For independent Roku viewing on multiple TVs, plan on one streaming player for each screen. You can link those players to one Roku account for simpler household management, or use separate accounts when you want different channel setups. A single player can be moved from TV to TV, but it serves only the screen it is connected to.
How many Roku players do you need?
Use one Roku streaming player per TV that people may use independently at the same time. Each player connects to its own TV through HDMI and needs power, an internet connection, and activation.
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If you are replacing a television, a Roku TV is another option: Roku OS is built into the set, so that screen does not need a separate player. It is not an add-on solution for a TV you already own.
When one player is enough
You can move a single player between TVs if you only need Roku on one screen at a time. When you move it, reconnect HDMI and power, then select the correct HDMI input on the TV. This saves the cost of additional players but does not provide independent viewing on multiple screens.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Choose one Roku account or separate accounts
Each Roku device can be linked to one Roku account at a time. Roku recommends using one account across a household to centralize purchases, preferences, and device management. Channel additions and removals sync to linked devices that support the channel, though a channel may still need activation or a separate service login on each player.
Separate accounts can help keep channel setups distinct, such as for parent and kids’ devices. Each account needs its own email address. Account separation does not change the device or simultaneous-stream limits set by streaming services; check each provider’s terms.
Rank #2
- 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.
Roku states, “There is NEVER a charge to create a Roku account.” Roku account help
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- HDMI: A Roku streaming player needs an HDMI connection to the TV. A Streaming Stick may need an HDMI extender if the TV casing or nearby ports obstruct the connection.
- Power: If a TV’s USB port reports low power or does not power the player reliably, use the supplied wall adapter and cable.
- Resolution and HDR: 4K or HDR requires both a compatible player and a compatible TV. Roku recommends choosing Automatic display type during setup.
- Internet: Each player needs access to your household internet connection to stream.
See Roku’s streaming player setup instructions and Roku TV setup guidance for device-specific details.
Rank #3
- 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
Set up a separate Roku player on each TV
- Connect the player to an HDMI port on the TV. Use the supplied cable; add an HDMI extender if a Streaming Stick does not fit or is obstructed.
- Connect the player to power. If the TV’s USB port does not provide enough power, connect the supplied wall adapter to a power outlet.
- Turn on the TV and select the HDMI input that matches the port used.
- Prepare or pair the remote, connect the player to Wi-Fi, and allow any software updates to finish. Choose Automatic display type unless you have a reason to select another supported setting.
- Link the player to your chosen Roku account. Use the same account as your other players for centralized management, or a different account for a distinct channel setup.
- Add channels and sign in to services as needed. Channel availability may sync, but activation and service sign-in can still be required on the new device.
- Name the device for its room so it is easier to identify and manage. Roku explains how to set or update a device name and location.
What transfers to a second Roku—and what may not
Roku account linking can carry channel additions, removals, and purchases across supported devices. It does not guarantee that every app will be signed in on every player. Roku’s Automatic Account Link feature can sign users into participating apps on another device, but some apps do not support it; be prepared to enter your credentials again. See Roku’s Automatic Account Link information.
Subscription providers may limit device activations or simultaneous streams. Sharing a Roku account does not override those rules; confirm the limits with each service.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
Rank #4
- 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
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