Can You Get Pluto TV on Roku? The Definitive Guide
The short answer is a resounding YES! You absolutely can get Pluto TV on Roku. In fact, it’s one of the most popular and easily accessible streaming apps available on the Roku platform.
Why Pluto TV and Roku Are a Match Made in Streaming Heaven
Pluto TV has revolutionized free, ad-supported streaming, offering a vast library of live channels and on-demand content. Roku, on the other hand, dominates the streaming device landscape with its ease of use and affordability. Combining the two is a no-brainer, providing a huge amount of free entertainment directly to your TV. Let’s dive into the details.
Installing Pluto TV on Your Roku Device
Adding Pluto TV to your Roku device is a simple process. Just follow these steps:
- Power on your Roku device and ensure it’s connected to the internet.
- Navigate to the Roku Channel Store (usually found on the home screen).
- Use the search function and type in “Pluto TV”.
- Select the Pluto TV app from the search results.
- Click the “Add channel” button.
- Once the installation is complete, click “OK“.
The Pluto TV app will now be available on your Roku home screen. You can then launch the app and start enjoying free TV!
Benefits of Using Pluto TV on Roku
- Free Entertainment: The biggest draw is, of course, the price. Pluto TV provides access to hundreds of channels and thousands of on-demand movies and TV shows completely free.
- Diverse Content Library: From news and sports to movies and classic TV, Pluto TV offers something for everyone. It’s not just reruns either; they are increasingly producing original content.
- Easy Navigation: Roku’s user-friendly interface makes it simple to find and launch the Pluto TV app. The app itself is also well-designed and easy to navigate.
- No Subscription Required: Unlike many other streaming services, Pluto TV doesn’t require you to create an account or provide any payment information.
- Availability on a Wide Range of Roku Devices: Pluto TV is compatible with virtually all Roku devices, including Roku streaming sticks, Roku TVs, and Roku set-top boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pluto TV on Roku
Below are some of the most common questions users have about using Pluto TV on Roku.
1. Is Pluto TV really free on Roku?
Yes, Pluto TV is completely free on Roku. You do not need to pay any subscription fees to access its content. The service is supported by advertisements.
2. Does Pluto TV require a Roku subscription?
No, Pluto TV does not require a separate Roku subscription. You only need a Roku device and an internet connection to access Pluto TV.
3. How do I update the Pluto TV app on Roku?
Roku devices typically update apps automatically. To manually check for updates:
- Go to the Roku home screen.
- Highlight the Pluto TV app.
- Press the “*” (asterisk) button on your Roku remote.
- Select “Check for updates“.
If an update is available, it will be downloaded and installed.
4. What if Pluto TV is not working on my Roku device?
There are several reasons why Pluto TV might not be working. Here are some troubleshooting steps:
- Check your internet connection: Ensure your Roku device is connected to a stable internet connection.
- Restart your Roku device: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.
- Update the Pluto TV app: As mentioned above, make sure you have the latest version of the app.
- Clear the app’s cache: Go to Roku settings, then “System,” then “Advanced system settings,” then “Network connection reset,” and finally “Clear cache”.
- Reinstall the Pluto TV app: Uninstall the app, then reinstall it from the Roku Channel Store.
5. Can I watch Pluto TV in HD on Roku?
Yes, Pluto TV supports HD streaming on Roku devices. However, the actual video quality will depend on your internet connection speed and the specific channel or on-demand content you are watching.
6. Does Pluto TV have local channels on Roku?
Pluto TV does not typically offer local broadcast channels in the same way traditional cable or satellite providers do. However, it does have a variety of news channels, including some that offer local news coverage for certain regions.
7. Are there any alternatives to Pluto TV on Roku?
Absolutely. Roku has a massive app library. Some popular free alternatives include:
- The Roku Channel: Roku’s own free streaming service.
- Tubi: Another ad-supported streaming service with a large selection of movies and TV shows.
- Crackle: Owned by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, Crackle offers a range of free content.
- Xumo Play: A live TV streaming service similar to Pluto TV.
8. Can I create a watchlist on Pluto TV through Roku?
While you can’t create a specific “watchlist” in the traditional sense, you can “favorite” channels on Pluto TV. This allows you to easily access your preferred channels from the Pluto TV guide on your Roku.
9. Does Pluto TV have parental controls on Roku?
Pluto TV itself does not have extensive parental control options. However, Roku offers system-wide parental controls that can restrict access to specific channels or content based on ratings. You can set a PIN that needs to be entered to launch restricted channels.
10. How much data does Pluto TV use on Roku?
The amount of data Pluto TV uses will depend on the video quality and the length of time you are streaming. Streaming in HD will consume more data than streaming in standard definition. It’s a good idea to monitor your data usage if you have a limited internet plan.
11. Can I cast Pluto TV from my phone to my Roku?
Pluto TV doesn’t currently support casting from a mobile app directly to Roku via the traditional casting protocols (like Chromecast). However, you can simply install the Pluto TV app directly onto your Roku device as described above.
12. Why is Pluto TV so heavily reliant on Ads?
Pluto TV’s business model is based on advertising revenue. The ads you see while streaming allow them to provide a free service with a vast library of content. They are able to secure licensing deals and content partnerships thanks to the revenue generated by ads. Think of it as a modern, digital version of over-the-air television, only with a wider selection of channels and on-demand programming.
In conclusion, Pluto TV and Roku are a perfect pairing for anyone looking for free and diverse entertainment. With its easy installation and a vast library of content, Pluto TV is a must-have app for any Roku user. Enjoy the free TV!
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