To reset a Roku remote, you first need to identify which type you have, then follow the correct procedure for that model. The method to reset a Roku remote differs between simple infrared remotes and voice or enhanced RF remotes, so identifying your remote is the critical first step.
First: identify your Roku remote type to reset a Roku remote correctly
Roku remotes come in two main types: simple (infrared or IR) remotes and voice (enhanced or RF) remotes. Simple IR remotes require a direct line of sight to the Roku device and do not have a pairing button. Voice or enhanced Roku remotes use wireless signals (RF) and often have a pairing button, typically located in the battery compartment or on the back of the remote. To tell them apart, look for a pairing button on the remote or inside the battery compartment. If you see one, you have a voice remote; if not, you have a simple IR remote. If you're having trouble spotting it, see the exact locations for each model with the pairing button on Roku remote. The reset method is different for each, so use the section below that matches your remote type.
How to reset a simple Roku remote (infrared)
Simple IR remotes do not need to be paired with your Roku device. To reset one, follow these steps:
- Remove the old batteries from the remote.
- Press any two buttons on the remote to discharge residual power.
- Insert a fresh matching pair of batteries.
No pairing is needed. Your remote should work immediately when pointed at the Roku device.
How to reset a Roku voice remote with a pairing button
If your voice remote has a visible pairing button, use this procedure to re-pair it:
- Restart your Roku device by unplugging it for at least 5 seconds, then plug it back in.
- Wait for the Home screen to appear on your TV.
- Press and hold the pairing button on the remote for 5 seconds until the status light flashes.
Always ensure your Roku device is powered on and displaying the Home screen before attempting to pair or re-pair a remote.
How to reset a Roku voice remote without a pairing button
Some voice remotes do not have a visible pairing button. For these models, use the following method:
- Press and hold the "Back" and "Home" buttons simultaneously on the remote for 5 seconds until the status light flashes.
Special case: resetting a rechargeable Roku voice remote
Rechargeable Roku voice remotes require a longer hold time and a mandatory charging step. Follow the procedure that matches your remote:
- If your rechargeable remote has a pairing button, hold it for 20 seconds.
- If your rechargeable remote does not have a pairing button, hold "Back" + "Home" for 20 seconds.
After holding the buttons, wait for the light to stop flashing, then recharge the remote for at least 5 hours using the provided cable.
Safety warning: what to do if your remote feels hot
If your remote feels hot, follow these critical safety instructions: stop using it immediately, do not remove the batteries if they are hot, and place the remote on a hard, non-flammable surface to cool down.
Use the Roku mobile app as a temporary remote
While troubleshooting your physical remote, you can use the Roku mobile app as a temporary replacement. Download the Roku mobile app on your smartphone or tablet, ensure it is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device, and launch the app to control your Roku. This allows you to navigate the interface, access settings, and even update your Roku software while you work on fixing the physical remote.
Still not working? Try these final checks
If the remote still does not work after following the correct reset procedure, try these final steps:
- Try fresh batteries in the remote.
- Clean the remote with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be affecting button performance.
- Ensure your Roku software is updated by navigating to "Settings" > "System" > "System Update" > "Check Now" using a working remote or the Roku mobile app.
- If you need to contact Roku, you can find the support page on their website.
- If all else fails, you can look up how to pair Roku remote to Roku for additional pairing instructions specific to your model.
