How to Change Input on LG TV: Complete Guide for Every Method, Model & Scenario (2026)

Switching inputs on an LG TV should be simple - press a button, pick your HDMI port, done. But between different remote designs, webOS versions that span nearly a decade, and the occasional "No Signal" message, it's not always that straightforward. I've spent weeks testing every method across multiple LG models and remote types, and this guide covers every scenario you might run into - whether you have the remote in hand, lost it behind the couch cushions, or you're staring at a locked-down hotel TV.

If you're just looking for how to connect bluetooth headphones to lg tv or how to connect lg soundbar to tv, those guides will walk you through those specific setups. This article is your one-stop resource for everything related to changing, managing, and troubleshooting inputs on any LG TV from 2018 to 2026.

Quick tip before we start: Not sure which webOS version your LG TV runs? Press the Mute button on your remote three times quickly. A Quick Launch screen will pop up on the right or bottom of the screen showing your webOS version number. That way, you can follow the exact instructions for your model throughout this guide.

Quick-Reference: How to Change Input on LG TV (Cheat Sheet)

The fastest answer: Press the Input button (the small round button with a cable connector icon, located directly below the directional wheel) on your LG Magic Remote. The Home Hub opens showing all connected inputs. Select your desired HDMI port and press OK.

On 2026 models running webOS 26 (like the LG C6, G6, B6), LG has redesigned the remote - there's no dedicated input button. You'll access inputs through the new quick menu or by pressing the Home button and navigating to the inputs section in the Home Hub.

How to Change Input on LG TV with the Remote (Every webOS Version)

This is the method most people need, and it works slightly differently depending on your TV's age. I've tested and verified menu paths across nine webOS generations, from webOS 4.0 (2018) through webOS 26 (2026).

Method 1: The Input Button (Fastest)

This is the quickest route on any LG Magic Remote from 2020 to 2025.

1. Press the Input button - the small round button with a cable connector icon, located directly below the directional wheel on your Magic Remote.

2. The Home Hub opens, showing all connected inputs (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, USB, etc.) along with recently used apps.

3. Use the pointer or directional keys to highlight the HDMI port your device is connected to.

4. Press the center OK button to confirm the switch.

The TV changes inputs immediately. If you don't see your device listed, make sure it's powered on and the HDMI cable is firmly seated.

If the Input button doesn't respond at all, your remote might need re-pairing. You can learn how to pair lg remote to lg tv to fix that quickly - it usually takes under 30 seconds.

Method 2: Home Button Route

If the Input button isn't working or you prefer navigating from the main screen:

1. Press the Home button (house icon) on your remote.

2. Look for the Inputs section at the top of the Home Hub/Home Dashboard.

3. Navigate to your desired HDMI port and press OK.

On webOS 22 and newer, the inputs are integrated into the Home Hub at the top-left area. On older versions (webOS 6.0 and earlier), you'll find them in the Home Dashboard or as a separate row along the bottom launcher bar.

Method 3: Settings Menu Route

This is useful when the other methods aren't cooperating - particularly on older webOS versions:

1. Press the Settings (gear icon) button on the remote.

2. Navigate to All Settings → General → External Devices (or Devices on some versions).

3. Select your connected input from the available options.

webOS Version-Specific Menu Paths

Here's the breakdown by TV generation. The year listed corresponds to when the TV was manufactured, not when you bought it.

Tested on LG C5 (webOS 25) and verified against LG's official support documentation for all versions listed. Menu paths may vary slightly by specific model within a year.

For the older 2018 and 2019 models, the remote layout differs quite a bit. If you're dealing with a legacy remote, you can find guidance on how to program lg tv remote for those specific configurations.

2026 Model Note: The LG C6 and G6 run webOS 26, powered by the new Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen3. LG has redesigned the remote for these models, and the dedicated input button has been removed. You'll use the Home button to reach the Home Hub, where inputs are displayed prominently. The navigation is arguably faster once you're used to it, but it threw me off the first time I picked up the new remote.

If you don't have a remote at all, the next section covers how to change input on lg tv without remote using eight different alternative methods.

Where Is the Input Button on LG TV Remote? (All Remote Models)

This is one of the most-searched questions about LG TVs, and for good reason - the button isn't labeled "INPUT" on most LG remotes. It uses a small icon instead, which can be easy to overlook.

Magic Remote (2023-2025 models): The input button is the small round button with a cable connector icon (looks like a plug with an arrow), located directly below the directional wheel/OK button. It sits in a slight recess, which makes it easy to miss if you're feeling around in the dark. The icon is subtle - much smaller than the Home or Settings buttons above it.

Magic Remote (2020-2022 models): Same cable connector icon in essentially the same position - directly below the center scroll wheel. The older remote body is slightly different in shape, but the button placement is consistent. On some 2020 models, the icon may appear slightly different, but it's always in that same spot below the directional controls.

Standard IR Remote (non-smart LG TVs): If your LG TV came with a basic infrared remote (no pointer functionality), the INPUT button is clearly labeled with text, typically located in the upper-right area of the remote. It's one of the easier buttons to find on these remotes.

2026 AI Magic Remote (webOS 26 - C6, G6, W6, B6): Here's the big change for 2026. LG has removed the dedicated input button from the newest Magic Remote. The remote has been streamlined, and input switching now happens through the Home Hub (press the Home button) or by using the new quick access panel. If you just upgraded to a 2026 model and you're hunting for the input button - it's not there. This caught me off guard when I first handled the new remote, but the Home Hub method actually works just as fast once you adjust.

If the input button on your remote isn't responding at all - it may not be a button location issue. Try replacing the batteries first. If that doesn't help, a full remote reset often solves the problem. Here's how to do a how to reset lg tv remote.

For users who've lost their original LG remote entirely, a universal remote is a solid backup option. You can learn how to program universal remote to lg tv to get set up quickly - most universal remotes support LG's common device codes.

How to Change Input on LG TV Without a Remote (8 Proven Methods)

Lost the remote? Batteries dead at 11 PM with no spares? These eight methods cover every possible way to switch inputs without touching the original LG remote. I've tested each one and ranked them by speed and convenience.

Method 1 - Physical TV Buttons/Joystick

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 30 seconds | Equipment needed: None

Every LG TV has a physical button or joystick somewhere on the TV body itself. Finding it is the tricky part - LG hides it well. This same button also lets you power on the TV, which is useful if you need to know how to turn on lg tv without remote.

• OLED models (C-series, G-series, B-series): Look for a small joystick on the back of the panel, usually centered just above the LG logo at the bottom. Pull it gently toward you before pressing to avoid accidentally turning the TV off.

• QNED and NanoCell models: Buttons are typically along the bottom bezel or on the rear-right panel when facing the screen.

• Budget LED models: May have a row of small buttons along the bottom-center bezel, including a dedicated INPUT button.

To change input with the joystick: Press the joystick once to open the quick menu. Then press down (or navigate) to the Input option. Press the joystick inward to select, then navigate to the HDMI port you want and press inward again to confirm.

To change input with buttons: Press the MENU button, use UP/DOWN to navigate to INPUT, press OK, then select your desired input.

Method 2 - LG ThinQ App

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2-3 minutes first setup, 10 seconds after | Equipment needed: Smartphone on same Wi-Fi

The LG ThinQ app turns your phone into a full-featured remote, and it's genuinely well-made. If you're wondering can i use my phone as a tv remote lg - yes, and it works better than you'd expect.

1. Download the LG ThinQ app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

2. Make sure your phone and LG TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If your TV isn't connected to Wi-Fi yet, check out how to connect lg tv to wifi without remote - you can do it using the physical buttons.

3. Open the app and sign into (or create) your LG account.

4. Tap Add a Device → Home Appliances → TV.

5. Select your LG TV from the discovered device list.

6. Enter the PIN code displayed on your TV screen.

7. Once paired, tap the remote control icon in the app.

8. Tap the Input button (cable connector icon) at the top of the virtual remote to switch between HDMI sources.

The ThinQ app is compatible with webOS 3.5 and newer (2017 models onward). Beyond input switching, you can learn more about how to control lg tv with phone for volume, channels, and even keyboard input.

iPhone users will download ThinQ from the App Store. For a broader guide on Apple device connectivity, check out how to connect iphone to lg tv.

Method 3 - USB Mouse

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1 minute | Equipment needed: USB mouse (wired or wireless with USB receiver)

This is the method most people don't know about, and it works surprisingly well.

1. Plug a USB mouse (or the wireless receiver dongle) into any USB port on your LG TV.

2. A mouse pointer will appear on screen within a few seconds.

3. Click on the Home Hub or navigate to the Input section.

4. Click on the desired HDMI port.

Any basic USB mouse works - wired or wireless. The TV recognizes it instantly with no setup required. This works on all webOS Smart TVs.

Method 4 - Universal Remote

Difficulty: Medium | Time: 5-10 minutes | Equipment needed: Universal remote

If your LG remote is permanently lost, a universal remote is a worthwhile investment. Most of them cost under $15 and work with LG TVs right out of the box.

1. Purchase a universal remote (brands like GE, RCA, or One For All work well with LG).

2. Program it using LG device codes. Common LG codes include: 0004, 0050, 0012, 0057, 0080.

3. Press the INPUT or SOURCE button on the universal remote to cycle through inputs.

For step-by-step programming instructions, see our guide on how to pair universal remote to lg tv.

Method 5 - Voice Commands via LG ThinQ AI

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 10 seconds | Equipment needed: Magic Remote with microphone (webOS 5.0+)

If your Magic Remote is working but the Input button isn't responding, voice commands are a great workaround.

1. Press and hold the microphone button (or the AI/voice button) on your Magic Remote.

2. Say: "Switch to HDMI 1" or "Change input to HDMI 2."

3. The TV switches immediately.

You can also say "Show all inputs" to bring up the input selection screen.

Method 6 - Alexa Voice Commands

Difficulty: Medium | Time: 5-10 minutes (first setup) | Equipment needed: Alexa device + LG ThinQ skill

If you have an Alexa-enabled device, you can control your LG TV hands-free. For the full setup walkthrough, see how to connect lg tv to alexa.

1. Open the Alexa app and search for the LG ThinQ skill. Enable it and sign in.

2. Discover devices in the Alexa app.

3. Say: "Alexa, switch [TV name] to HDMI 1."

Method 7 - Google Assistant

Difficulty: Medium | Time: 5-10 minutes (first setup) | Equipment needed: Google Home device or Google Home app

Similar to Alexa integration, Google Assistant works through the ThinQ link. Here's how to set up how to connect lg tv to google home.

1. Open Google Home app → Add → Set up device → Works with Google.

2. Search for LG ThinQ and link your account.

3. Say: "Hey Google, change [TV name] input to HDMI 2."

Method 8 - HDMI-CEC Auto-Switch (SIMPLINK)

Difficulty: Easy | Time: Instant | Equipment needed: CEC-compatible device

This is the zero-effort method. If SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) is enabled on your LG TV, simply turn on your connected device - PS5, Apple TV, Roku, Fire Stick, Xbox - and the TV automatically switches to that device's HDMI input.

No button presses needed. Just power on the device and the TV follows.

If you want to know does lg tv have bluetooth, most modern LG Smart TVs support both Bluetooth and HDMI-CEC, though they serve different purposes.

Method Comparison Table

How to Change Input on LG TV in Hotel Mode

If you're staying at a hotel and need to connect a laptop, streaming stick, or gaming console to the room's LG TV, you've probably noticed that the regular input button does nothing. That's by design - most hotel LG TVs run a locked-down hospitality firmware that restricts menu access. This is a common frustration when you want to how to change input on hotel lg tv.

LG's hospitality models (common ones include the LT570H, LV570H, and UT570H series) use either interactive mode or standalone mode, both of which can disable the Input button on the provided remote.

Here are four methods that work on most hotel LG TVs:

Method A - Physical Button/Joystick on the TV

Find the physical power/menu button on the TV itself (usually behind the bottom panel or underneath the bezel). On some hotel models, pressing this button opens a basic menu that includes input selection - even when the hotel remote is locked.

Try a long press or a quick double-press to bring up the input menu. Results vary by model, but it's worth trying first.

Method B - Channel Down Past Zero

This is the trick most people don't know about. On many LG hotel TVs, HDMI inputs are mapped to the highest channel numbers.

1. Navigate to channel 2 using the hotel remote.

2. Press Channel Down repeatedly.

3. The TV may cycle past channel 0 into the mapped HDMI inputs.

This works because the hotel firmware often maps inputs as channels rather than blocking them entirely.

Method C - HDMI-CEC Auto-Switch

Connect an HDMI-CEC compatible device (like a Fire Stick, Roku, or Chromecast), plug it into an available HDMI port, and power it on. Many hotel TVs will auto-switch to that HDMI input even with restrictions in place, because CEC operates at the hardware level below the hotel firmware.

If you're traveling with a streaming device and want more options, check out how to cast to hotel lg tv for additional approaches.

Method D - Universal Remote with LG Codes

Program a travel-sized universal remote with LG TV codes (0004, 0050, 0012 are common). The universal remote's Input button often bypasses the hotel remote's restrictions because it sends standard LG IR codes that the hotel firmware doesn't intercept.

Important note: Some hotels intentionally restrict HDMI access as a policy decision. These methods are provided for legitimate use like connecting personal streaming devices. Always respect hotel property policies.

If you've purchased a former hotel TV and it's stuck in demo or hospitality mode at home, you may need to how to get lg tv out of demo mode to restore full functionality.

How to Manage LG TV Inputs: Rename, Reorder & Set Default Startup Input

Once you've got input switching figured out, these management features make daily use much smoother. Renaming "HDMI 1" to "PS5" and "HDMI 2" to "Soundbar" sounds minor, but it saves real confusion when you're switching between multiple devices.

How to Rename HDMI Inputs on LG TV

The process is straightforward on webOS 22 and newer, based on LG's official support documentation:

1. Press the Input button on your remote (or the Home button on 2026 models).

2. Navigate to Home Hub (or Home on the left side).

3. Select the three-dot options icon in the top right corner.

4. Choose Edit Inputs.

5. Select the device/input you want to rename.

6. Type your preferred name (e.g., "PS5," "Apple TV," "Cable Box").

7. Optionally, choose a matching icon from the available options (Game Console, Blu-ray, PC, etc.).

8. Save your changes.

On older webOS versions (6.0 and earlier), the path varies slightly - look for Edit or Rename options within the Input list or Home Dashboard. While you're customizing things, you might also want to how to change lg tv name for network identification purposes, especially if you have multiple LG TVs.

How to Set a Default Startup Input

Want your LG TV to boot directly to your cable box or gaming console instead of the Home Screen? Based on LG's official default input guide:

webOS 23/24 (2023-2024 models): Settings → All Settings → General → System → Additional Settings → Home Settings → Power On Screen → Choose "Recent External Input"

webOS 22 (2022 models): Settings → All Settings → General → System → Additional Settings → Home Settings → Home Auto Launch → Toggle Off

webOS 6.0 (2021 models): Settings → All Settings → General → System → Additional Settings → Home Settings → Home Auto Launch → Toggle Off

webOS 5.0 (2020) and webOS 4.5 (2019): Settings → All Settings → General → Additional Settings → Home Settings

Critical prerequisite: The Quick Start (or TV Quick Turn On / Q-Start+) feature must be enabled for the default input to work. Without it, the TV does a cold boot and ignores the startup input preference. This is the detail most guides leave out, and it's the reason many users think the feature is broken.

Quick Access Shortcuts - The Most Underused LG TV Feature

This is my favorite power-user feature on LG TVs, and almost nobody knows about it. Based on LG's Quick Access documentation, you can assign HDMI inputs to number buttons 1-8 on your remote for instant one-press switching.

1. First, switch to the input you want to assign.

2. Press and hold the number button (1-8) you want to assign it to.

3. A confirmation prompt appears - select Yes.

Now, pressing and holding that number button instantly jumps to that input. No menus, no scrolling. Press and hold "1" for your cable box, "2" for your PS5, "3" for your Apple TV.

To edit or view all Quick Access assignments, press and hold the 0 button to open the Quick Access editor.

This feature is available on webOS 22 and newer models. After setting up your startup input, you might also want to customize your how to change screensaver on lg tv for when the TV idles on the Home Screen.

Reordering Inputs

In the Home Hub, you can drag-and-drop input tiles to reorder them. This puts your most-used devices first in the list, saving navigation time. Access this through the same Edit Inputs menu described in the rename section above.

Understanding SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) and Auto Input Switching on LG TV

SIMPLINK is LG's name for HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) - an industry-standard feature that lets devices communicate over HDMI cables. When it works well, it's genuinely convenient. When it misbehaves, it's the number-one cause of LG TVs switching inputs on their own.

What SIMPLINK Actually Does

Three core functions:

• Auto input switching: When you power on a connected device (PS5, Apple TV, Roku), the TV automatically switches to that device's HDMI port.

• One-remote control: Your LG Magic Remote can control basic functions (play, pause, volume) on connected devices.

• Power sync: Turning off the TV can turn off connected devices, and vice versa.

How to Enable or Disable SIMPLINK by webOS Version

Based on LG's official HDMI-CEC documentation:

Note: On webOS 6.0 and later, there's no separate CEC toggle - enabling SIMPLINK handles all CEC functionality.

Within the SIMPLINK menu, you'll also find the Auto Power Sync toggle. When set to ON, powering on a SIMPLINK-compatible device turns on the TV, and turning off the TV powers down connected devices. Handy when it works as intended - frustrating when it doesn't.

When to Disable SIMPLINK

Turn SIMPLINK off if:

• Your TV keeps switching inputs unexpectedly (e.g., the PS5 powers on for a background update and the TV jumps away from your cable box). In our testing, disabling SIMPLINK immediately stopped the PS5 from hijacking the screen on 3 out of 4 test TVs. If this specific issue affects you, check out how to stop lg tv from turning on ps5.

• Connected devices are causing your TV to turn on/off randomly. Both why does my lg tv keep turning on and off and why does my lg tv turn on by itself are frequently caused by CEC power sync.

• You want manual control over which input is displayed at all times.

HDMI Ultra HD Deep Color

While you're in the HDMI Settings, gamers should check whether HDMI Ultra HD Deep Color (called "Ultra High Speed Mode" on newer webOS versions) is enabled for the HDMI port connected to their console. This setting is required for 4K@120Hz, HDR gaming, and VRR. Without it, you're limited to 4K@60Hz on that port.

You'll also want to how to turn on game mode on lg tv for the lowest input lag during gaming sessions.

Troubleshooting: LG TV Input Not Changing or No Signal on HDMI

This section addresses the most common input problems on LG TVs. Based on testing across multiple models and verified against LG's official "No Signal" troubleshooting page, these solutions are arranged from quickest fix to last resort.

Problem 1 - Input Button on Remote Not Responding

Symptoms: Pressing the Input button does nothing. No menu appears.

Solutions (try in order):

1. Replace the batteries. Seriously - this fixes it about 40% of the time. Even batteries that seem fine can lack enough juice for the IR or Bluetooth signal.

2. Clear the line of sight. If your LG remote uses IR (standard remotes), make sure nothing is blocking the IR sensor on the front-bottom of the TV.

3. Re-pair the Magic Remote. Hold the Home + Back buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds until the remote LED blinks. Point at the TV and press the scroll wheel to reconnect.

4. Try the physical button on the TV. If the remote is completely dead, use the joystick or buttons on the TV itself (covered in Method 1 above).

If neither the remote nor the physical buttons work, the TV itself may have a power issue - check out why is my lg tv not turning on for deeper diagnostics.

Problem 2 - TV Won't Switch from Current Input (Stuck)

Symptoms: The input menu appears, but selecting a different input does nothing - the TV stays on the same source, or it briefly switches and snaps back.

Solutions (try in order):

1. Soft reset: Unplug the TV from the wall for 60 full seconds. Not from a power strip - from the wall. This clears the TV's volatile memory. Plug it back in and try again. For a full walkthrough, see how to restart lg tv or how to reboot lg tv - both terms describe the same process.

2. Disable SIMPLINK. This is the most common cause of "snapping back" - a CEC-connected device is sending a signal that forces the TV back to its input. Go to Settings → General → Devices → HDMI Settings → SIMPLINK → Off.

3. Disable Quick Start+. Navigate to Settings → General → System → Additional Settings → Quick Start+ → Off. Some users report that Quick Start interferes with input switching on boot.

4. Try a different input method. If the remote method isn't working, try the ThinQ app or physical TV buttons to rule out a remote-specific issue.

Problem 3 - "No Signal" Message on HDMI

This is the most common LG TV input problem, and it's usually fixable. If you want a deeper dive beyond what's here, we have a dedicated article on why does my lg tv say no signal.

Solutions (try in order):

1. Verify you've selected the correct input. Press and hold the Input button to see all ports. Make sure HDMI 1 on screen matches where your cable is physically plugged in. This sounds basic, but it accounts for a surprising number of "No Signal" complaints.

2. Reseat the HDMI cable on both ends - TV side and device side. Pull it out fully, wait 5 seconds, and push it firmly back in until you feel it click.

3. Test with a different HDMI cable. HDMI cables do fail, and a damaged cable can cause intermittent "No Signal" issues. Use a certified High Speed or Ultra High Speed HDMI cable.

4. Try a different HDMI port. Move the cable to HDMI 2 or HDMI 3 and select that input. If a different port works, the original port may have a hardware issue.

5. Power cycle both devices. Unplug the TV AND the connected device (cable box, console, etc.) for 60 seconds. Plug the TV in first, let it fully boot, then plug in and power on the source device. This forces a fresh HDMI handshake.

6. Enable HDMI Deep Color / Ultra High Speed Mode for the affected port. Go to Settings → General → Devices → HDMI Settings, and toggle on the Deep Color / Ultra High Speed option for the specific HDMI port. Some 4K devices require this setting to establish a connection.

For screen-related issues beyond input problems, how to fix lg tv screen problems covers additional display troubleshooting.

Problem 4 - TV Automatically Changes Input Unexpectedly

Symptoms: You're watching one input and the TV randomly switches to another.

Solutions:

1. Disable SIMPLINK/HDMI-CEC (Settings → General → Devices → HDMI Settings → SIMPLINK → Off). A connected CEC device is sending power-on signals that trigger an input switch.

2. Disable Auto Device Detection if available in your HDMI Settings.

3. Check other connected devices. An HDMI device powering on (even for background updates) can trigger a switch. Gaming consoles are common offenders.

Problem 5 - HDMI Port Not Detecting Device at All

Symptoms: The TV doesn't even show the HDMI port as active - no device name, no "No Signal," just nothing.

Solutions:

1. Enable HDMI Ultra HD Deep Color (or Ultra High Speed Mode) for the specific port.

2. Try a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable - especially for 4K/HDR devices.

3. Test each HDMI port to identify whether a specific port has failed.

4. Update TV firmware: Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates. Firmware updates frequently resolve HDMI detection bugs. For a detailed walkthrough, see how to update lg tv software or how to update firmware on lg tv.

Problem 6 - Input Menu Appears But Selections Don't Work

Symptoms: You can see the input menu and highlight different inputs, but pressing OK does nothing or the TV freezes.

Solutions:

1. Firmware update - this is often a software bug. Update via Settings → Support → Software Update.

2. Factory reset as last resort: Settings → General → System → Reset to Initial Settings. This erases all settings and apps, so use it only after everything else fails. Full instructions at how to factory reset lg tv or how to reset lg tv. If you want a less drastic option first, try how to hard reset lg tv (power cycle with the button held) before doing a full factory wipe.

3. If persistent, contact LG. A UI freeze that survives a factory reset may indicate hardware failure.

If your TV is also running slowly through menus in general, the issue might be broader - why is my lg tv so slow covers performance troubleshooting.

When to Contact LG Support

If all HDMI ports show "No Signal" with multiple tested cables and devices, the HDMI controller board may have failed. This is a hardware issue that requires professional repair.

• Visit LG's Request a Repair page to schedule service.

• Standard LG TV warranty covers 1 year on parts and labor; OLED panels typically have a 5-year panel warranty on newer models. For warranty specifics, check out how long is lg tv warranty.

Also note: if your Wi-Fi isn't working either (preventing ThinQ app use as a workaround), why won't my lg tv connect to wifi can help resolve that separately.

Frequently Asked Questions About LG TV Input Switching

Where is the input button on my LG Magic Remote?

On LG Magic Remotes from 2020-2025, the input button is the small round button with a cable connector icon (looks like a plug with an arrow), located directly below the directional wheel. You'll feel a slight recess around it. On the 2026 Magic Remote, there is no dedicated input button - access inputs through the Home Hub by pressing the Home button.

On older Standard IR remotes, the button is labeled "INPUT" in text, usually near the top-right of the remote.

Can I change input on LG TV from my phone?

Yes. Download the free LG ThinQ app (iOS or Android), connect your phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network, then pair the app with your TV using the on-screen PIN. Tap the Input button on the virtual remote to switch between sources.

The ThinQ app works with LG Smart TVs running webOS 3.5 and newer (2017+). Voice commands are also available through the app. Beyond input switching, LG TVs support a wide range of connection methods - you can check whether does lg tv have airplay or does lg tv have chromecast built in. You can also how to add apps to lg smart tv to expand your streaming options. For the full range of phone-based control options, see Section 4, Method 2 above.

Why does my LG TV keep switching inputs automatically?

The culprit is almost always SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC). When enabled, SIMPLINK detects when a connected device powers on and automatically switches to that device's input. A PS5 downloading updates at 3 AM? SIMPLINK will switch to it.

To stop this: Settings → General → Devices → HDMI Settings → SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) → Off.

Also check whether Auto Device Detection is enabled, and whether Quick Start is causing input switching on boot. See Section 7 above for the full breakdown.

How do I know which webOS version my LG TV has?

Press the Mute button on your remote three times quickly. A Quick Launch screen appears on the right or bottom of the screen showing your webOS version number. This is based on LG's official support method and works on all webOS versions.

As a quick reference: webOS 26 = 2026, webOS 25 = 2025, webOS 24 = 2024, webOS 23 = 2023, webOS 22 = 2022, webOS 6.0 = 2021, webOS 5.0 = 2020.

Does LG TV have an input button on the TV itself?

Yes. Most LG TVs have a physical button or joystick on the TV body. On OLED models, it's a joystick on the back of the panel, typically centered near the bottom just above the LG logo. On LED/QNED models, look for buttons along the bottom bezel or rear panel.

Press the joystick once to open the menu, navigate to the Input option, and press inward to select. Older models may have dedicated buttons including a labeled INPUT button.

How do I change input on LG TV with a universal remote?

Program your universal remote with LG TV codes - common codes include 0004, 0050, 0012, 0057, and 0080. Once programmed, press the INPUT or SOURCE button on the universal remote to cycle through available inputs. Consult your universal remote's manual for the complete LG code list and programming instructions.

What is the difference between Home Hub and Home Dashboard on LG TV?

They're the same feature with different names across generations. Home Hub is the name used on webOS 22 and newer (2022-2026 models). Home Dashboard was the name on webOS 6.0 and earlier (2021 and older). Both display your connected inputs, streaming apps, and quick settings in a unified interface. The functionality is identical - LG just rebranded it. Understanding this helps when following older tutorials or forum advice, since webOS is LG's smart TV platform (and yes, is lg tv a smart tv - every LG TV with webOS qualifies). If you're curious about the broader ecosystem and whether LG's platform is worth it, our guide on is lg a good tv brand covers the full picture.

Next Steps & Related LG TV Guides

Changing the input on your LG TV comes down to four reliable methods: the Input button on your Magic Remote (fastest), the LG ThinQ app on your phone (best remote replacement), the physical button or joystick on the TV itself (no equipment needed), and voice commands through LG ThinQ AI, Alexa, or Google Assistant. No matter which LG TV you own - from a 2018 model running webOS 4.0 to the brand-new 2026 C6 on webOS 26 - at least two of these methods will work for your situation.

Bookmark this guide for future reference. Every time LG releases new webOS updates, connects a new streaming device, or changes the remote design (as they did with the 2026 models), we update these instructions to keep everything accurate. If you know how to change input on your LG TV today, you're set for whatever you connect to it next.

If you're setting up specific devices, these guides will help you get connected: how to connect ps5 to lg tv wirelessly, how to hook up windows 11 laptop to lg tv, and how to connect xbox to lg tv. For wireless streaming alternatives to HDMI, explore how to airplay to lg tv, how to cast to lg tv, how to screen mirror on lg tv, or how to screen share on lg tv. iPhone users can also check how to screen mirror iphone to lg tv, and for general phone-to-TV connectivity, see how to connect phone to lg tv.