IPTV on Roku TV: what works and what doesn't

Watching IPTV on Roku TV is possible, but harder than on most platforms, because Roku only lets you install apps from its own Channel Store. Many popular IPTV players are not available there. This guide explains the options that work, what each one costs in convenience and which we recommend.

Why IPTV on Roku is limited

Roku devices and Roku TVs run Roku OS, a closed system. You cannot install Android apps (APKs) or apps from other websites. Developer mode exists so app makers can test their own channels, but it is not designed for installing third-party players and needs a new upload after every restart.

That leaves you with the apps Roku has approved for its Channel Store, and IPTV players there come and go. Check the store on your device for current options; Roku's own support site explains how to add channels.

Your options compared

Option 1: a player from the Roku Channel Store

Search the Channel Store for "IPTV" or "M3U". Some players accept an M3U playlist URL; very few support Xtream Codes logins. Read recent reviews before paying for any premium version, and check whether the app supports a programme guide (EPG). If you have an Xtream Codes login, your provider can usually give you an M3U link instead; our article M3U vs Xtream Codes explains the difference.

Option 2: screen mirroring

Roku supports screen mirroring from many Android phones and Windows PCs (Settings > System > Screen mirroring). Start your IPTV player on the phone and mirror it to the TV. It works for an occasional match, but the phone must stay on and awake, quality depends on your Wi-Fi, and there is a slight delay. It is not a comfortable everyday solution.

Option 3: add a streaming stick (recommended)

The most reliable way to get IPTV on a Roku TV is to plug a second device into a free HDMI port:

1. Buy a Fire TV Stick 4K or a Google TV stick.
2. Plug it into the TV and switch input with the Roku remote.
3. Install your preferred player; see our best IPTV player guide.
4. Enable HDMI-CEC on the TV so the stick's remote can switch the TV on and off.

Setup details are in our Firestick IPTV guide and our IPTV box guide.

Which IPTV on Roku TV option to choose

• Occasional viewing: try a Channel Store player or mirroring.
• Daily viewing with a programme guide: add a stick.
• 4K: a 4K stick; mirroring and most Roku players will not deliver 4K IPTV reliably.

Using the Roku remote with a second device

If you add a stick to your Roku TV, enable HDMI-CEC in the TV's settings (on Roku TVs it is under Settings > System > Control other devices). The TV then switches to the stick's input automatically when you press its remote, and switching the stick off can put the TV into standby. Some Roku TVs also let you rename the input, so "HDMI 2" becomes "IPTV" on the home screen, which makes life easier for everyone in the house.

What about Roku streaming sticks?

Everything above applies to Roku Express and Roku Streaming Stick devices as well as Roku TVs: the same closed Channel Store and the same limits. If you are about to buy a streaming device mainly for IPTV, a Fire TV or Google TV stick is the better choice because the full range of player apps is available on them.

IPTV Europa works with any compatible player on Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, smart TVs, phones and computers. See plans for one to four devices on the pricing page.