How to Get a Internet Browser on Roku | Updated

Looking for a way to use an internet browser for Roku? After and extended period of research, we found that you can get a Roku Web Browser through various methods: channel store apps, casting, screen mirroring and more.

There are two web browsers available in the Roku channel store that stopped working back in 2021, but there are three better browsers you can get on Roku that I’ll discuss in this post.

A Roku browser will allow you to search the internet on your Roku device in the same way you would use an internet browser anywhere else online.

All other browsers are outdated in 2024: I test these browsers every month on Roku and Roku TV to see if they still work:

Roku Web Browser	Still Working in 2023?	Last tested
Poprism	No	April, 2024
Web Browser X	No	April, 2024
Web Video Cast	Yes	April, 2024
Miracast	Yes	April, 2024
Kraus & Karnath Browser	Yes	April, 2024

Update: Several hundred users fell victim to Roku scams. (See Roku Costs Per Month for more on this)

There should never be any costs from Roku for a Web Browser outside of select third party browser apps.

In this guide, we’ll explore different methods on how to get a web browser on Roku, including several mainstream methods, third-party apps, and help you choose the best option for your needs.

Key Takeaways

IMPORTANT:

The best way to get a Roku web browser in 2024 is through the web video cast app or Mira cast via your phone or laptop. All of the “Hacked” Web browsers such as Poprism and Web Browser X” stopped working back in Q1, 2021.

What not to do: I had to continually search online and all I found were old posts that claim Poprism and web browser X still work, they do not work….

Paul Michael, founder of MediaPeanut.com

To be clear, the only working browsers are the ones above that let you browse via Screen casting or mirroring from another device such as your smartphone.

There are no Native Roku Web Browsers, only these third party browser apps for Roku as mentioned earlier.

I have created the video below to show you how to get a Roku browser so you can surf the web:

If you’re like me, then you want to use an internet browser for Roku to mirror zoom calls, access unique apps, forums or view web content that Roku just doesn’t already have built-in.

Related: Roku Hacks: How to jailbreak Roku.

There are also ways to get internet apps on Roku itself, however Roku is discontinuing this in the future. You can find more on this in the Roku Secret Channels guide we have (see the list towards the bottom)

You’ll see even more ways a Roku internet browser is possible through my in-depth, step-by-step guides for each method listed… as well as some alternatives.

Don’t worry. Not only is it simple to install a Roku web browser but you can do it in less than 30 seconds by following the tips in this guide. There are even working Roku web browser hacks you can use that I’ll cover further in depth.

Does Roku have a web browser?

Yes, Roku does have a web browser and it is located in the Roku channel store as web video cast Roku Receiver. Downloading the best Roku web browsers require a secondary device such as an iPhone or Android. This is because a dedicated Roku web browser is not natively built-in or supported as an app.

There are several other methods of getting a browser on Roku as mentioned further in this post.

The free Browsers listed in this post can be accessed on Roku by using a computer, smartphone, or tablet to cast a fully functional web browser app.

The Benefit: A web browser is displayed on Roku with smooth navigation just like any other device using the internet.

Why does Roku not include a built-in browser? There’s a few reasons why Roku did not include a native browser and forces us to use a third party.

One is that the hardware on the device was not designed with web browsing in mind, even though it is capable of doing so.

Disadvantages of a Roku Web Browser

Since there is not a proprietary browser for Roku and you have to install one instead, there are some drawbacks. Below are the disadvantages of a Roku Web Browser:

• The main disadvantage is that you won’t be able to stream with the level of security an official, built-in browser would provide.
• Users surfing the web on Roku also won’t be able to change specific video settings to optimize and take advantage of HDR video like dolby vision provides.
• This means you’ll have to use a secondary device such as a iPad or Laptop to cast. This includes, but is not limited to casting from a Windows, iOS, or Android device. 

Casting is the easiest, most common method to browse the internet on Roku. I’ll go through some alternatives as well.

Related: How to get a Web Browser on Nvidia shield

There are 4 Different Types of Roku Browsers

Types of Roku Browsers	How to Get Them
Browser Application	Not available as of 2023
Smartphone App & receiver	Download “Web Cast Video” on iPhone or Android and Roku receiver
Cast from computer	Use chrome browser and select “Cast”
Mirror from Windows	Select “connections” from notification taskbar in Windows

I’ve done an extensive amount of research and even spoke with a few streaming experts on this matter. I found there are a variety of browsers available and different ways to get them.

Here are the 4 types of web browsers available on Roku:

1. Browser Application: As of 2023, all native apps have have been discontinued. This includes the “hacked” versions”
2. Smartphone App & receiver: Download “Web Cast Video” on iPhone or Android to cast a web browser on Roku. You can also Download a Roku receiver on the Roku itself.
3. Cast from computer: Use chrome browser by selecting the three dots on top right and select “Cast”.
4. Mirror from Windows: select “connections” from notification taskbar in windows to mirrored to Roku.

We will go over these in full detail further in this post.

How can I access a Roku Internet Browser?

For Smartphone, the Web Video Cast app is by far your best option. For computers, you can cast from Google Chrome browser or Windows Miracast to Roku. There are also a few more alternative methods.

So, technically a Roku internet browser isn’t built-in… however, you can still use a web browser by casting from a computer, phone, or tablet or using the additional methods to get an internet browser on Roku.

When using the smartphone casting via Web Video Cast app you’ll find the navigation works smoothly without pausing or buffing issues as well…

…especially when compared to Windows screen mirroring. (not the best from my experience)

If you haven’t considered an Nvidia Shield as an alternative to the Roku, then see our post on the 7 Cool Things You Can Do with Nvidia Shield TV Pro.

What is the best web browser for Roku?

In the past, the best Roku web browser winner would have been a private channel called Web browser X (now removed). Since then, things have changed.

Now the “Web Video Cast” app for Android and iPhone are available, which is the best Roku Browser in terms of speed and reliability. This allows reduced lag compared to casting or mirroring from other methods. 

Top web browsers for Roku include:

1. Web Video Cast
2. POPRISM Web Browser
3. Kraus & Karnath Browser Mirror
4. Web Browser X
5. Opera
6. Miracast
7. Google Chrome
8. Emby For Roku
9. Safari Browser
10. Media Browser
11. FilmRise
12. Xfinity

Let’s take a closer look at each of the top web browsers for Roku, their pros, cons, disadvantages, and what they are all about:

Web Browser Name	Description	Advantages	Disadvantages
Web Video Cast	A Roku web browser that also doubles as a casting app.	Easy to set up, works on most Roku devices, can stream TV shows, movies, live streams, and view photos and play videos from social media, fair price point for premium version	Premium version is a one-time payment, casting videos directly from web browser requires app download on phone
POPRISM Web Browser	Classic Roku web browser that doesn’t require casting or mirroring app.	Compatible with Roku devices, Roku remote can be used for navigation, no need for casting or mirroring app	Websites may appear clunky or outdated, currently not working, cannot display images or videos
Kraus & Karnath Browser Mirror	Roku web browser that allows for browsing and mirroring of photos, videos, and apps from phone.	Compatible with various Roku TVs, low latency, can access spreadsheets and games.	No sound, VPN or proxy can cause lag or delay, not an integrated browser, all features can only be accessed via display mirroring
Web Browser X	Roku web browser that allows for browsing and bookmarking favorite sites.	Allows for bookmarking and searching favorite sites, offers many configuration options and shortcuts.	Cannot play media content, outdated design, usernames and password fields do not work on some websites
Opera	Roku web browser that offers privacy and ad-blocker features.	Millions of people around the world use this browser, compatible with mobile, iPad, laptop, smart TV devices, fully clickable links.	Cannot be downloaded directly from Roku Channel Store, Roku device won’t store it directly
Miracast	A Roku web browser that uses wireless technology to send a browser from a third-party device to Roku.	Easy to use, works with various devices like Android phones and Windows PCs, enables wireless mirroring.	Requires a third-party device and windows OS, not a built-in app for Roku.
Google Chrome	One of the most popular browsers on Roku, known for its technological capabilities and fast loading times. Must be cast from a computer or tablet.	Efficient and easy to use, can protect from fraudulent websites	Not a native app, requires screencasting from another device
Emby For Roku	Unique media browser that can be downloaded from the Roku channel store. Can access local media files and watch movies and TV.	Easy to navigate interface, can retrieve saved content	Requires download and configuration of Emby Media server, not a true native internet browser
Safari Browser	Internet search app that can be downloaded from the Roku channel store. Can search Google without third-party devices.	Built-in app, privacy and security built-in	Confused with Apple-based Safari browser, can be complex to use
Media Browser	Simple interface that allows browsing for media and accessing personal library content on Roku.	Does not lag or delay when searching, can customize color and themes	Cannot be used for searching Google or Bing
FilmRise	Browser specifically for watching movies and TV, with a vast selection of free HD content.	Continually updated library with new shows and movies, legal content	Not a native browser, limitations on internet exploring
Xfinity	Paid app that works well as a web browser for Roku, with additional access to TV, movie, video, and song content.	Can watch movies and TV shows in addition to browsing, mobile device subscription control	Expensive, browsing is a secondary use, may be mistaken for a media streaming service

Other methods include using the chrome browser cast function on the computer or MiraCast on Windows to get a browser on Roku.

What if I want a built-in web browser for Roku?

Roku wants you to use their device for strictly watching video and entertainment and with the selected apps they have available…

Unfortunately, getting a built-in, native web browser is not possible for download on Roku in the same way it is on a Firestick.

Sure there are casting methods… but, what did I do instead?

My friends and I all switched to an Amazon Firestick instead of Roku. Why? It’s inexpensive and there’s a built-in web browser downloadable without any hassle at all.

Not to mention It’s extremely impressive in nearly every way. I bought one without thinking and I’m glad I impulsively did.

It was about time I upgraded and the streaming benefits far outweighed the cost which made for the perfect upgrade from Roku.

Oh, and did i mention it has a built-in, downloadable browser?

Related: See how to get any movie or TV show that exists on Roku by using Plex.

Does the Roku internet browser private channel “Web Browser X” or Poprism still work?

There are no longer private channels for browsing the web on Roku. however there are workarounds that we’ve included in this guide. These Roku private channels are typically created by third-party developers. This means they don’t always work consistently (shut down, or intermittently connect).

Sometimes they are not shut down indefinitely and are brought back depending on if the developer updates them.

In the past, there was Web browser X and Poprism, in which both appear not to be functional anymore. If casting from a secondary device is not an option for you. I advise checking back in if Web browser X is functional every now and then. 

I actually found the Roku Web Browser from private channels to be a bit laggy (Roku removed them). These were browsers actively worked on by third-party developers. 

Nowadays, the best option left is the Web Video Cast app, making it the clear winner. It isn’t laggy and you can use the browser from your phone to type and navigate instead of the Roku remote.

Unfortunately, Roku removed old ways to browse. At one point, private channel apps, such as Web browser X, were certainly a great option for those who didn’t want to cast from another device.

So, let’s dive into some different ways that will allow you to get a working Roku internet browser.

How to get a Web Browser for Roku (Roku Internet Browser)

Many of my readers often ask me: Is there is a free web browser on Roku? There are plenty of free web browsers for Roku I’ll be listing in this post for you to use the internet on. The quickest, most common way to get a Roku browser is through using smartphone and Wifi to cast.

This method is actually more effective than having the Roku Web Browser on the device itself because you’ll be able to not only use the web browser, but type using your phone which is easier than using the Roku remote.

Also see: How to get an internet Browser on Apple TV

4 Additional Ways to get a browser on Roku

Here are a few other ways we were able to get a web browser on Roku. These have been tested and are confirmed working.

Cast from a SmartPhone to get a Web browser for Roku:

Did you know there is an app to get an actual web browser on Roku? This free app is called “Web Video Cast” and includes seamless navigation… No clunky functions. This app can be used on both iPhone and Android to cast Twitch to Roku. In fact, you can cast your entire browser display this way.

This app allows the very best navigation and controls for casting iPhone or Android to Roku while also minimizing any potential lag.

Here’s how to get a Roku web browser by casting from Smartphone (Android or iPhone):

1. Go to Google Play or Apple app store and search “Web Video Cast” browser app
   .
2. Download and launch the app to begin set up.
3. Next, use the browser like you would on a phone or computer.
   
4. Then, Locate and tap the cast icon option towards the top of the phone to cast the internet browser to Roku.
5. Congratulations! You now have a Roku internet browser!

Cast from a Computer (Windows and Mac) to use as a Roku internet Browser

Another way to get an internet browser for Roku is through screen-casting or mirroring a computer or laptop browser on Roku. For this to work you’ll need to cast or screen mirror as you’ll see in the examples below.

This method works well for both Windows and Mac. It is done by using the cast button from the chrome browser to Roku.

Here’s how to get a Roku internet browser by casting from a Mac or Windows computer:

1. First, confirm both Roku and computer are on the same WiFi Network.
2. Open the web browser on Google Chrome, then click the three vertical dotted buttons (the dots that open settings on chrome). This can be located by looking directly to the right of your Chrome URL browser
   .
3. Select Cast from the dropdown menu and wait for Roku to appear.
4. Choose the Roku device.
5. Enjoy Dailymotion on Roku!

Alternative methods include using Airserver to cast a browser to Roku. If Airserver is not an ideal choice for you, then you can use parallels or just boot to Windows using Bootcamp.

I get asked time and time again, “Paul, What do you personally use?” and how do you get a browser to Roku from Windows.

Related: See the Roku TV secret menu and learn how to access it.

Well, I eventually became tired of using a secondary device to cast and grabbed an Amazon Firestick; which, unlike Roku, has a more speedy, efficient browser.

No matter which device you choose, you may want to view our tech statistics, which show us what we can expect in the future and how quickly all these devices will become outdated

Screen mirroring from a Windows Computer (windows only alternative)

An alternative way to enable the use of an internet/web browser on Roku is by screen mirroring from your PC or laptop. This is especially useful for when your iPhone or Android is running low on battery. The only con to this method is that it lags a bit compared to using the web video cast app.

Here’s how to screen mirror from a Windows computer to allow a web browser on Roku:

1. On Roku, ensure the “screen mirroring” setting is switched on by locating “system” and selecting screen mirroring: “always-on”.
2. Next, check to be sure your PC (Windows) is connected to the same WiFi as Roku.
3. Cast your Window’s display with your web browser on it by locating to notifications at the bottom right of your taskbar.

   

4. Select, “connect to a wireless display”. Newer models can add a Roku device via Bluetooth on windows.
5. Windows will now scan for devices. Once the Roku device appears listed: hit connect.
6. Congrats! You now have screen mirrored to use your internet browser on Roku.

This uses Windows MiraCast which is built-in, and free. You may not even know you have it!

So, whats my personal top method so far out of these listed? Well, besides upgrading to an Amazon firestick your best bet will be using the “Web video Cast” app as its both functional and smooth… almost as if you have an actual built-in web browser Roku app.

As mentioned, I chose the specific model Amazon Firestick… I’ve been mentioning repeatedly in this post because I can’t stress enough how much of a quick, easy fix it was to all my streaming entertainment.

Why is the Firestick the ultimate alternative to a Roku for internet browsing?

Well, on top of the easy to install internet browsing compared to Roku… there’s no need for the use of phone or computer casting… It also has many more useful apps for download than I can count. When I received it I immediately realized how drastically the Firestick blew away my Roku Ultra, and for much less of a cost.

I’ve been calling it “The ultimate streaming upgrade” around my friends… they made fun of me at first, but eventually, they all got one.

The Firestick allows for side loading apps, compared to Roku, which only has Roku Private Channels as a similar alternative method, which many may view insufficient for their viewing needs.

What about a TCL Roku Web Browser?

Unfortunately there is no differencing to get a Web browser on TCL Roku TV compared to a standard Roku streaming stick or set-top box. You’ll have to use similar methods I’ve listed in this post, such as casting or screen-mirroring, to get a web browser on TCL Roku TV.

You can’t access a Roku Browser with a TCL Roku remote, but rather the casting apps as mentioned earlier where you will use your smartphone or iOS based tablet as the remote.

Also see: Do you have a Slow Roku TV? Here’s how to make Roku faster

Roku Web Browser Hack

The only way to get a web browser on Roku outside of the standard methods and workaround methods listed is by seeking out the newest web browsers as they may have a new integration with Roku. 

The most effective way is to either rollback to a previous version that allows the Roku to get a hacked web browser, or grab a very old version of Roku on eBay that still works.

These methods are considered extreme in my opinion and if you really need a web browser on Roku, but don’t want to hack the Roku, then you’ll want to simply grab something like the Amazon Fire Stick; where this is possible.

You can always use the screen mirroring app as an alternative-since the app is available on both Google Play and Apple App Store, both Android (and iPhone users) are able to benefit from this. Remember, Opera TV, which casts all your mobile games and apps, can be mirrored onto your large display screen TV in 1080p HD quality with minimal input lag.

Is there a way to get a web browser on Roku without hacking it?

Yes, the methods listed in this guide solve this and include either using a phone app to cast your web browser from phone to Roku or Using opera browser to mirror and stream your current view on desktop or phone.

This uses bluetooth technology to allow the content on your iPhone or Android device to be display on the Roku, which means the web browser is technically on the smartphone, but displayed on the Roku. In theory, you’re still using a Roku web Browser since Roku is the connector.

Is there a new version of Roku that works with hacked browsers?

It’s very common for people to look for a way to hack the roku and put a web browser on it, but it’s not necessary. While all Roku systems will work if you find a way to hack them, hacking your roku with the latest available options on the market today is even more difficult and not advised.

If anything, older versions of Roku are more easily ‘hacked’ and even so not worth the time and effort to get a web browser; especially when there are more simple ways such as casting your phone using the casting app to the Roku.

What is the difference between streaming and casting on Roku?

By streaming you are actually doing what you would normally do with a browser on the Roku. Streaming on a Roku can mean going to a website and it is displayed on your connected TV… that’s streaming. Loading and buffering from a source for a video to appear; which Roku can do and theres no need to hack the Roku to do this. The Roku is very different than a Firestick in this regard- there is no side loading.

Related: Learn how to connect to Roku without remote

On the other hand, casting allows you to use your phone, tablet, or laptop as a remote controller for your Roku device. So instead of just looking at the browser on your TV screen you can also control it using your phone or tablet for videos, movies, websites, games and more with the right casting app- this only works for web apps, though.

Related: Best Tablet Speakers for Loud Sound (Wireless and Bluetooth)

Are there unofficial methods of getting a Roku Browser?

There are no other ways with the standard Roku devices besides this as Roku does not have a native web browser, but there are some ‘workaround’ methods.

As far as internet browsing goes on Roku, it’s possible to:

• Screen mirror
• Casting, which works fine with the general web browser such as Firefox, Opera or Chrome if it’s mobile and has the option.
• You can install a third party web browser and cast it on to your Roku using the Google cast system to Roku (this is ideal for both iPad, iPhone and Android users)
• Install a custom hack on an older Roku you get from Ebay, a friend, or have lying around.
• You should know that casting may not work in every scenario (for example, it will not work if you’ve already installed something that prevents it on the Roku, or if you have an app or firewall on the device that simply prevents casting).

Therefore, work arounds are always recommended through this article and the general methods listed above.

Note: The above types of web browsing mentioned above are also possible on the Roku Ultra, Roku Express, Roku Stick, and Roku TVs (Hisense, element, Sharp, Phillips, etc)

Update: I personally use a Firestick now as an alternative. The reason being is that it has a web browser built-in that works extremely well.

It’s also much quicker than the older Roku’s.

How to get Internet on Roku

There are two main ways get Internet on Roku, these include connecting via Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. If you’re looking for an internet browser to search the internet through the Roku device itself like you would on a computer; then Miracast or web video app both work to accomplish this.

Older methods, such as Poprism or Web Browser X will not let you get internet on Roku anymore. this was updated in 2022.

Related: Roku Not Working: Every Roku Problem Solved (Full list)

If you already have internet, but can’t search the web on Roku, then try updating your network on Roku: Select settings, set up connection, choose wired if you have an ethernet cord or wireless if you’re using Wi-fi.

From here, choose your network and select the password that your Router has on the back on the device or the one you previously had set manually.

If you’re using Xfinity or the Xfinity app on Roku and having an issue, see our post on how to fix Xfinity not working on Roku.

What are the benefits of using a Roku internet browser?

A good Roku web browser allows you to quickly visit websites and use the World wide web to utilize apps, bookmarks and more. You can use search engines on a much larger display since you’ll be using the smart TV that Roku is connected to. Another benefit is that you won’t have to leave you’re couch or bed to go use a laptop, PC, or Phone to search something your looking for.

A Good Roku internet browser will have the following features:

• An interface that enables users to have full browser capabilities, such as the use of web apps
• Websites have fast loading times.
• The URLs of websites can be archived and bookmarked.
• Maintains support for newer technology and newer web coding standards.
• An interface that integrates easily with Google products.
• Allow web apps of social media to be used.

Lastly, you’ll be able to stream or view content that you can only find on the web, since some content is excluded from streaming players; such as foreign films, certain live streams, or channels that you can’t find on Roku.

How to use Google on Roku

The most reliable, secure, and useful browser for Roku is Google Chrome. However, to get google on Roku you’ll need to decide whether you just want to browse the internet on Roku or if you want the actual Google chrome app itself.

In addition to helping you stream content on your TV, Roku devices can be used to browse the internet and sort through photos and even music.

If you want to use Google’s services on your Roku device, then you need to have access to Google’s services to begin with before you proceed.

Can I install Google Chrome on Roku?

Yes, but you will need to use Google Chrome through screen mirroring as the official app is not downloadable on the Roku Store. So, If you want to access Chrome on your TV, your best bet is to mirror your screen from a smartphone, computer, iPad, or Laptop.

To get google chrome on Roku, you’ll need to set up a screen mirror app and install it on a secondary device. Then, screen mirror to your Roku Stick or Roku TV, by enabling the screen mirroring options on Roku. Congratulations, you now have Google Chrome on Roku.

How to connect Roku to Google Home (Full setup)

You can also connect your Roku with Google Home. To do this, follow these steps: 

1. The first step is to launch the Google Home app. 
2. Then, tap ‘Set up device’ after clicking on the ‘Add’ button. 
3. Choose ‘Have you already set up something. 
4. Then, Find your Roku by selecting it from the list. 
5. You will need to login to the Roku account you signed up with originally.
6. Finally, select the Roku device you wish to control with your Google Assistant.

Google Home on Roku can give you quite a few benefits. It’s no surprise everybody wants it on their Roku as it can control cameras, TVs, lights and other devices.

Can I install Google Photos on Roku?

There is no true method to download the Google Photos app for Roku. However there are other apps you can use. These third party apps allow you tp add features (ex. Roku screen saver). This app can be used by any user and is a straight forward alternative route for getting google photos on your Roku Stick or TV.

Can I get Google Play music on Roku?

The Google Play Music app on Roku is not available on the Roku store, but there are some alternatives. For example, a private Roku channel, or Music through a Roku internet browser can help get google play music.

Roku supports the screen mirroring (or casting) of Google Play Music from Android and Windows devices to a Roku Stick, Roku Ultra, or Roku TV. Using Miracast technology will allow you to do this, but iOS Apple devices will not be supported.

Related: Roku No Sound: Fix Volume Not Working

How to use your Roku Web Browser

There’s quite a few ways you can use your Roku web browser. Let’s dive into all the different functions you may not know you have access to. We’ll also cover the limitations and how to use optional features to optimize surfing the web.

How to clear your browser history

Keep in mind that clearing your browsing history will remove records of the websites you have visited and the data stored on your device by those websites, such as cookies.

To clear your browsing history in the majority of Roku browsers, follow these steps:

1. Open your internet browser.
2. Click on the “History” or “Browser history” option in the menu or toolbar. This will open a list of your recently visited websites.
3. Select the “Clear browsing data” or “Clear history” option.
4. A pop-up window will appear, allowing you to choose the types of data you want to clear. You can choose to clear your browsing history, cookies, cached images and files, and other types of data.
5. Select the time range for which you want to clear data. You can choose to clear data from the past hour, the past day, the past week, the past month, or from the beginning of time.
6. Click on the “Clear data” or “Clear browsing data” button to clear your selected data.

However, if you’re using a casting app that acts as a Roku browser, you would clear your history the same way you would on a traditional browser since the third party device gets mirrored and not modified in any way, shape, or form.

This can make it harder to log in to websites and may affect your Roku browsing experience in other ways. It’s also worth noting that clearing your browsing history may not completely erase all traces of your online activity, as other parties (such as your internet service provider or employer) may still have access to this information.

How to adjust Privacy settings

Privacy settings in a web browser allow users to control how their personal data is collected and used when they are using the internet. These settings can help users protect their privacy and control the types of information that are collected about them when they visit websites.

Some common privacy settings found in a (good) Roku web browser would include ‘Do Not Track’, which sends a signal to websites not to track the user’s activity – I have not seen in a few specific browsers I’ve tested on my Roku Ultra.

You will also have cookies -which are small files that websites store on users’ Roku devices to track their activity and store information about them.

There is also location tracking and browser history in addition to pop ups and password management. In most cases, a Roku Browser will not have password management as it’s a bit limited as we will cover further in this post.

It’s important for users to familiarize themselves with their web browser’s privacy settings and choose the options that best suit their needs and preferences.

Roku browser extensions and plugins

Browser extensions and plugins are software programs that can be added to a web browser to add additional features or functionality. However, most Roku browsers are usually developed by third parties and advanced plugins such as pop up blockers can’t be downloaded and installed since there is no Roku browser’s extension store or way for this to occur. This is just one of many limitations of using a Roku browser instead of a traditional Browser.

Roku Browser limitations

A Roku internet browser is a software program that allow Roku users to access and navigate the web through their streaming device, but there are several limitations to consider when using a browser on Roku.

Related: 9 Best Streaming Devices with a Web Browser

One limitation is compatibility – Since the browsers that work on Roku are typically third party apps that must be downloaded, users may not be able to access certain websites or features such as certain videos, sound, and other advanced functions a traditional browser would allow.

Performance is another limitation – browsers can vary in terms of speed and efficiency, and poor performance can lead to a frustrating user experience. For example, if you’re trying to stream a movie from an obscure website; it might be tough on a Roku browser because the sound format may not be supported by the browser app you downloaded.

Security is also an important consideration, as some browsers may be more vulnerable to security threats such as malware or phishing attacks. You may have a less secure experience depending on what information you provide on the browser – for example it would be ideal to not provide any passwords when using a Roku browser without a VPN or another form of security.

Other limitations include the features offered by different browsers, compatibility with web standards, resource usage, and privacy concerns. It’s important for users to consider these limitations when choosing between different options.

How does a Roku browser compare to a Smart TV browser?

A Roku web browser allows access to navigating the internet on whichever device it is plugged into – this could be a TV, a monitor, or another display that supports Roku.

However, Smart TV browsers are a mix between the two; in that they have more features than a Roku browser because they are built natively for the device they are used on.

It’s important to note that Smart Tv browsers do not have the functionality a traditional browser has; such as widely available extensions and plugins.

Hisense, Toshiba, LG, Samsung, Vizio, are all examples of Smart TVs that have a web browser that is comparable to the third party browser options on Roku.

How does a Roku browser differ from a traditional internet browser?

It’s important to keep in mind that a Roku browser will only work on Roku devices such as Roku streaming players and Roku TVs. These have significantly less functionality and features as a traditional browser – such as pop up blockers, advanced options, and even less frequent software updates.

A traditional web browser is used on a computer, phone, or other device, but not on a Smart TV or Roku. Traditional browsers are subjectively much better by many according to our audience we surveyed.

Traditional browsers also have different compatibility. For example, Safari comes default on iPhones, while Google chrome is commonly used on desktops, laptops, and android devices.

FAQ

Does Roku support HTML5 for web browsing?

This question is not simple, so I’ll need to get more technical with the answer. It is possible to create Roku code that retrieves a web page from a URL, however, handling CSS or JavaScript within Roku code proves to be quite challenging – yo could (in theory) acquire “contents” from an HTML web page, but actually displaying HTML on Roku is not simple.

This limitation implies that while you can work with basic HTML content… you would need to adapt; especially with complex web elements. It may be necessary to develop custom solutions or use a tailored approach to handle the unique requirements of displaying web content on the Roku platform outside of the browsers mentioned earlier on this page.

Is there another way to get a Roku Web Browser besides using a casting or mirroring app?

Outside of the majority of the browsers mentioned in this post earlier –u sing screen casting or mirroring from a smartphone, tablet, or computer remains one of the most reliable ways to use a web browser on your Roku device.

While there might be unofficial solutions or workarounds created by third-party developers, it’s important to keep in mind that these options may not be supported or endorsed by Roku, and they might not be available on all devices or in all regions.

Roku OS provides an intuitive, personalized streaming experience with improvements in multiple areas, however the connection between Roku OS and a web browser on a Roku device is indirect – While Roku OS provides the operating system for Roku devices, it does not offer a native web browser (instead you need 3rd party alternatives as mentioned) and this appears to be intentional to keep the users focus on streaming, rather than web browsing.

Conclusion

Flowing from the thoughts above, it’s clear that getting a web browser on Roku is very possible. The only limitation is that you must cast or screen mirror in order to do so or download a Roku browser app in the form of a Receiver (such as web video cast )

The absolute method is to simply cast from the Web Video Cast app, which is available on both Google Play and Apple App Store. So, both Android and iPhone users can take advantage of this. It also boasts smooth navigation compared to screen mirroring or casting via Roku screen mirroring options.

The next method is by casting from a computer or laptop (mac or windows). This can easily be done through using the screencasting methods outlined in this post. These methods for casting a browser from a computer to Roku TV require using the free Google Chrome web browser or Miracast on windows. There is a internet browser on Roku and the steps explained in this guide will allow you to use one.

Roku does not have a native, browser built-in to surf the web on… you’ll need a streaming device such as the Fire TV as mentioned earlier. There unfortunately is no app created by Roku for web browsing as wel all hope.

In the past, Roku had Web Browser X which was a private Roku channel to browse the internet on. This allowed you to use an internet browser for Roku and without using a secondary device such as a computer, tablet or smartphone. However, it appears now that Roku is actively removing the third-party, developer-created, internet browsers on Roku.