Roku is one of the most popular streaming media players on the market, offering users access to a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more. But how much does Roku cost per month? In this article, we’ll break down the different Roku pricing plans, including the costs of Roku devices, streaming services, and any additional fees you might incur.
Understanding Roku Pricing Plans
Roku offers a variety of pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a brief overview of the different plans:
Roku Devices
Roku devices are the hardware components that connect to your TV and provide access to streaming services. The cost of Roku devices varies depending on the model and features. Here are some of the most popular Roku devices and their prices:
- Roku Express: $29.99
- Roku Express+: $39.99
- Roku Streaming Stick: $49.99
- Roku Streaming Stick+: $69.99
- Roku Ultra: $99.99
Roku Streaming Services
Roku streaming services are the channels and apps that provide access to movies, TV shows, and other content. Some streaming services are free, while others require a subscription. Here are some of the most popular streaming services available on Roku:
- Netflix: $8.99-$17.99 per month
- Hulu: $5.99-$11.99 per month
- Amazon Prime Video: $8.99 per month (included with Amazon Prime membership)
- Disney+: $6.99 per month
- HBO Max: $14.99 per month
Roku Monthly Fees
So, how much does Roku cost per month? The answer depends on the streaming services you subscribe to and the Roku device you use. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated monthly costs:
- Roku device: $0 per month (one-time purchase)
- Roku streaming services: $8.99-$17.99 per month (depending on the service)
- Additional fees: $0-$10 per month (depending on the service)
No Monthly Fees for Roku Devices
One of the best things about Roku is that there are no monthly fees for using the device itself. Once you purchase a Roku device, you can use it to access free streaming services like YouTube, PBS Kids, and more.
Streaming Service Fees
The monthly fees for streaming services vary depending on the service and the plan you choose. Here’s a rough estimate of the monthly costs for some popular streaming services:
- Netflix: $8.99-$17.99 per month
- Hulu: $5.99-$11.99 per month
- Amazon Prime Video: $8.99 per month (included with Amazon Prime membership)
- Disney+: $6.99 per month
- HBO Max: $14.99 per month
Additional Fees
Some streaming services may charge additional fees for things like 4K streaming, HDR, or ad-free viewing. Here are some examples:
- Netflix: $2-$5 per month for 4K streaming
- Hulu: $4-$6 per month for ad-free viewing
- Amazon Prime Video: $2-$5 per month for 4K streaming
Roku Premium Services
Roku also offers some premium services that require a subscription. Here are some examples:
Roku Channel
Roku Channel is a premium service that offers access to a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. The service costs $9.99 per month and includes features like 4K streaming and ad-free viewing.
Roku Premium Subscriptions
Roku also offers premium subscriptions to services like Showtime, Starz, and Epix. These subscriptions typically cost between $10-$15 per month and offer access to exclusive content.
How to Save Money on Roku
If you’re looking to save money on Roku, here are some tips:
Choose a Lower-Cost Roku Device
If you’re on a budget, consider choosing a lower-cost Roku device like the Roku Express or Roku Streaming Stick. These devices offer many of the same features as the more expensive models but at a lower price point.
Use Free Streaming Services
Roku offers a wide range of free streaming services like YouTube, PBS Kids, and more. Take advantage of these services to save money on your monthly streaming bill.
Bundle Streaming Services
Some streaming services offer discounts for bundling multiple services together. For example, you can bundle Netflix and Hulu together for a lower monthly cost.
Use Ad-Supported Streaming Services
Some streaming services offer ad-supported options that are cheaper than the ad-free versions. Consider using ad-supported services to save money on your monthly streaming bill.
Conclusion
So, how much does Roku cost per month? The answer depends on the streaming services you subscribe to and the Roku device you use. While there are no monthly fees for using the Roku device itself, you may incur costs for streaming services and additional features. By choosing a lower-cost Roku device, using free streaming services, bundling services together, and using ad-supported options, you can save money on your monthly streaming bill.
| Roku Device | Price |
|---|---|
| Roku Express | $29.99 |
| Roku Express+ | $39.99 |
| Roku Streaming Stick | $49.99 |
| Roku Streaming Stick+ | $69.99 |
| Roku Ultra | $99.99 |
| Streaming Service | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Netflix | $8.99-$17.99 |
| Hulu | $5.99-$11.99 |
| Amazon Prime Video | $8.99 |
| Disney+ | $6.99 |
| HBO Max | $14.99 |
What is the cost of a Roku device?
The cost of a Roku device varies depending on the model and features. The Roku Express, which is the most basic model, starts at around $30. The Roku Streaming Stick+, which offers additional features such as 4K and HDR support, costs around $70. The Roku Ultra, which is the most advanced model, costs around $100. It’s worth noting that these prices may vary depending on the retailer and any sales or promotions that may be available.
In addition to the cost of the device, you may also need to consider the cost of any additional accessories, such as a remote control or HDMI cable. However, these costs are typically relatively low, and you may already have some of the necessary accessories on hand. Overall, the cost of a Roku device is relatively affordable, making it a great option for those looking to stream their favorite content without breaking the bank.
Are there any monthly fees associated with using a Roku device?
There are no monthly fees associated with using a Roku device itself. Once you purchase the device, you can use it to stream content from a variety of sources, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, without incurring any additional costs. However, some of the channels and services available on Roku may require a subscription or rental fee in order to access their content.
For example, if you want to watch movies or TV shows on Netflix, you will need to have a Netflix subscription, which typically costs around $8-15 per month. Similarly, if you want to access live TV or sports content, you may need to subscribe to a service such as Sling TV or YouTube TV, which can cost around $20-50 per month. However, these fees are not charged by Roku itself, but rather by the individual channels and services.
What channels are available on Roku, and do they cost extra?
Roku offers a wide range of channels, including popular services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as more niche channels such as Crunchyroll and Acorn TV. Many of these channels are available for free, while others may require a subscription or rental fee in order to access their content. Roku also offers a number of free, ad-supported channels, such as The Roku Channel, which offers a variety of movies, TV shows, and live news.
Some channels on Roku may offer both free and paid content. For example, you may be able to watch some TV shows or movies for free with ads, while others may require a subscription or rental fee in order to access. Additionally, some channels may offer a free trial period, allowing you to try out their content before committing to a subscription. It’s worth noting that Roku does not charge any additional fees for accessing these channels, so you only pay for the content you want to watch.
Can I watch live TV on Roku, and is there an extra cost?
Yes, you can watch live TV on Roku using a variety of services, including Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Hulu with Live TV. These services offer a range of channels, including sports, news, and entertainment, and can be accessed directly through the Roku device. However, these services typically require a subscription, which can cost around $20-50 per month.
In addition to these services, Roku also offers a number of free, ad-supported live TV channels, such as The Roku Channel and Pluto TV. These channels offer a range of content, including news, sports, and entertainment, and can be accessed for free with ads. However, the selection of channels and content may be limited compared to paid services. It’s worth noting that Roku does not charge any additional fees for accessing live TV, so you only pay for the service you choose.
Are there any discounts or promotions available for Roku devices or services?
Yes, there are often discounts and promotions available for Roku devices and services. Roku frequently offers sales and discounts on its devices, especially during holiday periods or special events. You can check the Roku website or authorized retailers for the latest deals and promotions. Additionally, some channels and services on Roku may offer free trials or discounts for new subscribers.
It’s also worth noting that Roku occasionally offers bundle deals that include a device and a subscription to a channel or service. These bundles can be a great way to save money and get started with streaming right away. You can check the Roku website or authorized retailers for the latest bundle deals and promotions. By taking advantage of these discounts and promotions, you can save even more money on your Roku device and services.
Can I use Roku without an internet connection?
No, you cannot use Roku without an internet connection. Roku devices require a stable internet connection in order to stream content from the internet. If you do not have an internet connection, you will not be able to access any content on your Roku device. However, some Roku devices do offer the ability to play back content from a USB drive or other local source, even without an internet connection.
It’s worth noting that Roku devices can connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on the model. If you have a slow or unreliable internet connection, you may experience buffering or other issues while streaming content on your Roku device. In this case, you may want to consider upgrading your internet connection or using a different streaming device that can handle slower connections.
Is Roku available outside of the United States?
Yes, Roku is available in several countries outside of the United States, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. However, the selection of channels and services may vary depending on your location. Roku devices can be purchased from authorized retailers in these countries, and many channels and services are available in multiple languages.
It’s worth noting that some channels and services may not be available in all countries due to licensing restrictions. Additionally, some Roku devices may not be compatible with all international power outlets or internet connections. If you are planning to use a Roku device outside of the United States, you should check the Roku website for compatibility and availability information before making a purchase.