Your TV has to be about 20 years old and is barely hanging on by a thread. Recently, you’ve been connecting your laptop to your TV with an HDMI converter, but you’ve started to wonder if there’s a better solution.
You know that Roku works on newer, HDMI-compatible Samsung TVs, but will it work on an older non-HDMI-compatible TV? Are there any Samsung TVs with Roku built-in? If you already have your Roku setup on your Samsung TV, why isn’t it working?
Keep reading to find out!
Quick Navigation
- How To Connect a Roku To an Old Samsung TV?
- Are There Samsung TVs with Roku Built-In?
- Why Is My Roku Not Working on My Samsung TV?
- Ensure Your Roku Is Properly Powered
- Ensure Your Adapter Is Properly Powered
- Factory Reset Roku
- How To Install The Roku App on a Samsung Smart TV?
- Can’t Find the Roku App on Your Samsung TV?
- Check Version
- Update TV
- Wrapping Things Up
How To Connect a Roku To an Old Samsung TV?
You can connect a Roku to an old Samsung TV using its HDMI port or a compatible converter.
Many old Samsung TVs will have HDMI ports, which you can plug your Roku directly into. Your Roku streaming stick will still work even with the oldest, functioning HDMI ports. However, if your TV does not support 4K, you will not be able to watch 4K content on your 4K-compatible Roku.
If your TV’s HDMI ports are broken or if it doesn’t have one, you can use a converter instead.
There are a variety of HDMI-compatible converters on the market, so you’re sure to find one that is compatible with your old TV.
In the instructions below, we’ll walk you through how to connect your Roku to your old TV using an HDMI to composite adapteras an example. However, you can follow these same steps using any adapter of your choice.
Step 1: Plug the HDMI to composite adapter power cable’s Micro USB end into the adapter’s Micro USB port. Then, plug the power cable’s USB-A end into a power adapter. Connect the power adapter to a wall outlet.
Step 2: If your Roku has an attached HDMI connector, plug it directly into the HDMI to composite adapter’s HDMI port. If your Roku doesn’t have an attached HDMI connector, you will need to plug an HDMI cable into the Roku device before connecting the other end to the adapter.
Step 3: Now, you can connect your HDMI to composite adapter to your TV. Plug each of the composite cables into the respectively colored TV ports. These cables are color-coded based on their function, so you must plug them into the correctly colored ports on your TV.
Step 4: Connect the Micro USB side of your Roku’s included power cable to your Roku device. Then, plug the other end into a USB power adapter. Some Roku devices can be powered by the TV’s USB port.
If your TV’s USB port cannot natively supply enough electricity, you can use a QFUP USB Power Adapter. This adapter store electricity for your Roku to use, allowing you to plug it into under-powered TV USB ports.
Step 5: Last but not least, select your TV’s Composite Input using the TV remote’s Input/Source button.
Watch the video below demonstrating how to connect a Roku streaming stick to an old TV using a converter.
Bleiden HDMI2AV Video Converter for Roku Streaming Stick
Are There Samsung TVs with Roku Built-In?
No, there are not currently any Samsung TVs with Roku built-in.
Samsung produces a variety of smart TV models featuring smart interfaces and built-in apps. You can use these natively-supported interfaces to download your favorite streaming apps and games.
However, none of these TVs feature the Roku interface. So, if you’re a die-hard Roku fan, you will either have to purchase a separate Roku streaming stick or invest in a smart TV with Roku built-in.
Several TV brands manufacture smart TVs with a Roku interface, otherwise known as Roku TVs. This allows you to browse the Roku OS without plugging a separate streaming device into your TV’s HDMI port.
These models come in HD, 4K, and even 8K resolution, so you can watch high-resolution content.
The following brands feature models with Roku built-in:
- Element
- Hisense
- JVC
- Magnavox
- Onn
- Philips
- RCA
- Sanyo
- Sharp
- TCL
- Westinghouse
Note: Not every TV from these brands will have Roku built-in. Visit their official websites to learn more about which models have this feature.
Why Is My Roku Not Working on My Samsung TV?
There are a few things you can do to make Roku work on your Samsung TV.
Connecting a Roku to your TV as there are a lot of components that must be functioning correctly.
If your Roku isn’t working on your Roku TV, there could be a problem with the hardware or software preventing it from running smoothly.
Let’s learn a few easy ways to troubleshoot your Roku!
Ensure Your Roku Is Properly Powered
Roku streaming sticks will not work properly if they do not receive enough power. So, if your Roku isn’t turning on, the first thing you should check is its power supply.
While many Roku devices can be powered with your TV USB, many USBs cannot supply enough power or aren’t powered at all.
So, try plugging it into a USB power adapter instead. Wall outlets deliver the most consistent power stream, ensuring your Roku will be sufficiently powered.
If that doesn’t work, we recommend using the included Roku Micro USB power cable. Although Rokus can work with any Micro USB cable, some cables are poor quality and will, consequently, prevent your Roku from turning on.
If you lost your Roku’s original power cable, you can purchase a replacement like the USB Power Adaptor Replacement for Roku.
Ensure Your Adapter Is Properly Powered
Improperly powered adapters can cause your Roku’s display to flicker, cut off, and display other video inconsistencies.
So, it’s a good idea to double-check that your adapter is powered with its included USB cable. Make sure it’s plugged into a wall outlet instead of your TV USB.
If it’s plugged into a power strip, ensure it’s turned on and not overcrowded.
Should you find that your new adapter continues to malfunction, it may be faulty and you should contact the manufacturer for additional guidance.
Factory Reset Roku
Factory resetting your Roku is a simple way to ensure that all of your device’s settings are set to the correct values and are compatible with your TV.
While this will revert your Roku to its out-of-the-box settings, it’s a one-stop shop for many Roku software issues.
Let’s learn two ways to factory reset your Roku!
1. From Settings
Step 1: Press your Roku remote’s Home button to navigate to the Home page.
Step 2: Click on Settings.
Step 3: Open System.
Step 4: Head to Advanced System Settings.
Step 5: If you’re using a Roku TV, select Factory Reset Everything to finish factory resetting your TV.
If you have another Roku streaming stick, proceed to the next step.
Step 6: Follow the instructions on-screen which will prompt you to enter a 4-digit confirmation code into the keypad.
Watch the video below demonstrating how to factory reset a Roku via its settings.
How To Factory Reset a Roku From Settings
2. Use the Reset Button
Step 1: Find your Roku’s Factory Reset button or pinhole, which is usually found on the back or side of the device and labeled RESET.
Step 2: Ensure your Roku device is switched on before pressing the button or pinhole for approximately 10 seconds.
Step 3: You’ll know your Roku has successfully factory reset and that you can release the Reset button when the indicator light begins to blink.
Watch the video below demonstrating how to factory reset a Roku with its Reset button or pinhole.
How To Factory Reset a Roku Using The Reset Button
How To Install The Roku App on a Samsung Smart TV?
You can install the Roku app on your Samsung TV via its app store.
The Roku Channel is Roku’s dedicated streaming app where you can find all of your favorite Roku originals and more!
It has both free and paid versions, so you can watch content without pulling out your credit card.
Let’s learn how to install The Roku Channel on your Samsung TV!
Step 1: Press the Home button on your Samsung smart TV remote.
Step 2: Navigate to the left-side menu and click on Apps.
Step 3: Use the remote’s D-pad to head to the top of the screen and select Search, which is represented by a magnifying glass icon.
Step 4: Search for The Roku Channel using the on-screen keyboard or your TV’s voice command function.
Once you’ve found the app, click on Download to install it on your TV.
Now you’re ready to start watching Roku content on your Samsung smart TV! The Roku Channel also has a wide selection of 4K content for you to browse.
Can’t Find the Roku App on Your Samsung TV?
Follow our troubleshooting tips if you can’t find The Roku Channel app on your Samsung TV.
Only Samsung TVs with Tizen OS 2.3 and above support The Roku Channel. So, if your TV has a Tizen OS 2.2 or below, you may need to update it to make it compatible with the app.
Let’s learn how to check your Samsung TV’s OS version and update it.
Check Version
Step 1: Go to the Settings.
Step 2: Head to Support.
Step 3: Click on Software Update.
Step 4: Use your remote to highlight, but not select, Update Now, found on the right-hand side of the Settings window. Your TV will then display its current OS version.
If the OS version is below 2.3, follow the instructions to update it.
Update TV
Step 1: Open the Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Support.
Step 3: Select Software Update.
Step 4: Click on Update Now.
Watch the video below demonstrating how to update your Samsung smart TV.
How To Update Your Samsung Smart TV
Wrapping Things Up
While Samsung doesn’t make any Roku TVs, you can still connect a Roku device to it to use the Roku interface. Don’t worry if your TV doesn’t have an HDMI port, you can use an HDMI adapter!
Just don’t forget to make sure that all devices are sufficiently powered. Try factory resetting your Roku if you come across any software problems.
Alternatively, you can install The Roku Channel on your Samsung smart TV. If you can’t download the app, try updating your TV to the latest OS.
What’s your experience using Roku on a Samsung TV? Let us know in the comments below!
Yesenia Achlim
Yesenia Achlim is a technical copywriter and editor with a focus on AV equipment. She aims to break down complicated topics and make technology accessible, no matter your technical expertise. When she’s not teaching you how to replace a projector lamp, you can find her reading and baking.
See also
- Samsung Series 6 vs. 7 vs. 8
- Can I Use My Samsung TV in Another Country?
- How To Fix Lip Sync on Samsung, LG TVs?
- How Long Do Samsung TVs Last?
- What Samsung Phones are MHL Compatible?
FAQs
Does Roku work well with Samsung TV? ›
Answer: Yes, the majority of smart and non-smart TVs allow you to use the Roku channel. Additionally, you may use your Roku device to stream entertainment to a conventional TV by connecting it to it. Your TV should have an HDMI connector that works with the Roku device, and you'll also need an HDMI cable. What is this?
How do you use Roku on a Samsung TV? ›Get The Roku Channel on your Samsung TV
Press the Smart Hub button or Home button on your Samsung remote. Navigate down the page to Apps. Search 'Roku' and wait for The Roku Channel to appear.
The Wireless secret menu lets you see information about the Wi-Fi connection to your Roku device. You can see information such as signal strength and channel information. To access the Wireless secret menu: Press Home five times.
How do you use Roku effectively? ›- Roku's Universal-Search Tool Is Your Friend. ...
- Use Your Phone As a Remote. ...
- Use Your Phone to Search for Content. ...
- Customize the Buttons on Your Remote. ...
- Take a Look at the Roku Channel. ...
- Check Your Wi-Fi Strength. ...
- Speed Everything Up Through the App. ...
- Mirror Your Phone to the TV.
...
Top 20 Free Roku Channels to Watch
- The Roku Channel. Roku's own channel, the Roku Channel, is free. ...
- Pluto TV. ...
- Tubi. ...
- Crackle. ...
- Xumo. ...
- Fawesome. ...
- NewsON. ...
- Stirr.
A Roku TV is more than a smart TV – it's a better TV. Roku TV models offer consumers an easy to use, customizable home screen, a simple remote with everything you need to quickly launch shows and movies, and automatic software updates with new features and the latest streaming channels.
Is Roku free on Samsung TV? ›Users who create a free Roku account will be able to start watching a program on a Samsung TV and then be able to resume watching it on other devices signed into the same Roku account, including a Roku streaming device, smartphone, tablet or computer.
Do I need a Roku device if I have a Smart TV? ›Do I need Roku if I have a smart TV? If you already have a smart TV, you don't need Roku. However, compared to a standard smart TV, Roku has more content options, an easier-to-use menu, a better remote, faster and smoother load times, more updates, and fewer useless or “throwaway” apps!
What is the Roku secret menu? ›The Channel Info secret menu gets you details on versions and builds for your Roku channels and other items. Code: Home (three times) > Up (two times) > Left > Right > Left > Right > Left.
How do you unlock free channels on Roku? ›- Press Home on your Roku remote.
- Scroll and select Streaming Channels to open the Channel Store.
- Select Top Free to view the most popular free channels.
- Choose a channel and press OK to view more options.
- To install the channel, select Add channel.
What is Roku trick play? ›
Trick mode provides visual feedback during playback operations such as seek, forward, and rewind. This function lets a user visualize the timestamp of the content they are seeking.
Can you watch regular TV channels with Roku? ›First, simply connect an HDTV antenna to your Roku TV. Next, follow the easy on-screen steps to scan for channels. Then, start watching your local stations for free!
How do I watch regular channels on Roku? ›You can get local channels on Roku by using NewsOn, Haystack, Local Now, and the Channel Store. If you have CBS All Access or Hulu+, you'll be able to connect the app to receive local channels. You'll need a paid subscription for CBS All Access and Hulu+.
How do I watch TV channels on Roku? ›- Once you've launched The Roku Channel, look for the “Live TV” tile on the Home Screen Menu. Selecting it will bring up the Live TV Channel Guide.
- Already watching live/linear content? Then simply pressing the left arrow on your remote will bring up the guide.
ABC News Live on The Roku Channel – If ABC is your go-to news and information source, look no further than The Roku Channel. Stream a free feed of breaking news from ABC, as well as live channels from NBC News, FOX, Newsy, and more.
Is there a monthly fee for Roku? ›There are no monthly fees for watching free channels or for using a Roku device. You only have to pay for subscription channels like Netflix, cable-replacement services like Sling TV, or movie and TV show rentals from services like Apple TV.
Is Netflix free on Roku? ›How Much Is Netflix on Roku? You can download the Netflix app for free, but you need a Netflix subscription to stream its content. Netflix has multiple plans starting at $9.99 per month, and you can cancel or upgrade at any time. It does not cost more money to have Netflix on Roku.
Is it worth it to get a Roku? ›Ultimately, Roku's Ultra is still the top dog here. It does pretty much everything you could want a streaming device to do at a price that's still significantly lower than its closest competition. Simply put, it's the best streaming device money can buy.
Is it better to get a smart TV or Roku stick? ›Our Conclusions. If you're willing to do a bit of simple set-up, we think you'll get more out of your Chromecast or Roku. The external devices can simply do more, and they cost less to boot. However, if you're looking for a foolproof solution and don't mind paying a markup for simplicity, you can't beat a smart TV.
Is it worth buying a Roku TV? ›Mostly likely, yes. Roku is known for having a huge selection of streaming channels and has positioned itself as a service-agnostic platform. As a result, it offers all of the most popular streaming services, including Hulu, Disney Plus, Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Showtime and Starz, among others.
How much does the Roku Channel cost? ›
The Roku Channel is your home for free TV, Roku Originals and premium entertainment. Watch an ever-changing selection of original series, hit movies, TV shows, 24/7 live news (in U.S. and Canada only) and popular kids' entertainment —all totally free.
Why would I need a Roku? ›Alongside the paid-content options are tons of completely free sources of content. Plus, most Roku devices let you access your personal collection of movies, TV shows, photos, and music. Some Roku players, like the Ultra, provide a dedicated USB port so you can plug in an external hard drive and play files directly.
Can Roku work without TV service? ›Yes, you are not required to subscribe to a cable TV package or other services from your cable provider in order to get internet access.
What does Roku do for a smart TV? ›Roku-powered smart TVs use the same OS platform as its streaming media players, which enables users to download the same streaming apps and channels. Building the Roku functionality directly into a TV means that there's no longer a requirement to plug a Roku device into the TV to stream movies and TV shows.
Does Roku have a hidden camera? ›Does my Onn Roku TV have a camera? No, this television does not have a camera. If you have any additional questions, please call us at 1-888-935-8880.
Is there a jailbreak for Roku TV? ›You can't really jailbreak a Roku due to its closed operating system. It's not illegal to use any of the methods mentioned above. In fact, they're all supported officially by the Roku device, so you should have no problems with any of these options. After all, you're not using any kind of trick to jailbreak Roku.
Can hackers hack your Roku? ›Is It Possible to Hack a Roku? Yes, hackers can exploit any device connected to the internet, including a Roku. To protect yourself, have a secure password on your accounts, including your WiFi connection.
How do I know if a channel is free on Roku? ›- Start your TV.
- Press the Home button on your remote to bring up the Roku Home Screen.
- Use the arrow buttons on the remote to find and select the Streaming Channels option.
- Select the Top Free option.
- Select any channel and press the OK button to view all viewing options.
A few reasons why cable-cutters love Roku? You save hundreds of dollars a year on cable bills, you can easily navigate through all your streaming service subscriptions at once, and you can watch NBC live on Roku, as well as just about every other major broadcast network and cable channel… for free!
What channels does Roku include? ›- Netflix. Watch TV shows and movies recommended just for you, including award-winning Netflix original…
- Hulu. Stream all your TV in one place with Hulu. ...
- Disney Plus. ...
- Prime Video. ...
- HBO Max. ...
- The Roku Channel. ...
- Peacock TV. ...
- Paramount Plus.
How do I get local channels on my Samsung TV? ›
Once you are on the TV source, use the directional pad or arrow buttons on your remote to select Settings (All Settings). Select Broadcasting, and then select Auto Program. Select Start to begin auto-programming, and then select either Air, Cable, or Both. Select Air if you are using an antenna only.
Why can't I get regular channels on my Roku TV? ›If you're suddenly experiencing an issue after, for example, a long time without any issues, interference is a likely cause. Consider looking up online if other people in your local area are experiencing similar issues. Alternatively, consider waiting a day or two and then attempting to rescan for channels.
What is the cheapest way to get local channels on Roku? ›The most affordable way to get local broadcasts is with an over-the-air antenna. Combining it with your Roku device can be easy or a little more involved, depending on which device you have.
Does Roku have a camera inside? ›Yes it does have a camera. Several days after setting up my TV I was sitting in front of the screen and heard the camera make a shutter sound.
Does Roku still have hidden channels? ›Yes, Roku has removed all private channels. All non-certified channels or private channels have been removed and replaced with beta channels and the IDK (Independent Developer Kit.)
What can a jailbreak Roku do? ›Essentially, you want to increase the user privilege on a Roku past its initial level. This allows you to install any type of software you'd like, as well as alter the device in other ways. Now, before getting any further, know that you won't jailbreak Roku TV in the traditional way.
Can a Roku TV record you? ›Roku devices do not have built-in storage or a DVR feature. You can utilize some streaming services' cloud DVR to save TV shows and movies. Many streaming services offer a free cloud DVR feature.
Is Roku always listening? ›The rise of “Hey Roku” The Voice Remote Pro's main attraction is its always-listening microphone, which lets you control your TV with “Hey Roku” voice commands.
Can a Roku be hacked? ›Is It Possible to Hack a Roku? Yes, hackers can exploit any device connected to the internet, including a Roku. To protect yourself, have a secure password on your accounts, including your WiFi connection.
How do you watch all channels on Roku? ›Simple — it's all on the “Live TV Channel Guide” you'll find as part of The Roku Channel. The Live TV Channel Guide is your one-stop portal to all the great live TV your Roku device has to offer.
Can I get local channels through Roku? ›
Connect an Antenna or Cable to Roku TV
If you have a Roku TV, getting local channels couldn't be easier using your device. Connect an over-the-air (OTA) antenna or your cable or satellite connection to the back of the TV to watch free television.
Same convenient features—without the cable bills
Easily browse what's on now and what's coming up later with more than 100 always-on free Live TV channels. Connect an HD antenna to your Roku TV to see your local network channels and free streaming channels all in one place.