Plex is a media server application that allows users to stream and manage their personal media collections from anywhere in the world. It can be installed on a variety of client devices, including Roku streaming devices and the Amazon Firestick, making it a popular choice for people looking to create a home media center. Let’s dive in and look at how to install Plex on Roku plus explore the best Roku devices for Plex.
How to Install Plex on Roku
Installing Plex on Roku is a straightforward process. You’ll only need a few things to get started:
- Roku device
- Plex media server
- Plex account
- Roku Plex app
- Active internet connection
Here’s how to install Plex on Roku devices:
- Head to the Roku home screen
Go to the Roku home screen by pressing the home button on your Roku remote.
- Choose the Roku Channel Store
Navigate to the Roku Channel Store and select it by pressing the OK button on your Roku remote.
- Search for the Plex Roku app
Use the search function to find the Plex app.
- Select the Roku Plex app
Select the Roku Plex app and press the OK button on your Roku remote.
- Add Plex to Roku
Select Add Channel and follow the prompts to install the app.
- Sign into Plex
Finally, sign into Plex on Roku using your login credentials. Once you have installed the Plex app on your Roku, you can log in to your Plex account to access your media files. You can also use the Plex app on your smartphone or tablet to control your Roku device and stream media to your TV.
Once you’ve added Plex to Roku, you can also cast Plex to Roku: Simply fire up the Plex app on your Android, iOS, Windows, or macOS device. Then, select the Cast icon and choose your Roku media player from the list of available devices.
Plex on Roku Not Working: Troubleshooting Tips
Is Plex on your Roku not working properly? Maybe you’re experiencing buffering, stuttering, app crashes, or can’t even access Plex. Here’s how to troubleshoot Plex on a Roku media streamer:
- Make sure your Plex server is online
- Check for Plex media server updates
- Update the Plex Roku app
- Restart your Roku player
- Check your internet connection
- Enable the Allow Insecure Connections option in the Advanced Options section of the Plex Roku app
- Uninstall then reinstall the Roku Plex app
- Fix buffering problems by enabling hardware acceleration: Settings > Show Advanced > Server > Transcoder > Use Hardware Acceleration
Best Roku for Plex
When it comes to choosing the best Roku for Plex, there are a few factors to consider. Here are the best Roku devices to use for Plex:
- Roku Ultra – The Roku Ultra is the most powerful and feature-rich Roku device available. It supports 4K streaming and HDR content, making it an excellent choice for users who want the best streaming experience. The Roku Ultra also has a built-in Ethernet port, which can provide a more stable internet connection.
- Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ – The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ is a compact and affordable streaming device that supports 4K streaming and HDR content. It also comes with a voice remote, which allows users to search for content using voice commands.
- Roku Express 4K – The Roku Express 4K+ is the one of the most affordable Roku devices available, making it a great choice for users on a budget. It provides a reliable streaming experience for Plex users while supporting 4K HDR.
You can also easily install Plex on Roku TVs which come with the Roku operating system (OS) baked into the system and don’t require a separate standalone media streaming device.
What is Plex?
Plex is media server software that allows users to access their media files, such as movies, TV shows, music, and photos, from any device. Users can organize their media files into libraries and stream them to any device with the Plex app installed. Plex also offers additional features such as parental controls, recommendations, and remote access.
How to Run Plex on Roku: FAQs
Yes, Plex works on Roku thanks to the official Plex for Roku app. You can install the Plex channel on Roku media players like the Roku Ultra and Roku Stick 4K+, Roku TVs, and even soundbars like the Roku Streambar.
Yes, the Plex app is free on Roku. In fact, all non-mobile Plex client apps including Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Plex HTPC, Windows, macOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and smart TV apps are free to use.
Plex is completely free to use. However, Plex Pass costs $4.99/month, $39.99/year, or $119.99/lifetime. Plex Pass provides a slew of pro-level benefits including advanced settings, hardware transcoding, skip intro features, and more.
To activate Plex on Roku, head to the Roku home screen, navigate to the Roku Channel Store, search for the Plex Roku app, download and install the Plex on Roku app, then sign in to start streaming.
How to Set Up Plex on Roku – Final Thoughts
Installing Plex on Roku is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes. Once installed, users can access their media files and stream them to their TV. When choosing a Roku device for Plex, consider the features you need and your budget. Whether you choose the Roku Ultra, Streaming Stick 4K+, or Express 4K+, you can enjoy a seamless streaming experience with Plex.
To get started with Plex, learn how to install Plex on Docker. Or discover how to setup Plex Media Server on the Nvidia Shield TV for a compact, low power draw NAS.
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