Roku Setup Guide

Need help setting up your Roku? This guide walks you through everything from plugging it in to connecting Wi‑Fi and signing into your favorite streaming apps. Whether you're using a Roku Ultra, Stick, or built-in Roku TV, we make setup simple.

Collapsible content

Plug It In the Right Way

If you have a Roku Ultra or another model with Ethernet, use a wired connection for better stability — especially if you stream 4K content. Otherwise, make sure your Wi-Fi signal is strong and stable.

Clean Up the Home Screen (Disable Ads and Recommendations)

Go to Settings → Home screen
Hide: “What to Watch”, “Live TV”, etc.
Go to Settings → Privacy → Advertising
Turn on “Limit Ad Tracking”
Go to Settings → Accessibility → Auto-play previews
Set to Off

Turn on Frame Rate Matching

Go to Settings → System → Advanced system settings → Advanced display settings
Turn on: “Match content frame rate”

Adjust Picture Settings

TVs apply a lot of image processing by default — often adding lag, fake motion smoothing, and over-sharpening. To get the best picture quality for streaming:
Try “Cinema” or “Movie” mode for accurate color and deeper contrast
OR
Use “Game Mode” if you prefer a cleaner image with less processing (especially effective on some TVs)
Also:
Turn off motion smoothing, often labeled as “MotionFlow,” “TruMotion,” or “Auto Motion Plus” — this causes the dreaded "soap opera effect"
Use Dolby Vision or HDR10+ if supported by both your Roku and TV