Support

How to set up your Roku simple remote

Your Roku® simple remote has all the basics you need to control your streaming player including shortcut buttons to popular streaming apps.

This article provides instruction on how to identify and set up your Roku simple remote.

How to tell if you have a Roku simple remote


Roku simple remotes are referred to using different names including:

  • Standard remote
  • IR remote
  • Roku Players remote
  • Roku TV remote

Roku simple remotes have the buttons seen below including channel shortcut buttons that let you launch popular streaming apps with a single press. A Roku simple remote is included with many Roku TV models and some streaming players. The simple remote included with a Roku TV system has all the buttons seen on a players remote, along with buttons for a sleep timer and TV power, volume, and mute.

Image showing two Roku remote controls side by side. The Roku Players Remote on the left has buttons for Back, Home, Instant Replay, Options, and streaming service shortcuts including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Sling. The Roku TV Remote on the right has buttons for Power, Sleep Timer, Volume Controls, and Mute. Both remotes feature a purple directional pad with an 'OK' button in the center. Channel shortcuts may vary.

If your remote has a voice button, then you have a Roku voice remote instead and you should go to to the article with detailed instructions on how to set up your Roku voice remote.

Tip: If you still need help determining which remote you have, review the article with tips for identifying your Roku remote.

Roku remote faces

How to set up your Roku simple remote


To set up a simple remote, you only need to insert new matching batteries, or remove the battery pull tab, and point the remote at the front of your Roku device—it's that simple!

When using your Roku simple remote, it must be pointed directly at your Roku streaming device and there must be nothing blocking the signal from your remote.

Tip: If your remote is not working or you have any problems, learn how to fix any issues with your Roku simple remote.

Illustration showing a Roku simple remote pointed directly at a Roku streaming device with a purple triangle connecting the two, indicating line of sight for remote. The remote must be aimed at the device without any obstructions blocking the signal.

Do I need to pair or sync my Roku simple remote?

Roku simple remotes do not have a pairing button. You just need to insert fresh batteries or remove the battery pull tab and then your remote is ready to use immediately.

Last updated at 3/3/2026 2:30:35 AM


Was this article helpful?


Related articles

Need more help?

Chat with us

Get help from our support bot or connect to an advisor.

Start chatting