No equipment fees: No rental charges for cable boxes or DVRs
- No installation costs: Set up yourself without technician visits
- No long-term contracts: Cancel or change services anytime
- No hidden fees: Transparent pricing without surprise charges
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Yes, services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV offer local broadcast channels in most markets. Availability varies by location and service.
A: No, IPTV services are designed to replace cable subscriptions. You only need a reliable internet connection and the streaming service subscription.
A: You can install multiple apps, but can only stream from one app at a time on each Roku device. Multiple household members can use different apps simultaneously on separate devices.
A: Yes, all services mentioned in this guide are completely legal and licensed to distribute their content. Always use official apps from the Roku Channel Store.
A: For HD streaming, you need at least 10 Mbps per stream. For 4K content, plan for 25 Mbps per stream. Account for multiple devices using your network simultaneously.
A: Most services offer cloud DVR functionality that lets you record shows to watch later. Storage limits and features vary by service.
A: Most services allow multiple users per household and simultaneous streams on different devices. Check each service's terms for specific sharing policies.
A: Yes, Pluto TV offers over 250 channels completely free with advertising support. It's a legitimate service with proper content licensing.
A: Most IPTV services work anywhere in the US, though local channel availability may change based on your location. Some content may be restricted when traveling internationally.
Final Recommendations
IPTV on Roku offers an excellent alternative to traditional cable television, providing flexibility, cost savings, and access to modern streaming features. The key is choosing the right combination of services that match your viewing preferences and budget.
For most users, we recommend:
- Start with one comprehensive service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV
- Add specialty services like Philo for additional entertainment channels
- Include free services like Pluto TV for extra variety
- Consider premium add-ons only for content you’ll regularly watch
Remember that the beauty of IPTV services lies in their flexibility – you can easily add, remove, or change services based on your evolving needs without long-term contracts or penalties. Start with one or two services and expand your setup as you discover what works best for your household’s viewing habits.
Wrapping Up
In this article, I explored several methods for watching IPTV on Roku. One option involves using an unverified IPTV service by either integrating it with a Roku-compatible IPTV player or using screen mirroring from your mobile device. Alternatively, you can opt for a verified IPTV app available directly from the Roku Channel Store. Both methods give you access to TV shows, live TV, and other video content, often at a lower cost than traditional cable TV.
Did you encounter any challenges while setting up IPTV on Roku? Which IPTVs did you try, and what do you think of them? Leave a comment to share your thoughts!
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Everything worked well but when I try to log in onto the app I get an error: Login failed. Please check…
Does any one know why?
Hi Eli, you may have run into a temporary issue. Please try again and let me know.
the link for the Iptv Smarters channel doesn’t work…
Hi Ahmed,
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We have altered the link and the article’s instructions so that you shouldn’t have any further issues.
Im at the step where I log in to the IPTV Smarters pro and am unable to because there is a url here .com needed. Someone provide help asap please.
Hi India,
The URL that you need should be in the confirmation email that was sent to you by your IPTV service provider when you signed up for their services. Please let me know if you continue to run into this issue.
У меня нету данные Thank you, I installed the on my player Roku as you described, but
unfortunately I don’t have provider data, login, password, and server port. I only have a m3u8 playlist that I want to load into the player. Why is there no entrance to the player here as in versions for other devices, but only the Xtream code API.? I only want to upload my playlist, how do I do that?
Hi Samvel,
I recommend getting the mobile app for the IPTV player you are using and selecting the cast or mirror option on your device to stream content from your phone to your television. Please refer to the section of this article that details how to watch IPTV on Roku through screen mirroring. Hope this helps!
the link for the Iptvsmarters channel doesnt work…
Hi Pete, this IPTV service is currently unavailable. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, the post has been updated accordingly.
Smarters package link is broken, so this guide doesnt let you complete all the steps
Hi Carlos, thank you for pointing this out. I will update the post accordingly.