Remotes for Roku make streaming easy, but they don’t. Your binge-watching plans can be quickly disrupted if your remote does not respond, flashes green, or won’t pair, but you can quickly troubleshoot most Roku remote problems by following a few simple steps. You’ll find tips about Roku TVs from Hisense and TCL, alternative Roku apps, and when to replace your remote control in this article, as well as several ways to accomplish that.

Fix Roku Remote Not Working in 5 Easy Steps

Here are some quick fixes you can try before you panic or decide to buy a new remote control.

1. Check the batteries and connections

If you are unable to operate your Roku remote, remove the battery cover, then take the batteries out and make sure they’re aligned correctly with the + and – symbols. If you are unable to operate your remote, remove the batteries. Inspect for corrosion and loose connections, then replace the batteries with a high-quality pair of alkaline batteries, and then charge the rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro using a micro USB cable for at least 30 minutes. In the future, you may have connection problems if you skimp on battery quality.

2. Re-Pair the Remote with Your Roku Device

After a power outage or after updating your software, a Roku remote may not work from time to time. In most cases, you can fix it by unplugging the Roku streaming stick, box, or TV, then unplugging the remote and taking out the batteries. When you have plugged the unit back in, wait about 10 seconds for the home screen to appear. A confirmation message will appear on your screen after about 30 seconds stating, “Remote paired.” This message will let you know that your remote has been paired. Press the pairing button for about 5 seconds after replacing your remote’s batteries.

3. Try resetting the ROKU Device & Remote

You may have to reset your Roku and remote as a result of a temporary software glitch affecting them. You can do so by going to Settings > System > Power > System Restart, or by unplugging your Roku device from a power source, waiting for a minute, and then plugging it back in. You can easily reset your Roku remote because it doesn’t have a factory reset button, but you can do so by removing the batteries for a moment or two and then reapplying them. You will need to try the next troubleshooting step if the issue persists after you have restarted both devices.

Roku Remote Not Working With New Batteries? Try These 4 Fixes

You may need to do this if you have replaced the batteries on your Roku remote and it still does not work.

1. Restart your Roku device.

By restarting your Roku device and clearing out cached data and minor software problems, you can usually resolve remote issues. You can do this with your remote (if it is partially functioning) or your Roku mobile app. You can also unplug your Roku and wait about 10 seconds before plugging it back in. In the event of a software update or power outage, this will restore the communication between the Roku and its remote control.

2. Re-Pair the Roku remote again.

If you do not change the batteries in your Roku remote, you may still have to re-pair it with the device even if you do. You will have to manually resync your Roku remote with fresh batteries if the remote loses its connection, even with fresh batteries. This is especially true after updating your Roku remote or after a long period of inactivity. Follow the instructions outlined earlier to reconnect your Roku device and remote.

3. Check for wireless interference

Remotes for Roku use infrared (IR) or Wi-Fi Direct, which can get messed up by physical or wireless interference. Make sure there’s nothing in the way when using an IR remote, even TV stands or decor can block the line of sight. If you’re using a Wi-Fi Direct remote, nearby electronics like routers, wireless speakers, or microwaves can interfere. If you’re comfortable with network settings, changing your router’s Wi-Fi channel can also reduce signal congestion and improve remote responsiveness.

4. Update Roku Software

You can manually check for the latest updates by going to Settings > System > System Update, then clicking Check Now. If you have outdated software, your Roku might not recognize newer remote models or recent firmware changes. Install the update if it is available. Keeping it updated will improve performance, compatibility with remotes, and will eliminate bugs.

Use the Roku Remote App as a backup.

The Roku Mobile App can be used to control your Roku device if you don’t have the Roku remote or if it doesn’t work. You can also launch and switch between channels, as well as use voice commands and keyboard input for easy searching, headphones for private listening, and screen mirroring (more on that later). To play the game, you must download the app for free on your Android or iPhone, as well as connect your devices to the same Wi-Fi network.

Roku Remote Not Working on Hisense TV? Try this.

You can resolve this problem by unplugging the TV for about thirty seconds and then plugging it back in. At times, it can be difficult to pair a Roku TV with a Hisense TV remotely. To pair the Roku TV with your remote, you must remove the batteries and reinstall them. Once the Roku TV is paired, you will see flashing lights on your remote. The Roku TV will appear on your screen once it is paired. If you are using a Hisense Roku TV, make sure the universal remote control is set to the appropriate input mode.

What to Do When a Roku Remote is Not Working with TCL TV?

TCL Roku TVs can be paired, just like any other Roku TV. Make sure there is a clear line of sight between the Wi-Fi remote and the IR remote if you are using a Wi-Fi remote along with an IR remote. To update the software on your TV, go to Settings > System > System Update. Use your smartphone as an alternative remote control so that you can continue watching uninterrupted.

Why Is My Roku Remote Flashing Green Light?

The Roku remote might flash green when it is trying to pair, but something is stopping it from doing so. You could have low or incorrect batteries, the Roku device not being ready to pair, or too many devices on your network interfering. Take out the batteries after turning off your Roku, wait 10 seconds, and then reinstall them. When it has been turned back on, press and hold the pairing button again and continue using the Roku mobile app.

Screen Mirror on Roku: An Alternative Way to Stream

The best way to stream your content while troubleshooting your Roku remote is to mirror your phone or laptop on your Roku device. If you’re an Android user, select your Roku device under Settings > Connected Devices > Cast or Smart View. For iPhones and iPads, you can use AirPlay, which can be turned on in Settings > Apple AirPlay and HomeKit. While you’re attempting to fix your remote control, you can also cast content from your devices to your Roku using third-party apps, such as AirBeamTV.

Where to Buy a New Roku Remote?

You might have to replace the Roku remote if none of the previous fixes work. You can buy replacement remotes from Roku’s official store (roku.com/products/accessories) or Amazon for a cheaper price and fast delivery. Same-day pickup is available at Best Buy and Walmart if you need a remote right away. Choose the right remote for your Roku device: a basic IR remote (requires line-of-sight), an enhanced voice remote (voice search and TV controls), or a Roku Voice Remote Pro (rechargeable, hands-free, finds lost remote). Make sure the Roku you’re buying is compatible with it before buying it.

Choosing between Roku and Fire TV Stick

Are you still unhappy with Roku? Maybe it’s time to make the switch to another streaming service.

Roku pros:

There is no complicated interface on ROKU devices, so they are easy to navigate. Roku models now support Ethernet, so you can stream more reliably in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals. You can still use your existing remote control if you prefer, as Roku’s universal remote compatibility allows you to use a wide variety of third-party remote control units to control your Roku.

Firestick Pros:

The Firestick comes with Alexa voice control so you can navigate hands-free and use your smart home. In addition to making side-loading apps easier, it’s fully integrated with Amazon’s ecosystem, so you can use other Amazon products and services seamlessly. Its simplicity and variety still make it a favorite for many users if you want a more straightforward interface and more devices. Ultimately, it depends on whether you value Amazon’s voice control and app flexibility or Roku’s user-friendly design.

Final Thoughts

The Roku remote does not have to malfunction if you don’t want to waste your TV time. No matter if it’s a battery issue, a pairing issue, or a compatibility issue with Hisense or TCL, most problems can be fixed. Do not forget that your phone can still be used to control your TV. If all else fails, you can easily replace the remote with a newer model that features voice control or rechargeability.