The Basic Power Button
The simplest way to turn on a Samsung TV is to press the power button on the remote control or on the TV itself. On most Samsung models, the power button on the remote is at the top left or top center. On the TV, the power button is usually a small circle or line on the front bezel, often near the bottom center or bottom right of the screen.
If your remote has no power button or the batteries are dead, you can still turn on the TV by pressing the physical button on the TV's body. This button works the same way — one press turns the TV on, and another press turns it off.
Key Takeaways
- The power button on a Samsung remote is typically at the top of the remote, while the TV's physical power button is usually on the front bezel near the bottom.
- If your remote does not work, you can turn on the TV using only the physical button on the TV itself.
- Some Samsung TVs have a power light that glows when the TV is in standby mode, showing that it is ready to turn on.
- If the TV does not respond to the power button, check that the power cable is plugged in and the outlet is working.
Finding the Power Button on Your Remote
Samsung remotes come in several designs, but the power button is almost always at the top. On older remotes, it is a large button labeled with a power symbol (a circle with a line at the top). On newer Samsung remotes, especially the slim black ones, the power button may be smaller and positioned at the very top center.
If you cannot find the power button, look for the symbol that looks like a circle with a vertical line — that is the universal power symbol. If your remote is a Samsung Smart Remote (the rectangular one with a microphone), the power button is still at the top, but it may be touch-sensitive rather than a physical button you press.
Locating the Power Button on the TV
The physical power button on the TV itself varies by model and year. On most Samsung TVs, it is a small button or touch-sensitive area on the front bezel. Look along the bottom edge of the screen, usually toward the center or slightly to one side. Some models have the button on the right side of the bezel instead.
If you cannot find it by looking, check the manual that came with your TV — it will show you exactly where the button is on your specific model. You can also find the manual online by searching for your TV's model number, which is printed on the back of the TV or on the original box.
What to Do If the Remote Does Not Work
If pressing the power button on the remote does nothing, the most common reason is dead batteries. Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote and replace the batteries with new ones. Most Samsung remotes use two AA or AAA batteries.
If the remote still does not work after you replace the batteries, try using the physical power button on the TV itself. If that button works, the TV is fine — only the remote needs attention. If neither button works, make sure the TV is plugged into a working outlet. Plug a lamp or phone charger into the same outlet to confirm the outlet has power.
When the TV Will Not Turn On at All
If neither the remote nor the physical button turns on the TV, start by checking the power cable. Make sure it is fully plugged into both the TV and the wall outlet. If the cable looks damaged or frayed, do not use it — get a replacement power cable designed for Samsung TVs.
Next, check whether the TV has a power light. Most Samsung TVs have a small LED light on the front that glows when the TV is plugged in and in standby mode. If there is no light at all, the TV is not receiving power. Try a different outlet, or have an electrician check whether that outlet is working. If the light is on but the TV will not turn on, the TV may need service — contact Samsung support with your model number.
Using Voice Commands to Turn On Your TV
If your Samsung TV is connected to Wi-Fi and you have a Samsung Smart Remote or a compatible voice assistant, you can turn on the TV using voice commands. Say "Hi Bixby, turn on the TV" if you have a Samsung TV with Bixby built in. You can also use Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa if your TV is set up with those services.
To set up voice control, go to the TV's settings menu, find the voice assistant section, and follow the on-screen steps. Voice control only works if the TV is plugged in and in standby mode — it cannot turn on a TV that has no power at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the power button on a Samsung TV remote?
The power button is at the top of the remote, usually in the center or slightly to the left. It has a power symbol (a circle with a line) on it. On newer Samsung Smart Remotes, it may be a touch-sensitive button rather than a physical one you press.
Can I turn on my Samsung TV without a remote?
Yes. Every Samsung TV has a physical power button on the front bezel, usually near the bottom center or bottom right. You can press this button to turn the TV on and off without a remote.
Why is my Samsung TV not turning on even though it is plugged in?
Check whether the power light on the TV is glowing. If it is, the TV has power but may not be responding to the button — try the physical button on the TV instead of the remote. If there is no light at all, the outlet may not be working, or the power cable may be damaged. Test the outlet with another device before assuming the TV is broken.
Do I need to do anything special to turn on a new Samsung TV for the first time?
No. Press the power button on the remote or on the TV, and it will turn on. The first time you turn it on, the TV will guide you through a setup process to connect to Wi-Fi and adjust picture settings, but you do not need to do anything before pressing the power button.
Can I turn on my Samsung TV with my phone?
Yes, if your TV is connected to Wi-Fi and you have the Samsung SmartThings app installed on your phone. Open the app, find your TV in the device list, and tap the power button. The TV must be in standby mode (plugged in and receiving power) for this to work.