Are you looking for a convenient way to stream your favourite movies, TV shows, and more? Enter Roku, a household name in the world of entertainment. Roku offers a user-friendly streaming experience that brings a wide array of content to your television screen with ease. If you love movies, sports, or want to watch new shows easily, Roku could be what you need. In this discussion, we’ll explore things that can make your Roku bill higher each month.
It includes stuff like paying for channels, picking which ones you want. By the end of this exploration, you’ll have a better idea of how much ROKU cost for a month.
How Much Does the ROKU Charge a Month?
Roku, as a streaming platform, operates on a user-friendly cost structure. Roku itself doesn’t impose a monthly subscription fee, granting you free access to its platform. You can use Roku devices and watch lots of free channels without having to pay again and again. This makes it a cost-effective choice for individuals seeking to keep their entertainment expenses in check.
But it’s important to know about the different costs linked to Roku so you can make smart choices for your entertainment. First, there’s the device cost. Roku has different kinds of devices like ROKU Express, ROKU stream bar, ROKU Ultra and so on… that cost from about $30 to $100. You can buy them from places like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.
The other significant cost factor is subscription channel fees. Roku doesn’t charge you, but if you want special channels like Netflix, HULU, Amazon prime etc, you have to pay for each one separately. The monthly subscription cost varies depending on the channel provider. Let me give you some examples: Netflix is usually about $9.99 a month, Hulu starts around $5.99 a month, and Amazon Prime Video is roughly $14.99 a month. Keep in mind that the prices might be different if you check on their websites.
What are the ROKU Devices & How Much They Cost?
Here are some of the ROKU devices.
1. ROKU Express
The Roku Express is a streaming device that transforms your TV into an entertainment hub. It delivers content in HD quality. You can watch lots of stuff with Roku Express because it has many channels like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube, and more. So, there’s plenty to choose from! Plus, you can access free live TV channels like The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi. Setting the Roku Express ready is easy. Just plug it into your TV, connect to the internet, and add channels from the Roku Channel Store to start watching. In terms of cost, you can usually find the Roku Express priced at around $29.99 USD.
2. ROKU Express 4K+
The Roku Express 4K+ is a device that makes your TV look awesome in 4K with vibrant colors. It’s not expensive, so it’s perfect for people who want to make their streaming setup better without spending a lot of money.
It makes you watch your favorite stuff in super high quality with really great colors because it has 4K and HDR. It has lots of different TV channels, some you can watch for free, and others you might have to pay for. So, everyone in your house can find something they like to watch. You can also watch free live TV on Roku Express 4K+ with channels like The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi. They show live news, sports, and more, and you don’t need cable TV for it. In comes around $39.99 USD in cost.
3. ROKU Streaming Stick 4K
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is great for watching movies, TV shows, and live TV in super clear 4K with really bright colors. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+, although it lacks a built-in voice remote.
In terms of cost, it is usually priced around $49.99 USD. But keep in mind, the price can change depending on where you buy it and if there are any discounts. Even though it doesn’t have a voice remote, it’s still a good choice if you want great 4K streaming without spending too much.
4. ROKU Streaming Stick 4K+
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ is an amazing device that makes your TV show movies, TV shows, and live TV in super clear 4K with really bright colors. It’s not only great but also kind on your wallet. So, if you want to make your streaming better without spending too much money, it’s a top pick.
In terms of pricing, it typically comes at around $69.99 USD. But remember, the cost might change depending on where you buy it and if there are any discounts or sales happening, which could make it even cheaper.
5. ROKU Ultra
Roku Ultra is the fanciest streaming gadget from Roku. It shows stuff in really clear 4K with super bright colors, so your favorite shows look great. It has lots of TV channels, some you can watch for free, and some you might have to pay for. So, everyone at home can find something they like.
You can also watch free live TV on Roku Ultra with channels like The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi. You don’t have to pay for expensive cable to see them. Getting Roku Ultra ready is super easy.
It has an easy remote, plus cool stuff like a talking remote, a way to find your lost remote, and a secret listening mode. Usually, it costs about $99.99, but the price might be different depending on where you buy it or if there are any sales. Roku Ultra provides an exceptional streaming experience with its robust features and affordability.
6. ROKU Stream Bar
The Roku Stream bar is a streaming device and soundbar, offering both 4K streaming with vibrant HDR color and enhanced TV sound. With 4K resolution and HDR, it ensures top-notch picture quality for your favorite content. The Stream bar has lots of TV channels, some you can watch for free, and some you might have to pay for. So, everyone at home can find something they like.
You can watch free live TV on the Stream bar with channels like The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi. No need to pay for expensive cable TV. And it makes your TV sound better with its two speakers and Dolby Audio. Setting it up and using it is easy because it has a simple remote control. It usually costs about $129.99, but the price might change depending on where you buy it and if there are any special deals. It’s a good choice to make your TV streaming and sound better.
7. ROKU Stream Bar Pro
The Roku Streambar Pro is an all-in-one streaming device and soundbar packed with enhanced audio features. It has four speakers, special Dolby Atmos sound, and a private listening mode, so it sounds really good, even in big rooms. It also comes with a cool voice remote that can control your TV, streaming, and audio by just talking to it. This versatile device supports 4K streaming with HDR color, ensuring top-notch picture quality.
It has lots of TV channels, some free and some you might have to pay for. You can even watch live TV on it with channels like The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi. It’s got something for everyone in the house. Usually, it costs about $179.99, but the price might change depending on where you buy it and if there are any special deals.
What are the Channels in ROKU?
1. Free Channels
Roku devices offer a wide range of free apps (also known as channels) that you can download and use without any subscription fees. Some popular free apps available on Roku include:
- The Roku Channel: Roku’s own free streaming service with a variety of movies, TV shows, and live TV channels.
- Pluto TV: Offers a selection of free live TV channels, on-demand movies, and TV series.
- Tubi: Provides a large library of free movies and TV shows, including many classics.
- Crackle: Offers a collection of free movies, TV shows, and original content.
- Popcornflix: Features a variety of free movies and TV series.
- Vudu: Provides a selection of free movies with occasional ad breaks.
- Hoopla: Allows access to free movies, TV shows, music, and audiobooks with a library card from a participating library.
- PBS: Offers access to free content from PBS, including documentaries, news, and educational programs.
- Newsy: Provides free news coverage with a focus on in-depth reporting.
- Weather Nation: Offers free weather forecasts, news, and live coverage.
2. Paid Apps
Roku devices offer a wide range of paid apps (also known as channels) that require a subscription or one-time purchase to access their content. The availability of these paid apps may vary by region and over time, but here are some popular ones:
- Netflix: A subscription-based streaming service offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content.
- Hulu: Offers a subscription service with access to a wide range of TV shows, movies, and original content.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available to Amazon Prime members, it offers movies, TV series, and original programming.
- Disney+: Provides access to Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content through a subscription.
- HBO Max: Offers HBO’s premium content, including original series and movies, as well as additional WarnerMedia content.
- Apple TV+: Apple’s streaming service with original TV shows, movies, and documentaries
- YouTube TV: A subscription-based live TV streaming service that includes access to various channels.
- Sling TV: Offers live TV streaming with customizable channel packages.
- ESPN+: Provides sports content, including live events, documentaries, and original shows.
- CBS All Access (now rebranded as Paramount+): Offers access to CBS programming, including live TV, sports, and on-demand content.
- FuboTV: A sports-focused live TV streaming service with various channel packages.
- Peacock: NBCUniversal’s streaming service with a mix of free and premium content, including original shows and movies.
- TV and NBA League Pass: Subscription services for streaming live NHL and NBA games, respectively.
- MLB.TV: Subscription service for streaming live Major League Baseball games.
3. In App Purchases
In-app purchases (IAPs) on Roku typically refer to additional content or features that you can buy within specific channels or apps. These purchases can enhance your viewing experience or provide access to premium content. While the availability of in-app purchases may vary by channel, here are some common examples:
- Premium Channels: Many streaming apps, such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video, offer access to premium channels or add-ons within their apps. These channels often require an additional subscription fee on top of the app’s regular subscription.
- Renting or Buying Movies/TV Shows: Several streaming apps, like Vudu and Google Play Movies & TV, allow you to rent or purchase individual movies or TV episodes within the app.
- Sports Packages: Some sports streaming apps, like MLB.TV, NBA League Pass, and NHL.TV, offer in-app purchases for live game subscriptions or access to specific sports events.
- Commercial-Free Viewing: Some channels may offer the option to remove ads or enjoy ad-free content for an additional fee.
- Virtual Goods: In certain gaming apps on Roku, you can make in-app purchases to unlock virtual goods, characters, levels, or enhancements that enhance your gaming experience.
- Subscription Upgrades: In apps like YouTube TV and Sling TV, you can upgrade your subscription to access additional channels, features, or cloud DVR storage.
- Movie Rentals: Channels like Redbox and Fandango, NOW allow you to rent or buy movies on a pay-per-view basis.
- TV Show Seasons: Some streaming apps offer individual TV show seasons for purchase, allowing you to buy and own specific seasons of a show.
- Educational Content: Educational channels may offer courses or content packs for purchase to expand your learning options.
ROKU – FAQs
Ans: There are no monthly fees for watching free channels or for using a Roku device.
Ans: You can download the Netflix app for free, but you need a Netflix subscription to stream its content. Netflix has multiple plans starting at $9.99 per month, and you can cancel or upgrade at any time. It does not cost more money to have Netflix on Roku.
Ans: Yes, Roku does work on basically any TV as long as it has an HDMI port. Older, lower resolution TV’s probably don’t need the most updated 4k Roku hardware either. Very old TV’s may need a “composite to HDMI” adapter in order to add an HDMI port to plug into (and this will limit resolution).
Ans: Roku channels are nothing but the streaming platforms available on Roku. Also, Roku offers over 300 free channels (which are also sometimes referred to as Roku channels), along with some other paid Roku channels.
Ans: No, you do not need a cable or satellite subscription to use Roku. Roku is an internet-based streaming device, so you’ll need an internet connection to use it effectively.
Ans: Yes, Roku offers channels with live TV streaming options. Some popular ones include Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV, which require separate subscription fees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how much Roku costs each month is important when setting up your home entertainment. Make sure to check out the channels, some are free, some you pay for, to match what you like and what you can afford in your streaming. Remember, Roku doesn’t charge you every month, but some channels and extras might cost money. So, think about what shows you want and how much you want to spend to get the most out of Roku.
