For the best streaming experience with your TCL Roku TV, you’ll need a strong Wi-Fi signal and a reliable internet connection. Use the tips below to reduce buffering, improve picture quality, and keep streaming stable.
1) Quick checks (fastest fixes)
- Restart your network equipment: Unplug your modem and router for 30 seconds, then plug them back in.
- Restart your TV: A quick restart can clear temporary network and streaming glitches.
- Run a Roku connection test: On your TV, go to Settings > Network > Check connection to confirm your TV can reach the internet.
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength: Roku also lets you view signal strength and connection details in the Network area.
2) Re-establish your wireless connection
If your signal strength shows WEAK or POOR, refresh the connection between your TV and router:
- Press Home on your remote to open the main screen
- Select Settings
- Select Network
- Select Wireless
- Select Update connection
Tip: If the issue continues, try forgetting your Wi-Fi network and reconnecting (re-enter the password), then re-run Check connection.
3) Router location tips
Your router broadcasts Wi-Fi in all directions, and distance/obstructions can weaken the signal.
- Place the router centrally in your home, ideally closer to where you stream most.
- Elevate the router (on a shelf or table) so the signal spreads more evenly.
- Avoid heavy obstructions: Thick concrete/brick walls, metal surfaces, and mirrors can block or reflect Wi-Fi signals.
- Keep it away from interference sources: Microwaves and some cordless phone bases can interfere with Wi-Fi.
- Adjust router antennas (if present): Try vertical and angled positions to improve coverage in different areas.
4) Placement tips for your TCL Roku TV
The TV’s location can also impact Wi-Fi performance:
- Keep the TV within reasonable range of the router.
- Rotate or move the TV slightly (even a few inches can improve reception).
- Avoid placing the TV in an enclosed or recessed space (like tight cabinets).
- Avoid direct sunlight on the TV and nearby equipment (heat can affect electronics over time).
5) Reduce Wi-Fi congestion and interference
If your Wi-Fi signal is “good” but streaming still buffers:
- If your router offers both bands, try 5 GHz (often faster, shorter range) vs 2.4 GHz (longer range, more interference).
- Reduce competition: pause large downloads, video calls, or game updates during streaming.
- Consider a mesh Wi-Fi system or Wi-Fi extender if your TV is far from the router.
6) Check your internet speed
Even with strong Wi-Fi, your internet plan (and network traffic) must support the quality you’re streaming.
General speed guidance (per stream)
Many services recommend higher speeds for higher resolution, and you’ll typically want extra headroom if multiple devices are online at the same time.
Common streaming speed recommendations (by service)
Below are published recommendations from major streaming providers:
Netflix:
- 720p: 3 Mbps+
- 1080p: 5 Mbps+
- 4K: 15 Mbps+
Hulu:
- Streaming Library: 3 Mbps
- Live streams: 8 Mbps
- 4K content: 16 Mbps
YouTube (Movies/TV playback guidance):
- 1080p: 5 Mbps
- 4K: 20 Mbps
Sling TV:
- Single stream users: 5 Mbps+
- Multiple devices/users: 25 Mbps recommended
Amazon Prime Video:
- SD: 1 Mbps minimum
- HD: 5 Mbps minimum
- For 4K Ultra HD viewing on compatible devices, Amazon commonly cites 15 Mbps+ as a high-speed connection requirement.
If your speed test results are below what your content needs, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to discuss faster service or network stability.
Still having issues?
- Try streaming on a different app/channel to see if the problem is app-specific.
- If your TV model supports it, consider using a wired Ethernet connection for the most stable streaming.
- If problems continue after reconnecting and checking speeds, the issue may be router settings, congestion, or ISP stability—and a mesh system or router upgrade can help in larger homes.