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To use Roku on an LG Smart TV, connect a Roku streaming player or Streaming Stick to an HDMI port, power it, select that HDMI input on the TV, then follow Roku’s setup prompts. You do not need an LG TV running Roku OS: Roku says its players work with any television that has HDMI. If you mean The Roku Channel rather than Roku’s interface, check the app store for your exact LG model and region; Roku’s supported-platform list does not name LG TVs.
Can you get Roku on an LG TV?
Yes. An external Roku player provides Roku’s interface and apps through the LG TV’s HDMI connection. This works independently of the TV’s webOS version, as long as the TV has an available HDMI port. Roku’s TV requirements describe HDMI as the compatibility requirement for its streaming players.
“Roku” can also mean The Roku Channel, a streaming service. That is a separate app-availability question: Roku’s platform and availability information lists Roku devices, compatible Samsung TVs and Amazon Fire TV devices, as well as web and mobile access, but does not list LG TVs. LG app support varies by television model, webOS version and region. Check the LG Content Store on your own TV rather than assuming the service is available natively.
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- Connect Roku to HDMI. Plug a Roku Streaming Stick into an open HDMI port, or connect a Roku player with its HDMI cable. Roku recommends the cable included with the player. If a Stick cannot fit because nearby ports are crowded, use an HDMI extender if one is available for your model.
- Connect power. Use the Roku device’s power cable. A TV’s USB port may not supply enough power; if Roku reports low power, use the supplied wall adapter.
- Select the matching input on the LG TV. Turn on the TV and use the LG remote’s Input or Source control to choose the HDMI port where Roku is connected. Allow about 10 seconds for the TV to detect it.
- Complete Roku’s on-screen setup. Pair or prepare the Roku remote as prompted, choose a language, then connect to Wi-Fi. Some Roku player models also support Ethernet.
- Let Roku update and configure the display. Follow the update prompts and choose Automatic display selection if offered; Roku recommends it to match the connected TV’s available resolution.
- Activate the Roku device. Follow the on-screen account instructions. Roku says activation uses a Roku account and a second device, such as a phone or tablet, to verify the email.
Roku’s general setup instructions cover the connection, input selection, network, display and activation steps.
#1 Best Overall
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Internet and streaming requirements
Roku needs an internet connection for streaming and setup updates. Connect through Wi-Fi or, on supported players, Ethernet; Roku explains the network setup in its Wi-Fi connection guidance. After setup, offline use is limited to sources such as HDMI devices, cable and over-the-air broadcasts; streaming apps still need internet access.
Getting 4K or HDR from Roku
4K Ultra HD or HDR playback is available only when the Roku model, LG TV, connection and other relevant equipment all support the format. Roku’s 4K guidance specifies HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 support throughout the connection chain for 4K Ultra HD playback. An HDMI receiver or other device between Roku and the television must meet those requirements too.
Rank #2
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
On some LG TVs, enable HDMI Ultra Deep Color for the specific input connected to Roku. Roku’s example menu paths include Home > HDMI > Settings > Advanced > Picture > HDMI ULTRA DEEP COLOR and All Settings > Picture > Additional Settings > HDMI ULTRA HD Deep Color. Menu names and locations vary by model and software version, so consult the TV’s current manual if neither path matches. See Roku’s 4K setup guide.
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- Confirm the Roku is powered and that its HDMI plug is fully seated.
- Check that the LG TV is set to the HDMI input the Roku uses.
- Try another HDMI port or cable if the TV still shows no picture.
- If the TV detects Roku but 4K is unavailable, check that the TV, Roku and every device in the connection chain support the required format, and enable the LG HDMI setting for that input if needed.
Roku’s input-switching guidance discusses finding the correct input and HDMI-CEC. HDMI-CEC may let a Roku player discover or switch inputs; LG calls its CEC feature SIMPLINK on many models, though labels and menus vary.
Rank #3
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
Check whether The Roku Channel is available in the LG Content Store
On the LG TV, open the LG Content Store and search for The Roku Channel. Availability depends on the model, supported webOS version and region; LG provides instructions to check apps and compatibility for an LG TV. If the app is not listed for your television, connecting a Roku device by HDMI is the Roku-supported route to its platform, subject to service availability in your country.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Streaming made easy: Roku Express lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet—right to your TV. It’s perfect for new users, secondary TVs and easy gifting—but powerful enough for seasoned pros
- Quick and easy setup: Just plug it into your TV with the included High Speed HDMI Cable and connect to the internet to get started
- Tons of power, tons of fun: Compact and power-packed, you’ll stream your favorites with ease; from movies and series on Apple TV, Prime Video, Netflix, The Roku Channel, HBO, Showtime and Google Play to cable alternatives like Hulu with Live TV and PlayStation Vue, enjoy the most talked about TV across free and paid channels
- Low cost, no extra fees: For under $30, Roku Express streaming device includes a High Speed HDMI Cable—and there’s no monthly equipment fee; with access to free TV on hundreds of channels, there’s plenty to stream without spending extra
- Simple remote: Incredibly easy to use, this remote features shortcut buttons to popular streaming channels
Rank #4
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
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