Watching CBS on your Roku device gives you access to a huge library of shows, movies, sports, and news programming. But with multiple apps and subscription options, it can get confusing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the different ways to stream CBS on Roku.
Overview
There are three main options for streaming CBS on Roku:
- The official CBS apps (CBS, CBS Sports, CBS News)
- The Paramount+ app
- Live TV streaming services like Hulu + Live TV
The best choice depends on what CBS content you want to watch and whether you already pay for services like cable or Paramount+. We’ll cover the specifics of each method below.
Using the Official CBS Apps
Roku offers three apps created by CBS that give you access to different types of programming:
CBS
- Includes on-demand shows, movies, and clips
- Some content requires logging in with a cable provider
- Selection of available content changes regularly
CBS Sports
- Streams live sports like NFL games, NCAA basketball, and more
- Mix of free content and content that requires a cable login
- For more sports streaming options, check out our guides on watching FOX, MSNBC, and YES Network on Roku
CBS News
- 24/7 live stream of CBS news programming
- No login or fees required to watch
- For additional news content, see how to stream NewsMax on Roku
These apps can all be added through the Roku Channel Store. Search for “CBS” to find them. The CBS and CBS Sports apps have some limitations, but conveniently the news app provides continuous live access to CBS programming without needing a cable subscription.
Watching CBS on Paramount+
Paramount+ is the new streaming home for most CBS originals and exclusives. Shows that used to be on CBS All Access — like Star Trek: Discovery, The Good Fight, and Why Women Kill — are now only available with a Paramount+ subscription.
There are two main Paramount+ tiers:
- Essential ($4.99/month): Limited ads
- Premium ($9.99/month): No ads + live streams of local CBS stations
The Premium tier is ideal for cord cutters who still want to watch live CBS. And the huge on-demand library makes it great for binging CBS classics or catching up on current shows. For more information on premium streaming services, read our Disney+, Apple TV, and Patreon on Roku guides.
Using Live TV Streaming Services
Services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV let you stream live CBS alongside over 95+ other popular channels. Prices start at $76.99/month. They provide a cable-like viewing experience, often with added perks like unlimited DVR storage.
The main catch is that channel availability varies by region. So before committing to one, check that your local CBS station is included in the channel lineup. You can also stream other cable networks this way — see our guide on watching TBS on Roku for more info.
Key Takeaways
- The CBS app offers on-demand shows and requires a cable login for full access
- CBS Sports has a mix of free and paid content, focusing on live sports
- CBS News provides 24/7 live news streaming with no login required
- Paramount+ has the largest catalog of CBS shows past and present
- Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer CBS alongside other live channels
FAQs About Watching CBS on Roku
Does Roku offer live CBS streaming?
Yes, Roku devices support live CBS in a few different ways:
- The CBS News app provides a 24/7 live stream
- Paramount+ Premium membership ($9.99/month) includes live feeds of local CBS stations
- Services like Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV have CBS in their channel packages
Can I watch CBS shows on demand with Roku?
Yes, the CBS channel and Paramount+ both offer thousands of CBS shows and full seasons available on-demand. So if you missed the latest episode of a current show or want to rewatch an older series, you can stream it whenever works for you.
Do I need a cable subscription?
You can access some CBS content on Roku without one, like the live news or some on-demand shows. But to unlock everything — especially live primetime programming — most of the official CBS apps do require you to log in with valid cable credentials. Services like Paramount+ and Hulu Live TV let you bypass this.
How much does it cost to get CBS?
- CBS News: Free
- CBS app: Free (cable login required for full access)
- Paramount+: $4.99-$9.99/month
- Hulu Live TV: $76.99/month
- YouTube TV: $72.99/month
The cheaper options have more limitations, but provide some CBS access for free or very affordable prices.
What devices support CBS and Paramount+?
All three CBS apps and Paramount+ are available across a wide variety of devices. This includes all Roku players, Roku TVs, game consoles, mobile devices, web browsers, Apple TV, Fire TV, Android TV, and more.
As you can see, Roku owners have several good options for streaming CBS programming. The best choice depends mainly on your budget and preferences around live vs. on-demand content. But with the information above, you can confidently pick the right platform and start enjoying CBS shows, movies, and news coverage on your Roku device.
