How to Turn on Roku TV Without a Remote

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to turning on your Roku TV without the remote, ensuring you don’t miss out on your favorite shows.

Roku without remote
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Ever found yourself in a situation where the Roku remote is nowhere to be found, or perhaps the batteries have given up? Stop worrying. 

You can still enjoy your Roku TV. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to turning on your Roku TV without the remote, ensuring you don’t miss out on your favorite shows.

Using the Physical Power Button

Every Roku TV, including popular models like TCL Roku TV, Hisense Roku TV, and Philips Roku TV, comes equipped with a physical power button. This button is typically located on the side, bottom, or back panel of the TV. If it’s not immediately visible, check near the lower right or left side, or the bottom center behind the status indicator LED.

Utilizing the Roku Mobile App

  1. Download the Roku App: Available on both the Google Play Store for Androids and the App Store for iOS devices, the official Roku app turns your smartphone into a remote control.
  2. Connect to the Same Wi-Fi Network: Ensure your smartphone and Roku TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  3. Launch and Pair: Open the Roku app and tap on the remote icon. The app will search for your Roku device. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair your phone with the Roku TV.

Using a Universal Remote

If you have a universal remote at home, it can be programmed to work with your Roku TV. Follow the instructions provided with your universal remote to pair it with your Roku device.

HDMI-CEC as an Alternative

Many TVs and devices support HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), allowing control of the TV through connected devices like a gaming console or a streambar. If you have a device connected via HDMI, you might be able to use its remote to control your Roku TV.

Roku TV without a Remote FAQs

Can I turn on my Roku TV using voice commands? 

Yes, if you have a smart speaker integrated with your Roku TV, like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, you can use voice commands to turn on your Roku TV.

What if my Roku TV is not connecting to Wi-Fi? 

If your Roku TV isn’t connecting to Wi-Fi, you may need to use the physical power button or a universal remote. Check your router and ensure the Wi-Fi network is functioning properly.

Can I change the input source without the remote? 

Yes, most Roku TVs have buttons that allow you to cycle through input sources, though the functionality might be limited compared to using a remote.

Losing the remote doesn’t mean you lose access to your Roku TV. From physical buttons to innovative apps, there are several ways to enjoy your content uninterrupted. So whether you’re using the Roku mobile app, a universal remote, or the physical power button, rest assured that your Roku TV is always within your control.

Jim Kimble is a seasoned industry expert with over two decades of journalism experience. He has been at the forefront of the cord-cutting movement since 2016, testing and writing about TV-related products and services. He founded The Cord Cutting Report in 2016, and serves as the editor.

Major publications, including MarketWatch, Forbes, and South Florida Sun Sentinel, have interviewed Kimble for his years of expertise. He gives advice on the complexities consumers are navigating with streaming options, and over-the-air TV. Kimble has been a staff writer or correspondent for several award-winning, daily newspapers, including The Boston Globe.

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