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How to use Popcorn Time on Roku

How to watch Popcorn Time on Roku

Popcorn Time is a free, multi-platform, open source application used to stream video-on-demand. It’s one of the most popular streaming applications since huge improvements were made to its interface and usability in 2016. Now, it not only contends with top streaming options like Netflix and Amazon Prime, but its huge video collection outshines most competitors.

When you consider that Popcorn Time is free, has more options than any single subscription-based application, and is available on most devices, it’s no wonder more and more people are opting to switch from their current multitude of VOD services.

We know that Popcorn Time imitations are available across many platforms, but today we’re going to discuss its use on Roku.

Unfortunately, the media enthusiasts still mourn the shutdown of the original Popcorn Time. Sure, there are imitations of the streaming hub available on the web and Github, but they can be even more unreliable and unstable than the real Popcorn Time. Luckily, there are alternatives.

We tested dozens of Popcorn Time alternatives to determine the top 10, some of which work on Roku. Read more about other free hubs here.

Is it possible to stream Popcorn Time on Roku?

So, can you stream Popcorn Time on Roku? Yes. With use of specific devices like Android, Mac, Windows, screen casting or Plex – you can stream Popcorn Time on Roku TV. Read further to learn how to do it.

Short guide how to cast Popcorn Time on Roku with PC

  1. Power up your television and Roku.
  2. Turn on your PC and press the Windows Key + P. This show your display switcher.
  3. Select Roku.
  4. Accept the casting prompt on your television and enjoy using Popcorn Time on your Roku device.
  5. For secure and unrestricted streaming we recommend installing NordVPN, now 74% off

Stream safely on Roku with a VPN

About Popcorn Time on Roku

Using Popcorn Time on a Roku device is one of the simpler, and yet somehow more in-depth, options. It can become a little confusing when you try to learn how to use Popcorn Time on Roku, but that’s only because the application can be used in many different ways to circumvent different obstacles you might encounter while trying to install the app.

This is actually a good thing because having different options for installation means there’s a higher chance that you’ll be able to find an installation choice that works for you. Let’s take a look at a few of the main download and installation methods.

Popcorn Time through Plex

Since there’s no Roku-specific app for Popcorn Time, we have to find another way to get the app on our Roku device. One option is to download the Popcorn Time channel through Plex, which is an available app on Roku.

How to download – the Plex method

  1. Download the Plex Media app on your computer, then open the application.
    How to download Popcorn Time on Roku - Plex method
  1. Locate the Popcorn Time channel on Plex and install it following the application’s directions.
  2. Download Plex on your Roku device.

How to install Popcorn Time on Roku –the Plex method

  1. Use Plex with Popcorn Time to stream from your PC to your television using the Roku device.
  2. No additional installation is necessary with this method.

Popcorn Time through Screen Casting

Screen Casting is another simple way to use Popcorn Time with Roku. This means the download and installation guides will be specific to your operating system.

How to download Popcorn Time on Roku – the Mac method

  • Locate the download link for your operating system.

How to download Popcorn Time on Roku - Mac method

  • Select Download.
  • Open your downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts for installation.

Popcorn Time installer - introduction

Popcorn Time installer - installation type

  • Note – you may be prompted to change your security settings to allow the download of a third-party app. This can be done through the System Preferences menu.

System Preferences

How to download Popcorn Time on Roku – the PC method

  • Locate the download link for your operating system.

How to download Popcorn Time on Roku – the PC method

  • Select Download.
  • Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts to install the application.

Popcorn Time destination location

Popcorn time setup wizard - final step

Popcorn Time additional tasks for installation

Setup

Before you begin streaming to your Roku device, you’ll want to pop into the settings of your Popcorn Time application.

Popcorn Time settings menu

In this menu you can adjust your language, subtitle, cache, and VPN alert options. This can be useful for improving your overall user satisfaction, as well as maintaining your security while using Popcorn Time.

Popcorn Time settings

How to Stream Popcorn Time to Roku

Now that you have Popcorn Time downloaded to your computer, you can use that system to cast your screen to your Roku device.

Casting to Roku using Mac

  • Download the application Mirror for Roku from the iTunes store.

Mirror for Roku

  • Once downloaded, make sure your Mac and Roku are on the same router channel. Now you can mirror your Popcorn Time directly to your Roku Device!
  • Note – this is not a free application. If you want to keep your Popcorn time for Roku experience totally free, we suggest using the Plex method mentioned above.

Importance of VPN for Popcorn Time

Popcorn Time, like any BitTorrent extension, must be used with caution. Though legal, these applications can allow users to download content illegally. It’s a grey area that a user could stumble into by accident. And though the trip into illegal content may be accidental and seemingly innocent, the punishment is harsh. Pirating copyrighted works can result in a federal charge with large fines and even time spent in prison.

This is why you should always use a VPN when using any sort of torrent application. Not only will a VPN protect you from identity thieves, hackers, and other cyber-criminals. A VPN can safeguard you from other judging eyes while online.

VPNs provide you with true digital anonymity and transform your online experience into a private vacation of internet freedom.

We’ve compiled a list of Best VPNs for Popcorn Time and all you need to do now is to choose your VPN provider.

So, now that you know how to use Popcorn Time responsibly, and with proper protection, you are all set to enjoy your new, free video-on-demand application. Enjoy!

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Popcorn Time for other devices:


FAQ

Is Popcorn Time safe?

By itself, Popcorn Time is completely legal and safe to use. However, the safety issues begin when you start using it to download copyrighted content. One way to remedy this problem is to get a VPN. The VPN needs to be fast, secure, and leak proof. I’d recommend NordVPN.

Do you need a VPN for Popcorn Time?

Yes, a VPN will ensure that you do not get into any legal trouble when using Popcorn Time.

Is Popcorn Time free on Roku?

Popcorn Time is free on all available platforms, including Roku.

How can I watch popcorn time on my TV?

There are a few options available which will depend on your TV model. On TVs with Android OS you will need to download a .apk file. Otherwise, you can use the built-in screen casting feature to simply load a movie on a computer and cast it to a network-connected smart TV.

6 comments
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  1. Amelie May 31, 2019 at 4:19 pm

    Found this guide browsing around. I didn’t even know about Popcorn Time but now that I have it installed I like it and I will use it for a long time. As for a VPN I guess that’s needed as well. Didn’t really want to spend money for this but the alternative is not pretty.


  2. Robert D April 12, 2019 at 5:53 am

    Is there an official version of Popcorn Time one can download, and use on any device including Roku? I mean the one safe, bug-free, and that provides all the movie streams you could ever want. This is because when I searched google I see many different kinds of popcorn time links. Would appreciate if you can provide the right one. Thanks


  3. Nicole K. February 17, 2019 at 1:20 pm

    Hey guys. I know Roku has been around for some time now and was wondering if it’s still a good device to use or if there is something better. If there is, what do you use? Also, can you run Popcorn Time on said device? Just checking as I want to buy something like Roku or Firestick, but I’m confused about what to get for myself.


  4. Aiden Conner February 6, 2019 at 12:44 pm

    I felt so settled from the start to the finish of downloading and setting up the App on my device. I didn’t have to struggle through the process. It was absolutely seamless. I have found a fantastic App to sort out my movie needs


  5. Frankyfrank February 6, 2019 at 12:39 pm

    I felt so settled from the start to the finish of downloading and setting up the App on my device. I didn’t have to struggle through the process. It was absolutely seamless. I have found a fantastic App to sort out my movie needs


  6. Aaron M January 30, 2019 at 12:10 pm

    Thanks a lot for that guide !! I’ve been looking for a good one about Roku device and I’m so glad I found this one ! Great guide now I can use Popcorn time on it and it works perfectly ! I’ll go check all your other article, this website really is gold !

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