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You can often watch free, ad-supported streaming channels directly on a smart TV: check its home screen for a Live or Free section, then search the TV’s app store for services such as Tubi or Pluto TV. The exact apps, menus and channel lineups depend on your TV model and country. You do not necessarily need to buy a streaming device.
Where do I find free channels on my TV?
Start with the TV’s home screen. Look for a Live tab, a Free tab, a live-TV guide or a built-in channel app. Some TV platforms gather channels from multiple services in one guide, but the guide may still require you to install each provider’s app.
On Google TV
In the United States, Google TV’s Free tab can surface free-with-ads content from various providers, subject to availability. Its Live tab can also show free channels from supported providers. To watch channels from apps such as Haystack News, Plex, Pluto TV and Tubi, install the relevant app first. See Google TV’s US live-TV instructions and its explanation of how Google TV and Android TV work.
On Roku
On a Roku player or TV, open Home > Streaming Channels > Top Free to browse popular free apps. The Roku Channel itself offers live channels, free TV shows and movies on supported devices. Availability varies: Roku says The Roku Channel is available on Roku devices, web and mobile in the US, Canada and UK, and on Roku streaming devices in Mexico. Its Fire TV instructions apply to compatible devices in the US. Check Roku’s current availability and installation details.
#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.
How do I install a free streaming app?
- Open the TV’s app store. Search for the service by name, such as Tubi or Pluto TV.
- Confirm the listing is for your TV. App support can differ by model and region, even within a brand.
- Install and open the app. Follow any on-screen setup steps, then use its live guide or on-demand listings.
- If it is missing, check the provider’s support page. Tubi lists support for devices and brands including Fire TV, Apple TV, Hisense, LG, Roku, Samsung, Sony and Vizio, but that list is not a guarantee for every model or country. Its installation guide recommends searching the device’s app store. Pluto TV lists its supported platforms at pluto.tv/where-to-watch.
How do I choose between free streaming services?
There is no universal lineup: what you can watch depends on your location, TV and the service’s current catalog. Compare the options using the factors that matter to you rather than relying on a channel count or a general claim about which service has the “best” selection.
- TV compatibility: Is the app listed in your TV’s store for your specific model?
- Country availability: Does the service operate where you live, and is it supported on your device there?
- Viewing style: Does it offer live, scheduled channels, on-demand browsing or both? Pluto TV describes both live channels and on-demand viewing on supported platforms; The Roku Channel offers live channels as well as shows and movies.
- Programming: Check whether the categories you watch are available in the service’s current listings.
- Guide integration: Can your TV’s Live guide surface the service, or will you need to open its app separately?
Do I need a streaming stick?
No, not if your TV already supports the app you want. If the app is unavailable on your TV, a compatible streaming device may provide another way to install it. Before buying anything, check the TV’s app store and confirm that the service supports the exact device in your country. For example, Tubi and Pluto TV list Fire TV support, and Roku explains how to install The Roku Channel on compatible Fire TV devices in the US. Those details do not establish support for every Fire TV model or region.
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.
Is antenna TV the same as free streaming?
No. Streaming channels arrive over the internet through an app. An antenna receives over-the-air broadcasts; it does not stream them. A TV guide may show both types of channel, so check how the channel is being received. On a Roku TV, the antenna setup is separate: choose Live TV and scan for broadcast channels. Reception depends on your location and antenna placement. See Roku’s antenna-TV setup instructions.
What does “free” mean?
Usually, “free” means there is no subscription charge to watch the content; it does not necessarily mean ad-free viewing. Google describes some programming as “Free with ads” and notes that availability is subject to change. Services may also change their catalogs, so check the app for current offerings rather than assuming a title or channel will remain available.
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
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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
