For all Roku users, knowing how to pair, connect, reset and program your Roku remote is essential to unlocking a world of multimedia straight from your couch. In this post, we’ll provide complete guidance for Roku device owners looking to pair or reset their Roku remotes.
The pairing process for your specific Roku remote can get complex… whether its an old or new remote, knowing the difference between each device and remote is essential for pairing and connecting properly with your Roku Player, Roku TV, or other devices like the Streambar.
Having issues? First, Make sure your remote is Compatible with your Roku (compatibility list)
We’ll dive into the steps for connecting different types of Roku remotes, including ‘simple’ and ‘voice’ remotes.
By the end of our guide, you’ll be able to pair, sync, reset or program your Roku remote for your Roku streaming player as well as Roku TVs.
Key Takeaways: Pairing & Resetting a Roku remote
Understanding the compatibility and pairing method specific to the Simple Roku Remote or the Roku Voice Remote (Standard, Pro, or Enhanced models) is the key for proper syncing.
Your Roku Remote doesn’t need to be paired or programmed if it’s a Roku Simple Remote model. This is because the Simple Remotes use Infrared beam technology rather than RF.
A Roku simple Remote can be set up (not paired), by simply placing batteries in the remote and pointing it at your Roku Stick, Express, Ultra, or Roku TV.
Related: 7 Best Roku Remote Replacements
Only a Roku Voice Remote, Voice Remote Pro, and Roku Enhanced remotes needs to be paired because they require Wi-Fi for you to connect, pair, and fully link the remote.
Remember, your remote may or may not have a pairing button and this will dictate the pairing process.
Pairing your Roku Remote enables you to utilize various useful controls, this includes voice features, hands-free voice commands, private listening, and the lost remote finder feature.
How to tell which pairing method you need based on your Roku device:
| Roku Device | Pairing Instructions |
|---|---|
| Roku Simple Remote | No pairing or programming needed. Just point the remote at your Roku device and begin streaming. |
| Roku Standard Voice Remote & Enhanced Remote Models | The pairing button is a small circular button located inside the battery compartment at the back of the remote. It needs to be held for 5 seconds or until the light flashes green. |
| Roku Voice Remote Pro | If your Roku remote is rechargeable, then you have the Pro model. The pairing button is a small, circular button located on the back of the remote (towards the bottom). Hold it for 5-10 seconds or until the light flashes green |
If for some reason the remote does not pair automatically, you can also go into the settings on your Roku device and manually start the pairing process from there.
Related: We understand how frustrating it can be when your Roku remote app is not connecting, here’s a step by step guide that may help you resolve the issue.
How to reset a Roku Voice Remote:
| Roku Device | Resetting Instructions |
|---|---|
| Roku Simple Remote | No reset required for this model. If issues persist, ensure there is no obstruction between the remote and your Roku device. |
| Roku Standard Voice Remote & Enhanced Remote Models | 1. Remove the batteries from your remote. 2. Turn on your Roku device. 3. Re-insert the batteries into your remote and hold the pairing button for about 20 seconds. The status light will flash green. Release the pairing button when the flashing becomes rapid. 4. The remote should restart and attempt to connect to your Roku device. |
| Roku Voice Remote Pro | 1. Unplugging the remote for 5-10 seconds before plugging it back in. 2. Next, press and hold the pairing button on your remote (located on the back of the remote) until the Home screen appears. 3. Hold the pairing button until the status light on the remote begins flashing. 4. The remote should restart within five seconds and then attempt to pair with your Roku device. |
Alternatively, you can unpairing your Roku Voice Remote Pro by accessing Settings, selecting ‘Remotes and devices’, then ‘Remote (in use)’, and finally ‘Unpair remote’.
If issues persist, attempt re-connection as a new device via ‘Remotes and devices’, ‘Set up a new device’, and choosing ‘Voice remote’.
There are various Roku Remote pairing scenarios. Skip to your specific case below:
Related: Wondering if the roku express is right for you and if its worth it? Our in-depth review can guide you.
How to pair & connect, or reset your Roku Remote
We’re going to explore everything you need to know about pairing your Roku Remote. In the below sections we’ll explain how to pair and reset your remote.
We’ll also dive into the specifics of using a Roku Simple Remote or a Roku Voice Remote, show you how to connect a remote without a pairing button, and even demonstrate the process of pairing a Roku Remote to a Roku TV.
To further assist with your Roku remote difficulties, you may find it helpful to read through our guide on roku not responding to remote.
How to pair a Roku Simple remote
Pairing your Simple Roku Remote is the initial and crucial step to setting up your Roku streaming device or TV. For those using the ‘Roku Simple Remote’, the process is streamlined and effortless.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to pair your Roku Simple Remote:
- Insert the batteries into the assigned slots in the remote.
- Ensure the remote is aimed directly at your Roku device. Given that the Simple Remote operates via infrared, it requires a clear line of sight to the device to function properly. Make sure there are no obstacles between the remote and your Roku device.
- The Simple Remote should automatically pair with your Roku device, allowing you to navigate through a wealth of television, movies, and more.
Keep in mind Roku offers a variety of remotes including the Roku Voice Remote and Roku Enhanced Remote, each with their own unique features.
As mentioned earlier, the Enhanced and Pro voice Remote models support voice commands and Wi-Fi control, which are features the Simple Roku remote does not have.
If you’re interested in more ways to use your Roku device, you might appreciate our post on Roku tips and tricks.
How to pair & reset a Roku Voice remote (All model Rokus)
Roku Voice Remote enables the more advanced features of Roku players and TVs… it eliminates the need for a direct line of sight between your remote and the Roku device for operating it.
Remember, if you have any issues, simply hold the pairing button on the back of the remote inside the battery compartment. Where is the pairing button? It’s a (its a small circle) for 5 seconds, and it will begin pairing automatically.
Here’s how to pair your Roku Voice Remote:
- Make sure the Roku stick or streaming player is powered on. If possible, also ensure it’s updated with the latest software.
- With your Voice Remote at hand, navigate from the Roku home screen to ‘Settings’, then to ‘Remotes and Devices’, and finally to ‘Pair Remote’. This sequence triggers the pairing mode on your Roku device.
- Next, locate the pairing button inside the battery compartment of your remote. Press and hold this button until you see a flashing green light, signaling that your remote is in pairing mode.
- Wait for a few seconds and your Roku device will recognize the remote, signaling successful pairing.
If it doesn’t pair, then you may need to change the batteries or check our Roku compatibility guide to see if you have the right Roku remote for your device.
Navigating through the enhanced features of your Roku Voice Remote will open up a new dimension to your Roku streaming experience.
For more specific information about Roku’s advanced remote, take a look at our Roku Voice remote pro review.
How to reset a Roku remote
Just like any other electronic, Roku remotes such as the Simple Remote and Roku Remote Pro occasionally require a reset, especially when they aren’t working.
While it may seem frustrating, it’s actually a straightforward process. Here’s how to reset your Roku remotes:
Resetting the Simple Roku Remote:
- Unplug your Roku device from its power source, wait a few seconds, then plug it back in. This often resolves minor glitches with the remote.
- If issues persist, replace the batteries in the remote and then follow the pairing process again.
Resetting the Roku Remote Pro and Voice Remote:
- Begin by removing the remote’s batteries and reinserting them.
- Locate the pairing button and hold it down for 20 seconds or until the green indicator light starts flashing.
Following these steps should help reset your Roku remotes and restore their functionality with your Roku device.
The reset journey for the Roku Remote Pro and the Voice Remote is slightly different as these are wifi-enabled and equipped with a pairing button. If unresponsiveness is your issue, start by removing the remote’s batteries and reinserting them.
If your Roku remote isn’t responding, find some solutions in our guide on how to fix a roku remote volume not working.
How to connect a Roku remote without a pairing button
Connecting your Roku remote without a pairing button may seem like a complex task at first. But we’re here to unravel the simplicity lying beneath this intricate task. First and foremost, ensure your Roku device is powered on and ready to recognize devices attempting to pair with it.
To kickstart the pairing, remove the battery pull tab from the rear of your remote. Next, you’ll need to press and hold the “Home” icon alongside the “Backspace” icon on your remote for approximately five seconds.
Once the remote’s status light begins to flash, your remote has successfully entered the pairing mode. Soon, you should see an on-screen notification that your remote is pairing with your device. Just hold tight for a few seconds till you see a success message.
After connecting your remote, learn about some free alternatives in our post free roku remote to control your Roku without the remote.
How to Pair a Roku Remote to a Roku TV
Stepping up from a standalone Roku device to a Roku TV? The pairing process slightly varies here. Start by making that you have Wi-Fi as the pairing requires an active internet connection in this case.
Note: This is for pairing Roku Remote that has voice control (which is the case for most newer Rokus models), if you don’t have a Voice enabled Roku remote, then you can simply point it at the TV because it doesn’t need pairing.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for Pairing a Roku Remote to a Roku Tv:
- Ensure your Roku streaming device is plugged in and powered on and Insert batteries into your Roku remote if they aren’t already there.
- Bring the remote close to your Roku device, then Look for a small pairing button inside the battery compartment of your remote or at the back of it.
- Press and hold this pairing button for about three seconds or until the LED light on the remote starts flashing.
- Wait for a “Pairing remote” prompt to appear on your Roku screen. If it doesn’t, you can manually initiate the pairing by navigating to the Home screen of your Roku TV, select Settings, choose Remotes & Devices, then choose Set up a new device, and finally, select Remote.
- Your Roku device will enter into the pairing mode. Now, press the Pairing button on your remote again.
- After some moments, your remote will pair with your Roku TV and you can continue set up or streaming.
Also, it’s important to know that the wifi network your TV connects to should be the same as your wifi-enabled Roku Remote for successful pairing… if you’re using an Xfi Pod or a Wi-Fi booster of some type, sometimes it splits the connection and you’ll have trouble. This is a rare scenario, but it’s happened when I helped set up home theater set ups for friends in the past.
…keep in mind that you must keep the remote a few feet away from your Roku TV during the pairing process.
For Roku TV owners, consider exploring the post on What is a Roku TV and how does it work?
How to pair a new Roku Voice Remote instead of using your old remote
Embarking on an epic binge-watching session can hit a roadblock if your trusty old Roku remote starts faltering. However, upgrading to a new Roku voice remote can be a game changer.
You ‘ll need to remove the old device from your Roku in settings, then begin the pairing process explained earlier in this article. Here it is again in case you missed it….
To pair a new Roku Voice Remote with your device, start by powering on your Roku streaming tool. Insert the batteries into your new voice remote, but resist the temptation to replace the battery compartment cover just yet.
In the battery compartment, you’ll spot a tiny button – that’s your pairing key. As you engage this button, the remote’s status light should start to flash, which means the remote is now in pairing mode. Your screen should then display a message stating that the pairing is in progress. Voilà – you’ve successfully paired your new Roku Voice Remote.
Related: In case you’re considering a new remote, our guide on the difference between Roku devices might be helpful.
Be patient during this setup phase and ensure you’re fairly close (just a few feet) from your Roku device for the best results.
And there you have it – a straightforward method to pair your new Roku Voice Remote. If you find that your Voice Remote still isn’t pairing, it may be helpful to perform a reset on the Roku device itself, or to replace the batteries in the remote.
Steps to reset and re-pair Roku Voice Remote
Sometimes technology can be fussy, and even after successful pairing, your Roku Voice Remote might refuse to cooperate. Fret not, resetting the Roku Voice Remote is simple enough.
Start by safely removing the batteries from your remote. While the batteries are out, power cycle your Roku device by unplugging it, waiting for a few seconds, then plugging it back in.
Next, reinsert your batteries and press and hold the pairing button for about 20 seconds or so. The status light should glow green, which indicates the remote is ready for pairing. Just make sure you’re fairly close to your Roku device when attempting this.
Should you encounter further issues, our guide on how to fix xfinity not working on roku could prove useful.
The final step is to wait for the ‘pairing remote’ notification to appear on your Roku screen. This indicates that your Voice Remote has been re-paired and should be ready to enhance your streaming experience once again
Can my old Roku use a new Roku voice remote instead of the old simple remote?
One advantage of the Roku ecosystem is its adaptability and backward compatibility. That means yes, in most cases, your older Roku device can be paired with a new Roku Voice Remote. Just remember to follow the instructions mentioned in the first section about pairing a new Roku Voice Remote. Once paired, you will have the added advantages of voice commands and easier navigation without having to upgrade the main Roku device.
However, remember to check your specific Roku model’s compatibility. While most models are compatible with the new remote, older versions or certain specific models may not support the newer Roku Voice Remote’s features. If necessary, you can always contact Roku support for clarification.
Sometimes, you may need to disconnect your existing Roku remote from the device or TV. This could be to upgrade to a more feature-rich remote, or to troubleshoot if there’s an issue. Un-pairing your remote is relatively simple.
Navigate to the main menu on your Roku device and select ‘Settings’. From there, you will select ‘Remotes & Devices’, then click on ‘Remote (in use)’. At the end of those options, you should see an option to ‘Unpair remote’. Follow the prompt and soon your Roku device will forget the existing remote, allowing you to pair a new one.
To answer this and other Roku-related questions, refer to our post everything you need to know about Roku remote compatibility.
What to do if the Roku remote won’t sync or isn’t working after pairing
Even after successfully pairing, you may find that your remote isn’t working as expected. Be it setup issues with music, a simple remote proving stubborn, or your Roku voice remote refusing to cooperate – there are ways to troubleshoot these issues.
Handling setup issues with music
During the initial setup, your Roku remote utilizes music playback to validate its control over your TV’s volume and mute functions. So, if you’re encountering any irregularities like the music playback refusing to cease or playing inaudibly, there are few quick fixes that might help.
Firstly, check the volume levels on your TV and make sure they’re set at an appropriate level. If the music persists unabated despite your remote’s pleas for silence, manually enter your TV’s brand. This ensures an accurate setup – a prerequisite for seamless remote operation.
See our post on How to Fix a Roku Remote Volume Not working if you’re still having trouble.
Common issues and solutions for Roku Simple Remote
If your Roku Simple Remote refuses to work despite pairing, it’s probably an issue related to its Infrared (IR) technology rather than the pairing. You need a clear, direct line of sight between the remote and Roku device as IR remotes like Simple Remote require a direct path to function
Roku Remote Battery Requirements and Maintenance
Every functional gadget owes some of its operations to an integral component – the battery. Roku remotes are no different. The longevity and performance of this remote control are heavily hinged on its power source.
While some advanced models like the Roku Voice Remote Pro have embraced rechargeable batteries, most Roku remotes, particularly the older models, still draw their power from traditional disposable batteries.
These controllers primarily require either AAA or AA batteries, specific to the model and make. Users must always insert the appropriate variant to avoid causing potential damage. Notably, in situations where the remote performs erratically or doesn’t respond at all, one advantage of having a quick check on the installed batteries is that it could alleviate the problem.
Regular battery replacements ensure optimum remote performance. On a side note, the use of quality batteries is also recommended to extend the life span of your remote.
Alternative Ways to Control Roku device
If your Roku remote becomes unresponsive or goes missing entirely, don’t fret! There exist a few alternative ways to take control of your Roku device.
One method comes in the form of the handy Roku mobile app. Transforming your smartphone into a command center, this app mirrors the functions of a physical Roku remote, and extends capabilities with features like voice controls and private listening.
In certain cases, your TV’s remote can also double as a controlling device for your Roku player. This feature, however, is confined to those TVs that support HDMI-CEC, which allows them to convey control commands over HDMI connections. Web browsers aren’t left out either, with various browser extensions available that can simulate Roku remote functions.
Get the convenience of a free Roku remote to control your Roku device without the physical remote.
Pairing the Roku Mobile app remote to your Roku Device or TV via Roku Mobile app
Entering the realm of Smartphone app remotes, the official Roku Mobile app provides a credible alternative to physical remotes. Making sure your Smartphone and Roku device are on the same Wi-Fi network is the first step in this pairing journey. After installing the Roku Mobile app from your respective app store, launch the app and tap on the ‘Remote’ tab at the bottom.
Here, you’ll notice a digital replica of a traditional Roku remote. If your Roku device isn’t visible in the list, tapping the ‘Devices’ tab will bring up a list of nearby Roku devices. Select your device from the list, and voila, you can now utilize your smartphone to command your Roku device.
For more information on using the Roku mobile app, check out how you can install the roku app.
Other things to know after you pair your Remote
Once you’ve successfully paired your remote to your Roku device or TV, keep in mind there are a few additional actions you might need to undertake. The first is to verify if the TV controls for power and volume have also been successfully paired. This is necessary for enhanced Roku remotes which can also control the TV’s basic functions.
Next, if you’re using a Voice Remote, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the voice command functionality. This feature enables a hands-free navigation experience and can make the task of finding content much faster. Lastly, in the scenario where your Roku device supports multiple remotes, you may want to consider pairing an additional remote for redundancy.
Using Roku’s ‘Find My Remote’ Feature
With the propensity of remote controls becoming misplaced, the ‘Find my remote’ feature is a blessing in disguise that Roku provides for its Enhanced Remotes. This ingenious feature brings an audio clue to help locate your missing remote.
Access this through the Roku device settings, where you’ll have the option to turn on the remote finder sound. Following this, you just need to press the button on your Roku device to activate the sound, which makes tracking your remote an easy endeavor. However, remember, this might not work if the remote is out of the readable range or out of battery.
Understanding Roku Remote Indicator Lights
To understand the status and functioning of your Roku remote, paying attention to the indicator light can be invaluable. A steady light denotes that the remote is correctly paired to your Roku device.
However, the light starts to flash when the remote is in pairing mode, which can happen after you change batteries or during setup.
Also.. if you see a flashing light when you’re not trying to pair, it might signify some interference with the wireless signal.
Roku Remote Compatibility
Before deciding on a Roku remote upgrade or replacement, you should check the compatibility between the Roku remote and Roku devices. Even though there’s inter-compatibility across multiple models, a few exceptions exist.
Each version of Roku offers its unique capabilities, such as voice recognition or headphone compatibility, and you need to ascertain if your Roku device supports these advanced features. F
or instance, while the Roku Voice Remote can work with every Roku TV, some Roku streaming sticks and boxes may not be compatible with this model due to their different wireless technologies. Researching about your Roku device’s specifications could give you insightful details about its remote compatibility, saving you from any future mishaps.
How to Use CEC with Your Roku Remote and Streambar
Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) is a feature of HDMI that allows interconnected devices to control each other. Particularly handy when using your Roku Remote and Streambar, it can simplify your user experience by enabling control of multiple devices through a single remote.
To set up CEC, connect your Roku Streambar or similar device to your TV via an HDMI cable, ideally into an ‘ARC’ labeled port. This connection allows for audio and video signal transfer and enables CEC, granting one device control over specific functions of the other.
Activate CEC on your Roku: Start by navigating to Settings > System > Control other devices (CEC) and enabling ‘System audio control’, ‘System standby’, and ‘1-touch play’. Similarly, activate CEC on your TV – the process varies among manufacturers, so consult your TV’s manual.
…once set up, your Roku remote can control your TV’s power, and your TV remote can adjust the Streambar’s volume. Note that CEC might not control all functions; occasionally, you may need to use the device-specific remote.
FAQ:
Where is the pairing button on the Roku Remote?
On the standard Roku voice remote the pairing button is inside the battery compartment, its a small circular button. On the Roku Voice Remote Pro, the pairing button is on the back. Each requires a different procedure for pairing. Keep in mind, the Simple Roku Remote has no pairing button because it doesn’t require pairing for set up.
How do I connect a Roku remote that doesn’t have a pairing button?
Connecting a Roku remote without a pairing button is done by ensuring your Roku device is powered on, removing the battery pull tab from your remote and pressing and holding the “Home” and “Back” buttons (look for the icons) together for 5 seconds or until the status light flashes, indicating your remote is in pairing mode. Soon after, an on-screen notification will confirm the successful pairing.
Do different types of Roku remotes require different pairing methods?
Yes, different types of Roku remotes do require varied pairing methods. The Simple Remote, controlled through infrared light, automatically pairs with any Roku device through direct sight. On the other hand, the enhanced Roku Voice Remote leverages a wireless connection to communicate with the Roku device; this process needs specific configurations during the installation process.
This aspect epitomizes the variations in functionality across different Roku remote versions, mandating separate pairing strategies according to the remote type you are working with.
How are connecting, syncing, and pairing a Roku remote different things?
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct actions when it comes to Roku remotes. Connecting applies to establishing an initial link between your Roku device and your television.
By comparison, syncing (synchronization) refers to the state where your remote and Roku device reflect the same commands simultaneously—ensuring coherent and smooth device operation.
Pairing, on the other hand, is a specialized process that involves linking your Roku remote to your Roku device over a wireless connection. Every multistep Roku setup process is marked by the effective execution of all three concepts—connecting, syncing, and pairing.
Can I use my Roku enhanced remote to control other devices?
Yes, you actually can! With the Roku Enhanced Remote, you gain the ability to control not only your Roku streaming player but also specific TV functions such as volume and power.
It’s essential to note, however, that your Roku Enhanced Remote cannot directly manage other devices that might be connected to your TV, such as sound bars or audio/video receivers unless you set that up properly.
What this means is… if your TV is capable of transmitting volume commands to the AVR or soundbar through HDMI CEC technology, your Roku Enhanced Remote might indirectly control the volume for these devices as well.
What is Roku Remote’s Private Listening Mode?
Private Listening Mode is a distinctive feature offered by Roku, notably through the Enhanced Voice Remote and the Roku app. This mode lets you watch your favorite shows or movies without disturbing others around you.
Once you plug your headphones into your Roku remote or smartphone (if using the Roku app), the sound will automatically switch from your TV speakers to your headphones. Keep in mind, this feature is only available on specific Roku streaming devices and may not function at its optimum if the Roku streaming player and the remote aren’t up-to-date software-wise.
Can I control Two Roku devices with one Roku remote?
If you are using the Roku mobile app or a simple Roku remote, the answer is yes. The Roku mobile app can manage all Roku devices connected to the same WiFi network.
Similarly, a Roku Simple Remote, which works on infrared technology, can control any Roku device it is pointed directly at. Remember, though, that you must realistically be within line-of-sight of both devices for the remote to work effectively.
Can I pair a single Roku remote to multiple Roku devices?
While a single Roku remote can control multiple Roku devices, keep in mind not all Roku devices can pair to multiple Roku Voice Remotes. Roku devices are compatible with multiple Roku Simple Remotes due to their Infrared technology. Conversely, a single Roku Voice or Enhanced remote can only be paired with one Roku device at a time though you can pair it with different devices at different times.
Can I customize the functions of the buttons on my Roku remote?
Yes, the functions of buttons on your Roku remote can be customized. Navigating through the settings of your Roku device allows you to adapt the functions of specific buttons on the remote, such as the shortcut buttons.
However, it’s essential to know that only a limited range of customization is available owing to Roku’s partnerships with several streaming services. Our full post on how to change Roku’s shortcut buttons provides a comprehensive guide into the customization possibilities.
What kind of customer support does Roku offer for remote-related issues?
Roku offers robust customer support to address most of the issues you might face with your Roku remote. Their online support portal provides a plethora of guiding articles and troubleshooting steps related to common remote-associated issues… they’re actually quite helpful. However sometimes they miss a few important things.
They also offer community forums where you can ask fellow Roku users for assistance or share your own expertise. If online resources aren’t enough, Roku’s support team can be contacted directly via phone, chat, or email making sure no issues go unresolved.
