How to Install and Use Twitch App on Roku Streaming Media Players

Roku streaming media players are popular devices that allow you to stream content from various online services and apps right onto your TV. Many users are interested in installing the Twitch app on their Roku device to access live streams of their favorite gaming, creative, music and entertainment content creators.

Is There an Official Twitch App for Roku?

Previously, there was an official Twitch channel available for installation on Roku devices. However, this official app was removed from the Roku Channel Store several years ago due to disputes between Amazon (which owns Twitch) and Roku.

As a result, there is currently no official Twitch app available for Roku streaming media players. The good news is there are still a few workaround methods you can use to access Twitch on your Roku device.

Methods to Install and Use Twitch on Roku

Here are the main options to install and use the Twitch service on your Roku streaming stick, streaming box or Roku TV:

Reinstall the Official Twitch Channel (For Previous Users Only)

If you’ve ever installed the official Twitch channel on your Roku device in the past, you may still be able to reinstall it using a special code:

  • On a web browser, visit the Roku account page at my.roku.com and log into your account
  • Select the “Add Channel with a Code” option
  • Enter the code twitchtv and select Add Channel
  • Accept the warning prompts and confirm installation of the channel
  • The Twitch channel should install onto your Roku device

Keep in mind this only works if you’ve installed the official Twitch channel previously.

Install the Unofficial Twoku Channel

For those who have never installed Twitch before, your option is to add an unofficial Twitch channel called Twoku:

  • On your web browser, go to the Roku account page and log in
  • Click the “Add Channel with a Code” option
  • Enter the code TWOKU or C6ZVZD and select Add Channel
  • Accept the disclaimer prompts and confirm installation
  • The Twoku channel will be added to your Roku

This isn’t an official Twitch app but allows you to access Twitch streams.

Cast Twitch Streams from Your Mobile Device

Another method is to cast or mirror Twitch streams from your smartphone, tablet or computer directly onto your Roku if it supports screen mirroring protocols:

  • Install the Twitch app on your phone, tablet or open Twitch on your computer
  • Use screen mirroring/casting to connect your device to your Roku
  • Select a Twitch stream and it will display on your Roku screen

This allows you to access Twitch but isn’t as seamless as a dedicated app.

Using Twitch on Your Roku Device

Once you have Twitch installed through one of the above methods, using it is straightforward. Here are some tips:

  • Browse featured live streams on the Twitch home page
  • Search for specific games, streamers or categories you want to watch
  • Log into your Twitch account to access followed channels and subscriptions
  • Use the left/right buttons to browse streams and Up/Down to view chat
  • Press * on your Roku remote to access additional options

Keep in mind the unofficial Twoku channel does not support account login or chat. For the full Twitch experience, screen mirroring from your mobile device is best.

Troubleshooting Twitch on Roku

Here are some common issues and fixes for using Twitch on your Roku:

Can’t Install Twitch Channel: Double check your Roku is updated, disable any ad blockers, and make sure you entered the channel code correctly.

Channel Not Working: Try restarting your Roku and reinstalling the Twitch or Twoku channel if applicable.

Buffering/Lagging: Check your internet speeds, restart your router if needed, lower the Twitch video quality, or try screen mirroring instead.

No Sound: Increase Roku volume, check sound settings, or try closing and reopening the channel.

Can’t Login: The unofficial Twoku channel does not support logging into your Twitch account currently.

Tips for the Best Twitch Experience on Roku

Here are some handy tips:

  • Use wired Ethernet instead of WiFi for faster speeds
  • Adjust Twitch video quality settings based on your connection
  • Screen mirroring from mobile provides fullest functionality
  • Follow your favorite streamers so their live channels appear on your Twitch homepage
  • Participate in chat to engage with streamers and communities

So while the loss of the official Twitch app on Roku is disappointing, there are still reliable methods to enjoy Twitch game streaming on your Roku device. With the above steps, you can install Twitch and start watching your favorite live streams in no time.