Pros
ConsThe details
Roku’s Channel app isn’t just available to subscribers with a Roku TV or device but also to anyone who signs up for the free account. You can access the channel from Roku’s website via your mobile device or computer to enjoy a range of on-demand TV shows and movies.
Content
Regardless of how you connect to Roku’s streaming service, the Channel serves up exciting films. You can stream titles like Police Academy, Fatal Attraction, Halloween, and Heaven Can Wait.
What’s more, it recently expanded its free lineup to include channels like iFood.tv, Maverick Black Cinema, WeatherSpy, and past episodes of I Dream of Jeannie, Bewitched, Unsolved Mysteries and Batman.
The free tier also has a decent selection of news channels including those from Newsy, Cheddar, Yahoo! Finance, USA Today and more. Reuters and ABC News provide 24-hour news coverage.
User experience
Navigating Roku’s streaming channels is pretty straightforward. The channels are arranged vertically, and the respective programming laid out horizontally. With the remote, you can easily navigate the guide. A click on the desired channel directs you to its content automatically, while pressing up and down buttons allows you to browse the channel section.
Streaming speed
Roku suggests an internet speed of 1.5 Mbps for SD viewing and 3 Mbps for HD viewing. The streaming service doesn’t support 4K streaming, so these speeds should provide buffer-free viewing. However, if streaming on more than one device, it would help if you had a higher internet speed.
Value
Even on a free subscription, you can watch more than 100 channels. And with Roku’s Live streaming option, you can enjoy the live streaming experience on traditional linear television. Apart from the live streaming option, we found its on-demand show lineup a little restrictive unless you subscribe to its Premium plan.
Final verdict
As far as free streaming services go, Roku Channel is a go-to option if looking for an updated free streaming service. The only downside is that you must purchase a Roku streaming device to access the content. This may be a turn off to those who don’t want to buy one.
