Fix your Roku remote control (simple or voice)
This article covers what to do when your Roku remote control isn’t responding, whether button actions are delayed or volume/power controls aren’t working. First, find out what type of remote control you have.
Simple remote control or Voice remote control?
First, check which type of Roku remote control you have.
- Simple remote control: No voice/mic button. Uses infrared (IR). It needs to point directly at your Roku device.
- Voice remote control: Has a microphone or magnifying glass button. Some Voice remote controls also connect to your Roku device using wireless signals (not infrared), so you don’t have to point them directly at the device.
Fix a Roku simple remote control
- Check line of sight: Simple remotes need a clear path to the Roku device.
- Make sure nothing blocks the front of the device
- Don’t hide your Roku device behind a TV or in a cabinet
- Try pointing the remote from different angles
- Change the batteries:
- Remove old batteries
- Press any two buttons to reset the remote
- Insert a fresh matching pair of batteries
- Replace the battery cover
Remote feels hot?
- Stop using it immediately
- Do not remove batteries if they’re hot
- Place the remote on a hard, non-flammable surface, like tile
- Let it cool before handling again
Fix a Roku voice remote control
How to Restart your Roku remote control
If your remote control uses batteries:
Remove both batteries
Press any two buttons
Reinsert batteries (negative end first)
Replace the cover
If your remote control is rechargeable:
If your remote has one, hold the Pairing button for 20 seconds
If no pairing button, press and hold Back + Home for 20 seconds
Wait for the light on your remote to stop flashing
Check battery level
Go to Settings > Remote controls and devices > Remote controls > Your remote control > AboutRestart your Roku device
Unplug your Roku player from power
Wait 5 seconds
Plug it back in and wait for the Home screen
Replace or recharge batteries
If buttons still don’t respond well, try replacing or fully recharging the batteries.
How to pair your Roku remote control
Restart your Roku TV or player
- With pairing button: Hold for 5 seconds until light flashes.
- Without pairing button: Hold Back + Home for 5 seconds until light flashes.
Wait for the pairing message on screen
Fix volume and power problems (voice remote control only)
If you are experiencing volume or power issues with your voice remote control, follow the steps below.
Roku remote control volume not working?
- Try pointing the remote control directly at the TV’s sensor, which is located in the front of the TV
- If that works, your remote control uses IR
- If doing this doesn’t work, try enabling CEC on your TV and redo the Roku remote control set-up
Both buttons not working?
- Update Roku software:
- Go to Settings > System > System update > Check now
- Then, set up the remote control again:
- Settings > Remote controls and devices > Remote controls > Set up remote control for TV control
Voice commands not working?
- CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) lets your Roku remote control send power and volume commands to your TV. Check if CEC is enabled on your TV, or contact the manufacturer for help.
- Voice commands such as ‘Turn off the TV’ only work with CEC, not IR remote controls.
Other troubleshooting
Remote control still showing low battery?
- Reboot the remote control (see above).
- Remove batteries or disconnect charging.
- Disable unused remote controls by removing their batteries or holding the Back + Home + Mute buttons for five seconds.
Have a Roku Streaming Stick?
- Use the included wireless receiver (part of the USB power cable)
- Get a free HDMI extender to reduce interference
Can I connect my Roku device to Wi-Fi without a remote control?
No, you need a Roku remote control to connect your Roku device to Wi-Fi. You can purchase one in the Roku Accessories Store.If remote control is hot to the touch
- Stop using it immediately
- Don’t touch the batteries
- Let it cool on a non-flammable surface
- Contact Roku support if your remote control doesn’t cool down
If none of these steps help, consider using the Roku mobile app as a remote control while you contact Roku support. Learn what to do if you have lost your Roku remote control.
Last updated at 4/1/2026 1:34:44 PM
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