How Do You Get ESPN+ on Roku? Your Ultimate Guide

Getting your fix of ESPN+ on Roku is easier than sinking a three-pointer in your living room. The process is straightforward: you simply need to download the ESPN app from the Roku Channel Store and then subscribe to ESPN+ if you haven’t already. Let’s dive into the details and explore everything you need to know.

Installing the ESPN App on Roku

Think of the ESPN app as the portal through which you access ESPN+. You won’t find a standalone ESPN+ app on Roku. Instead, everything lives within the main ESPN application. Here’s how to get it installed:

Power on your Roku device: Ensure your Roku is connected to your TV and turned on.
Navigate to the Home Screen: Press the “Home” button on your Roku remote.
Access the Roku Channel Store: Scroll down on the Home Screen to find the “Streaming Channels” option. Select it to enter the Roku Channel Store.
Search for the ESPN App: Use the search function (usually found at the top of the Channel Store) and type “ESPN.” You can use the on-screen keyboard or voice search if your Roku remote supports it.
Select the ESPN App: From the search results, select the official ESPN app. Look for the recognizable ESPN logo.
Add the Channel: Click the “Add channel” button. The app will begin downloading and installing on your Roku device.
Confirm Installation: Once the installation is complete, you’ll see a confirmation message. You can choose to open the app immediately or return to the Home Screen.

Subscribing to ESPN+

If you’re not already an ESPN+ subscriber, you’ll need to sign up for a subscription to access its content. You can do this either before or after installing the ESPN app on Roku.

Subscribing Before Installing the App

Visit the ESPN+ Website: Go to the official ESPN+ website (plus.espn.com) on your computer or mobile device.
Create an Account or Sign In: If you already have an ESPN account, sign in. Otherwise, create a new account. You’ll need to provide an email address and create a password.
Choose a Subscription Plan: ESPN+ offers various subscription plans, including monthly and annual options. Select the plan that best suits your needs. Consider bundles that include Disney+ and Hulu for even greater value.
Enter Payment Information: Provide your payment details (credit card or PayPal).
Complete the Subscription: Review your order and confirm your subscription.

Subscribing After Installing the App

Open the ESPN App on Roku: Navigate to the ESPN app on your Roku Home Screen and open it.
Locate ESPN+ Content: Browse through the app to find content marked with the ESPN+ logo.
Attempt to Play ESPN+ Content: When you try to play a locked ESPN+ video, the app will prompt you to subscribe.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to create an ESPN account or sign in to your existing one.
Choose a Subscription Plan: You will be redirected to a screen to choose a plan and enter payment details. Note that Roku billing may vary, depending on your Roku account settings.
Complete the Subscription: Review your order and confirm your subscription.

Activating ESPN+ on Roku

Once you’ve subscribed, you might need to activate your subscription on your Roku device. This process links your ESPN account to your Roku.

Open the ESPN App on Roku: Navigate to and open the ESPN app.
Go to Settings: Look for the “Settings” or “Account” section within the app. This is usually found in the menu bar.
Select “Activate Devices”: Choose the “Activate Devices” or “Link Account” option.
Note the Activation Code: You’ll see an activation code displayed on your Roku screen.
Visit ESPN.com/Activate: On your computer or mobile device, go to ESPN.com/activate in your web browser.
Enter the Activation Code: Enter the activation code shown on your Roku screen into the website.
Sign In to Your ESPN Account: Sign in to your ESPN account using the email address and password you used when subscribing to ESPN+.
Your Device is Activated: Once you’ve signed in, your Roku device will be activated. You should now be able to access ESPN+ content.

Common Troubleshooting

Sometimes, even with the best instructions, things can go sideways. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

App Not Loading: Check your internet connection. Restart your Roku device and try again. If the problem persists, try deleting and reinstalling the ESPN app.
Subscription Not Recognized: Ensure you’re signed in with the correct ESPN account. Double-check that your subscription is active on the ESPN+ website. Try reactivating your device.
Video Buffering: Poor internet connection is often the culprit. Try restarting your router or moving your Roku device closer to your Wi-Fi source.
Black Screen or Error Messages: Force quit the ESPN app and relaunch it. If that doesn’t work, update your Roku’s software through the Settings menu.

ESPN+ Content on Roku: What to Expect

With ESPN+ on Roku, you unlock a world of sports content, including:

Live Events: Access thousands of live events across a variety of sports, including MLB, NHL, MLS, college sports, and more.
Original Programming: Enjoy exclusive ESPN+ original series, documentaries, and studio shows.
On-Demand Content: Watch replays, highlights, and analysis whenever you want.
Select ESPN Content: Some ESPN content may be available on ESPN+ after its original broadcast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about accessing ESPN+ on Roku:

How much does ESPN+ cost?

The cost of ESPN+ varies depending on the subscription plan you choose. As of today, a monthly subscription costs around $10.99 per month, while an annual subscription costs around $109.99 per year. Bundles that include Disney+ and Hulu are also available, offering significant savings. Prices are subject to change, so check the ESPN+ website for the most current information.

Can I watch ESPN live on ESPN+?

While ESPN+ offers a vast amount of live sports content, it does not include the main ESPN channels (ESPN, ESPN2, etc.). To watch those channels live, you’ll need a cable or satellite subscription, or a live TV streaming service that carries ESPN, such as Sling TV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV.

Is ESPN+ worth the money?

Whether ESPN+ is worth the money depends on your sports viewing habits. If you’re a fan of niche sports, college sports, or ESPN’s original programming, then it’s likely a good value. The low monthly cost makes it an accessible option for many sports enthusiasts.

How do I cancel my ESPN+ subscription?

You can cancel your ESPN+ subscription through the ESPN+ website or the billing platform you used to subscribe (e.g., Roku, Apple, Google). Log in to your account, go to the “Manage Subscription” section, and follow the instructions to cancel. Remember to cancel before your next billing date to avoid being charged.

Can I use my ESPN+ subscription on multiple devices?

Yes, you can use your ESPN+ subscription on multiple devices, but you can only stream on a limited number of devices simultaneously. Typically, you can stream on up to three devices at the same time.

Do I need a cable subscription to watch ESPN+?

No, you do not need a cable subscription to watch ESPN+. ESPN+ is a standalone streaming service that you can subscribe to independently.

My ESPN app isn’t working on Roku. What should I do?

Try these troubleshooting steps:

Restart your Roku device: Unplug it from the power outlet, wait a few seconds, and plug it back in.
Check your internet connection: Ensure your Roku is connected to the internet and that your connection is stable.
Update the ESPN app: Check for updates in the Roku Channel Store.
Reinstall the ESPN app: Delete the app and reinstall it from the Roku Channel Store.
Contact ESPN Support: If the problem persists, contact ESPN customer support for further assistance.

Does ESPN+ offer a free trial?

ESPN+ occasionally offers free trials to new subscribers. However, free trial availability can vary, so check the ESPN+ website for current promotions.

How do I update the ESPN app on Roku?

Roku devices typically update apps automatically. However, you can manually check for updates by going to the Roku Home Screen, highlighting the ESPN app, pressing the “*” button on your remote, and selecting “Check for updates.”

What sports are available on ESPN+?

ESPN+ offers a wide range of sports, including MLB, NHL, MLS, college football, college basketball, boxing, UFC, soccer (various leagues), golf, tennis, and more. The specific content available can vary, so check the ESPN+ schedule for the latest listings.

Can I watch 4K content on ESPN+ with Roku?

The availability of 4K content on ESPN+ depends on the specific event and your Roku device’s capabilities. Ensure your Roku device supports 4K resolution and that your internet connection is fast enough to stream 4K content smoothly. Not all content is available in 4K.

Is ESPN+ available outside of the United States?

No, ESPN+ is currently only available in the United States.