How to Install Chrome on Roku TV?

How to Install Chrome on Roku TV

If you're using Roku and want Chrome on it, you've got choices. Different Roku devices offer various ways to get Google Chrome.

If you're after browsing on your TV, the Roku browser helps get Google Chrome right on your screen.

If you're worried about the reliability of outsourced browsers, consider using Google Chrome through mirroring instead. This option works on Roku TVs, too, but the process is a bit different, and I'll explain it more in this article.

If these methods don't work for you, you can also cast Chrome to Roku and access Google. No matter which method you pick, having Chrome on Roku makes browsing easier. I'll also discuss all the alternatives available.

Key Points About Using Chrome on Roku:

Roku devices don't have a built-in Chrome app. However, you can access Chrome via a web browser, casting or using Chromecast (only on Roku TV), or screen mirroring.

Things you should do before installing Google:

There's no official Chrome app for Roku, but one can access Google using other methods. Some Roku web browsers support mirroring to bring Google to Roku.

Some options, if you're willing to use another device, include:

  • Open Chrome on a device.
  • Connect to the same Wi-Fi network, then go to “more,” then “cast,” then “Roku,” and then cast screen on Chrome.

If you're using an iPhone or an iPad, you can cast videos or media.

For Android or devices with Google Home, ensure the Roku and device are on a similar Wi-Fi network. Then, open the Home app, press “Roku,” then “cast.”

Miracast is available on Windows, and on MacBook, you will need Airplay.

How to Cast Roku from Chrome

How to Cast Roku from Chrome

Casting gives you a Roku web browser experience without needing to deal with apps that lack full Chrome capabilities. For instance, an app might let you surf but won't offer Chrome extensions, bookmark syncing, or settings similar to those of other devices.

When you cast, you get the full Chrome experience, but you'll need another device with Chrome installed. Moreover, Casting shows an app, while screen mirroring displays everything on the device's screen.

How to Cast Chrome from iPhone

How to Cast Chrome from iPhone

Here's how to cast Google Chrome to Roku: 

  • Open Chrome on the device.
  • On iPhone or iPad, use the Cast icon to cast videos or media.
  • For Android, ensure the Roku and the device share a similar Wi-Fi. Next, open the Home app, press “Roku,” then “Cast.”
  • Screen mirroring your entire screen is also possible using other apps.

Initially, you could use Poprism or similar apps to access Google, but they didn't offer Google Chrome with all its bonus features.

Casting Chrome to TCL TV

Casting Chrome to TCL TV

You can cast to almost any Roku or Smart TV. Chromecast can also physically connect to TVs.

Here's how to do so:

  • Start up your Roku and your TV.
  • Then, insert a Chromecast device (if your TV already has built-in Chromecast, simply skip).
  • Launch the Home app and set it up.
  • Navigate to the Home screen, then select “Channels” after powering on the Chromecast.
  • As you scroll down, you should see the Cast icon among the channels.

Note: Casting is the only way to get Google content on Roku.

Solutions When Chromecast Doesn’t Cast to Roku

When you're using Roku devices like a streaming stick, Express or Ultra and facing issues with casting from Chrome, it's because Chromecast isn't built into its streaming players.

But, Roku TVs support Chromecast because they come with HDMI ports, making Chromecast work well with them.

While you can still cast from Chrome or other browsers to Roku, Chromecast isn't directly available on Roku. Instead, you'll need a separate Google Chromecast device or use the Miracast or the Airplay options.

Setting Up Chromecast on Roku TV

To install Chromecast, ensure HDMI ports are available. Once connected, you'll need the Chromecast mobile application.

Using the Home app, connect your phone to Roku TV to start casting or streaming.

Here's how to set up Roku Chromecast:

  • Power on the Chromecast using an adapter. You can also connect it to your TV's USB port.
  • Connect the Chromecast to an available HDMI ports on your TV.
  • Download the Home app on your smartphone.
  • Sign in your Google account and select Chromecast.
  • Start streaming once you've chosen the devices you wish to install.

Connecting a Chromebook

You can connect a Chromebook to Roku TV using HDMI or wirelessly through WiFi using screen mirroring.

For casting or mirroring from a Chromebook, you'll need another device and app or similar mirroring tech.

For a smartphone or tablet, you can locate the casting icon within your media player and choose to cast. However, this option is only available when connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.

For desktop and laptop casting, click on “more” within your browser, then select “cast.” From there, choose your Roku device as the source and initiate the casting process.