Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteTo watch Roku on a Samsung Smart TV, connect a Roku streaming player or Streaming Stick to the TV’s HDMI port, select that HDMI input, then complete Roku’s on-screen setup. Roku runs on the external device; it is not an app you install into Samsung’s built-in TV interface.
What you need
- A Roku streaming player or Roku Streaming Stick. Roku’s streaming players work with televisions that have an HDMI connection. Roku’s player information
- An available HDMI port on the Samsung TV. A Streaming Stick plugs directly into the port; a cabled Roku player connects with an HDMI cable.
- A power source for the Roku and a Wi-Fi connection for setup and streaming. Some Roku player models also support Ethernet.
Connect Roku and complete setup
- Connect the device to HDMI. Plug a Streaming Stick into an open HDMI port, or connect a Roku player to the TV with its HDMI cable. Use the cable supplied with the Roku device where possible. Roku recommends a High Speed HDMI cable for TVs supporting 720p or 1080p, and a Premium High Speed HDMI cable for TVs supporting 4K and/or HDR. A Streaming Stick does not need a separate HDMI cable. Roku’s connection guidance
- Power the Roku. Connect it to power as directed for the model. If the Roku reports insufficient power while connected to a TV USB port, use the included wall adapter instead. A Streaming Stick may need an HDMI extender if the installation is too tight, but one is not always required. Roku’s connection guidance
- Select the right input on the Samsung TV. Turn on the TV and press the Samsung remote’s Source or Input control. Choose the HDMI port number where Roku is connected. Samsung’s external-device instructions cover connecting devices such as Roku over HDMI. Samsung’s external-device guide
- Follow Roku’s setup screens. Choose a language, pair the remote if prompted, connect to Wi-Fi, and finish the setup. Once complete, use Roku’s own menus to open a streaming service.
If the Roku screen does not appear
- Check that the Roku has power and that the HDMI cable or stick is firmly connected.
- Confirm that the Samsung TV is on the HDMI input used by Roku. If you are unsure which port it is, try the TV’s other HDMI inputs.
- Try another HDMI cable or port if the screen remains blank.
- For 4K or HDR, check that the TV input’s enhanced-signal setting is enabled; the relevant Samsung setting is described below.
Set up 4K or HDR when supported
Having an HDMI connection does not by itself mean a setup can display 4K or HDR. The Roku device and Samsung TV must support the format, and every device in the HDMI signal chain must support HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2, according to Roku. An audio/video receiver or other device between Roku and the TV can prevent the desired output if it lacks the required support. Roku’s 4K and HDR guidance
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
On compatible Samsung TVs, enable UHD HDMI Color (Input Signal Plus) for the HDMI input used by Roku. Samsung lists this setting under Settings > General > External Device Manager. Older or different models may use different labels or menu paths, so consult the manual for your specific TV if you do not see that option. Samsung’s UHD HDMI Color guidance
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Roku says a compatible 4K stream may require internet bandwidth of up to 25 Mbps. This is Roku’s stated requirement for that use case, not a speed guarantee; the streaming service and subscription plan must also support 4K. Roku’s 4K and HDR guidance
#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.
Use the Samsung remote or switch inputs automatically
Samsung says its universal remote can control some HDMI-connected streaming devices, including Roku, and that a TV remote may control the device interface automatically on supported setups. This is not guaranteed for every Samsung model or remote. Samsung’s external-device guide
Roku’s input-discovery and switching features for non-Roku TVs require HDMI-CEC to be enabled; Samsung calls its HDMI-CEC feature Anynet+. Roku’s instructions also describe running Find inputs from the Roku TV Inputs settings. Those navigation steps concern Roku’s input feature and can vary with software. Roku’s input-switching guidance
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.
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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Recommended Free Tools
