Actually, using my Roku television has been something of a new experience for me, but it’s been fruitful. After discovering some helpful Roku tips I wish I had known sooner, I started really diving into the many applications the service offers. While I’m still more of an Xbox Series X user for most things in my life, there are quite a few streaming apps or services that simply aren’t available on my console.
So, as I was suffering from choice paralysis, I scrolled through the dozens and dozens of options available to me and decided I would just start doing some test runs. What I discovered is that Roku truly has a lot of great applications, and many of them don’t seem to get the recognition they deserve compared to more mainstream options.
FilmRise
Who doesn’t love free movies and shows?
At first, I just figured that FilmRise would have the same streaming options as other free services like Tubi or Pluto TV, and to be fair, there is definitely a lot of overlap. But when it comes to ad-supported services, I honestly get tired of seeing the same ads over and over. Sometimes it’s nice to switch things up by changing between applications.
Also, FilmRise has a surprisingly in-depth offering of documentaries. I’ve also noticed that it shares some crossover content with premium streaming services like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max, which could be nice if you’re not feeling that expensive streaming bill during a certain month. FilmRise isn’t going to change the game or anything when it comes to ad-supported services, but it’s another great option to consider over the big options.
RetroCrush
Classic anime awaits, if that’s your thing
While I’m not the biggest anime fan in the world (though I do enjoy a short high-concept anime once in a while), I do understand the appeal and why it has grown to be so popular worldwide, even outside its native country. But anime has so many options available, with new entries seemingly coming every hour, that I understand it can be frustrating for viewers to try to keep up with it all.
Well, RetroCrush simplifies matters quite a bit, as it focuses purely on more classic anime rather than filling the service with a plethora of new stuff you’ve definitely never heard of before. Even someone as uncultured in anime as I am can recognize the appeal in nostalgic anime. From off-the-wall sci-fi like Angel Cop to Yu-Gi-Oh, RetroCrush has you covered. There’s even a live channel option, which you can throw on if analysis paralysis is hitting you too hard that particular day.
Xumo Play
The variety is the appeal
Xumo Play, like FilmRise, has a lot of movies and television shows on offer, and there’s definitely even some crossover when it comes to what you can watch. At first, I sort of dismissed Xumo Play as just another ad-filled option, little different from Tubi or Pluto TV. Yet, the application does have some interesting content all on its own, though it will depend on how varied your viewing tastes are.
Do you want to watch the news? Xumo Play has you covered. Classic sports games or certain live offerings of sports you wouldn’t normally find elsewhere in America? Again, you’re going to be pleased here. Xumo Play is one of those applications where you’ll get more out of it if you have multiple interests. Of course, there’s also some good movies and shows to watch, too, but that’s not what makes it unique.
Kanopy and Hoopla
Never a better time than now to have a library card
You’re going to have to do a little bit of legwork to get Hoopla and Kanopy to work, but it’s very much worth it. Users need only acquire a library card and account, and then search for their library on either service. Once you’re all connected, you’ll have access to some truly great content. From classics to more modern films and shows, Hoopla and Kanopy surprised me with what they had on offer that differed from other free streaming services.
What is actually available will depend on your library and, presumably, your location. Hoopla even offers other content, like audiobooks, so you’re not just tied to visual media. These are apps I’ve only used on my phone, so it was a nice surprise to find them on Roku. And all you need to do is take a small trip to your local library, which you should be doing anyway.
Roku has a lot more quality apps than I expected
I always knew that Roku had more to offer in the app department than something like my Xbox, but I just figured that half of it wouldn’t be worth my time. But there are tons of free Roku options out there that proved to be filled with content or options that I would not be able to find elsewhere. And if you’re looking for a cheap, $3 streaming option on Roku, there’s that option too.
