A Roku Stick is a device that allows you to stream content from the internet to your television. It is a small, USB-sized device that plugs into the back of your TV. You can use it to watch movies, TV shows, sports, and other content from popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. But what exactly is a Roku stick, and why do so many people find it useful? Let’s find out.
Roku Stick 101
Contents
A Roku Stick provides you with access to an enormous library of movies, TV shows, and other types of streaming content. All you have to do is plug one end into your TV’s HDMI port, and the other end directly into a USB port on the back of your television. Once you turn on the device by pressing the power button on top, it will automatically stream all available content to your TV. You can also use it to watch YouTube videos like other types of streaming devices like Chromecast. Sometimes, a Roku stick has trouble connecting to WiFi, so you’ll need to get familiar with what to do at that moment. It is important to note that while most Roku models are stand-alone devices (meaning they don’t require any other equipment), some cheaper models allow you only to stream content from an existing device like Apple TV or Firestick onto your television.
How Roku Stick Works
The technology behind a Roku, as well as other types of streaming devices, is very interesting. Here’s what you need to know. When you select the channel or app that you want to watch on your device (which could be Kodi, Netflix, Hulu, etc.), an audio/video feed is sent directly from the content provider to your home internet network. That way, it can be played almost instantaneously on your television screen through your Roku stick. This is commonly called “streaming”. The process works in the reverse too: when someone turns on their TV and selects one of your channels or apps for viewing, their TV sends a signal back to your streaming device, so they can watch it there instead of having to stream it from the internet.
Benefits Of Using A Roku Stick
There are many reasons why people find Roku Sticks useful, including the following:
Unlimited Content
One of the biggest benefits of using a streaming device like a Roku stick is that you have unlimited access to content, with no need for cable TV anymore. Most channels and apps offer hundreds or even thousands of movies and episodes available on-demand for free (in case you missed it) or at very low monthly subscription costs.
Less Expensive Than Cable TV
Streaming can be much less expensive than cable television in certain cases because you don’t have to pay any fees, there are no contracts involved, and in some cases, you can subscribe month-to-month instead of paying quarterly like cable companies. For example, if you subscribe to an HD version of Netflix and Hulu Plus, that’s only $15 for both channels combined each month. If you add that up over a year, it’s less than half the price of the cable alone! Many services also offer free trials, so you can get started at no cost.
Access To Content Worldwide
Roku enables access to international content from all around the world, something which is not available with traditional cable TV. Besides being able to find content on some of your favorite domestic channels like HBO or Showtime, a Roku gives you a gateway into international sports packages and streaming services that would otherwise require some technical know-how to set up. This can be great for anyone who travels frequently or has family members living abroad.
How To Set Up A Roku Device
To get started, you’ll need to find an HD television with an available HDMI port so that your Roku stick can plugin. Note that newer TVs may come with the required port, but older models probably won’t so be sure to check or ask before buying one of these devices or bringing it home. Once you’ve made sure there’s an HDMI port on your TV for this device (and if not, try another model television), then grab your power cord and plug it into the back of the Roku stick and the electrical socket in the wall. For more information on Roku power issues, check here.
Next up is setting up your internet connection. If you have a wireless router or modem at home, you should be able to use it with your Roku stick – however, if you don’t, you will need to purchase one separately before moving ahead. You’ll also have to decide whether you want to use Ethernet or WiFi when connecting the device to your TV, so make sure to consider all options before deciding which way is best for your situation. The cheapest option by far is using Ethernet because it only requires a single cord plugged into the back of the Roku stick and then into an available port on your router or modem. Wireless will require two cords (one for the Roku stick and one for the wireless router/modem) but can be faster in some cases, especially if you live in an area where the wireless signal is weak, so keep this in mind as well.
How To Use A Roku Streaming Stick
Streaming with a Roku stick is easy because it’s just like using any other remote control – there are no special buttons to learn, just all of the ones you’re already familiar with including power, volume up and down, Home button, Back button, etc. Once you’ve plugged it into your TV via the HDMI port and hooked up either WiFi or Ethernet (whichever applies) to your home network (consult your router/modem manual if you’re not sure how to do this step), make sure you have batteries for your remote control and press the power button.
Roku sticks make it easy to watch whatever you want whenever you want from almost anywhere in the world. All this is for a fraction of the cost of cable TV. They’re easy to set up and use, and they come with a very generous warranty. These features make Roku a leading brand for streaming devices in the industry.
