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To get YouTube TV on a Roku TV or player, open Home > Streaming Channels > Search channels, search for YouTube TV, then download and open the app. You’ll need a YouTube TV membership to watch; installing the app does not sign you up.
Install the YouTube TV app on Roku
- From the Roku Home screen, select Streaming Channels.
- Select Search channels and search for YouTube TV.
- Choose the YouTube TV app and download it.
- Open the app and follow the prompts shown on screen to continue.
Make sure you choose YouTube TV, not the separate YouTube app. Google notes that “The YouTube TV app is different from the YouTube app.” The steps above are from Google’s YouTube TV setup instructions; the page does not specify a fixed Roku activation-code or sign-in sequence.
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What you need before watching
You need a YouTube TV membership. If you’re new to the service, Google’s signup guidance says to provide a home ZIP code and notes that the service may request device-location permission to identify local content and provide the correct local networks. Those location details concern service access and local programming, not finding the app in Roku’s channel store. Check the live signup page for current pricing and offers, which can change.
Check whether your Roku is supported
Google lists Roku TVs and multiple Roku player families as supported, including Roku Ultra, Ultra LT, Streaming Stick+, Express, Premiere, Roku 4, Roku 3 models 4200x and 4230x, and Roku 2 model 4210x. The supported-device list can change, so check Google’s current compatibility page for your exact model before troubleshooting an app that does not appear.
#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.
Google also warns that selected devices with 512 MB or less of memory may provide a different experience, and some features may be unavailable. If your TV already has Roku built in, or you own a supported Roku player, you do not need to buy another device just to install the app. A Roku streaming device is an option only if you lack compatible Roku hardware.
Fix common Roku playback problems
HDCP error
If YouTube TV reports an HDCP error, Google advises turning on HDMI Ultra HD Color in your TV settings.
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.
Choppy playback
For choppy playback, Google advises turning off HDR in Roku’s Settings > Display type. The documented display-type choices include 4K 30 Hz TV, 4K 60 Hz TV, and 4K HDR 60 Hz; choose one of the listed options with HDR turned off.
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YouTube TV is missing from search or will not install
- Check Google’s supported-device list to confirm that your exact Roku model is supported.
- Search the Roku channel store for YouTube TV, rather than YouTube.
Google documents the supported models and the standard channel-search installation path, but does not provide a separate Roku app-store error procedure.
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.
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