Have you checked if your network service provider is experiencing an outage, or there is maintenance work being carried out which is causing your Roku to keep buffering?
If you are saying to yourself, ‘My Roku keeps buffering’ you are probably trying to stream content but keep seeing a loading image on your screen.
The buffering can take place before the content has played, or during, stopping your movie from playing.
We know how important it is to be able to follow your favourite character from Reno-911 without any disruption, which is why we have created this easy directory for you to read so you can get the streaming on your Roku back to be uninterrupted.
What causes frequent buffering on Roku?
What causes buffering
The main reason you experience frequent buffering on your Roku is due to a slow internet connection. If your network service provider is experiencing issues providing a solid connection, your Roku will not be able to load properly.
For Roku to stream content without the need to buffer, it requires;
- At least 1.5Mbps for standard content
- 3.0Mbps for an HD display
Reason 2. Roku device is overheating
If your device overheats, Roku will begin to buffer while you watch content.
This is because the internal hardware gets too hot, and cannot function properly. It won’t be able to store the necessary data required to play the movie straight through.
Reason 3. Outdated Roku software
Your Roku software will automatically get updated, however, if there was an error during an update phase, the upgrade will not install properly.
It’s important to make sure your Roku’s operating system is on its latest version to ensure the device operates at an optimal level.
Reason 4. Congestion
A high volume of traffic to the Roku server, or on your internet provider will slow down processing times.
This is when you launch Roku and stream during ‘peak hours’ or there has just been a new release, and subscribers are all accessing their Roku to watch it at the same time.
(Fun Fact: ‘Roku’ means 6 in Japanese, and represents the 6th company the founder of Roku, Anthony Wood, started up.)
How do I stop my Roku from buffering?
How do I fix frequent buffering?
You can stop your Roku from buffering, by resetting your internet connection and updating your Roku’s operating system to the latest version.
Fix 1. Reset internet connection
First, it is recommended check to if your network service provider is experiencing issues. If they are down, you will need to wait for them to fix their technical issue.
Step 1. Switch your router off and remove it from being plugged in
Step 2. Wait a few minutes before plugging it back in
Step 3. Turn your router back on
Tip, if you have multiple devices connected, try disconnecting a few of them so your Roku can have a stronger connection.
Make sure you have adequate internet speeds as this will cause Roku to buffer if it is too slow.
If you are struggling with your Roku connecting to Wifi, we have this guide just for you.
Fix 2. Complete Roku software update
Check to see if your Roku is due an update on its operating system.
Step 1. Select ‘Settings’
Step 2. Click on ‘System’ followed by ‘System Updates’
Step 3. Choose ‘Check Now’
Completing the update will improve your Roku’s performance, and hopefully, stop the buffering issue.
Fix 3. Check Roku device placement
If you are using one of Roku’s streaming devices that is not a TV, you may want to check its placement and make sure it is not in an environment where it will easily overheat.
An accumulation of dust can interfere with this and will need to be monitored by removing any built-up dust or debris.
Fix 5. Clear cache files
Removing the cache files off of your Roku can help stop the frequent loading when trying to stream.
To do this, you will need your remote;
Step 1. Click on the ‘Home’ button 5 times
Step 2. Press the ‘Up’ button once followed by the ‘Rewind’ button twice
Step 3. Select the ‘Fast Forward’ button twice
Allow this process to complete, as it can take quite a while.
Fix 6. Reinstall channel
If you find Roku keeps buffering on a certain channel, you can remove the channel and reinstall it again.
Step 1. Via the ‘Home’ screen, find the specific channel and ‘Highlight’ it
Step 2. Click on the ‘Start’ button on your remote
Step 3. Select ‘Remove Channel’
Step 4. Once the channel has been deleted off your Roku, search for it again
Step 5. Reinstall it
After the channel has been reinstalled, restart your Roku.
How can I improve Roku streaming quality?
You can improve your Roku streaming quality by tweaking a few settings;
Change 1. Change image quality
If you are trying to stream on your Roku with the highest quality display image, this will slow down the time it takes to buffer because there is more data to be downloaded.
Changing the image quality to a lower resolution will decrease the display standard, but improve the streaming on your Roku.
Change 2. Move router closer
To improve the playback on your Roku moving your Wifi router closer to your device can help improve the connection, and make it stronger.
Doing so gets rid of any potential interferences that may be blocking the signal.
Change 3. Use an ethernet cable
Connecting your Wifi router to your Roku device with an ethernet cable will provide a stronger connection for your Roku to buffer the complete movie or episode before you play the video.
An ethernet cable eradicates any external factors that can interfere with a wireless signal, as the link stays between the two devices connected via the cable.
Conclusion
With your Roku no longer buffering repeatedly, you can get back to enjoying your all-time favourites, and switch between all the different online streaming services Roku has to offer.
If our guide answered all your queries and concerns, but you would still like to know how to contact Roku, you can use their Support Page, or, for a more direct approach, you can email them at accessibility@roku.com.
Depending on what you would like to contact them for, you can speak to one of their agents by filling out their online questionnaire.
