10 Free Roku Channels You Can Watch Without a Subscription
Roku has become one of the most popular streaming platforms in the U.S., offering users access to a vast collection of channels. While many services require a subscription, there’s a growing library of Free Roku Channels that deliver high-quality entertainment at no cost.
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Whether you’re into live news, classic movies, TV shows, or local content, Roku makes it easy to stream without breaking the bank. This blog highlights 10 top Roku Channels that are 100% free to install and watch no credit card required. From The Roku Channel to PBS and FilmRise, you’ll discover a variety of content choices for every viewer.
Top 10 Free Roku Channels
Let’s explore the best options available right now on your Roku device.
1. The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel is Roku’s own free streaming service, offering a robust mix of movies, TV shows, live news, and kids’ content all without requiring a subscription. It’s pre-installed on most Roku devices and also available via the web and mobile app. The channel regularly updates its content library with both classic favorites and newer releases. It also features curated live TV channels, making it a go-to hub for free, legal streaming. No login or payment is needed to start watching.
Key Features:
- Free access to thousands of movies and TV shows
- Live TV channels including news, sports, and lifestyle
- No subscription or sign-up required
- Dedicated Kids & Family section
- Available on Roku, mobile, and the web
2. Pluto TV
Pluto TV offers a unique blend of live TV and on-demand content, completely free of charge. Owned by Paramount, this ad-supported service mimics a traditional cable TV experience with hundreds of curated live channels, including news, entertainment, sports, and movies. Its channel guide is easy to browse, and there’s something for every viewer from classic TV shows to genre-specific movie channels.
Key Features:
- 250+ live streaming channels
- Extensive on-demand movie and TV library
- No account or subscription required
- Channels for news, comedy, crime, and more
- Works seamlessly on all Roku devices
3. Xumo Play
Xumo Play is another free, ad-supported Roku channel offering live and on-demand streaming. With a wide range of channels across news, lifestyle, movies, and music, Xumo provides a familiar, cable-like viewing experience. The platform updates regularly, adding new channels and shows to keep content fresh for viewers who want variety without cost.
Key Features:
- Over 190 free channels
- Live TV and on-demand streaming
- Coverage includes news, sports, movies, and more
- Easy-to-use interface on Roku devices
- No login or fees required
4. STIRR
STIRR delivers a mix of live local programming, national news, and entertainment all free and accessible through Roku. Created by Sinclair Broadcast Group, it’s known for providing localized news, sports, and weather updates alongside national content. STIRR also features themed channels, movie marathons, and music programming, making it a great pick for local-focused viewers.
Key Features:
- Live local news and weather by region
- 100+ national and regional streaming channels
- Includes movies, TV shows, and documentaries
- Available without sign-up
- Regularly updated programming
5. Plex
Originally known for personal media management, Plex now also offers free streaming of movies, TV, and web shows. The Plex Roku Channel includes content from major studios and independent creators, all supported by ads. It also allows users to stream their own media collections via a Plex server. This hybrid approach makes it a powerful and flexible free Roku channel.
Key Features:
- Free movies, TV shows, and documentaries
- Ad-supported and legally licensed content
- Watch and organize your own media library
- Personalized recommendations
- No subscription needed for basic use
Read More: 50 Plex Keyboard Shortcuts
6. NewsON
NewsON is a must-have Roku channel for those who prefer watching live, local news from across the U.S. It provides free, real-time access to newscasts from over 200 local stations in more than 100 markets. Whether you’re traveling or living far from home, NewsON helps you stay updated on regional news, weather, and events without a cable subscription.
Key Features:
- Live and on-demand newscasts from local U.S. stations
- Coverage from over 100 cities and towns
- No login or cable required
- User-friendly interface with location-based recommendations
- Ideal for staying connected to hometown news
7. FilmRise
FilmRise offers a vast catalog of movies and TV series that can be streamed free on Roku. It specializes in classic titles, true crime documentaries, independent films, and cult favorites. Content is organized by genre and theme, making it easy to find something for every mood. As an ad-supported platform, FilmRise requires no registration or fees.
Key Features:
- Thousands of free films and TV shows
- Regularly updated content across many genres
- Special channels for true crime, horror, drama, and more
- No sign-up or payment required
- Available directly on Roku Channel Store
8. Local Now
Local Now provides a mix of localized news, weather, traffic, and entertainment tailored to your region. Owned by The Weather Channel’s parent company, the platform combines national headlines with local reporting. It also features lifestyle content, movies, and health-related programming, making it a one-stop channel for daily updates and light entertainment.
Key Features:
- Hyper-local news and weather forecasts
- Free streaming of live and on-demand content
- Includes movies, health tips, and lifestyle shows
- No subscription or sign-in needed
- Content tailored to your ZIP code
9. PBS
PBS on Roku brings the best of public broadcasting straight to your screen, including educational shows, award-winning documentaries, and popular programs like NOVA, Frontline, and Antiques Roadshow. While some premium content may require a Passport subscription, a large portion of PBS’s library is available free for streaming with no ads.
Key Features:
- Free access to a wide range of PBS programming
- Includes educational content, kids shows, and documentaries
- Option to sign in for localized station access
- Clean, ad-free experience for most content
- Available on Roku without additional cost
10. Crackle
Crackle is a free streaming service backed by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment. It hosts a diverse lineup of Hollywood movies, TV shows, and exclusive originals. With minimal ads and no subscription needed, Crackle is a reliable choice for free content seekers who enjoy mainstream entertainment with occasional indie gems.
Key Features:
- Hollywood movies, classic TV shows, and Crackle Originals
- No account required to start streaming
- Ad-supported platform with minimal interruptions
- Regularly refreshed content library
- Compatible with all Roku devices
Conclusion
You don’t need to pay for great entertainment these Free Roku Channels prove it. Whether you’re interested in live local news, timeless TV shows, indie films, or kid-friendly content, there’s something for everyone in Roku’s free streaming lineup.
Channels like The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and PBS deliver reliable and legal access to quality programming without subscriptions or sign-ins. With just a few clicks, you can turn your Roku device into a complete entertainment hub at zero cost. Explore these options and enjoy hassle-free streaming today. And if you find more hidden gems, don’t hesitate to share them with fellow cord-cutters in the comments.
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