How to Install Kodi on Roku (2 Working Methods, 2026)
Kodi is one of the most popular free media players in the world, and Roku is one of the most popular streaming devices in the US. So it's no surprise that thousands of people search for how to install Kodi on Roku every month. The honest answer: you can't install Kodi directly on a Roku. But you can still get Kodi on your Roku TV screen with a couple of simple workarounds, or use apps that do the same job natively.
Quick answer
- Kodi is not available in the Roku Channel Store, and Roku doesn't allow sideloading apps like Android does.
- The workaround is to run Kodi on an Android phone or Windows PC and screen mirror it to your Roku.
- For a native Roku experience, use Plex or Jellyfin, which both have Roku apps for your own media.
Why Isn't Kodi on Roku?
Roku runs its own closed operating system. Apps (Roku calls them channels) must be built specially for Roku and approved for the Roku Channel Store. Kodi is built for Android, Windows, macOS, Linux and others, but not for Roku OS, and Roku doesn't let you install apps from outside its store. So any site offering a "Kodi Roku APK" is misleading you.
Method 1: Screen Mirror Kodi From an Android Phone
- Turn on screen mirroring on Roku: go to Settings > System > Screen mirroring and set the mode to Prompt or Always allow.
- Install Kodi on your Android phone from Google Play.
- Connect your phone and Roku to the same Wi-Fi.
- On your phone, open Quick Settings and tap Screen Cast, Smart View or Screen mirroring (the name depends on your phone brand).
- Pick your Roku from the list and accept the prompt on your TV.
- Open Kodi on your phone. It now shows on your Roku TV. Turn your phone sideways for full screen.
Method 2: Screen Mirror Kodi From a Windows PC
- Install Kodi on your Windows PC from the official Kodi website or the Microsoft Store.
- Make sure screen mirroring is on in your Roku settings (see above).
- On your PC, press Win + K to open Cast.
- Select your Roku and accept the prompt on the TV.
- Open Kodi in full screen. It appears on your Roku TV.
What About iPhone?
Many newer Roku devices support Apple AirPlay, so you can mirror an iPhone or iPad screen to Roku. Kodi isn't in the iPhone App Store, though, so for iPhone users the alternatives below are the better choice.
Better Option: Kodi Alternatives That Work Natively on Roku
| Plex | Install Plex Media Server on your PC, add your movies, music and photos, then watch through the Plex channel on Roku. The closest experience to Kodi. |
| Jellyfin | A free, open-source media server with a Roku app. Like Plex, but with no account required. |
| Roku Media Player | A built-in Roku app that plays videos, music and photos from a USB drive or a media server on your network. |
These run directly on your Roku, so the picture is smoother than screen mirroring and your phone stays free.
Screen Mirroring Tips
- Keep your phone or PC close to the router for less lag.
- Turn on Do Not Disturb so notifications don't show on the TV.
- Plug your phone into a charger, because mirroring drains the battery fast.
- If the picture stutters, lower the video quality in Kodi.
Is Kodi Legal?
Yes. Kodi itself is a free, legal, open-source media player. What matters is what you watch: using it for your own media or official add-ons is fine, while add-ons that stream pirated films, TV or sports aren't. Stick to official add-ons and your own content.
Troubleshooting
| Roku not found when casting | Turn screen mirroring on in Roku settings, and make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi. |
| iPhone can't see Roku | Check that your Roku model supports AirPlay and that AirPlay is turned on in Roku settings. |
| Lag or choppy video | Use a 5GHz Wi-Fi network, move closer to the router, or switch to Plex or Jellyfin. |
| Black screen with some apps | Some apps block screen mirroring for protected content. Kodi playing your own files works fine. |
FAQs
Can I download Kodi on Roku?
No. Kodi isn't available in the Roku Channel Store, and Roku doesn't allow sideloading.
What is the easiest way to watch Kodi on Roku?
Screen mirror Kodi from an Android phone or Windows PC to your Roku.
What is the best Kodi alternative for Roku?
Plex is the most popular, and Jellyfin is a free, open-source option. Both have Roku apps.
Does Fire TV support Kodi?
Yes. Kodi can be installed on Amazon Fire TV devices, which run a version of Android.
More streaming guides: Control Fire TV without a remote · Activate Bravo TV
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