The Basic Pairing Process
To sync a Samsung remote to your TV, point the remote at the TV and hold down the Return and Select buttons together for about 3 seconds. The TV will display a pairing message on screen, usually saying "Pairing" or showing a pairing code. Once the message disappears, the remote is synced and ready to use. This process works for most Samsung remotes made in the last several years.
If your remote has a dedicated Pairing button (usually on the back), press and hold that instead for 3 seconds. Some newer Samsung remotes skip the button-hold step entirely—they pair automatically the first time you press any button while pointing at the TV. Check your remote's manual or the back of the remote itself to see which method applies to yours.
Key Takeaways
- Most Samsung remotes pair by holding Return and Select for 3 seconds, or by pressing a dedicated Pairing button on the back.
- Point the remote directly at the TV during pairing, and wait for the on-screen confirmation message before assuming it worked.
- If pairing fails, restart both the TV and remote, then try again from a distance of 3 to 6 feet.
- Older Samsung remotes may require you to enter a PIN code displayed on the TV screen using the remote's number pad.
When the Remote Won't Pair on the First Try
If the pairing message does not appear after holding the buttons, the remote batteries may be low or dead. Replace both batteries with fresh ones, making sure they are inserted in the correct direction (+ side up). Wait a few seconds after inserting new batteries, then try the pairing process again.
If the TV still does not respond, power off the TV completely using the power button on the TV itself (not the remote), wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. Point the remote at the TV from 3 to 6 feet away and repeat the pairing steps. Pairing works best when there is a clear line of sight between the remote and the TV's sensor, usually located at the bottom center of the screen.
Remotes That Require a PIN Code
Some older Samsung TV models display a four-digit PIN on the screen during pairing. If you see this, use the remote's number pad to enter the code exactly as shown, then press Select or Enter. The TV will confirm the pairing once the correct code is entered.
Write down the PIN while it is on screen, because it will disappear after a few seconds. If you miss it, restart the TV and begin pairing again to see the code a second time. Do not try random numbers—entering an incorrect PIN multiple times may lock the pairing feature temporarily.
Pairing a Replacement or Second Remote
If you are syncing a new remote to a TV that already has a paired remote, the process is identical. Hold Return and Select on the new remote for 3 seconds while pointing at the TV. The TV will pair with the new remote without affecting the old one—both remotes will work with the same TV.
If you want to unpair an old remote so only a new one works, most Samsung TVs do not have an unpair option in the settings menu. Instead, the TV will straightforward accept commands from any Samsung remote pointed at it. If you need to restrict which remotes can control the TV, check your TV's manual or settings under General or System to see if a pairing lock feature is available on your model.
Troubleshooting When Nothing Works
If the remote still will not pair after fresh batteries and a TV restart, check that you are using an official Samsung remote or a compatible third-party remote designed for your TV model. Non-Samsung remotes or remotes from a different TV brand will not pair using this method. Look at the remote itself—it should say "Samsung" on the front or back.
The TV's infrared sensor may also be blocked or damaged. Make sure nothing is covering the sensor at the bottom of the TV, and try pairing from different angles. If the sensor appears cracked or discolored, the TV may need service. As a last step, try a factory reset of the TV by holding the power button on the TV itself for 10 to 15 seconds while it is powered on, then release and let it restart.
Using a Samsung SmartThings Remote
Samsung's newer SmartThings remotes use Bluetooth instead of infrared, which means they do not require a direct line of sight to the TV. To pair a SmartThings remote, hold the Pairing button on the back for 5 seconds until the LED light blinks. On your TV, go to Settings > General > Bluetooth and select the remote from the list of available devices.
SmartThings remotes are more reliable over distance and work even if something is blocking the TV. However, they require the TV to have Bluetooth capability, which is standard on Samsung TVs from 2020 onward but not may provide on older models. Check your TV's manual or settings to confirm Bluetooth is available before purchasing a SmartThings remote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pairing usually take?
Pairing happens when ready—the on-screen message appears within 1 to 2 seconds of holding the buttons. If nothing appears after 5 seconds, release the buttons and try again. The entire process should take less than a minute from start to finish.
Can I pair a Samsung remote to a non-Samsung TV?
No. Samsung remotes are designed to work only with Samsung TVs. If you have a different brand of TV, you will need that brand's remote or a universal remote programmed for your TV model. Check your TV's manual for pairing instructions specific to your brand.
What if my remote has no Return button?
Older Samsung remotes may use different button names. Look for a button labeled Back, Exit, or an arrow pointing left. If you cannot find it, consult the remote's manual or search online for your specific remote model number, which is usually printed on the back.
Do I need to unpair the old remote before pairing a new one?
No. Samsung TVs do not require you to unpair old remotes. You can pair as many remotes as you want to the same TV, and all of them will work simultaneously. Each new remote pairs independently without affecting the others.
Why does my remote keep losing the pairing?
If the remote pairs once but stops working later, the batteries are usually the culprit. Replace them with fresh ones and try pairing again. If pairing fails repeatedly, the remote's infrared transmitter may be failing, or the TV's sensor may need cleaning. Wipe the sensor area gently with a soft, dry cloth and try once more.