If you don’t want to miss another sporting event, you should stream it like all your other favorite shows.
With streaming platforms like Netflix and ESPN+, you are controlling time, and the prices they go for are a small price to pay.
Still, it can be tricky to stream on any device. Some premium plans do not allow multiple-device streaming, so the one paying for them can get locked out from their own account.
Sometimes, streaming platforms aren’t built into displays such as TVs and require download or installation.
No worries, they are all an easy fix.
Read below, and we promise you will be cheering the latest Lakers game on your brand new 40-Inch Vizio SmartTV.
Table of Contents
Can You Watch ESPN+ on Vizio?
Yes, you totally can!
However, ESPN+ isn’t a native installation in Vizio TVs. If you want to stream shows on your Vizio, you will need the help of thirty-party systems.
We don’t recommend you have your Vizio jailbroken, as it poses various risks against your devices. It isn’t ideal for anyone to deal in shady software to satiate sports cravings. It’s also against the law, Sir.
What’s on ESPN+?
If you want to find the latest UFC, MLB, and NFL events, including domestic and international soccer matches, an ESPN+ subscription makes a practical purchase.
There are various sports, exclusive events, and interviews you can only find on the streaming platform. If you prefer to watch your favorite influencers, then our guide on activating the Zeus Network on Apple, Roku, Fire TV will be helpful
It’s worth hooking a Chromecast and other third-party casting devices on your Vizio TV for your ESPN+ subscription.
Trust us, after a few exclusive events, and the subscription practically pays for itself. We also have a guide on how to watch ESPN on an LG TV.
Let’s work on hooking it up to your Vizio, shall we?
Method 1: ESPN Plus on Vizio SmartCast
Here are 10 easy steps.
- Power up your Vizio display.
- Connect it to your home’s Wi-Fi.
- Connect your handheld device to the same Wi-Fi. (Not just to the same network, it has to be on the same router or extender.)
- Open your ESPN+ app on your handheld device or laptop.
- Choose the program you want to watch.
- Click play.
- As it starts playing, click the “cast icon.”
- A window with a list of your Display choices should be prompted.
- Choose your Vizio TV.
- Cheer for your favorite team!
Hopefully, it’s as quick and painless as above. Another option is to watch ESPN
Another option is to watch ESPN+ in your browser, and then cast it to your Vizio TV. Read up on how to get an Internet Browser on your Vizio Smart TV.
Why Can’t I Watch ESPN+ on My Vizio?
These issues may stem from incompatibilities, and while this can be frustrating, it happens.
Don’t waste more time being frustrated, calling the manufacturer or ESPN+ customer support.
You didn’t hear it from us, but we hear both are notorious for long waits.
You can check out more here to read reviews from disgruntled users of both ESPN+ and Vizio still on hold, waiting for a representative to coach them through what to do next.
Unfortunately, most users wait too long only to be told there’s nothing “customer care” can do to help.
Fortunately, we have more answers to all your “how to get ESPN on Vizio Smart TV” questions below!
What Are Third-Party Devices I Can Use to Link ESPN+ to My Vizio?
A Roku HD Stick or a Roku 4K Stick are ideal for these situations.
You can download ESPN+ to sticks that don’t have it already built-in and hook it up to your Vizio TV.
We hear it works great and is nearly seamless, especially with fast internet speed.
Most issues tend to be with buffering or loading, otherwise works great.
However, if you will not need a Roku if you already have an Amazon Fire HD Stick or an Amazon Fire 4K Stick.
Amazon Fire Sticks work just as well as Roku sticks. You can have other sports as well! Just activate the Tennis Channel on either Firestick or Roku.
Still, most users prefer Roku over Fire.
Which Is Better for ESPN+ on Vizio: Roku Stick Versus Amazon Fire Stick
While Amazon Fire Sticks have better 4K resolution, reportedly using up less bandwidth for crystal clear imagery, Roku has a better user interface.
Some Roku sticks already have ESPN+ apps built-in, while Amazon does not.
Roku sticks have more general channel and streaming platform options, making them more practical for users.
However, regarding price range, Amazon Fire sticks have fewer inclusions, which means they are often more affordable than Roku sticks.
Still, if you only want to watch ESPN+ on your Vizio, both make great options.
How can I download other apps to my Vizio TV?
You can click the V button on your Vizio remote and then choose apps from the Vizio App store. If you do not have an older model without a V button on your remote, then we have an article on how to add apps to your Vizio TV without a V button.
How Do I Link My Roku to My Vizio TV?
Do you already have a Roku stick? Great! Here’s how you can hook it up to your new Vizio TV.
You will be watching ESPN+ in no time.
Linking Your Roku Stick to Your Vizio TV
Ensure you have all the necessary components that come with your Roku stick.
- Power Cord
- HDMI Cord with Extender
- The Roku Player and Remote.
However, if your HDMI cable is frayed or missing, you can buy a compatible replacement here. Roku HDMI Cable
Also, it’s not unheard of to lose your remote. Yes, it’s nothing to feel shame for; it happens to the best of us.
You should get a Roku Replacement Remote before we get started.
If these are all there, proceed with the steps below.
- Plug the power cord to an electrical source and into your Roku player.
- Pro-tip: You can also attach it to one of your Vizio TV’s vacant USB ports.
- Attach the input end of your HDMI cable to the Roku player.
- Attach its output end to the Vizio TV.
- Switch to the corresponding Source or Input.
- E.g. HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3, HDMI 4.
- Log In or Create an Account for Roku on your Roku player for your TV.
- Open a separate internet browser.
- Go to https://my.roku.com/
- Go to PIN Preferences under My Account.
- Get the PIN indicated on your browser.
- Input your designated PIN to your TV to verify the connection between your player and TV.
This should prompt a window on your TV listing your preferences.
You can change the language setting and other set-up options you prefer for your Roku player.
After indicating your preferences, it should reboot and go back to the start-up or Home window.
Pick ESPN+ or install it through Roku’s application settings if it isn’t yet.
GOAL!
We hope this helps you watch your favorite team in action!
Remember, ESPN+ isn’t built into Vizio TV yet. Still, a few extra steps to watch it on your Vizio TV can be worth it for the most avid sports fans. If you want even more sports, we have a guide on how to activate Ballysports.com on Roku/Apple TV/Fire etc
There’s no such thing as impossible. Whether it’s as easy as casting it from your handheld device or installing a third-party device, watching ESPN+ on your Vizio TV is possible.
A nail-biting match between your favorite teams is even better on a 4K QLED Vizio TV.