The short and direct answer to your question is no, the Paramount+ channel is not free on Roku. While you can add the channel application to your Roku device at no cost, accessing its content requires an active, paid subscription to Paramount+ .
This is a common point of confusion for many new streaming users. Think of the Paramount+ “channel” on Roku as a portal or an app, like the Netflix or Hulu app. Downloading the app itself is free, but you need to pay for a membership to unlock the door and watch the shows and movies inside. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting Paramount+ on your Roku, including the different subscription plans, installation steps, and even some legitimate ways you might be able to watch it at no cost to you.
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Understanding the Cost: The App vs. The Subscription
The distinction between the app and the subscription is the most fundamental concept to grasp. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- The Paramount+ Channel/App: This is the software you install on your Roku. It acts as the gateway to Paramount’s streaming library. Adding this channel to your Roku home screen is always free .
- The Paramount+ Subscription: This is the paid membership that grants you access to the content within the app. Without an active subscription, you can open the app, but you’ll be met with a screen asking you to sign up or log in.
The Cost of a Paramount+ Subscription
So, if the app is free, how much does the actual service cost? As with most streaming services, the price depends on the plan you choose. Paramount+ offers two main tiers in the United States, and it’s important to know that prices are subject to change. For instance, there was a price increase announced in mid-2024 .
Here is a general overview of the plans based on recent information:
FeatureParamount+ EssentialParamount+ with SHOWTIME
Monthly Price (Approx.)$7.99 – $8.99$12.99 – $13.99
Annual Price (Approx.)$59.99$119.99
AdsYes, except for live TVNo (except for some promo content)
Live TVYour local CBS stationYour local CBS station
SHOWTIME ContentSelected titles onlyFull access to SHOWTIME originals
DownloadsYesYes
StreamingOn up to 3 devicesOn up to 3 devices
Paramount+ Essential: This is the more affordable, ad-supported plan. It’s perfect for those who want access to a vast library of movies and shows, including major hits like Survivor, NCIS, and the Star Trek universe, as well as live sports like NFL on CBS and UEFA soccer. The trade-off is that you’ll have to watch commercial breaks, similar to traditional TV .
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Paramount+ with SHOWTIME: This is the premium, ad-free tier. It includes everything in the Essential plan but removes the ads (except for some unavoidable promotional spots before a show starts) and adds the full, uncut library of SHOWTIME original series, movies, and sports. This is the plan for fans of shows like Yellowjackets or Billions .
How to Get Paramount+ on Your Roku: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started is a straightforward process. You’ll first add the free app, and then sign up for or link your subscription.
Step 1: Add the Paramount+ Channel
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote .
- Scroll through the options on the left side of the screen and select Streaming Store (sometimes labeled “Store”) .
- You can browse categories or select Search Channels and type “Paramount+” .
- Once you find the Paramount+ channel, select it and then choose Add Channel. The app will download and install itself, usually appearing at the bottom of your home screen’s channel list .
Step 2: Start the App and Sign Up / Sign In
- Navigate to the Paramount+ channel on your home screen and press OK to open it .
- If you are a new user, you will have the option to start a subscription. You can often do this directly through the app on your Roku. You’ll choose your plan (Essential or with SHOWTIME) and enter your payment information. Roku will handle the billing . You may also be offered a 7-day free trial to test out the service .
- If you are an existing subscriber, select the “Sign In” option and enter the email and password associated with your Paramount+ account . You might also be given an activation code to enter on the Paramount+ website via a computer or phone.
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Legitimate Ways to Get Paramount+ for “Free”
While the service itself isn’t free, there are a few ways you might be able to access it without a direct monthly payment to Paramount:
- Free Trials: New subscribers can almost always take advantage of a 7-day free trial. This is a great way to binge a specific show or check out the service before committing. Just remember to cancel before the trial period ends if you don’t want to be charged .
- Bundled Subscriptions: Paramount+ is often included as a perk with other memberships. The most common example is Walmart+. A Walmart+ membership, which costs a monthly or annual fee, includes a Paramount+ Essential subscription at no extra cost . If you already pay for Walmart+, you can link your accounts and watch Paramount+ on your Roku without an additional bill.
- Pluto TV (The Free Alternative): Paramount also owns Pluto TV, which is a completely free, ad-supported streaming service . It’s not the same as Paramount+, but it offers hundreds of live channels and a large library of on-demand movies and shows, including a lot of content from CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and other Paramount brands. This is a fantastic way to enjoy related content for free.
Troubleshooting and Billing Questions
Because you can subscribe either directly through Paramount or through Roku, billing can sometimes be confusing.
- I have a subscription, but I’m being asked to pay. If you have a subscription through a third party like Walmart+ or if you subscribed directly on the Paramount+ website, you need to ensure you’re signing into the Roku app with the correct account. Do not try to sign up for a new subscription through the Roku app, or you will be charged again .
- I see two charges on my bank statement. If you see a charge for “CBS Interactive” and “Paramount Plus,” don’t panic. Paramount+ was formerly known as CBS All Access. If you were a subscriber during the transition, you might see both names, or it could be a sign that you’ve accidentally subscribed twice—once through Roku and once directly. First, check your subscription status by logging into your Roku account online at my.roku.com . If the subscription isn’t listed there, the charge is likely from a direct subscription, and you’ll need to contact Paramount+ support for help .
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Conclusion
To wrap it all up, the Paramount+ channel on Roku is a free app that serves as a portal to a paid subscription service. While you can install it without spending a dime, you’ll need to choose between the Essential or Premium plans to actually watch anything. Keep an eye out for free trials or check if your existing memberships, like Walmart+, include a Paramount+ subscription. If you’re looking for a completely free option, explore Pluto TV, the free streaming service also from Paramount, to enjoy a wealth of content at no cost. Happy streaming
