How To Get Cbs On Roku
How To Get CBS On Roku: Your Ultimate Viewing Guide
So, you've got your comfy couch ready, your Roku streaming stick plugged in, and now you're asking the essential question: How To Get Cbs On Roku? You're in the right place! Whether you are a fan of prime-time dramas, NFL games, or simply need to catch up on the local news, accessing CBS content on your Roku is surprisingly straightforward.
Roku operates using channels (apps), and since CBS is a major network, there are several official paths to viewing their content. We're going to walk you through the two primary, best methods for securing that sweet CBS programming, covering everything from the dedicated streaming app to third-party live TV bundles.
Let's dive into the details so you can start watching your favorite shows immediately!
Method 1: The Paramount+ Advantage
If you want the most direct access to CBS programming, including live streams of your local CBS station (in most markets) and a massive library of on-demand content, Paramount+ is your number one option. Paramount+ is the official streaming home for all things CBS, SHOWTIME, and more.
This service allows you to watch live content, which is key for sports like the NFL and local news broadcasts. Furthermore, it gives you access to a huge back catalog of CBS shows, from current hits to classics.
Installing Paramount+ on Your Roku
Getting the Paramount+ channel onto your Roku device is quick and easy. You just need to follow these few simple steps using your Roku remote.
- Go to the Home Screen: Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
- Access the Channel Store: Navigate to the "Streaming Channels" option on the left-hand menu.
- Search for Paramount+: Use the search function and type "Paramount+".
- Add the Channel: Select the Paramount+ app icon when it appears and click the "Add Channel" button.
- Login or Sign Up: Once the channel is installed, open it. You will need to log in with your existing Paramount+ credentials or sign up for a new subscription.
Remember that Paramount+ requires a paid subscription. There are usually a couple of tiers, so make sure to choose the one that includes live local CBS channels if that is important to you!
What You Get with Paramount+
The beauty of using Paramount+ as the primary way How To Get Cbs On Roku is the flexibility it offers. It's truly a comprehensive package for CBS viewers.
- Live Local CBS: Access to your local CBS network affiliate feed (crucial for local news and specific live sports broadcasts).
- On-Demand CBS Library: Full seasons of current shows (like NCIS, FBI, Survivor) available the day after they air.
- Exclusive Originals: A wide range of Paramount+ originals that you can't find anywhere else.
- Sports Coverage: Access to various sports, including major NFL games, UEFA Champions League, and more.
Method 2: Live TV Streaming Services (For the Cable Cutters)
If you have already cut the cord and subscribe to a comprehensive live television service on your Roku, chances are CBS is already included! These services mimic traditional cable bundles but are delivered entirely over the internet.
If you're already paying for one of these services, you don't need to add another subscription just to figure out How To Get Cbs On Roku. Simply open the app and find the channel in your channel guide.
FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV Options
Several leading live TV streaming providers include local broadcast networks like CBS in their core packages. You can download and subscribe to these services directly on your Roku.
The most popular options that typically carry CBS are:
- YouTube TV: Offers a vast array of channels and strong DVR capabilities, almost always including local CBS affiliates.
- Hulu + Live TV: Combines a live TV package with the huge on-demand Hulu library, including CBS.
- FuboTV: Often favored by sports enthusiasts, FuboTV generally includes CBS, though availability can be hyper-local.
These services are excellent alternatives if you want dozens of other channels besides just CBS. They offer a complete cable replacement solution on your Roku.
Checking Local CBS Availability
A crucial detail when using a live streaming bundle is local affiliate coverage. CBS is an over-the-air broadcast network, and its availability on these streaming services is determined by your geographical location.
Before you commit to YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, always visit their website and enter your ZIP code. This ensures that the specific local CBS affiliate you need for news and sports is included in their channel lineup for your area. Don't skip this step!
Troubleshooting Common Issues When You Try To Get CBS On Roku
Sometimes, even after following all the steps, you might run into a minor snag. Here are a few common issues and quick fixes when you try to get CBS on Roku.
Roku Channel Not Updating
If you see an old version of the Paramount+ app or experience glitches, try removing the channel and reinstalling it. Go to the Home Screen, highlight the channel, press the star (*) button, and select "Remove Channel." Then, add it back from the Channel Store.
"Local CBS Stream Unavailable" Error
This usually happens if your subscription plan (especially on Paramount+) doesn't include the live local CBS feed, or if the service hasn't correctly detected your location. Double-check your subscription tier to ensure it covers live TV access. If it does, try logging out and logging back in to force a location refresh.
Poor Streaming Quality
Streaming high-definition live TV requires good internet speeds. If your CBS feed is buffering or looks pixelated, perform an internet speed test. You might need to move your Roku closer to your router or upgrade your Wi-Fi capabilities.
Conclusion
Ultimately, learning How To Get Cbs On Roku comes down to choosing the right streaming service for your needs. The simplest and most direct method is signing up for Paramount+, which is CBS's dedicated hub for both live and on-demand content.
However, if you are looking for a comprehensive cable replacement, a live streaming package like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV will also successfully deliver your local CBS channel to your Roku device.
Whichever path you choose, you now have all the tools necessary to unlock all the entertainment CBS has to offer right on your Roku. Happy streaming!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I watch CBS live for free on Roku?
- No, generally not. Because CBS is premium broadcast content, you typically need a paid subscription to access the live stream on a Roku channel, either through Paramount+ or a bundled live TV service. The only free way to watch live CBS is via a digital antenna connected directly to your TV, bypassing the Roku.
- Is the CBS Sports Network available on Roku?
- Yes, CBS Sports Network (CBSSN) is available! It is usually included in the higher-tier packages of most live TV streaming services (like FuboTV or YouTube TV). Paramount+ also often includes a dedicated live stream for CBSSN, depending on your subscription level.
- Do I need a cable subscription to get CBS on Roku?
- Absolutely not! The whole point of learning How To Get Cbs On Roku through these methods (Paramount+, YouTube TV, etc.) is to bypass traditional cable subscriptions. You only need an internet connection and a subscription to one of the streaming services mentioned above.
- Why can I watch on-demand but not the live CBS channel?
- If you have Paramount+, you are likely subscribed to the Essential plan, which only offers on-demand content and limited live sports. To get the live local CBS network stream, you must upgrade to the Premium (ad-free) subscription tier.
How To Get Cbs On Roku
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