We will list down step-by-step instructions on how to sync your Roku remote without a pairing button or if the button is not working. By following these simple and effective techniques, you’ll be able to regain control of your Roku device or TV.
Usage of the Pairing Button on Roku TV Remotes
The purpose of a pairing button on a Roku remote is to establish a connection between the remote and your Roku device or TV. You will press the pairing button on the remote till a light appears on the top of your remote and then the remote will be paired with your device or TV. This process ensures that the remote is only synced with the intended device or TV, preventing it from controlling other devices or TVs nearby.
Types of Roku Remotes
The process to sync your Roku remote without a pairing button depends upon the type of the remote, so, let’s understand these types first. There are two types of Roku remotes
IR Remotes
The Roku Simple Remote, also known as an IR (Infrared) remote, is the most basic type of Roku remote available. These remotes do not require pairing and automatically connect or sync with your Roku device or TV. Consequently, they do not feature a pairing button. To operate a Roku Simple Remote, merely point it directly at your TV or device. It must be in the line of sight for the commands to be received correctly. It’s worth noting that these remotes typically do not come with Roku devices; they are usually purchased separately as replacement remotes by customers. It’s important to keep in mind that Roku Simple Remotes are only compatible with devices or TVs that support IR functionality. This includes Roku consoles like Express, Ultra, or Premiere, as well as box devices. However, these remotes will not sync with Roku sticks that rely on Wi-Fi connectivity. While it is uncommon, certain older IR remotes may have a pairing button, although this is a rarity.
RF Remotes
RF (Radio Frequency) remotes are also known as voice remotes, smart remotes, Wi-Fi remotes, or enhanced remotes. These remotes operate using radio or Wi-Fi signals. These remotes offer convenient features such as being able to operate the TV or device without needing to point the remote directly at them, earning them the nickname “point anywhere remotes.” They can be used from different rooms within range. To ensure exclusive pairing with a specific TV or device, RF remotes generally come equipped with a pairing button. This button is commonly located on the back of the remote or within its battery compartment. However, in some rare instances, certain models of RF remotes may not have a dedicated pairing button. Instead, a combination of buttons can be used to initiate the pairing process for such remotes.
TV or Device Remote
It is worth noting that if the word “TV” is written anywhere on the remote, it indicates that the remote is capable of controlling both your Roku device and your TV. In this case, you can use the remote to control the functions of both devices. However, if the remote does not have the “TV” label, it will solely operate the Roku device and will not have the capability to control your TV.
Check the Type of Remote
To determine the type of remote you have and proceed accordingly to sync the remote without a pairing button, follow these steps: Once the type of remote is identified, proceed with the appropriate syncing method for your specific remote as discussed below.
To Sync an IR Roku remote
To Sync an RF Remote
You can use the pairing button on the RF remote to pair it with the device or TV. But if the button is not present or not working, then you can use the following easy methods to do so.
Use the Remote Buttons
Use the Roku App
For this option to work, your smartphone and the Roku device or TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
By Using a Browser Extension
If you do not have your smartphone at hand or it is not connected to the same Wi-Fi as the Roku device, you can use a browser extension on your PC, given that it is connected to the same Wi-Fi as the Roku.
By Using the TV Buttons
If you do not have Wi-Fi or the Roku device is not connected to the Wi-Fi, you can use the physical buttons (if present) of the TV to pair the remote. If you can borrow a Roku remote compatible with your setup, you can also use it to pair the problematic remote by following the steps above.
Try Another Remote
If the Roku remote still does not work, try using another Roku remote (borrowed from a friend or family member) or get a Roku remote compatible with your TV and device. Make sure the problematic remote does not work with any other device. If it does, then the problem may lie with the TV or Roku itself, and it is recommended to reach out to their respective support teams. If you have any inquiries or suggestions, please feel free to share them in the comments section for further discussion.
