Television enthusiasts widely appreciate Roku for streaming their preferred movies, TV shows, and digital content. But did you know you can link your Roku to your computer? How do you get started?
You can download the Roku App to your Windows or Mac device to connect both devices. Alternatively, you can enable Screen Mirroring on your Roku to cast media from your computer to your device. Both devices must be on the same WiFi network, and the feature must be enabled for it to work.
If you’re considering this method, you should know that streaming media from your computer or laptop to the Roku Player is straightforward and takes no time. Let’s look at everything you need to know on how to watch Roku on a computer.
Is a Roku Compatible With a Computer?
Yes, a Roku Player is compatible with a computer. There are a few different ways you can link a computer to the Roku, including the following:
- Use the Roku App: You can use the free Roku app on the PC to control your Roku Player, as long as your computer and Roku are connected to the exact Internet network. The Roku App is accessible on Windows and Mac devices and can be downloaded from the Roku website.
- Use Screen Mirroring: You can use the Screen Mirroring feature to stream media from your computer to your smart TV via the Roku device. That said, not all computers or Roku devices support screen mirroring, so be sure to check your compatibility before attempting.
- USB Support: Some Roku models support USB connectivity, meaning you can link a USB flash drive or external hard drive to the Roku to access files. You can use this feature if you have content on your PC and want to watch it on your TV via the Roku Player.
Desktop vs. Laptop: Do Both Work?
One of Roku’s advantages is that both desktop computers and laptops are compatible with a Roku device. That said, both devices must be linked to the exact WiFi network to work correctly.
As mentioned earlier, Roku allows you to stream content on your Roku via a desktop or laptop, including the Roku App, screen mirroring, and a USB connection.
How To Watch Roku on a Computer?
Generally, connecting a computer or laptop to a Roku is straightforward, regardless if you have a Windows or Mac device. Here are the easiest methods to connect Roku to your computer:
Use the Roku App
You can use the Roku app on your computer or laptop to control your Roku Player. Use the following steps to get started:
- Download the Roku App: Visit the Roku Website and download the Roku App for Windows or Mac, depending on your device.
- Install the App: Follow the on-screen prompts on your device to install the Roku App.
- Link Your Roku: Ensure your Roku Player is on the same WiFi network as your computer or laptop.
- Launch the Roku App: Launch the Roku app on the computer. You may need to log in using your Roku username and password.
- Connect to the Roku: The app detects nearby Roku streaming sticks on the same network. Select your Roku Player once it appears in the list of nearby devices.
- Use the App and Enjoy: Now, you can use the Roku App to find and select media to stream on your Roku Player. You can also use the app as a remote to play, pause, or adjust the volume of the content.
Note: Some of the features and functions of the Roku App could often vary depending on the software version, computer, and model of your Roku Player.
Using a Macbook
Alternatively, you can use the Screen Mirroring feature on your Roku Player to stream media from your Macbook. Make sure both devices are connected to the exact WiFi network, and you will need to enable the feature on the Roku device. Here’s how:
- Power on your Roku Player and click the Home Button using the Roku Remote Control.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and select ‘System Updates.’ Ensure you have the latest software update.
- From ‘Settings,’ navigate to ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Choose ‘Enable Screen Mirroring’ and click ‘OK’ to confirm your choices.
- Connect your Mac to the exact WiFi connection as your Roku Player.
- Press the Apple Icon near the top left of the Screen and click ‘System Preference.’
- Next, select ‘Displays.’ Click on ‘AirPlay Display’ or ‘Display Listed,’ depending on your model.
- Select your Roku model from the list of available devices to start Screen Mirroring.
- Now you can enjoy whatever compatible media you want on your Roku Player.
Using Windows
You can also use the Screen Mirroring feature on Windows devices to cast content to the Roku Player. Both devices must be linked to the exact WiFi connection, and the feature must be enabled on your Roku before you begin. Use the following steps to get started:
- Power on your Roku Player and click the Home Button using the Roku Remote.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and select ‘System Updates.’ Ensure you have the latest software update.
- From ‘Settings,’ navigate to ‘Screen Mirroring.’
- Choose ‘Enable Screen Mirroring’ and click ‘OK’ to confirm your choices.
- Connect your Windows PC to the exact WiFi connection as your Roku Player.
- Now, click the Windows Key + P to launch the Connect App on the laptop.
- Once your Roku model appears in the list of nearby devices, select it to start a Screen mirroring session.
- Now you can stream media from your Windows computer or laptop to the Roku streaming device.
Related Questions
If I Have Peacock on Roku, Can I Watch it On My Computer?
If you have the Peacock app on your Roku and an active subscription, you can log in to your Peacock account on your computer and watch content on the Peacock website.
How To Connect Roku Device To A Phone?
There are several ways you can connect Roku to your phone to stream content. You can download the Roku mobile app (available for Android and iOS devices), ensure both devices are on the same WiFi, and follow the on-screen prompts to link your Roku device.
Alternatively, you can use screen mirroring for Android or AirPlay for iOS (our guides), depending on what type of device you have.
