To get Roku on my smart TV, you either set up a Roku-branded TV or add a Roku streaming device to an existing smart TV. The steps differ depending on which scenario applies to you, so follow the section that matches your situation.
How to get Roku on my smart TV: the two ways
There are two distinct ways to get Roku on your smart TV. If you own a Roku TV, a television that has Roku built in as its operating system, you simply need to complete the initial setup. If you have a different smart TV brand, you can add the Roku platform by connecting a Roku streaming stick or player to one of its HDMI ports, though some LG TV owners can also install Roku app on LG smart TV directly from their content store. Both methods give you access to the same Roku interface and streaming channels, but the physical setup steps are different.
Setting up your Roku TV for the first time
If you have a Roku-branded television, follow these steps to get it running. The process starts with the hardware and finishes with the on-screen Guided Setup.
- Remove the TV from the box and attach the included stands, or mount it to the wall.
- Plug in the power cord.
- Use the Power button on your Roku remote to turn on the TV.
- After the startup screen, the Guided Setup process will begin automatically.
- Prepare the remote by inserting the batteries that came in the box.
- Pair the remote (if required) by following the on-screen prompts.
- Select your language from the list and press OK on the Roku remote.
- Choose your country and mode.
- Connect to Wi-Fi by selecting Wireless, choosing your home network, and entering your Wi-Fi password.
- Activate and link your Roku account by following the on-screen instructions to enter the code displayed on your TV at Roku.com/link.
For Roku TV models not made by Roku, refer to the TV manufacturer for specific guides. The Roku TV User Guide provides in-depth instructions for completing the Guided Setup, connecting other devices, using features, and configuring settings. Quick Start guides are available for Roku Select, Plus, and Pro Series TVs.
Connecting a Roku streaming stick or player to your smart TV
If you are adding a Roku streaming device to an existing smart TV, the physical setup comes first. Use these steps to connect the hardware correctly.
- Connect your Roku streaming stick or player to an available HDMI port on your TV.
- If there is not enough space for the stick to fit, you can request a free HDMI extender cable from Roku.
- Connect your streaming device to a power source using the USB power cable that came with your Roku device.
- For a Roku Streaming Stick 4K, the long-range Wi-Fi receiver is built into the USB cable, and using another cable may prevent the device from turning on (error 022). You can connect the USB cable to a wall outlet using the included power adapter (recommended for Streaming Stick 4K). Alternatively, you can connect the USB cable to a USB port on your TV.
- Use your TV remote to power on your television and select the HDMI input where you connected your Roku device.
Note: The USB port on some TVs may be unable to power a Roku device; if an on-screen warning message appears, use a 5V 1A USB power adapter and connect to a wall outlet.
Completing the on-screen setup and activation
Once the Roku device is powered on and you see the Roku logo on your TV screen, the software setup begins. These steps are the same whether you are setting up a Roku TV or a Roku streaming device.
- Follow on-screen instructions to set up and pair your Roku remote.
- Choose a language from the list and press OK on the Roku remote.
- Select an Internet connection: choose Wireless for Wi-Fi, select your home network, and enter your Wi-Fi password to connect. (Optional: a compatible Ethernet adapter may be used for a wired connection.)
- After connecting to the Internet, your player will automatically check for software updates.
- (Optional) Set up TV controls on your Roku remote if prompted.
- Activate your Roku account by going to Roku.com/link on a computer or phone and entering the code displayed on your TV screen.
After activation, your Roku device is ready to use. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K (model 3820) supports 720p HD, 1080p Full HD, 4K Ultra HD, and HDR. If your TV does not support 4K or HDR, the Roku streaming player will still work, but you will not see 4K or HDR picture quality.
Troubleshooting common setup problems
If you run into issues during setup, these solutions address the most frequent problems.
Device not powering on from a TV USB port. Some TV USB ports cannot supply enough power to a Roku streaming device. If you see an on-screen warning message or the device does not turn on, disconnect the USB cable from the TV and connect it to a wall outlet using the included 5V 1A USB power adapter.
Missing on-screen signal. After connecting the Roku device and selecting the correct HDMI input, you should see the Roku startup screen. If the screen is blank, confirm that your TV is set to the correct HDMI input. If the Roku stick is too wide to fully insert into the HDMI port, request a free HDMI extender cable from Roku. If the issue persists, try a different HDMI port on your TV.
Remote pairing failures. If the Roku remote does not pair automatically, remove and reinsert the batteries. If it still does not pair, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process manually. Make sure you are within range of the Roku device and that nothing is blocking the signal.
If none of these steps resolve the problem, contact Roku support. To contact Roku, visit the official support website and choose the option that matches your issue for further assistance.
