Press the Home button, then use the directional pad to reach Input or HDMI settings
The Firestick remote does not have a dedicated input-switching button like some TV remotes do. Instead, you navigate through your TV's menu system using the remote's directional pad and select button. The exact path depends on your TV brand, but the process is the same: go to your TV's home menu or settings, find the input or source option, and choose the HDMI port where your Firestick is plugged in.
Most modern TVs will also let you press and hold a button on the Firestick remote to bring up a quick input menu without entering the full settings. Check your TV's manual or remote to see if this shortcut exists for your model.
Key Takeaways
- The Firestick remote controls your TV through HDMI, so you navigate your TV's menu using the directional pad and select button to change inputs.
- Press Home on the Firestick remote, then use the arrow keys to find your TV's input or source menu.
- Some TV remotes have a dedicated input button that works independently of the Firestick remote; check your TV's remote if the Firestick method is not working.
- If your Firestick remote is not controlling your TV at all, the HDMI-CEC connection may be disabled in your TV settings.
Finding the input menu on your TV
Start by pressing the Home button on your Firestick remote. This takes you to the Firestick home screen. From there, look for a settings or menu option on your TV screen itself—not on the Firestick. You are now looking for your TV's own menu, not the Firestick menu.
Use the directional pad (the circle with arrows) on the Firestick remote to navigate to your TV's settings or menu. The exact wording varies: some TVs call it "Input," others call it "Source" or "HDMI." Once you find it, press the select button (the center circle) to open the input list. You should see all the HDMI ports on your TV listed. Select the one where your Firestick is connected.
If you cannot find an input menu this way, your TV's HDMI-CEC feature may be turned off. HDMI-CEC is the technology that lets the Firestick remote control your TV at all. Check your TV's manual or settings menu to turn it back on.
Using your TV remote instead
Many TV remotes have a dedicated Input or Source button that switches inputs without going through the menu. This button usually works independently of the Firestick remote. Look for it on your TV's remote—it is often near the power button or in a row of colored buttons.
Pressing this button once usually brings up a small on-screen menu showing all available inputs. Select the HDMI port your Firestick uses. This method is often faster than navigating through the TV menu with the Firestick remote, especially if you switch inputs frequently.
If you have lost your TV remote, you can still use the Firestick remote to navigate, but it will take a few more button presses to reach the input menu.
What to do if the Firestick remote is not controlling your TV
The Firestick remote uses HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) to communicate with your TV. If the remote is not controlling your TV at all—meaning you cannot change the volume, navigate menus, or switch inputs—HDMI-CEC is likely disabled on your TV.
To turn it back on, use your TV's physical remote or buttons to enter the TV's settings menu. Look for an option called "HDMI-CEC," "Anynet+," "Bravia Sync," "EasyLink," or "SimpLink" (the name depends on the TV brand). Enable this setting, then try the Firestick remote again. You may need to unplug the Firestick for 30 seconds and plug it back in for the connection to reset.
If your TV does not have HDMI-CEC or it cannot be enabled, you will need to use your TV's own remote to change inputs. The Firestick remote will still control the Firestick itself, but not the TV.
Checking which HDMI port your Firestick uses
If you have multiple HDMI ports on your TV and are not sure which one your Firestick is plugged into, look at the back of your TV. Count the HDMI ports from left to right or top to bottom, and note which one has the Firestick cable. Most TVs label them HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3, and so on.
When you open the input menu on your TV, select the port number that matches where the Firestick is connected. If you select the wrong port, you will see a blank or "no signal" screen. straightforward go back to the input menu and choose a different port until the Firestick home screen appears.
Switching inputs when HDMI-CEC is not available
Some older TVs or TV models do not support HDMI-CEC, even if the feature exists. In these cases, the Firestick remote cannot control the TV at all. You will need to use your TV's physical remote or the buttons on the TV itself to change inputs.
Most TVs have physical buttons on the front or side of the unit, usually near the power button. Look for one labeled "Input," "Source," or "Menu." Pressing this button will bring up the input menu on your TV screen, and you can then select the HDMI port where your Firestick is connected using the TV's remote or buttons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my TV showing a blank screen when I select the Firestick input?
You may have selected the wrong HDMI port. Go back to the input menu and try the next port number. If all ports show a blank screen, make sure the Firestick is powered on and the HDMI cable is fully inserted into both the TV and the Firestick device. Unplug the Firestick for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
Can I use the Firestick remote to control other devices connected to my TV?
The Firestick remote can only control devices that support HDMI-CEC. If your cable box, gaming console, or other device supports it, the Firestick remote may be able to control it, but this depends on the device and your TV settings. Most commonly, the Firestick remote only controls the Firestick and the TV itself.
What if my Firestick remote is not working at all?
First, check that the batteries are not dead. Replace them with fresh ones and try again. If the remote still does not work, try pairing it to your Firestick by holding the Home and Back buttons together for 10 seconds. If it still does not respond, the remote may need to be replaced.
Do I need to change the input every time I use my Firestick?
No. Once you select the Firestick's HDMI input, your TV should stay on that input until you manually switch to a different one. When you turn on your TV next time, it will return to the last input you used.