The Roku app allows you to turn your computer into a Roku streaming device.
With the app, you can access your favorite streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and more on your PC.
This article’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting the Roku app on your Windows or Mac computer.
What is the Roku App?
The Roku app essentially turns your computer into a Roku player.
Just like using a Roku streaming stick or box, the Roku app gives you access to thousands of streaming channels including popular services like:
- Netflix
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney+
- HBO Max
- ESPN
- YouTube
- Pandora
- Crackle
- PBS Kids
- And tons more!
With the app, you can stream movies, TV shows, news, sports, music, and more completely free (with a subscription to the applicable streaming service).
The Roku app works by linking your computer to your Roku account. Once connected, you’ll have access to all of the streaming channels you’re subscribed to through your Roku account.
You can use the Roku app to stream on your computer or mirror your computer screen to your TV using screen mirroring/casting. This gives you a bigger screen streaming experience.
Benefits of the Roku App for PC
There are many benefits to getting the Roku app for your Windows or Mac computer:
- Stream anywhere – The Roku app allows you to stream your favorite shows and movies anywhere you have your computer. At home, at work, traveling, or anywhere with WiFi access.
- Big screen streaming – Use the Roku app to cast/mirror your computer screen to your TV for big screen viewing. Much easier than using HDMI cables!
- No extra equipment needed – Unlike buying a dedicated Roku player, the app doesn’t require any extra equipment. If you have a computer and Internet connection, you’re good to go.
- Free access to streaming channels – Once connected to your Roku account, you’ll have free access to all of your streaming channel subscriptions. No need to pay for anything extra.
- Roku features – Get access to Roku features like Roku Search, customize your home screen, use Roku voice remotes, and more.
How to Get the Roku App for PC
Getting the Roku app on your Windows PC or Mac is easy and completely free. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
For Windows PC
- Go to the Microsoft Store on your Windows 10 or 11 computer.
- Search for “Roku”.
- Find the app called “Roku – Official Roku App” and click Get to download and install it.
- Once installed, open the Roku app.
- Click “Sign in” and enter your Roku account email and password to link your PC.
- The app will now sync your Roku account and channels to your computer.
- Start streaming your favorite shows, movies and more!
For Mac
- Go to the Roku website and navigate to the Roku app download page.
- Click the “Download for macOS” button to download the Roku installer file.
- Open the installer and follow the prompts to install the Roku app.
- Open the newly installed Roku app on your Mac.
- Click “Sign in” and enter your Roku account login details.
- The app will sync with your account and you’ll have access to all of your Roku content.
- You can now stream to your Mac or mirror to your TV. Enjoy!
Using the Roku App on Your Computer
Once you have the app installed and linked to your Roku account, here are some tips for using it:
- Browse channels and shows just like you would on your Roku player. Search, scroll and select something to watch.
- Use the playback controls like play, pause, rewind, or fast forward as you stream.
- Mirror your computer screen to your TV using built-in screen mirroring/casting if available. This wirelessly displays your computer on your TV for big screen viewing.
- Connect headphones or external speakers to your computer for private listening.
- Create and organize Roku Channels on your PC app homepage. Add your favorites.
- Use Roku voice remotes and voice commands if your computer has a microphone.
- Access Roku features like searching across multiple streaming channels at once.
- Manage your Roku account like adding channels, changing settings, billing details right from the app.
- Stream in HD quality depending on your computer and Internet speeds.
- And more! The app gives you full Roku capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the Roku app for PC:
Ques 1: Is the Roku app for computer free?
Ans: Yes, the Roku app is completely free to download and use. You just need an active Roku account.
Ques 2: What devices is the Roku app available for?
Ans: The Roku app can be installed on Windows 10, Windows 11, MacOS, iOS, and Android mobile devices.
Ques 3: Do I need a Roku streaming player to use the app?
Ans: No, you don’t need a physical Roku device. The app gives your computer Roku streaming capability by itself.
Ques 4: Does the computer app stream in HD?
Ans: Yes, the Roku app will stream in up to 1080p Full HD resolution depending on your computer system specs and internet speeds.
Ques 5: Can I watch TV channels like cable on the Roku app?
Ans: No, the Roku app doesn’t provide access to normal cable TV channels. You can only watch streaming content like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, etc.
Ques 6: What systems does the computer Roku app NOT work on?
Ans: Unfortunately the Roku app is not available on Linux computers. It also does not work on Chromebooks.
Ques 7: How do I mirror Roku to my TV from PC?
Ans: You can mirror your computer’s display to your TV using options like Google Chromecast, Miracast, WiDi, HDMI, or other wireless display casting. This mirrors the Roku app.
And that covers the basics of using the Roku app for Windows and Mac! With the app, you can start streaming your favorite Roku channels and shows on your computer in just minutes.
