To connect a TV antenna to a Roku TV, plug the antenna's coaxial cable directly into the "Ant/Cable In" port on the back of your television. This only works with Roku TVs, standalone Roku streaming sticks and players lack the necessary port, so you cannot connect an antenna to them.
Before you start: This only works with Roku TVs
Connecting a TV antenna directly to a Roku device is only possible if you have a Roku TV, which is a television set with the Roku operating system built-in. Standalone Roku devices like streaming sticks and players do not have a coaxial input, so they cannot receive over-the-air signals. This guide is for Roku TV owners only.
What you need to connect a TV antenna to your Roku TV
To get started, you need a Roku TV and an HDTV antenna (indoor or outdoor). If your antenna is amplified, you will also need a power source, such as a wall outlet or USB port, to power the amplifier. An internet connection is required for initial setup and to use all Live TV features, including the channel guide.
Step 1: Plug the antenna into your Roku TV
- Connect the coaxial cable from your HDTV antenna to the "Ant/Cable In" port on the back of the Roku TV.
- If your antenna requires power, connect it to a wall outlet or a USB power source.
Step 2: Position the antenna for the best signal
For optimal reception, place the antenna as high as possible, near a window, and facing your local broadcast towers. Avoid positioning it near thick interior walls, metal, concrete, large buildings, Wi-Fi routers, LED bulbs, baby monitors, cellular boosters, or large metal appliances, as these can block or disrupt the signal.
Step 3: Scan for channels on your Roku TV
- Press the "Home" button on your Roku remote.
- Select "Live TV" from the home screen.
- If "Live TV" does not appear on your home screen, navigate to "Settings" > "TV inputs" > "Live TV" > "Set up input".
- Follow the on-screen steps to scan for available channels; this process may take several minutes.
Step 4: Troubleshooting missing or weak channels
If channels are missing or have weak signals, start by checking the coaxial cable connection to ensure it is secure. Reposition the antenna and run the "Scan for channels" process again by going to "Settings" > "TV inputs" > "Live TV" > "Scan for channels". If using an amplified antenna, ensure the amplifier is powered on; an unpowered amplifier can block the signal. If you live close to broadcast towers, try disconnecting the amplifier and rescanning, as a signal that is too strong can overload the TV tuner. If you continue to have issues, you may need to contact Roku support for further assistance.
Bonus features: Live TV Channel Guide and pause
Roku TVs offer a "Live TV Channel Guide" that integrates both antenna channels and free streaming channels, making it easy to browse all your content in one place. You can pause live antenna TV for up to 90 minutes by connecting a 16 GB or larger USB drive to your Roku TV, giving you flexibility to step away without missing a moment.
