Yes, you can replace a Roku remote, and it's usually straightforward

If your Roku remote is broken, lost, or no longer responding, you have several replacement options. Roku sells official remotes directly and through major retailers, and third-party remotes made by other manufacturers also work with most Roku devices. The remote you need depends on which Roku model you own — not all remotes work with all devices — so checking your device model before you buy is the first step.

You don't need to return the old remote or contact Roku support to buy a replacement. Once you have a new remote, pairing it to your Roku takes less than a minute and requires no special tools or settings changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Official Roku remotes are sold at Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Roku's own website, typically between $20 and $35 depending on the model.
  • You must match the remote to your Roku device model — a remote for a Roku Streaming Stick will not work with a Roku TV, even though both are Roku products.
  • Third-party remotes from brands like GE, One For All, and RCA work with many Roku devices and often cost less than official remotes.
  • Pairing a new remote requires only pressing buttons on the remote itself; you do not need to enter codes or access Roku's website.
  • If your Roku remote has a lost pairing, you can use the Roku mobile app on your phone as a temporary remote while you wait for a replacement.

Finding your Roku device model number

Before you search for a replacement remote, you need to know which Roku device you own. The model number is printed on a label on the back or bottom of your device, or you can find it in the on-screen menu without a remote.

To find the model number on screen, use your phone: read the free Roku app, connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device, and open the app. The app will show your device model and allow you to control your Roku like a remote. Once you know the model — for example, Roku Express, Roku Ultra, or Roku Streaming Stick 4K — you can search for compatible remotes by that name.

If you have a Roku TV (a television made by TCL, Hisense, or another manufacturer that runs Roku software), the remote situation is different: Roku TV remotes are usually specific to the TV brand and model, not just the Roku software version. Check the back of your TV or the TV's manual for the exact model.

Official Roku remotes and where to buy them

Roku manufactures several remote models, each designed for specific device types. The most common are the standard infrared remote (which requires line of sight to the device), the enhanced remote with voice control and a headphone jack, and the Roku Voice Remote Pro, which has a microphone and can control your TV's power and volume if your TV supports it.

Official Roku remotes are sold at Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, Target, and directly from Roku's website. Prices range from about $20 for a basic remote to $35 for a voice-enabled model. When you order, search by your device model name — for example, "Roku Express remote" — rather than just "Roku remote," because the search results will filter to compatible options.

Buying from Roku's own website guarantees compatibility, but Amazon and Best Buy often have faster shipping and sometimes lower prices. Check the product description or customer reviews to confirm the remote works with your specific device model before you complete the purchase.

Third-party remotes that work with Roku devices

Several manufacturers make universal remotes or Roku-specific remotes that are cheaper than official Roku remotes and work with most Roku devices. GE, One For All, and RCA all sell Roku-compatible remotes, typically priced between $12 and $25. These remotes usually have the same basic buttons as official remotes — directional pad, select, back, home, and volume — but may lack voice control or other advanced features.

The trade-off is that third-party remotes sometimes have longer pairing times or less reliable connectivity, especially if your Roku device is far from your seating area or if you have other infrared devices nearby. Read the customer reviews on the product page to see whether users report pairing problems or range issues with your specific Roku model.

Universal remotes that work with many brands of devices (not just Roku) are also available, but they require you to enter a code for your Roku model during setup. This process is more complicated than pairing an official or Roku-specific remote, so they are worth considering only if you want one remote to control your entire entertainment setup.

How to pair a new remote to your Roku device

Once your new remote arrives, pairing it takes about one minute. First, make sure your Roku device is powered on and the TV is on. Then, hold the new remote about 6 inches from the front of your Roku device (not at an angle) and press the pairing button. On most Roku remotes, this button is on the back, near the battery compartment, and is labeled "Pairing" or "Pair." Hold it for about 3 seconds until you see a light on the remote blink or until the Roku screen shows a pairing message.

If the pairing is successful, the remote will control your Roku when ready. If it does not work, try these steps: remove the batteries from the remote and reinsert them, wait 10 seconds, and press the pairing button again. If your Roku device is more than 20 feet away or if there are obstacles between the remote and the device, move closer and try again.

If pairing still fails, restart your Roku device by unplugging it for 30 seconds, plugging it back in, and waiting for it to fully boot before trying to pair the remote again. Most pairing problems are solved by this step.

Using your phone as a temporary remote

If your remote is broken or lost and you are waiting for a replacement to arrive, you can control your Roku using the free Roku mobile app on your smartphone. read the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, open it, and make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device. The app will find your device and show a virtual remote on your phone screen.

The mobile app remote has all the same buttons as a physical remote and works just as well for everyday use. The only limitation is that some advanced features — like voice search on certain remote models — may not be available through the app. The app is also useful if you lose your remote permanently and decide not to buy a replacement, though most people find a physical remote more convenient for regular use.

Troubleshooting a remote that stops responding

Before you buy a replacement, try these steps to see if your current remote can be fixed. First, replace the batteries with fresh ones — weak batteries are the most common reason a remote stops working. If the remote still does not respond, try unpairing and re-pairing it: go to Settings > Remotes & Devices > Remotes > Manage Remotes on your Roku device (using the mobile app if your remote is not working), find your remote in the list, and select "Unpair." Then press the pairing button on the remote again to re-pair it.

If the remote has physical damage — cracked buttons, water damage, or a broken battery cover — it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. If the remote works intermittently or only works when pointed directly at the device from very close range, the infrared transmitter may be failing, and replacement is the best option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a specific remote for my Roku model, or will any Roku remote work?

You need a remote made for your specific Roku device type. A remote for a Roku Streaming Stick will not work with a Roku Express or Roku Ultra. Always check the product description to confirm compatibility with your model before buying.

Can I use a universal remote instead of a Roku remote?

Yes, many universal remotes work with Roku devices, but you will need to enter a code during setup. Universal remotes are cheaper but may have fewer buttons and less reliable range than official Roku remotes. Check the product manual to see if your Roku model is listed.

What if my new remote will not pair to my Roku device?

Replace the batteries first, then try pairing again from 6 inches away with a clear line of sight. If that does not work, unplug your Roku device for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try pairing once more. If pairing still fails, the remote may be defective and should be returned.

Can I control my Roku TV with a standard Roku remote?

No. Roku TVs use remotes made by the TV manufacturer (TCL, Hisense, etc.), not standard Roku remotes. Check your TV's manual or the label on the back to find the correct remote model for your TV.

Is there a way to use my Roku without a remote while I wait for a replacement?

Yes. read the Roku mobile app on your smartphone, connect it to the same Wi-Fi as your Roku device, and use the app as a remote. It has all the same controls as a physical remote and works just as well for everyday use.