Even though Roku offers numerous downloadable apps, I tend to stick with just a few every day. These particular eight applications provide such extensive amusement that you’ll seldom look for entertainment outside them.
PBS Kids
For about a decade now, PBS Kids has been an essential part of our household. My children developed a strong affection for it primarily because of programs such as "Wild Kratts," "Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood," and "Sesame Street." However, they also enjoyed the accompanying games immensely.
Once I received my Roku Express, it was among the initial applications I set up. Both my young child and I find it simpler to watch cartoons on our television rather than huddling around a small tablet.
Download on Roku: Needs to be downloaded via a Roku device.
Amazon Prime
Although Amazon Prime offers impressive exclusive titles such as Fallout, Good Omens, and Secret Level, I primarily use it for renting movies beyond just streaming. With an extensive library of films available, Amazon Prime serves as a go-to resource for discovering series and movies not found elsewhere. Additionally, being an Amazon Prime member allows me access to various shopping discounts whenever I make purchases.
Download on Roku: Prime Video
Plex
The Roku app that I absolutely couldn’t do without is Plex. Since setting up my personal Plex server, I made sure to install it across all possible gadgets. Its versatility makes it indispensable; why wouldn’t I want such compatibility at my fingertips? This way, I avoid needing to rely on my gaming console for streams and have the flexibility to take my Roku Express around the home freely. With this setup, my whole collection of movies, TV series, music—all conveniently accessible—is literally right in my pocket.
Download on Roku: Plex
Spotify
Although I prefer owning my own music I'm missing some of the CDs I desire, so I rely on Spotify to cover what I lack. It’s quite something, isn’t it? Plus, because I’ve got a good soundbar connected to my TV instead of separate speakers, I can play music loudly (much to the annoyance of others at home) when I clean up. Additionally, Spotify offers plenty of audiobooks and podcasts; one of my favorites being StarTalk Radio.
Download on Roku: Spotify
Netflix
Netflix regularly releases new original series such as "The Fall of the House of Usher," "Castlevania," "Maniac," and "Midnight Mass." These have been delightful additions for viewers looking to discover fresh content. Why do I continually pay for Netflix? . Additionally, there are various crime documentaries along with several children’s programs.
Among all my subscribed streaming platforms, I frequently return to Netflix. Finding something enjoyable is quite simple here, and they constantly introduce fresh content. Additionally, its user interface is very uncluttered and operates smoothly on Roku compared to others.
Download on Roku : Netflix
Pluto TV
I've gone without cable for several years now, and I'm happy about it since many streaming apps offer free channels. My top pick is Pluto TV; at home, we jokingly refer to it as our "Hell's Kitchen" app.
Pluto TV offers many appealing features including an extensive collection of movies, retro television series, and several news channels—all available without cost. This platform strikes a balance between live broadcasts and recorded material. While the advertisements can get bothersome occasionally, I find it easy enough to ignore them most of the time.
Download for Roku: Pluto TV
Crunchyroll
After Netflix, I spend many hours on Crunchyroll due to its extensive collection of anime. Where else can you repeatedly watch classics like "Cowboy Bebop," "Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood," all iterations of "Dragon Ball" from the beginning through "Daiwa," along with "Yu Yu Hakusho," on one single platform over and over again?
It features several unique original shows such as "BladeRunner:BlackLotus," but the main advantage lies in its simulcasted episodes. When a fresh episode premieres, I typically have access to it shortly afterward—often within just about an hour.
Download on Roku: Crunchyroll
Twitch
Twitch is the premier app for watching gaming content. If I want to watch my favorite streamer, I'm not doing it from my desk (I already spread enough time there) or from a tiny screen. I like seeing detail, so it's much more comfortable to tune in on the big screen.
Download for Roku: Twitch
With just eight Roku apps, you can enjoy an unending flow of entertainment that caters to every desire, requirement, and preference. Many of these apps come at no cost as well. I reckon that’s quite a fantastic bargain.