Are you wondering how to sync a Roku remote without a pairing button?
In this guide, we will explore the different options for pairing your remote with your Roku device without the pairing button.
First, try the line-of-sight method, where you switch off your Roku device, take out the batteries of your remote, give it 30 seconds then put the batteries back in, and turn on the device.
Next, point the remote towards the Roku device and click any button to see if it works. This method works most of the time, assuming there are no obstacles.
Additionally, you can download the Roku app on your smartphone or tablet and use it to manually sync the remote, or try a universal remote.
In this guide, we will also provide solutions to problems such as remote non-responsiveness and disconnections.
Key Points
- It is possible to sync your Roku Remote without the pairing button. The line-of-sight method is the most common solution.
- Reduce obstacles between the Roku device and the remote to avoid syncing issues.
- Other syncing approaches include using the Roku app or a universal remote.
- Ensure the Roku app and Roku device are using the same WiFi network for smooth syncing.
How To Sync Roku Remote Without Pairing Button
You can sync a Roku remote that does not have a pairing button with your Roku device using the following methods:
#1. Using Line-of-sight Pairing (Infrared Remotes)
The line-of-sight method allows you to pair the remote by ensuring that there are no physical objects between them.
Once you have a clear line-of-sight, follow the steps below:
- Turn off your Roku device by either unplugging it from the power outlet or using the power button.
- Remove the batteries from the Roku remote to make sure that it is disconnected completely from the device.
- Reconnect your Roku device back to the power outlet and switch it on. Give it a few seconds to fully boot up before continuing.
- Put the batteries back into the remote and make sure they are properly seated and correctly oriented.
- Now point the Roku remote directly at your device and test whether it is working by pressing any button.
Common Issues When Pairing an Infrared Remote Using Line-of-Sight Method
Below are some of the issues that you may face when pairing an infrared remote using the line-of-sight method as well as their troubleshooting tips:
- Remote not responding – clean the buttons of the remote and check if there is any damage.
- Some buttons not working – move closer for a stronger IR signal and replace the batteries.
- Delayed response – check for compatibility issues, reset remote, and replace batteries.
- No response when pressing buttons – reset the network settings, check for software updates, and restart the Roku device.
- Roku device behaves erratically or resets – check for software updates, restart the Roku device, and reset network settings.
#2. Using Roku App
You can use the Roku app to pair your remote if it does not have a pairing button or you are having issues pairing it with your Roku device.
Here are the steps:
- Download and install the Roku app, then open it.
- Ensure that your tablet or phone and the Roku device are connected to the same WiFi network.
- In the Roku app, click the remote icon which is in the bottom center of the screen.
- Connect your tablet or phone to the Roku device by following the instructions on the screen.
- To access the virtual remote, click the remote symbol again on your phone or tablet.
- Go to the Roku settings menu on your Roku device using the virtual remote.
- From the list of options, click ‘Remote’ then Settings > Remotes + Devices.
- Select ‘Pair remote’ and complete the pairing process by following the on-screen instructions.
Common Problems When Syncing Your Roku Remote Using the Roku App
Here are some of the problems that you may encounter when pairing your remote using the Roku app and their solutions:
- Roku device not responding to the Roku app – make sure that both devices are connected to the same WiFi network. Also, restarting the app and the Roku device clears temporary glitches hence resolving any connectivity issues.
- Roku app not finding Roku device – first, check the stability of your internet connection. Additionally, rebooting both your tablet or smartphone and the Roku device can refresh their network connection while restating the WiFi router can solve the network problems.
- Frequent disconnection – if your Roku device has a poor internet connection, you may experience frequent disconnections. You can improve the signal of your WiFi by minimizing the number of connected devices to the same network and reducing the obstacles or distance between the devices and the router. To maintain a steady connection disable the power-saving settings on your smartphone or tablet and the Roku device.
Alternative Solutions
If you are not able to pair your Roku remote using the Roku app and the line-of-sight method, try using the following ways:
#1. Controlling a Roku Device with a Universal Remote
If your Roku device has an HDMI-CEC and the Roku Streaming Stick, or Roku player is connected via the HDMI-CEC port, you can use a traditional universal remote to control your Roku device.
For this method to be successful, ensure that the universal remote is compatible with your Roku device by contacting the manufacturer or checking the remote’s manual.
#2. Controlling Your Home Theatre Using Smart Speakers
You can synchronize your Roku TV with smart speakers such as Google Home and Amazon Echo. Smart speakers allow you to operate your TV, adjust volume, change channels, and launch streaming apps using voice commands.
To begin, ensure that the Roku TV and the smart speaker are using the same WiFi network. Then use the smart speaker’s app to activate the required skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do if my Roku remote still cannot sync without a Pairing Button?
Make sure that the remote and the Roku device are near each other. Try restarting both the remote and the Roku device.
If the problem persists, you should contact Roku customer support for further help.
Can the Roku app work as a remote if my physical remote cannot pair?
Yes. If you are not able to pair your physical remote with your Roku device, download and install the Roku app and use it as a remote.
What are other alternative ways of controlling my Roku device?
If your TV supports HDMI-CEC, you can use your TV’s remote to control your Roku device. Also, you can get a universal remote that is compatible with your Roku device.
What can I do if my remote won’t sync with a Roku Streaming Stick?
To resolve remote syncing issues, you can reset the Roku Streaming Stick by disconnecting it from the HDMI port and reconnecting it back.
What can I do when my remote stops working after updating the software?
Sometimes, your remote may have issues after a software update. Therefore, you should restart your remote and the Roku device after an update.
If the issue persists, check if there are any firmware updates available for your remote in the Roku settings.
Final Words
At first, syncing a Roku remote that does not have a pairing button may seem difficult, but there are alternative ways that you can follow such as the line-of-sight or using the Roku app to create this connection.
These approaches enable you to sync your remote successfully and control your Roku device even in the absence of the pairing button.