Want to know how to fix a Roku remote that isn’t working? Well, we have some good news. As we’ve experienced, the solution is often very easy (and done in 3, the good news is that there may be an easy fix. With the tips below, you may get back to your regular TV shows, Twitch, YouTube channels, or anything else – in No time at all.
With a small profile and relatively few buttons, Roku remotes are simple and straightforward. This is the main reason why Roku Streaming Stick 4K holds the throne at the top of our list of best streaming devices. However, sometimes, you may find that your Roku is not working, and if the problem is with the remote control, here’s how to fix it.
If your Roku remote stops syncing, your first step to trying to fix the problem is to swap out new batteries. If that doesn’t work, there are a few other methods you can try before you give up. And if these tips don’t work, you can replace it with a Roku one — or convert a device you already own into your new Roku remote. Read on to find out how to do all of these things. (And in related news, the best Roku remote is finally on sale with the Roku Ultra)
How to Repair the Roku Remote: Pair the Roku Remote
Let’s say you have already tried to replace the batteries. (Almost every troubleshooting guide has this comprehensive detail on how to replace batteries, but let’s be honest: If you’re here, you’ve surely tried it already.)
Instead, let’s take a look at the second most common cause of Roku remote control problems: pairing. When you first set up your Roku player, it should automatically pair with your remote control. In fact, newer models will pair the remote control directly to the TV, so you can control volume and power settings as well.
The problem is that a variety of factors can disrupt this pairing, from shaky Wi-Fi to factory reset. And if your remote doesn’t interact with your Roku, your streaming tool basically isn’t working. Fortunately, every Roku device has an easy way to reconnect. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the back cover from the Roku remote.
- Find the pairing button, under the batteries.
- Keep the remote control as close to your Roku device as possible.
- Press and hold the pairing button for 3 seconds.
The pairing dialog should appear on the screen within a few more seconds.
That’s really all there is to it. If the pairing screen does not appear, try the following steps.
1. Remove the batteries from the Roku remote, then reinsert them
2. Reboot your Roku (If it does not have a physical button, unplug and reconnect its power supply.)
3. Press and hold the pairing button during device startup.
4. or, Try pairing the remote control on a different wireless network. Wi-Fi strength is a big reason why remote pairing sometimes fails, but your connection will persist, even after you put your Roku back on the original network.
If none of the above works at all, you have another option. It’s time to get out your smartphone and try the Roku mobile app.
How to Repair a Roku Remote: Use the Roku Mobile App
The Roku mobile app is very powerful. You can search for media, discover new channels, and stream your content on your screen.
Most importantly, for the purposes of this article, you can use your phone as a remote control with this app. Simply install the Roku app for iOS or Android, connect your phone to the same wireless network as your Roku player, then tap the Remote tab. A screen with a D-pad and a handful of media controls will appear, and voila: you have a bona fide Roku remote.
While you can only use your smartphone as a Roku remote forever, this is probably not the best idea. It’s a phone battery drain, and you probably need your smartphone for other things. So if you think your Roku remote is completely gone, you’ll have to get a new one.
How to Repair a Roku Remote: Try a Different Remote
At the time of writing this report, Roku sells three different remote controlsRoku Voice Remote Pro ($30), Roku Voice Remote ($20), and Roku Simple Remote (with IR) ($15).
To determine which remote works with your player, it’s best to visit the Roku website, where it stays up to date with the latest information. Basically, though:
- Roku Streaming Stick (Plus, 4K and 4K+ models): Roku Voice Remote Pro, Roku Voice Remote
- Roku Ultra: Roku Voice Remote Pro, Roku Voice Remote, Roku Simple Remote
- Roku TVs: Roku Voice Remote Pro, Roku Voice Remote, Roku Simple Remote
- Roku audio products: Roku Voice Remote Pro, Roku Voice Remote, Roku Simple Remote
- Roku premiere: Roku Voice Remote
- Older Roku 2 and Roku 3 models: Roku game remote control
- Roku Express 4K Plus: Roku Voice Remote Control
- Roku Express and most older Roku models: Roku Standard Infrared Remote Control
The exact feature set varies depending on the remote control. Roku Enhanced Audio Remote provides a headphone jack for private listening; Some offer programmable channel buttons; Some offer power and volume controls for your TV.
There’s now a better option, too, in the form of Roku Voice Remote Pro, which offers features including hands-free controls, custom shortcuts, and private listening. It’s also the first Roku remote that can be fully recharged.
Read our hands-on Roku Voice Remote Pro review and then check out our in-depth guide on how to replace your Roku remote.
Whatever the case, we recommend ordering these remotes directly from Roku’s websiteBecause Roku makes every device’s compatibility very clear. Third party retailers aren’t always very good at this, and you don’t want to have any issues with your replacement remote.
Now that you know how to fix a Roku remote that isn’t working, take a look at some of our other Roku guides, including how to use screen mirroring on a Roku and what we think is the first thing every Roku owner should do. And if you’re looking for some viewing inspiration, check out our guide on the best Roku channels.
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