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Do You Need Cable to Use Roku?

As an owner of a Roku streaming device, I know all too well the frustration of trying to figure out how to get the most out of it. After doing some research and testing, I’m here to share how I solved the question, “Do you need cable to use Roku?” and some other solutions I discovered in my search.

Roku is a device that allows you to access thousands of movies and TV shows without having to pay for cable. It doesn’t require any monthly fees, only a TV with an HDMI port and a stable internet connection. The Roku device streams your favorite movies or shows directly from the internet to your screen.

Tips:
You don’t need cable to use Roku.
You need a TV with an HDMI port, a stable internet connection, and a Roku device.
To set up Roku without cable, plug the device into a power source, select the input, and connect the device to the internet.
For Roku Player, plug the power adapter into the box and the other end into the nearest electrical power outlet.
For Roku Stick, plug the small end of the micro-USB power cable into the back or bottom of the Stick and plug the other end into an electrical source.
Select the input of your HDMI device, press the OK button to choose language and country, and start streaming your favorite movies and TV shows!

Do You Need Cable to Use Roku?

Rokus are popular among many people because they provide a convenient way to access streaming content directly. Everything about Roku is simple yet functional!

That said, there’s a persistent misconception that you need cable to stream on Roku. That’s not true, though! The streaming player is available without any special requirements.

In fact, Roku is an excellent alternative to cable, as it offers content from many different channels and networks, all in one place. Roku devices are also easy to use and set up. There are even many ways to get more from it!

You’ll find new movies and TV shows with just the tap of your finger. You won’t even have to worry about missing out on any of your favorite series anymore because many networks offer full seasons on-demand!

Roku Player Without Cable: How to Get Started

Roku is an excellent media streaming device that you can buy online. It’s affordable, easy to use, and has a ton of great content. You can use your Roku without cable, and here’s how:

Step 1: Make Sure You Know What Roku Model You Have

Roku offers various types of devices. The two main ones are the Roku Player and the Roku Stick.

The Roku Player resembles a streaming box and comes with several cables and a power adapter, such as Roku 1, Roku 2, Roku 3, Ultra, and Express. On the other hand, the Roku stick looks like a small flash drive. The Stick comes with remote control and batteries.

The one thing these devices have in common is that they both require your TV to have HDMI ports.

Step 2: Plug the Roku HDMI Cord Into Your TV

All modern TVs have at least one HDMI port that can often be found on the TV’s back or sides. Depending on what model Roku you have, this step will vary slightly.

If you have a Roku Stick, you can plug the Roku Stick’s HDMI connector into the HDMI port in your TV. You can order a free HDMI extender from Roku’s site if you have difficulty fitting the Stick among the many cables.

For Roku Players, connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port in your TV and the other end to the Player’s box.

The HDMI inputs on most TVs are labeled with numbers, like HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc. So, make sure to remember which input your device is connected to.

Step 3: Connect the Roku Device to a Power Source

With any Roku Player, you can simply plug the power adapter into the box and the other end into the nearest electrical power outlet. However, the Roku Stick has noticeable differences within its models. 

In general, you’ll need to insert the small end of the micro-USB power cable into the back or bottom of the Stick and plug the other end into an electrical source. Some TVs have a USB port, so you can plug the Stick there instead of using a wall outlet.

Step 4: Select the Input

After plugging in your devices, you can turn your TV on. Then, press the Input/source button and choose the HDMI number you’ve connected the device to. 

After a few minutes, you’ll notice the Roku logo illuminating your screen. It’ll ask you to choose a language and a country. You can select your preferred answer by pressing OK on your remote control.

Final Step: Start Streaming!

Following the previous steps, you can start connecting Roku to the internet. If you want to connect through Wi-Fi, select “Set up a new wireless connection” by pressing the right arrow. If you’re using an Ethernet cable, choose “ Set up a wired network.”

Afterward, choose your Wi-Fi network in the available options on the left side of the screen. If you can’t find your Wi-Fi, you can scan for networks by selecting “Scan again.”

Press Ok and wait for the checks to turn all green for a successful connection!

Do note that the Roku Player has an Ethernet port where you can insert the internet cable. However, the Roku Stick doesn’t have one. So if you have a Roku Stick, make sure that you have a Wi-Fi network set up.

To Sum Up

We hope we’ve answered your questions about whether you need cable to use Roku, as well as how to set your device up. Remember that you can use Roku even if you don’t have a cable subscription.

If you find yourself having trouble setting up your Roku device, just follow these previous simple steps and you’ll be watching TV in no time!

Read more: Can you use Roku on a Smart TV?