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Roku Remote Not Working? Let’s Fix It Easily

December 2, 2023

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If your ‘Roku remote not working,’ needless to say, how frustrating it can be. So, learning to fix it as soon as possible is vital for any Roku user.

Even if your Roku remote is working perfectly, it is handy to learn how to fix potential errors. So, if you are a Roku user, the fixes mentioned in this article will be very handy for you.

Roku remote not working

Roku Remotes Come in Different Models

There are different types of Roku remotes in the market, and they may have different issues. So, knowing the types of Roku remotes is important before fixing the potential errors.

Besides, if you are bothered because Hulu on Roku is not working, here’s a must-read guide on how to fix ‘Hulu Not Working on Roku‘ with ease for you.

Roku Standard Remotes

Here are the Roku remotes that work based on IR technology.

  • Roku LT
  • Roku HD, XD, XDS
  • Roku N1
  • Roku 1
  • Roku 2
  • Roku 2 HD, XD, XS
  • Roku 3
  • Roku Express
  • Roku Express+

Roku Advanced Remotes (Supports Voice, Gaming, and Point Anywhere)

  • Roku Streaming Stick (Model 3600 and 3800)
  • Roku Streaming Stick+
  • Roku 4
  • Roku Premiere
  • Roku Premiere+
  • Roku Ultra
  • Roku 2 (Model 4210)

PS: Here is everything about how to find the Roku IP address and the best Vizio TV remote app for your reference.

Fixes to Try if Your Standard Roku Remote Not Working

Now, in this article section, let’s learn what to do if your standard ‘Roku remote is not working.’

First, point your Roku remote towards the Roku box and start pressing the buttons. Keep looking at the Roku box while pressing those buttons.

If you see the status lights flashing, your remote emits IR signals to the box. So, the issue is not with the remote but with the box itself. However, if the status light remains still, there is an issue with the remote.

Check if there are any obstructions between the Roku box and the remote. As you may already know, IR signals cannot pass through solid objects, so the way must be clear.

Otherwise, the remote will not send the signals properly. If there are any obstructions, just remove them and try to operate them once again.

Keep your Roku remote right in front of the Roku box. Then, press any button and see what happens. If the batteries in the Roku remote are almost dead, the IR beam it emits will be too weak.

As a result, it cannot reach the box. If the remote unit works when placed very close to the box, the problem is with the batteries. You should just replace them with new ones, and everything should work.

You can also try the Roku mobile app and ensure which unit gives the problem. Here’s how to figure it out.

If the Roku box cannot receive any signals, but the mobile app works fine, the remote is faulty. In this case, the remote must be replaced. Until then, you can use a borrowed remote.

Fixes to try if your standard Roku remote not working

However, if the box detects the signals and status lights flashing, the box is faulty. In this case, the best thing is to perform a factory reset on the Roku box. However, you should consider factory resetting as a last resort.

It could be the last resort if the remote is working, but the box doesn’t respond. A factory reset becomes compulsory if the Roku box doesn’t respond to the Roku mobile app.

Fixes to Try if an Enhanced Roku Remote Not Working

When it comes to enhancing Roku remote controllers, the problems are more complex than with the standard versions.

In fact, they don’t use IR. Instead, they use Wi-Fi to connect with the Roku Box. So, you must follow some additional steps to troubleshoot those enhanced versions of the Roku remotes.

Also, if you are facing the Roku no signal error, click to fix them now. And let’s figure out how to charge the Apple TV remote correctly.

Check the Batteries

The first step in troubleshooting a non-responsive Roku remote is to check the batteries. Replace the old batteries with fresh ones and make sure they are correctly inserted. Sometimes, even partially depleted batteries can cause the remote to malfunction.

Reset the Remote

If replacing the batteries doesn’t solve the problem, try resetting the remote. To do this, remove the batteries from the remote, press and hold the reset button (usually located inside the battery compartment) for a few seconds, and then reinsert the batteries. This process can help resolve minor glitches and restore the remote’s functionality.

Pair the Remote with Your Roku Device

In some cases, the Roku remote may lose its pairing with the Roku device. To reestablish the connection, follow these steps:

  1. Unplug the power cable from your Roku device.
  2. Wait for 10 seconds and then reconnect the power cable.
  3. Wait for the Roku device to restart.
  4. Once the device has restarted, press and hold the pairing button located on the back or bottom of the device for a few seconds.
  5. Wait for the pairing process to complete, and then try using the remote again.

Check for Obstructions

Make sure there are no objects obstructing the line of sight between the Roku remote and the Roku device. Clear any obstacles such as furniture or other electronic devices that might interfere with the signal. Maintaining a clear line of sight can significantly improve the remote’s performance.

Update Roku Software

Outdated software on your Roku device can sometimes lead to remote issues. To check for updates and install the latest software version, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Home button on your remote to navigate to the Roku home screen.
  2. Scroll up or down and select “Settings.”
  3. In the settings menu, select “System.”
  4. Choose “System update” and select “Check now” to see if any updates are available.
  5. If updates are found, follow the on-screen instructions to install them.
  6. After the update is complete, check if the remote is functioning properly.

Restart Your Roku Device

Performing a simple restart of your Roku device can often resolve remote problems. To restart your Roku device, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Home button on your remote to go to the Roku home screen.
  2. Scroll up or down and select “Settings.”
  3. In the settings menu, select “System.”
  4. Choose “Power.”
  5. Select “System restart” and confirm your selection.
  6. Wait for the device to restart and check if the remote is working.

Factory Reset Your Roku Device

If none of the previous solutions work, you can try performing a factory reset on your Roku device. Keep in mind that a factory reset will erase all your settings and data, so make sure to back up any important information before proceeding. To perform a factory reset, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Home button on your remote to go to the Roku home screen.
  2. Scroll up or down and select “Settings.”
  3. In the settings menu, select “System.”
  4. Choose “Advanced system settings.”
  5. Select “Factory reset.”
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the factory reset.
  7. After the reset is complete, set up your Roku device again and check if the remote is functioning correctly.

Contact Roku Support

If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps mentioned above and your Roku remote still isn’t working, it may be time to reach out to Roku support. They have a dedicated support team that can assist you in diagnosing the issue and providing further guidance.

Other Solutions to Try if Your Roku Streaming Device is Not Working

Here are a couple of other solutions to try if your Roku streaming device is not working. These options may come in handy if your Roku device or the streaming stick has stopped working.

01. Check the HDMI Connector (Applicable to Roku Streaming Stick Only)

Check the HDMI connector

Your Roku streaming device is connected to the TV using an HDMI port. If you have plugged the device directly into the TV’s HDMI port, there can be some issues. To resolve this issue, you should get the HDMI extension provided for free by Roku.

However, you must ensure that you have the serial number of the Roku with you. The serial number can be found printed on a sticker on the device itself.

If it still doesn’t work, it is better to change the HDMI port you are using. That means you should just plug the Roku Stick into a different HDMI port on the same TV.

Please note that changing your Roku stick to a different HDMI port can rest the Roku. However, it may be able to resolve the Roku Remote not working issue by eliminating other potential errors as well.

02. Check if Your Network Connection Works Properly

Check if your network connection works properly

Your Roku device will be connected to at least one network. This is true no matter whether you use a Roku player or a Roku streaming stick.

When it comes to Roku players, they have both wired and wireless connections in most cases. However, Roku sticks work solely based on wireless connectivity. If your Roku remote doesn’t work by now, you should download the app and check the settings.

  • On the Roku menu, you should scroll down to the option called “Settings” and tap on “OK.”
  • Then, tap the option labeled “Network.”
  • You can then tap the option called “About.” Towards the right-hand side, you can see the option called “Status.” If the “Status” is “Connected,” you can be sure there is nothing wrong with the network.

Assume that the box responds to the Roku Controller App but doesn’t respond to the Roku remote. Also, assume that you have performed all those troubleshooting methods explained in this article.

What if the Roku remote not working even after all those fixes? In that case, you will have to get a new remote somehow. You can either buy a new one or borrow a remote from a friend until then.

It is always recommended to test the box with a different remote before purchasing a new one.

By the way, it is obviously maddening when your Apple TV remote app is not working. Let’s figure out its possible reasons and the best solutions to fix it here easily.

FAQs

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

If your Roku remote is not responding at all, make sure to check the batteries and try resetting the remote. If the issue persists, it’s advisable to contact Roku support for further assistance.

2. Can I use my smartphone as a Roku remote?

Yes, Roku provides a mobile app that can be used as a remote control for your Roku device. Simply download the Roku app from your device’s app store, connect it to your Roku device, and enjoy the convenience of controlling your Roku with your smartphone.

3. How often should I replace the batteries in my Roku remote?

The frequency of battery replacement depends on the usage and quality of batteries. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to replace the batteries every 2-3 months or when you notice a decrease in performance.

4. What should I do if my Roku remote buttons are not working properly?

If the buttons on your Roku remote are not working properly, try removing the batteries and pressing all the buttons to discharge any remaining power. Then, insert new batteries and check if the remote functions correctly. If the issue persists, follow the troubleshooting steps mentioned in this article.

5. Can I use a universal remote with my Roku device?

Yes, you can use a universal remote with your Roku device. Roku provides a list of compatible universal remotes on their official website. Make sure to check the compatibility before purchasing a universal remote.

Conclusion

It is very difficult for Roku users to enjoy entertainment when the Roku remote malfunctions. Sometimes, the issue can be very simple, so it is always worth trying to fix it.

Whenever you find out your Roku remote is not working, you can try the fixes mentioned in this guide. Please share your knowledge with us if you know better and more convenient ways to fix it.