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You can’t install or run a built-in web browser on a Roku TV or Roku streaming player. To view a website on your TV, open it on a compatible phone, tablet, or computer and mirror that device’s screen to Roku. Compatible Apple devices may also share content using AirPlay. The browser stays on the sending device; Roku displays what that device sends.
Can you install a web browser on Roku TV?
No. Roku says its streaming players and Roku TVs do not provide a way to browse the internet on the television. That means there is no Roku-supported browser to install as a channel. Roku’s official guidance on browsing the internet on Roku addresses this limitation.
The Roku Channel is a streaming service, not a general-purpose browser. Its availability on Roku devices, the web, or mobile depends on region; it does not let you enter arbitrary website addresses on your TV. See Roku’s overview of The Roku Channel.
Ways to view a web page on your Roku TV
| Method | What appears on the TV | Sender device | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen mirroring | The sender device’s full screen, including the browser and its controls | A compatible Android device or Windows computer | Whether your Roku model supports mirroring and whether mirroring is enabled |
| AirPlay | Shared or mirrored content from a compatible Apple device | A compatible iPhone, iPad, or Mac | AirPlay compatibility for both the Apple device and exact Roku model |
| Casting from an app | Content selected in a mobile app that supports casting, rather than the full browser screen | A phone or tablet running a supported app | Whether the service’s app offers casting or has a Roku channel |
Roku describes these as sharing options, not as ways to install a browser on the TV. Its phone-sharing overview explains the available approaches. Screen-mirroring support depends on the device: Roku’s screen-mirroring guidance notes that most current-generation players and Roku TV models support it, with exceptions. Check your specific model rather than assuming it will work.
#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 to mirror a browser to Roku
- Check compatibility. Confirm that your Roku model supports screen mirroring and that your Android device or Windows computer offers a compatible screen-mirroring option. Roku’s screen-mirroring support page covers device compatibility.
- Open the web page on the sender. Use the browser on your phone, tablet, or computer. The Roku does not run the browser; it displays the sender’s screen.
- Start screen mirroring from the sender device. The exact setting or control varies by device and software version, so follow that device’s mirroring instructions.
- Accept the connection on Roku if prompted. Use the Roku remote to approve the request when the TV asks. The location of Roku’s mirroring settings can vary by model.
- Browse from the sender device. Navigate, scroll, and enter text using that device. Whatever is visible on its screen is what the TV can display.
Using AirPlay with an Apple device
Roku’s sharing overview says compatible iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices can share or mirror content to compatible Roku devices using AirPlay. Check compatibility for your particular Roku model, then use the Apple device’s AirPlay controls to select the TV. AirPlay availability is not universal across all Roku and Apple devices; consult Roku’s AirPlay and HomeKit support information for device-specific guidance.
When casting is better than mirroring
If you want to watch a video rather than display a web page, check whether the service has a Roku channel or whether its mobile app supports casting. Casting sends content selected in the app; it does not show the browser’s address bar or the sender’s entire screen. Roku distinguishes casting from screen mirroring in its screen-mirroring and casting guidance.
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.
With mirroring, the sender controls the browser and what appears on screen. With supported casting, playback may be controlled from the sender app or with the Roku remote, depending on the app and service. Casting will not work from every website or app, so use it only when the app provides a supported casting option.
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.
If mirroring does not connect
- Confirm that the specific Roku model supports mirroring; support is not universal.
- Check Roku’s screen-mirroring settings and approve any connection request shown on the TV.
- Make sure the sender device’s own mirroring feature is available and enabled.
- If you only need to watch a service’s video, look for its Roku channel or an in-app casting option instead of trying to mirror a browser.
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