3 Methods Provided - How to Watch DVDs on Roku TV with DVD Players?

“I have DVDs from the library but can't get them to play on our new Roku TV. How to watch DVDs on my Roku TV?”

–from Tom’s Guide

If you want to enjoy a collection of DVDs on your Roku TV, you may be like this user and wonder how to make it work since Roku TV does not have a built-in DVD drive. Fortunately, there are several ways to watch your favorite DVD collections on Roku TV. This post will explore several practical ways to connect a DVD player to Roku TV and introduce the cable-free option, helping you relive your favorite DVD moments on Roku TV seamlessly.

Is it Possible to Watch DVDs on Roku TV?

Yes! Watching DVDs on a Roku TV is entirely possible, but since Roku devices don't have built-in optical drives, you'll likely need some external solutions to make it work. Here are two of the more suitable solutions:

The most common method is to connect your DVD player to your Roku TV using either an HDMI or AV cable. Using an HDMI cable is preferred because it provides a high-definition viewing experience as well as superior audio and video quality. Most modern DVD players come with HDMI outputs, making this connection seamless and simple. An AV cable is a viable alternative, especially for those older DVD players that don't have HDMI outputs. While this method may not provide the same high-definition quality as HDMI, it still allows you to watch your favorite DVDs on your Roku TV.

Another way is to convert DVD content to digital video format and stream it directly on Roku through a media server application such as Plex. However, this method requires using some professional tools on your computer to rip the DVD. Although this may take some time and there may be copyright restrictions; by burning your DVDs to digital format, you can use tools such as USB drives to watch your DVD collection directly on Roku TV without any additional cables and DVD players.

No matter which method you prefer, the following part of this post will provide you with the most detailed operation methods to help you quickly enjoy high-definition DVD watching on Roku TV.

How to Watch DVDs on Roku TV via HDMI Cables

Using an HDMI cable is the most straightforward way to watch DVDs on your Roku TV. HDMI ensures high-quality audio and video transmission, making it ideal for newer DVD players. This method guarantees high-quality playback and is the best choice if you have an HDMI DVD player. You can set up your Roku TV and connect the DVD player via an HDMI cable like this:

• Prepare an HDMI cable: Make sure you have an HDMI cable to connect your DVD player and Roku TV. Most DVD players come with one, but if not, you can easily buy one.
• Connect your devices: Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI output port on your DVD player. Plug the other end into an available HDMI input port on your Roku TV.
• Select an HDMI input: On your Roku TV remote, press the Home button. Scroll to find the appropriate HDMI input (e.g., HDMI 1 or HDMI 2) and select it.
• Play a DVD: Insert a disc into your DVD player and the content should appear on your Roku TV screen. Use your DVD player remote to navigate the menus.

How to Watch DVDs on Roku TV with AV Cables

If your DVD player or Roku TV doesn't support HDMI, you can still connect them using an AV cable (also known as an RCA cable). These cables carry video and audio via three color-coded connectors: yellow for video, white and red for audio. AV cables are a practical solution for older DVD players, although the picture quality may not be as clear as with HDMI. Here's how to watch DVDs on your Roku TV using an AV cable:

• Check the ports: Make sure both your Roku TV and DVD player have AV input and output ports. If your Roku TV only has one AV jack, you'll need a 3-to-1 AV adapter.
• Connect the AV cables: Plug the yellow video cable into the DVD player's video output port and the Roku TV's video input port. Then connect the red and white audio cables to the corresponding audio ports on both devices.
• Select the AV input: On your Roku TV remote, press the Home button. Scroll to the AV input option (sometimes labeled Composite) and select it.
• Insert and play a DVD: Insert the DVD into the player. The content should now appear on the Roku TV screen.

[No Cables] How to Watch DVDs on Roku TV Directly

Tired of dealing with DVD players, tangled cables, or outdated connections? One hassle-free way to enjoy DVDs on your Roku TV is to convert them to digital formats and play them from a USB drive. This method has several advantages. Digital formats like MP4 or MKV ensure compatibility with Roku devices and provide smoother playback without the risk of the disc becoming scratched or damaged.

Using 4Easysoft DVD Ripper, you can quickly convert DVDs to high-quality digital formats while preserving subtitles and audio tracks. Simply transfer the ripped DVD files to a USB drive, insert it into your Roku TV, and enjoy your favorite movies without the need for a separate player. This method also allows you to copy and back up your DVDs, ensuring your collection remains safe even if the original disc deteriorates over time.

Step 1Launch 4Easysoft DVD Ripper and insert your DVD. Click the “Load DVD” button.

Step 2Click the “Rip All to” button and click the “MP4” button to burn your DVD for Roku TV playback.

Step 3Once finished, click the “Rip All” button to copy DVDs for your Roku TV.

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