Roku Remote Not Working

Roku Remote Not Working: Causes & 100% Proven Solutions

Is your Roku remote lagging, freezing, or just refusing to connect? There is nothing worse than sitting down to watch your favorite show, and you find the remote is dead. It instantly ruins your experience.

Don’t worry! You can resolve almost all of your errors by following the few quick checks as explained. 

Usually, such issues come down to three simple things: Incorrect battery orientation, a blocked IR signal (line-of-sight), or maybe because of the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi pairing glitches. 

You must confirm that your batteries are fresh and inserted correctly. If it is not, then you can follow the guide below and get the proven troubleshooting steps to fix these irritating issues yourself and get back to streaming in a minute. 

Read On…

In Summary! 

  1. Check Roku’s batteries first. 
  2. If required, change your existing batteries with the new ones. 
  3. Determine the Remote type: Infrared or Voice/Wi-fi Remote. 
  4. Connect your Roku remote till the LED lights up. 
  5. Unplug your Roku device for 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
  6. Avoid obstructions between your Roku player and IR remote. 
  7. Make sure to check HDMI interference as well. 
  8. Run the Mobile Roku app to use the temporary remote. 
  9. Do a factory reset to use the Roku remote smoothly. 

Common Reasons Your Roku Remote Stops Working

  • Before proceeding further, you must take a glance at the possible reasons behind this irritating issue occurring. 
  • The first main reason is that you’ve inserted batteries not in the appropriate direction. 
  • The next one is that you are using dead batteries. However, it may prevent the direct signals from reaching your device. 
  • You might have encountered power supply issues. 
  • Most importantly, you are using a poor and unstable internet and Wi-Fi connection. 

Identify the Types of Your Roku Remotes

Three types of Roku remotes are there. Have a look at all of these. What does it look like? What technology does the remote use? What is it best suited for?

  1. Roku Simple Remote (Basic IR)

  • Looks Like: It is a simple remote and provides you with shortcuts to various channels, such as Hulu, Netflix, and many more. However, it doesn’t offer any voice button. 
  • Technology: This remote integrates with Infrared (IR). As a result, it is necessary to point to the Roku device being used directly. 
  • Best Suited For: You can use it if you are using older players or have a Roku TV without the volume/power button.  

  1. Roku Voice Remote (Enhanced)

  • Looks Like: This is the updated version of the basic IR remote, but it consists of a voice button near the directional pad. Moreover, it includes a magnifying glass or microphone icon. 
  • Technology: This remote uses Wireless (RF), which means that you need to point the remote anywhere to start using your device. Additionally, it offers IR to operate TV functions. 
  • Features: It consists of various features, such as TV power, volume, voice search, and mute buttons, specifically on TV models. 
  • Best Suited For: It is highly compatible with all Roku audio devices, TVs, and the advanced Roku players.   

  1. Roku Voice Remote Pro (Premium)

  • Looks Like: It works like the voice remote of Remote, but it has added the Pro version, which means it offers you advanced features. 
  • Technology: This advanced and pro voice remote also uses wireless (RF). 
  • Features: It offers you all the latest and advanced features, such as
    • Backlit buttons
    • Rechargeable batteries
    • Hands-free voice control, 
    • A lost remote that can be found
    • Programmable shortcut buttons. 
  • Best Suited For: Users who want to feel all the premium features. Moreover, it will work with all Roku devices.  

Important Point to be Noted: 

If you still have a doubt about which remote you’re using, simply remove the remote cover. After that, check whether there is a small button named “Pairing option.” If yes, you’re utilizing Voice/Enhanced remote. If not, you have a simple/IR remote. 

Also Read :- How to Connect Roku Remote to TV?

How to Fix an IR Roku Remote

The IR Roku remote only works when there are no distractions while connecting to the Roku device. Moreover, if we talk about the causes of the issue occurring, these are: 

  • Battery Placements 
  • Obstructions
  • Interference of the signal 

Below are the detailed walkthroughs that will help you to fix the IR Roku remote working.  

Method 1: Check the Batteries

Make sure your batteries are perfectly positioned in the remote. However, if you find out that your batteries are in their proper position appropriately, you need to replace them with new ones. 

In case you find that your battery is heating up, it is highly recommended that you do not to touch the battery component. As a result, it may occur battery corrosion. You just need to put the remote on a non-flammable and hard surface, which makes it cool. 

Now, you can effortlessly check your batteries. 

Method 2: Reboot Your Roku Device

You can directly remove the plug of your Roku device for a minimum of 10 seconds from the power supply. After that, consider connecting it.  

After your home screen appears on your device, operate your remote to determine whether the issue has been resolved or not. 

Method 3: Reset Your Roku Remote 

Consider rebooting your Roku remote to fix all the temporary issues. To reset the Roku remote, follow all the instructions below. 

  1. Simply remove batteries from your remote. 
  2. Then, position it correctly. As a result, it will help you to reset your remote effortlessly. 

Method 4: Resync Your Remote 

If you are still encountering this issue, you’ve not paired your remote correctly. Check out the below section to know how you can resync your remote effortlessly.  

  1. Remove the plug from the Roku device for at least 5 seconds. 
  2. Connect it again. 
  3. Now, you will be able to see the Home screen. 
  4. Take out both batteries and reposition them to effectively sync with your Roku remote. 

Method 5: Remove All Obstructions 

The IR Roku Remote requires a smooth path so that it can effortlessly connect with your Roku device or TV. 

What You Should Not Do: 

  • Avoid placing the Roku behind the TV. 
    • It leads to delayed button presses. 
    • Or, buttons will not work smoothly. 
    • The LED status light will not indicate. 
    • It blocks the IR signal

If you want to avoid all obstructions, it is highly recommended to put your remote and the device in an interference-free area. 

Method 6: Camera Test

  1. Open your mobile’s camera app. 
  2. Position your Roku remote in front of your camera. 
  3. Press the Home, Up, Volume, and Down buttons.  
  4. Make sure, while pressing these keys, to look into your mobile camera’s screen. 
  5. Check whether the light is coming from your remote. 
    1. Purple/White means light is indicated. 
    2. No light means your remote is damaged. 
    3. Dim light means your remote is on a low battery. 

Fixes for a Roku Voice/Enhanced Remote Not Working

Roku Enhanced or Voice remotes connect wirelessly in comparison to the IR Roku Remote. In simple terms, this type of remote usually encounters various issues. These are as follows: 

  • Connectivity 
  • Battery Power 
  • Software glitches

Here are the troubleshooting methods that will help you to fix your remote seamlessly. 

Method 1: Restart Your Remote 

This method will consist of two options. The first one is simply to change your batteries. And the second one is to recharge your battery. 

For Changing New Batteries: 

  1. Take out both batteries. 
  2. Hold down on any two buttons. 
  3. Put the batteries by matching their signs, – & +. 
  4. Replace the Remote cover. 

For Resetting Your Remote:

  • If there is a Paring button: Hold it down for 20 seconds. 
  • If not, press the Back and Home keys at the same time for 20 seconds. 
  • Wait for a while till the flashlight stops from your remote.  

Method 2: Re-charge Your Remote 

  1. Here, consider using the cable that you get with your remote. 
  2. Connect it to the USB power or to your computer. 
  3. Charge your Roku remote for up to 5 hours. 

If you’re in a dilemma because your remote battery is fine, make sure to check its battery level. To do so, navigate to Settings. Then, move towards Remotes & Devices. Next, go to Remote and then look for Your Remote. Head to About.  

Method 3: Restart Your Roku Device 

  1. Take out the plug from the power source where you’ve connected your Roku Player. 
  2. Wait for 5 seconds. 
  3. Place the plug of your Roku device into the power outlet. 
  4. Determine if the Roku Player’s home screen is available. 

Method 4: Re-Pair Your Remote (Reset Connection)

  1. Start your Roku TV or your Player. 
  2. To have a pairing button, hold it down for 5 seconds until the indicator lights up. 
  3. If you don’t have a Pairing button, press the Back and Home keys at the same time for 5 seconds so that the indicator flashes. 

Method 5: HDMI Interference

While using the Roku Streaming Stick, there are high chances that the TV’s metal parts can block the signal of the remote. To get rid of this problem, it requires an HDMI Extender cable. Make sure to place the cable far away from the TV and avoid obstructions. In addition, you can request one HDMI cable from the Roku website. 

Method 6: Check Your Wi-Fi Signal

If you’re using an unstable and poor Wi-Fi connection, it may cause unresponsiveness errors with your Roku remote. 

  • Choose the Home Key. 
  • Tap on Settings. 
  • Navigate to Network. 
  • Choose About. 
  • Determine your Wi-Fi signal. 
    • If you find that you’re getting a poor signal, move your router closer to your Roku device. 

How to Use a Smartphone as a Temporary Roku Remote? 

If you’re still encountering the “Roku remote not working” error, use your mobile phone instead of your remote. To operate your smartphone, follow these instructions that we are going to elaborate on. 

  1. Start using the Roku app on your mobile. 
  2. Choose Remote. 

Now, let’s check out all the buttons and their functions that will help you to know more about the mobile-based remote. 

    • Private: Use headphones for playing sound to yourself. 
    • Guide: Using Live TV channels that will let you know what’s coming. 
    • Microphone: Control your screen by tapping on voice search. 
    • Options: Get multiple and special functions. 
    • Play/Pause: Whenever you want to play & pause the content. It also includes fast rewinding, replay, and fast forward. 
  • Keyboard: Use the keyboard to make your search easier. 
  • Channels: Tap on any App Icon (like Netflix or Hulu) to launch that channel directly on your TV
  • Volume Up/Volume Down/Mute: Manage the volume output accordingly. This feature is only available on Roku TVs and Roku Streambars. 
  • Power: You can easily switch off and on of your Roku TV.  

Roku Remote Buttons Not Working

While using the Roku remote, if the buttons are not working properly, check out the following walkthrough. 

  1. Move towards Settings. 
  2. Pick System. 
  3. Choose System Update. 
  4. Tap on Check Now.

Important Point to be Considered: By following these guidelines, your Roku Player will update its software itself. In case your Roku device data is not stored properly, read these instructions. 

  1. Proceed further to Settings. 
  2. Pick Remotes And Devices. 
  3. Tap on Remote next to your remote. 
  4. Choose Set up remote for TV control. 

When to Replace Your Roku Remote?

There are various conditions where there is a high requirement for your Roku remote replacement. Let’s dive into it. 

  • Your remote is not responding even after adding new batteries. 
  • Buttons are frozen. 
  • You may have registered for multiple inputs. 
  • Your remote is physically damaged. 
  • You want to update your Roku remote. 

When to Contact Customer Support? 

Usually, all Roku remote errors can be smoothly resolved by implementing troubleshooting solutions. However, there are a number of circumstances that occur in which it is necessary to connect to Roku’s customer support. 

Situation 1: Consistent Inability to Respond 

Your Roku remote is not responding to you, even after executing all these fixes very carefully. 

Situation 2: There May be Some Physical Damage  

Your device may be coming into contact with water, a cracked outer the remote, or buttons that are getting stuck while cleaning. 

Situation 3: Failure of Hardware

Your remote is not showing any indicator of LED activity, and your remote’s light doesn’t pair with the latest and newest batteries. 

Situation 4: Device-Specific Issues 

Sometimes, you are facing unique problems when you’re using the model of your Roku device. Moreover, the above methods don’t suit you well. 

Situation 5: Warranty or Replacement Needs 

Your remote is under warranty, and you want to replace this product for your own reason. 

Mostly Asked Common Questions And Their Answers

We’re here to make your troubleshooting solutions easier. Take a glance at all the compiled advanced questions and their solutions that will help you to fix your query smoothly. 

Q1. Can Roku remotes go bad?

Ans. Yes! There are high chances that Roku remotes can often go bad because of these reasons:

  • Battery problems
  • Internal hardware failure
  • Software glitches
  • Physical damage from spills or drops 

Q2. Why is my Roku remote not responding at all?

Ans. If you’re facing the fact that your Roku remote is not working at all, you need to check your batteries. After that, consider resetting your device or pairing it with your remote to get rid of this problem. 

Q3. How do I know if my Roku remote is broken?

Ans. Various circumstances happen if your Roku remote is broken. These are: 

  • You won’t be able to start your TV even after inserting new batteries. 
  • The light of the remote doesn’t flash, which indicates the TV is started. 
  • Enhanced remotes are not paired successfully. 

Q4. Why does my remote keep unpairing from Roku?

Ans. It is all because there may be some interference of the signal. On the other hand, you are also using some low-power batteries. Sometimes, there are some temporary glitches.    

Q5. Can I use any Roku remote with my Roku TV?

Ans. Not all Roku remotes can easily operate with Roku TV. So, you need to check the power button, the model, whether it is a Roku TV & Voice Remote (Pro, etc.), and the microphone. 

Q6. Does Roku offer replacement remotes?

Ans. YES! Roku allows users to make replacements of their remotes. Visit Roku’s official website. Otherwise, opt for the third-party sites, such as

  • Walmart
  • Amazon
  • Best Buy

Q7. Why is my remote not working after changing batteries?

Ans. It is because you may have been using the wrong batteries. Or, there may be some dirt contact or some internal fault. 

Q8. How to test if remote working?

Ans. To determine whether the remote is responding appropriately, ensure your batteries are positioned properly. Then, make sure the LED light is giving an indicator or not. 

End Words!

Having interruptions while using your Roku remote may lead to worry about whether it is responding in the right way or not. If getting stuck in between, there is no need to stay panicked. Start by restarting your Roku remote by removing both batteries. After that, consider doing a factory reset of your Roku remote. Then, examine the internet connection and check that there are no distractions while syncing to your Roku device. 

Still having trouble? Contact customer support. They are here and provide you with all the queries where you are getting stuck. 

Reference Links: 

https://community.roku.com/discussions/tv-and-players/roku-rechargeable-remote-not-working-unless-plugged-in/1041944

https://support.roku.com/article/21306145024535

https://www.reddit.com/r/Roku/comments/1kuoxbk/roku_remote_stopped_working_and_will_not_pair/

https://support.roku.com/article/360004786894

https://community.roku.com/discussions/tv-and-players/remote-is-not-working-properly/1023505

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGJbEpruvWA

https://support.roku.com/article/115002681087

https://community.roku.com/discussions/tv-and-players/im-having-issues-with-my-hdmi-and-connecting-other-devic-to-my-roku-/980897