Activate Pluto TV on Roku

Activating Pluto TV on Your Roku Device

Pluto TV offers 250+ free channels on Roku devices. This guide covers everything you need to know about installing, activating, and using Pluto TV on Roku, Roku Stick, and Roku TV.

Step-by-Step: Add Pluto TV to Roku

1. Access Streaming Channels

From your Roku home screen, scroll down and select "Streaming Channels" to open the Roku Channel Store.

2. Search for Pluto TV

Use the search function to find "Pluto TV". You can search by category (Movies & TV) or use the search bar.

3. Add the Channel

Select Pluto TV from the search results, then choose "Add Channel". The app will download and install automatically (takes 30-60 seconds).

4. Open Pluto TV

After installation, select "Go to Channel" or find Pluto TV on your Roku home screen. Launch the app.

5. Get Your Activation Code

When you first open Pluto TV, you'll see an activation screen displaying a 6-character code. Note this code.

6. Visit pluto.tv/activate

On your computer or mobile device, open a web browser and go to pluto.tv/activate.

7. Sign In or Create Account (Optional)

While not required, creating a free Pluto TV account lets you sync favorites across devices. Sign in or click "Sign Up" to create an account.

8. Enter the Code

Type the activation code from your Roku exactly as shown, then click "Link" or "Activate".

9. Confirmation

Wait for confirmation on both the website and your Roku device. The app will refresh within 30 seconds.

10. Start Watching

Browse channels, explore on-demand content, and start streaming!

Roku-Specific Tips

Using the Roku Remote

• Home button: Return to Roku home screen
• Back button: Go to previous screen in Pluto TV
• Star (*) button: Access additional options
• OK button: Select channels and content

Voice Search

If your Roku remote has a voice button, you can say "Open Pluto TV" or search for specific shows and movies available on Pluto TV.

Adding to Favorites

On compatible Roku models, press the Star (*) button while viewing a channel to add it to your favorites.

Troubleshooting Roku + Pluto TV Issues

Channel Won't Install

• Check your Roku's internet connection
• Restart your Roku (Settings > System > System restart)
• Make sure you have enough storage space
• Update your Roku software (Settings > System > System update)

Activation Code Not Working

• Generate a new code by closing and reopening Pluto TV
• Ensure both your Roku and browser device are online
• Try a different web browser
• Wait a minute and try again

Buffering or Loading Issues

• Test your internet speed (should be at least 3 Mbps for Pluto TV)
• Move your Roku closer to the router
• Use an Ethernet cable for wired connection
• Restart your router

App Crashes or Freezes

• Remove and reinstall the Pluto TV channel
• Clear Roku cache by restarting the device
• Check for Pluto TV app updates in the Channel Store

Benefits of Pluto TV on Roku

• Access to 250+ live channels
• Thousands of on-demand movies and shows
• No subscription or credit card required
• Works on all Roku devices (Roku Express, Stick, Ultra, TV)
• Simple remote control navigation

Roku Account Requirements

Do You Need a Roku Account?

Yes, all Roku devices require a Roku account to install channels like Pluto TV. The good news is Roku accounts are completely free and don't require a credit card if you only use free channels. If your Roku isn't set up yet, visit roku.com/link on a computer or phone to create your account and link your device.

Managing Multiple Roku Devices

If you have multiple Roku devices, you can use the same Roku account for all of them. Each device will need to activate Pluto TV separately with its own unique activation code, but you can use the same Pluto TV account across all devices to sync your favorites and watch history.

Activation Code Expiration on Roku

Roku activation codes for Pluto TV expire after approximately 15 minutes. Unlike some other devices, Roku doesn't show a countdown timer, so you'll want to complete activation promptly. If you suspect your code has expired, press the Back button on your Roku remote to return to the previous screen, then navigate back to the activation screen to generate a fresh code. If you're experiencing repeated code expiration issues, our activation code troubleshooting guide provides additional solutions.

Advanced Roku + Pluto TV Tips

Optimize Streaming Quality

For the best Pluto TV experience on Roku, ensure your internet connection meets minimum requirements. Navigate to Settings > Network > Check Connection on your Roku to test your speed. For smooth HD streaming on Pluto TV, you'll want at least 5 Mbps. If speeds are lower, consider upgrading your internet plan or using an ethernet connection instead of WiFi.

Create Custom Channel Shortcuts

Many newer Roku remotes have programmable shortcut buttons. You can set one of these buttons to launch Pluto TV instantly. Check your Roku model's manual to see if your remote supports this feature - it's a convenient way to access your favorite free content quickly.

Using Roku's Universal Search

Roku's universal search feature can find shows and movies available on Pluto TV across hundreds of channels. Press the Search button on your remote and speak or type the title you're looking for. If it's available on Pluto TV, Roku will show you - often highlighting it as "Free" which means it's on Pluto TV or another free service.

Troubleshooting Network Issues

If Pluto TV won't load channels or constantly buffers on your Roku, the issue is likely network-related rather than an activation problem. Try these steps: First, run a connection test (Settings > Network > Check Connection). If speeds are slow, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds. Position your Roku closer to your router or use a WiFi extender if the signal is weak. For the most reliable connection, use an ethernet cable - many Roku models have an ethernet port, though budget models like the Roku Express don't.

Need More Assistance?

Looking for help with other streaming devices or Pluto TV issues? Check our comprehensive Pluto TV Activation Guide for detailed instructions on activating Pluto TV on any device, plus solutions to common problems. For Fire TV users, see our Fire TV activation guide, or review our general step-by-step activation instructions for all devices.