How to Watch ABC on Roku & Other Streaming Devices

As a Roku user and cord-cutter, I know how important it is to find reliable and cost-effective ways to stream your favorite TV channels. After ditching cable years ago, I tested all the major (and minor) live streaming services to find the best methods for watching ABC live on Roku.

In this guide, I’ll share the best options from extensive testing, whether you want to watch ABC live, catch up on episodes of Abbott Elementary, or binge seasons of The Bachelor. I’ve got you covered.

#What Are the Best Ways to Watch ABC on Roku?

Before jumping into the step-by-step instructions, here is a quick overview of the main methods for streaming ABC on your Roku:

• Use the ABC App — Stream live TV and full episodes with participating TV provider login

• Subscribe to Live TV Streaming Service — Hulu Live, YouTube TV, DirecTV Stream (suggestions below)

• Watch Free ABC News Live — Available on The Roku Channel

• Access ABC Shows on Demand — Through services like Disney+

The sections below provide more details on these options, along with my top picks for streaming ABC based on value, channel lineup, free trials available, and overall user experience.

#Method #1: ABC App

The ABC app offers both live streaming access and a large on-demand library of ABC shows, from dramas, comedies, reality series, and news programs.

However, full access does require you to log in with a participating TV provider that carries ABC. This means it’s best suited for those who still have a qualifying cable package or live TV streaming subscription.

ABC App Features:

• Stream Live TV (with TV provider login)

• Full Episodes On Demand

• Access Content from Freeform, FX, National Geographic

• Available on All Roku Devices

So while the ABC app alone likely won’t meet the needs of true cord cutters, it’s still a great way to access additional content if you already subscribe to a live TV service with ABC in the channel lineup.

Learn more about the ABC app on Roku

#How Do Live TV Streaming Services Compare for ABC?

For those who have cut the cord completely, the best way to reliably stream both live and on-demand ABC programming is through a live TV streaming provider.

With streaming packages that mirror cable’s offerings, including ABC along with ESPN, popular cable channels, regional sports networks and more, you get full access without a contract.

After testing over a dozen streaming providers myself, below I’ll highlight my top 4 recommendations for watching ABC on Roku based on included features, overall value, free trial availability, and ease-of-use:

#1. Hulu + Live TV

As a top pick for cord cutters, Hulu + Live TV makes it easy to watch ABC live and on-demand for $69.99 a month. With over 85 channels plus access to Hulu’s full streaming library and Disney+ included, it provides major value.

Standout Features:

• 85+ Live Channels with ABC, ESPN, Disney, and more

• Entire Hulu On-Demand Library Included

• Cloud DVR with Unlimited Storage

• 2 Streams at Once (Upgrades Available)

• Access to Disney+ Included

• 7-Day Free Trial Available

Hulu + Live TV also lets you create up to 6 personalized user profiles and set up to 200 hours of recordings stored for 9 months in the cloud DVR.

With award-winning original programming and hit shows on ABC, FX and more on demand as well, Hulu + Live TV is my personal favorite for accessing ABC and completely replacing cable.

Sign up for Hulu + Live TV Here

#2. YouTube TV

YouTube TV has quickly become a fan-favorite for cord-cutters wanting a straight-forward replacement for cable. And with ABC included in the $62.99 monthly package, it’s easy to see why.

Why Choose YouTube TV for ABC?

• 100+ Channels w/ Local ABC, ESPN, AMC, TNT

• Unlimited Cloud DVR at No Extra Charge

• 3 Streams at Once

• Accessible Interface Across Devices

• Plenty of Sports (NBA TV, MLB Network, Golf Channel)

• 5-Day Free Preview Available

I’m also a big fan of YouTube TV’s unlimited DVR with no storage space restrictions or expiration on recordings, which is crucial for not missing ABC shows or live events. Simple features like personalized profiles for up to 6 household members make YouTube TV a joy to use.

Try YouTube TV with the 5-Day Free Preview

#3. DIRECTV STREAM

Formerly known as AT&T TV, DIRECTV STREAM lets you watch live ABC along with 20+ top channels like ESPN, TNT, and USA Network for $69.99 a month.

Premium features include:

• The Most Regional Sports Networks

• 20 Hour Cloud DVR Storage

• 20,000 On-Demand Titles

• Watch 3 Streams Simultaneously

• Access HBO Max Free for 3 Months

DIRECTV STREAM is great for sports fans, news junkies, and entertainment lovers alike seeking to stream ABC live or record shows to watch on your schedule.

While the DVR offering is more limited than competitors, you can always upgrade to unlimited storage for $10 more a month. DIRECTV STREAM remains a solid choice especially for those who want extra regional sports coverage.

See Packages and Offerings for DIRECTV STREAM

#4. fuboTV

Tailored to sports lovers seeking ABC plus tons of sports content, fuboTV offers a strong channel lineup at a very fair $69.99 monthly rate.

fuboTV Highlights for Streaming ABC:

• ABC + ESPN Channels

• 165+ Channels Included

• Cloud DVR with 1000 Hour Capacity

• Watch on Unlimited Devices

• RSNs for Local NBA, MLB, NHL Teams

• 7-Day Free Trial to Test Service

From streaming Monday Night Football on ABC to never missing an LA Lakers or Atlanta Braves game aired on regional networks, fuboTV is built to deliver live sports programming with ABC as a key component. Fans can also watch NFL games on Roku through fuboTV’s offerings.

And with tons of news and entertainment options from A&E, Fox, and more, you won’t run out of things to watch when games aren’t on. The Cloud DVR quickly saves shows and entire teams as favorites too for picking back up games and recordings.

Overall, fuboTV brings excellent bang-for-your buck at just $69.99 month with a ton of content from ABC live and beyond.

See Special Deals from fuboTV Here

#Method #3: Watch Free ABC News Live

For access to ABC’s top-rated news programming 24/7, The Roku Channel offers a completely free ABC News Live stream.

As more consumers cut the cord, ABC News Live is the network’s portal for accessing urgent breaking news coverage, live events, and special reports from ABC journalists across the country and reporters embedded with global affairs.

So if you want up-to-the-minute information and analysis of developing stories, politics, health updates and more from trusted ABC anchors and correspondents, add ABC News Live to your Roku favorites.

Plus, The Roku Channel’s free live streams also include NBC News Now, AccuWeather, Newsy, People TV and more to stay on top of what’s happening locally and around the world.

How to Start Watching Free ABC News Live on Roku:

1. Download or Open The Roku Channel App

2. Select Live TV Menu

3. Scroll Down to ABC News Live Tile

4. Select Channel to Immediately Tune to Free Live Stream Feed

I rely on ABC News Live multiple times per week in conjunction with other news sources to monitor breaking stories as they develop. It’s an invaluable free addition for cord cutters through the Roku Channel.

#Can You Watch Full ABC Episodes on Demand?

While live ABC access or recent episodes require a qualifying streaming TV provider subscription, major services like Disney+ and Hulu offer full season catalogs of many popular ABC shows.

So if you’re a super fan wanting to re-watch every dramatic plot twist of Grey’s Anatomy from the beginning or binge The Bachelor franchise spin-offs to get ready for the next season, streaming libraries are the answer.

Disney+ and Hulu let you watch full episode catalogs, though availability for newer series does vary. And if you’re looking for other major networks’ programming, check out our guides on how to watch CBS and MSNBC on Roku as well.

Check out some highlighted ABC shows available:

Disney+:

• Grey’s Anatomy (Seasons 1-18)

• The Bachelorette (Select Seasons)

• General Hospital (Select Episodes/Seasons)

• Black-ish (Seasons 1-8)

• Fresh Off The Boat (All Seasons)

Hulu:

• Abbott Elementary (Current Season)

• Station 19 (Current Season)

• The Good Doctor (Current Season)

• The Bachelorette (Day After New Episodes)

• Modern Family (All Seasons)

So explore your on-demand options as a supplement to live ABC streaming access. Having the ability to watch both older and latest episodes on your own schedule is crucial for diehard fans.

#Bottom Line

To wrap up this guide, here are my top 5 tips for accessing ABC programming on your Roku:

1. Test free trials of Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV to find your preferred service with ABC, sports, news and more. fuboTV also has a free trial.

2. Install The Roku Channel for free live ABC News 24/7 to stay updated on breaking stories

3. Get Channels like Disney+ and Hulu to watch full ABC show episode catalogs on-demand

4. Consider antennas like the HDClearStream for accessing ABC over-the-air in full HD quality for one low price

5. Use Roku universal search to check for additional on-demand ABC offerings across both free and paid channel options

I hope these instructions and suggestions for watching live, recording, and streaming full ABC episodes help you get your fix of news, sitcoms, drama series and more without the high costs of cable.

As a bonus, check out our guides for watching CBS, MeTV, and Newsmax on Roku to access even more live and on-demand content from major networks and popular channels.

As a Roku streamer myself who has tested all the latest devices, feel free to explore Roku TV models or premium 4K+ players to make sure you have the best hardware for streaming ABC and other channels using the options above. And remember, ABC isn’t limited to just Roku — you can also watch ABC on Apple TV and other popular streaming devices.

#Frequently Asked Questions

#What do I need to watch ABC on my Roku TV?

You need internet access and a Roku device. A streaming service subscription or TV antenna is required for live ABC access. The ABC app and channels like Hulu provide on-demand shows.

#Does Roku offer live ABC streaming?

Roku devices support apps like Hulu Live, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and more that carry live local ABC stations. An internet connection and streaming subscription are required. Free ABC News Live is also available through The Roku Channel without any subscription.

#Is there a free way to get ABC on Roku?

The Roku Channel offers a free live stream of ABC News 24/7. Select shows have free episodes on the ABC app. An antenna also provides free live ABC in most areas over the air.

#Can I watch ABC live sports on Roku?

Yes, streaming services like Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, fuboTV, and DIRECTV STREAM allow you to watch ESPN on ABC live sports. For regional games, check out our guide on how to watch YES Network on Roku. A subscription is needed.

#What is the best streaming service for ABC on Roku?

Hulu + Live TV is the top choice because it bundles ABC with 85+ channels, Disney+, and Hulu’s on-demand library for $69.99/month. YouTube TV is a close second with unlimited DVR and a slightly lower price at $62.99/month.

#How do I add the ABC app to my Roku?

Open the Roku home screen, go to Streaming Channels, and search for “ABC.” Select the ABC app and click Add Channel. Once installed, you can sign in with your TV provider credentials to access live and on-demand content.

#Can I record ABC shows on Roku?

You cannot record directly through Roku hardware, but live TV streaming services include cloud DVR. Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV both offer unlimited DVR storage, while fuboTV provides 1,000 hours of recording space.

#Does an antenna work with Roku for ABC?

An antenna picks up the ABC broadcast signal for free in most areas, but it connects to your TV directly and not through Roku. You can switch between antenna input for live ABC and Roku for streaming apps on the same TV.