Hey there, Roku enthusiasts! Want to catch your favorite CBS shows live without ditching your trusty Roku device? You're in luck! Watching CBS live on Roku is totally doable, and I'm here to walk you through the easiest ways to make it happen. Let's dive in!

    Why Watch CBS on Roku?

    Before we get into the how, let’s quickly cover the why. CBS is home to tons of amazing content. Think hit shows like NCIS, Survivor, 60 Minutes, and live sports events like NFL games and the Masters Tournament. Plus, you get local news coverage, which is super important for staying informed about what's happening in your community. Streaming CBS on Roku means you get all of this entertainment and information right on your TV, without needing a cable subscription. It's all about convenience and cutting the cord, guys!

    Method 1: CBS All Access/Paramount+

    Okay, first up is the most direct route: subscribing to CBS All Access, which has now evolved into Paramount+. Here's how you get CBS live through Paramount+ on your Roku:

    1. Subscribe to Paramount+: If you haven't already, head over to the Paramount+ website and sign up for a subscription. They usually have different tiers, some of which include live CBS. Make sure the plan you choose actually offers live CBS streaming. This is super important, so double-check! They often have deals, bundle options, and free trials, so keep an eye out!
    2. Add the Paramount+ Channel to Roku: Turn on your Roku and go to the Roku Channel Store. Search for "Paramount+". Once you find it, add the channel to your Roku home screen. This is like installing an app on your phone – super simple.
    3. Sign In: Open the Paramount+ channel on your Roku. You’ll see an option to sign in. Click that, and follow the instructions on the screen. Usually, it involves going to a website on your computer or phone and entering a code that’s displayed on your TV. This links your Roku device to your Paramount+ account.
    4. Start Watching: Once you're logged in, navigate to the "Live TV" section (or something similar) within the Paramount+ channel. You should find your local CBS station streaming live, along with all the other goodies Paramount+ offers, like on-demand shows and movies. It's like having a treasure trove of entertainment at your fingertips!

    Why Paramount+ is Great:

    • Live CBS: Obviously, this is the main draw for you guys.
    • On-Demand Content: You get access to a huge library of shows and movies, including originals.
    • Sports: Many live sports events, including NFL and Champions League matches, are available.
    • Multiple Devices: You can usually stream on multiple devices at the same time, so the whole family can watch different things.

    Method 2: Live TV Streaming Services

    Another fantastic way to watch CBS live on Roku is through live TV streaming services. These services are like cable, but they stream over the internet. Several of them include CBS in their channel lineups. Here are a few popular options:

    • Hulu + Live TV:

      • How it Works: Hulu + Live TV gives you access to a ton of channels, including CBS, plus the entire Hulu on-demand library. It’s a pretty sweet deal if you already use Hulu. You can watch live sports, news, and your favorite shows all in one place. The interface is user-friendly, and the channel selection is generally excellent. Adding it to Roku is as simple as adding any other channel from the Roku store.
    • YouTube TV:

      • How it Works: YouTube TV is another solid choice. It has a clean interface and a good selection of channels, including CBS. Plus, it has unlimited DVR storage, which is awesome for recording shows to watch later. You can easily search for content and create a personalized viewing experience. Setting it up on Roku is straightforward – just download the YouTube TV app and sign in with your Google account.
    • FuboTV:

      • How it Works: FuboTV is primarily geared towards sports fans, but it also includes CBS and other major networks. If you're a sports fanatic, this might be the perfect option for you. It offers a wide range of sports channels, including international ones. The picture quality is generally excellent, and it works seamlessly on Roku devices.
    • DirecTV Stream:

      • How it Works: DirecTV Stream (formerly AT&T TV) offers various channel packages, some of which include CBS. It’s a bit pricier than the other options, but it offers a more traditional cable-like experience. The channel selection is extensive, and you can even add premium channels like HBO. Setting it up on Roku involves downloading the DirecTV Stream app and signing in with your account.

    Steps to Use a Live TV Streaming Service on Roku:

    1. Sign Up: Go to the website of the live TV streaming service you choose and sign up for a subscription. They usually offer free trials, so you can test them out before committing.
    2. Add the Channel to Roku: On your Roku, go to the Roku Channel Store and search for the service (e.g., "Hulu", "YouTube TV", etc.). Add the channel to your home screen.
    3. Sign In: Open the channel on your Roku and sign in with the account you created during signup.
    4. Watch Live TV: Navigate to the live TV section of the app and find your local CBS station. Start watching!

    Things to Consider When Choosing a Live TV Service:

    • Price: Live TV streaming services vary in price. Compare the costs and see which one fits your budget.
    • Channel Lineup: Make sure the service includes CBS and any other channels you want to watch. Some services may not carry your local CBS affiliate.
    • DVR: Check if the service offers DVR capabilities. This allows you to record shows and watch them later.
    • Streaming Quality: Look for services that offer high-quality streaming. No one wants to watch a blurry picture!
    • Number of Devices: See how many devices you can stream on simultaneously. This is important if you have a household with multiple viewers.

    Method 3: The CBS News App

    Now, if your main goal is to watch CBS News, then here is a totally free method. CBS offers a dedicated CBS News app on Roku. This app streams live news coverage, so you can stay informed about current events. However, it doesn't include the regular CBS programming like shows and sports. It is exclusively for news. If you are a news junkie like me, it is still worth checking out.

    1. Add the CBS News Channel: Head to the Roku Channel Store and search for "CBS News". Add the channel to your Roku.
    2. Open the Channel: Open the CBS News channel on your Roku.
    3. Watch Live News: You should see a live stream of CBS News. Start watching!

    Troubleshooting Tips

    Sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are a few troubleshooting tips to help you out:

    • Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure your Roku is connected to the internet and that your connection is stable. If your Wi-Fi is spotty, try moving your Roku closer to your router.
    • Update the Channel: Make sure the CBS app or the live TV streaming service app is up to date. Outdated apps can sometimes cause problems.
    • Restart Your Roku: Sometimes, simply restarting your Roku can fix the issue. Go to Settings > System > System restart.
    • Reinstall the Channel: If restarting doesn’t work, try removing the channel and then adding it back again. This can clear any corrupted data.
    • Contact Support: If you're still having trouble, contact the customer support for the streaming service or CBS. They can provide more specific assistance.

    Final Thoughts

    So, there you have it, guys! Watching CBS live on Roku is easier than ever, thanks to options like Paramount+ and live TV streaming services. Whether you're into the latest dramas, live sports, or just want to keep up with the news, there's a way to get your CBS fix on your Roku. Just pick the method that best suits your needs and budget. Happy streaming!