To get Fox News on Roku, you have three main options: subscribe to the new FOX One app, install the free Fox News app and sign in with a TV provider, or stream it through a live TV service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. Your choice depends on whether you want a direct subscription, already pay for cable, or prefer a broader channel lineup. If you need to watch fox news without a Roku device, there are additional ways to stream on phones and computers. For a similar setup with reality and lifestyle shows, you can also watch tlc through many of the same live TV services. Below are the exact steps for each method, plus troubleshooting tips to keep your stream running smoothly.
How to get Fox News on Roku: your options at a glance
Before diving into setup, understand the trade-offs. The FOX One app is the newest option, it bundles live Fox News with sports, weather, and entertainment for a flat monthly fee. The legacy Fox News app is free if you already have a cable or pay-TV subscription that includes the channel. Finally, live TV streaming services like YouTube TV or Sling TV Blue offer Fox News alongside dozens of other channels, which is ideal if you want to replace cable entirely. All three work on Roku, but the right choice depends on your viewing habits and budget.
Option 1: Add the FOX One app (subscription with free trial)
FOX One is FOX’s all-in-one streaming service, and it’s the most straightforward way to get Fox News on Roku without a cable login. It costs $19.99/month or $199.99/year, and you can try it free for 3 days. Here’s how to install it:
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
- Scroll down and select Streaming Channels (or “Channel Store” on some models).
- Select Search Channels and type “FOX One” using the on-screen keyboard.
- Select the FOX One app from the results, then choose Add Channel.
- Wait for the download to finish, then press OK to launch the app.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to start your 3-day free trial. You’ll need to enter payment info, but you can cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges.
Once subscribed, you’ll get live Fox News, Fox Business, Fox Weather, Fox Sports, and entertainment content, all in one app. This is the best option if you want a single FOX subscription without juggling multiple services.
Option 2: Add the free Fox News app with a TV provider
If you already pay for cable or a pay-TV service that includes Fox News, the legacy Fox News app is free to use. However, it requires Roku OS 9.4 or higher. Here’s how to set it up:
- Go to Streaming Channels from your Roku home screen.
- Search for “Fox News” and select the app (not FOX One).
- Choose Add Channel and wait for installation.
- Launch the app and select Sign In with TV Provider.
- Enter your cable or pay-TV credentials (the same ones you use to watch TV on your provider’s website or app).
After authenticating, you’ll get live Fox News and on-demand clips. Note that some older Roku models (like Roku LT 2700X, Roku 1 2710X, Roku 2 2720X, or Streaming Stick 3500X) are considered “legacy” and may not receive future updates for this app. They might still launch existing content, but you won’t get new features. To check your Roku model, go to Settings > System > About.
Option 3: Stream Fox News through a live TV service
For a full cable-replacement experience, subscribe to a live TV streaming service that carries Fox News. These services work on Roku and include other channels you might want. Here are the top choices:
- YouTube TV, Includes Fox News, plus 100+ channels. Offers a free trial.
- Hulu + Live TV, Comes with Fox News and includes Hulu’s on-demand library.
- Sling TV Blue, A budget-friendly option with Fox News in its Blue plan.
- Fubo TV, Focuses on sports but includes Fox News in all plans.
To use any of these:
- Go to the Roku Channel Store and search for the service (e.g., “YouTube TV”).
- Select Add Channel and launch the app.
- Sign up for a subscription on the service’s website (or within the app) and choose a plan that includes Fox News.
- Log in with your new credentials inside the Roku app.
This method is best if you want more than just Fox News, you’ll get sports, entertainment, and other news networks in one subscription.
How to add channels using the Roku mobile app
If typing on your TV remote feels tedious, use the Roku mobile app (iOS/Android) to add channels wirelessly. This works for FOX One, Fox News, or any live TV service:
- Connect your phone and Roku to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Roku mobile app and tap the Channel Store tab at the bottom.
- Tap the Search icon (magnifying glass) and type the channel name.
- Select the channel, then tap Add Channel. Enter your Roku PIN if prompted.
The channel will appear on your Roku home screen within a minute. This is a handy shortcut, especially if you’re adding multiple apps.
Troubleshooting common Fox News on Roku problems
Even with the right setup, you might hit a snag. Here are fixes for the most common issues:
Installation errors
If you see an error when adding the channel, restart your Roku (press Home > Settings > System > Power > Restart). Then try again. If that fails, check your internet connection and ensure you have enough storage space (Settings > System > Storage).
App crashes or freezes
Force-quit the app by pressing Home, highlighting the app, pressing the * button on your remote, and selecting Remove channel. Reinstall it from the Channel Store. If the problem persists, update your Roku software: Settings > System > System update > Check now.
Buffering or poor video quality
Streaming Fox News live requires a stable internet connection. Move your Roku closer to your router, or use an Ethernet adapter for a wired connection. Also, close other apps on your network that might be hogging bandwidth.
Login or authentication problems
For the Fox News app or live TV services, double-check your username and password. If you’re using a TV provider login, ensure your cable plan actually includes Fox News (some basic packages don’t). You can also try signing out and back in, or resetting your password on the provider’s website.
Legacy device limitations
If you have an older Roku model, the Fox News app might not work at all. Check your device model via Settings > System > About. If it’s a legacy device (like the ones listed earlier), you may need to upgrade to a newer Roku to continue getting updates and support. Alternatively, use a live TV service app instead, those tend to support older hardware longer.
If you’re still stuck, contact Roku support or the specific service’s help desk. They can check if your account is properly linked and whether your device is compatible.
For the wider topic, see watch a&e.
