Learn how to sync your Roku remote to Samsung TV with our step-by-step guide. Covers HDMI-CEC setup, pairing button location, volume control configuration, and troubleshooting tips for all Roku remote types.
Short on time? Here's exactly how to sync your Roku remote to your Samsung TV and gain control over volume and power.
Enable Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) on your Samsung TV via Settings > Connection > External Device Manager
Connect your Roku device via HDMI and power on both devices
On your Roku, navigate to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes
Select your remote and choose "Set up remote for TV control"
Press and hold the pairing button inside the battery compartment for 5 seconds
Follow on-screen prompts to detect Samsung TV and test volume control
Confirm when the music mutes to complete the setup
This process takes roughly 3-5 minutes when everything works smoothly. Before diving in, verify you have the right equipment.
Quick Compatibility Check:
Remote Type | TV Control Capable? | Pairing Button? |
|---|---|---|
Roku Voice Remote | Yes | Battery compartment |
Roku Voice Remote Pro | Yes | Back of remote |
Roku Enhanced Remote | Yes | Battery compartment |
Roku Simple Remote (IR-only) | No | None |
If you're using a Roku Simple Remote, you won't be able to control your Samsung TV's volume or power. You'll need to upgrade to a Voice Remote or Enhanced Remote.
Having trouble? Skip ahead to the Samsung TV troubleshooting section for solutions to common pairing issues.
Juggling multiple remotes gets old fast. One for the Roku, another for your Samsung TV's volume, maybe a third for your soundbar. The coffee table starts looking like a remote control graveyard.
Syncing your Roku remote to your Samsung TV eliminates this hassle. A single remote handles your streaming navigation, volume adjustments, and power control. No more hunting for the "other" remote when you just want to turn the volume down during a commercial.
Benefits of syncing:
Single-remote convenience - Navigate Roku content, adjust volume, and power your TV on/off with one device
Faster navigation - No context-switching between remotes mid-show
Voice control capabilities - Voice Remotes let you search content, adjust volume, and control playback hands-free
Reduced clutter - Fewer remotes means a tidier living space
Let me be clear about what this setup accomplishes. Your Roku remote will control the Roku device itself plus your Samsung TV's volume and power. It cannot navigate Samsung's native menus, access Samsung apps directly, or control other TV-specific features. For Samsung TV remote voice control features or native app access, you'll still need the Samsung remote occasionally.
For Samsung TV initial configuration tasks like picture adjustments or network settings, the Samsung remote remains essential. The Roku remote supplements it rather than replacing it entirely.
Who benefits most from this setup? Cord-cutters who primarily use Roku for all their entertainment. If you've ditched cable and stream everything through Roku, syncing the remote transforms your viewing experience. You'll rarely touch the Samsung remote again.
Not all Roku remotes are created equal. Before attempting to sync yours with your Samsung TV, you need to identify what you're working with. This determines whether TV control is even possible.
Grab your remote and check for these identifying features.
The Simple Remote is Roku's most basic option. It uses infrared (IR) technology exclusively, meaning it requires a direct line of sight to your Roku device to function.
How to identify it:
No microphone button anywhere on the remote
No pairing button in the battery compartment
Black tinted plastic window at the front (the IR emitter)
Critical limitation: The Simple Remote cannot control your Samsung TV's volume or power. These remotes only communicate with the Roku device itself. If you have a Simple Remote and want TV control, you'll need to purchase a Voice Remote or Enhanced Remote separately.
The Simple Remote works with most Roku devices except Streaming Sticks, which sit behind the TV where IR signals can't reach.
The Voice Remote represents Roku's most common "point anywhere" option. It uses RF (radio frequency) to communicate with your Roku device and IR to control your TV.
How to identify it:
Microphone button present (magnifying glass or microphone icon)
Pairing button inside the battery compartment
Works without pointing directly at the Roku device
This remote supports voice search, TV volume control, and TV power control. The pairing button sits inside the battery compartment - remove the battery cover and look for a small circular button near the bottom.
The Voice Remote Pro is Roku's premium offering with additional features that justify its higher price point.
How to identify it:
Rechargeable battery (no removable batteries)
Pairing button on the BACK of the remote, not inside a battery compartment
Headphone jack for private listening
"Hey Roku" hands-free voice activation
The Pro model works identically to the standard Voice Remote for Samsung TV control purposes. The main differences relate to convenience features like rechargeable batteries and hands-free voice commands.
The Enhanced Remote bridges the gap between Simple and Voice Remotes. It includes TV control capabilities and a headphone jack for private listening but may lack some newer voice features.
How to identify it:
Pairing button in battery compartment
Headphone jack on the side
Works without line-of-sight to Roku device
Remote Type Comparison Table:
Feature | Simple Remote | Voice Remote | Voice Remote Pro | Enhanced Remote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Communication | IR only | RF + IR | RF + IR | RF + IR |
TV Volume/Power | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Voice Search | No | Yes | Yes (hands-free) | Yes |
Pairing Button | No | Yes (battery compartment) | Yes (back of remote) | Yes (battery compartment) |
Private Listening | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Line-of-sight Required | Yes | No | No | No |
If you want to pair Samsung TV remote as an alternative or backup, that's also possible through Samsung's universal remote feature. Some users prefer having both options available.
For comparing voice capabilities between your Roku remote and Samsung's native options, check out our guide on Samsung TV voice assistant remote features.
HDMI-CEC is the technology that allows your Roku remote to control your Samsung TV. Samsung calls their implementation "Anynet+" - same technology, different branding.
Without Anynet+ enabled, your Roku remote cannot communicate with your Samsung TV for power and volume control. This step is non-negotiable.
HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) allows devices connected via HDMI to communicate with each other. When enabled, commands can pass between your Roku device and Samsung TV through the same HDMI cable that carries your video and audio.
Think of it as a two-way conversation. Your Roku tells your Samsung TV "turn the volume up," and the TV responds accordingly. Without CEC enabled, they're just ignoring each other.
Anynet+ has been available on most Samsung Smart TVs manufactured after 2008, though functionality improves significantly on newer models.
Samsung changes their menu structure frequently. Here are the exact paths for each model year:
2025 Model TVs:
Press Home on your Samsung remote
Navigate to Settings > All Settings
Select General & Privacy
Choose External Device Manager
Turn on Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)
2023-2024 Model TVs:
Press Home on your Samsung remote
Navigate to Settings > All Settings
Select Connection
Choose External Device Manager
Turn on Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)
2022 Model TVs:
Press Home on your Samsung remote
Navigate to Settings
Select General & Privacy
Choose External Device Manager
Turn on Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)
2017-2021 Model TVs:
Press Home on your Samsung remote
Navigate to Settings
Select General
Choose External Device Manager
Turn on Anynet+
2016 Model TVs:
Press Menu on your Samsung remote
Navigate to Settings
Select System
Choose Expert Settings
Turn on Anynet+
Menu Path Reference Table:
Model Year | Navigation Path |
|---|---|
2025 | Settings > All Settings > General & Privacy > External Device Manager > Anynet+ |
2023-2024 | Settings > All Settings > Connection > External Device Manager > Anynet+ |
2022 | Settings > General & Privacy > External Device Manager > Anynet+ |
2017-2021 | Settings > General > External Device Manager > Anynet+ |
2016 | Settings > System > Expert Settings > Anynet+ |
While you're in the External Device Manager menu, enable these additional options:
System Audio Control - This allows your Roku remote to actually adjust the TV's volume through CEC commands. Without it, volume buttons may not work.
1-Touch Play - When enabled, your Samsung TV automatically turns on when you start your Roku device. Convenient for those who primarily use Roku.
Anynet+ option grayed out? This usually means no HDMI device is detected. Check that your Roku is properly connected via HDMI and powered on. Try a different HDMI cable or port.
Can't find Anynet+ in menus? Some very old Samsung TVs (pre-2016) or certain budget models may not support HDMI-CEC at all. Check your TV's manual or model specifications.
If you need to reset HDMI ports Samsung TV connections to fix detection issues, try unplugging the HDMI cable, waiting 30 seconds, and reconnecting.
For TVs requiring firmware updates to access certain features, ensure you have a stable Samsung TV LAN connection or WiFi connection. Running a Samsung TV firmware update can sometimes resolve CEC compatibility issues.
HDMI Port Recommendation: Some Samsung TVs have better CEC support on specific ports. HDMI 1 or the HDMI ARC port typically offer the most reliable CEC functionality. If you're having issues, try moving your Roku to a different HDMI port.
With Anynet+ enabled on your Samsung TV, you now need to configure the matching settings on your Roku device. This ensures both devices speak the same language.
Press the Home button on your Roku remote
Scroll down and select Settings
Select System
Choose Control other devices (CEC)
System Audio Control - This setting allows your Roku remote to send volume commands through your TV. Enable it.
1-Touch Play - When enabled, starting your Roku device will automatically turn on your Samsung TV and switch to the correct HDMI input. This creates a seamless experience where powering up your Roku brings everything online.
Before proceeding, confirm your Roku device is connected via HDMI - not just casting or mirroring to your TV. CEC requires a physical HDMI connection to function.
Also confirm you're using a quality HDMI cable. Cheap or damaged cables can cause CEC communication failures. If you're experiencing intermittent issues, try a different cable.
Older Roku firmware may have limited CEC support. Navigate to Settings > System > System update > Check now to ensure you're running the latest software.
If you're using an external audio system like a Sonos Samsung TV connection or Samsung TV audio bar connection, note that audio routing can affect how volume control works. CEC volume commands typically go to whatever device is handling audio output. If your soundbar receives audio via HDMI ARC, the Roku remote may control the soundbar's volume rather than the TV's built-in speakers.
Now for the main event. With CEC enabled on both devices, you can program your Roku remote to control your Samsung TV's volume and power.
Before starting, confirm:
[ ] Roku device is connected to Samsung TV via HDMI
[ ] Anynet+ is enabled on Samsung TV
[ ] Roku CEC settings are enabled (System audio control, 1-touch play)
[ ] You have a Roku Voice Remote or Enhanced Remote (not Simple Remote)
[ ] Fresh batteries are installed in the remote
[ ] TV volume is set to an audible level
Step 1: Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
Step 2: Using the directional pad, navigate to Settings.
Step 3: Select Remotes & devices.
Step 4: Select Remotes.
Step 5: Select your Roku voice remote from the list displayed.
Step 6: Choose "Set up remote for TV control."
Step 7: Roku will attempt to auto-detect your TV brand. Samsung should appear in the list. If it detects correctly, select Samsung.
Step 8: If auto-detection fails, you'll see an option to "Enter TV brand" manually. Select it and choose Samsung from the alphabetical list.
Step 9: Music will begin playing through your TV speakers. This is the test audio.
Step 10: If you hear the music, select "Yes."
Step 11: Roku will now attempt to mute the music using IR codes. It cycles through different codes for Samsung TVs.
Step 12: When the music mutes successfully, select "Yes" to confirm that code works.
Step 13: If the music doesn't mute, select "No" to try the next code. You may need to cycle through many codes - some users report going through 50+ attempts.
Step 14: Once the correct code is found, test the volume buttons. Press volume up, volume down, and mute.
Step 15: Test the power button. It should turn your Samsung TV off. Press it again to turn the TV back on.
Step 16: Select "OK" to complete the setup.
Here's something most guides won't tell you. Many Samsung TV users have discovered a workaround for pairing issues that's been verified across the Roku community.
The trick: Go through the first one or two codes saying "Yes, I hear the music" even if the music didn't actually mute. Then say "No" on the third code, even though you can still hear music. Continue through the remaining prompts to finish setup.
After completing setup this way, test the power button - your Samsung TV should turn off. Turn it back on and test volume. For many Samsung TV users, this counter-intuitive approach succeeds where the standard process fails.
Why does this work? The Roku database contains multiple IR code sets for Samsung TVs. Sometimes the "correct" code based on automatic detection doesn't match your specific Samsung model, but an alternate code does. Lying to the setup wizard forces it to select a different code that may work better.
After completing setup, verify everything works:
[ ] Volume up increases Samsung TV volume
[ ] Volume down decreases Samsung TV volume
[ ] Mute button mutes and unmutes TV audio
[ ] Power button turns Samsung TV off
[ ] Power button turns Samsung TV back on
If any function doesn't work, run the setup process again. You may need to try different codes.
For adjusting your Samsung TV audio configuration after setup, you'll need the Samsung remote. The Roku remote only handles volume level, not audio modes or equalizer settings.
Once setup is complete and working, consider optimizing your Samsung TV display settings for the best streaming experience.
As a backup option, you can always adjust Samsung TV volume manually using the buttons on the TV itself if remote issues arise.
The pairing button is essential for connecting your Roku remote to your Roku device. If you're experiencing remote connectivity issues, you'll need to know where it is.
Standard Roku Voice Remote: Open the battery compartment by sliding off the back cover. The pairing button is a small circular button located near the bottom of the compartment. It may be labeled "pairing" or marked with a connection icon.
Roku Voice Remote Pro: Because this remote uses a rechargeable battery, there's no battery compartment to open. The pairing button is located on the BACK of the remote, clearly marked. Look near the bottom third of the remote's rear surface.
Roku Enhanced Remote: Same as the standard Voice Remote - inside the battery compartment, near the bottom.
Remotes Without Visible Pairing Button: Some newer Roku voice remotes (starting with model RC-GZ1) don't have a traditional pairing button. Instead, press and hold both the Home and Back buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to enter pairing mode.
Remove the battery cover (if applicable)
Press and hold the pairing button for 5 seconds
Watch for the LED status light to begin flashing
Release the button
Wait up to 30 seconds for your Roku device to detect the remote
A confirmation message will appear on your TV screen when pairing completes
Understanding what the status light means helps troubleshoot pairing issues:
Light Behavior | Meaning |
|---|---|
Solid green | Remote is paired and connected |
Flashing green | Pairing mode active, searching for Roku device |
No light | Dead batteries, remote malfunction, or not in pairing mode |
Flashing amber/yellow | Low battery warning |
If your remote lacks a pairing button or the button isn't responding:
Remove the batteries from the remote
Wait 5 seconds
Reinsert the batteries
Immediately press and hold both the Home and Back buttons for 5 seconds
The LED should begin flashing, indicating pairing mode
Wait for your Roku device to detect and pair the remote
You'll need to re-pair your Roku remote in these situations:
After a factory reset of your Roku device
When using a remote that was previously paired to a different Roku device
After replacing batteries (on some remote models)
Following a firmware update that disrupted the connection
When the remote suddenly stops responding to the Roku device
For reference on Samsung remote connection setup procedures, the process differs significantly since Samsung remotes use Bluetooth rather than Roku's WiFi-based pairing.
When things don't work as expected, systematic troubleshooting beats random button-mashing every time. Let's diagnose and fix your Roku remote issues.
Start here: Is your Roku remote controlling the Roku device itself (navigation, selecting apps)?
YES → The remote is paired to your Roku. The issue is specifically with TV control. Skip to TV control troubleshooting.
NO → The remote has lost connection to your Roku device entirely. Start with remote re-pairing.
Step 1: Replace the batteries. Even if you think the batteries are fine, swap them out. Weak batteries cause inconsistent behavior before they die completely.
Step 2: Restart your Roku device. Unplug it from power, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in. Wait for the home screen to fully load.
Step 3: Restart your Samsung TV. Unplug it from power, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Samsung TVs can develop CEC communication issues that a restart resolves.
Step 4: Re-run TV control setup. Navigate to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes > [your remote] > Set up remote for TV control. Go through the entire process again.
Step 5: Update Roku firmware. Settings > System > System update > Check now.
Step 6: Update Samsung TV firmware. Settings > Support > Software Update > Update Now.
If your TV is unresponsive during troubleshooting, our guide on Samsung TV not responding may help. For general Samsung TV problem solving, check our comprehensive troubleshooting hub.
Performance issues on older Samsung TVs can compound remote problems. If your TV is sluggish overall, see our guide on Samsung TV performance issues.
Volume control issues are the most common complaint when syncing Roku remotes with Samsung TVs. Here's how to fix them.
Verify Remote Type First
Confirm you have a Voice Remote or Enhanced Remote. The Simple Remote cannot control TV volume - period. Check for a microphone button and pairing button to confirm.
Check HDMI-CEC Is Enabled
Return to your Samsung TV settings and verify Anynet+ is still enabled. Firmware updates occasionally reset these settings. Also confirm "System audio control" is enabled.
Re-Run TV Control Setup
Go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes
Select your remote
Choose "Set up remote for TV control"
Complete the full setup process, trying different IR codes if needed
Try All IR Codes
Don't give up after a few attempts. Some users report needing to cycle through all 50+ codes before finding one that works. The correct code isn't always early in the list.
The Westinghouse Workaround
Some Samsung TVs respond better to Westinghouse IR codes than Samsung codes. During setup, when asked to confirm your TV brand:
Select "No, that's not it" when Samsung appears
Manually enter "Westinghouse" as the brand
Complete setup with Westinghouse codes
Test volume functionality
This workaround has resolved volume issues for numerous Samsung TV owners, particularly those with mid-range models.
Check IR Sensor Obstruction
Even though your Roku remote uses RF to communicate with the Roku device, it uses IR (infrared) to send volume commands to your TV. Ensure nothing blocks the line of sight between your remote and your Samsung TV's IR receiver, typically located at the bottom center of the screen.
Samsung IR May Be Disabled
Some newer Samsung TVs with RF remotes have their IR receiver disabled by default since the Samsung remote doesn't need it. Check your Samsung TV settings for an IR receiver option and enable it if found.
For separate volume concerns unrelated to the Roku remote, our guides on Samsung TV weak sound and Samsung TV sound delay issue address common audio problems.
If volume works but power doesn't (or vice versa), the issue likely relates to how each function communicates with your TV.
Understand the Difference
Volume control uses IR codes transmitted directly from the Roku remote to your Samsung TV. Power control typically relies on HDMI-CEC (Anynet+) commands sent through the HDMI connection.
If power isn't working, focus on CEC settings rather than IR codes.
Verify Anynet+ Settings on Both Devices
On your Samsung TV:
Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) must be ON
1-touch play should be enabled
On your Roku:
1-touch play must be enabled
System audio control should be enabled
Try a Different HDMI Port
Not all HDMI ports on Samsung TVs handle CEC commands equally well. HDMI 1 and the HDMI ARC port typically offer the best CEC support. Move your Roku to a different port and test power control again.
One Connect Box Considerations
If your Samsung TV uses a separate One Connect Box (common on higher-end models), connect your Roku device to an HDMI port on the One Connect Box rather than directly to the TV. CEC should still function, but the signal path is different.
Soundbar or AVR Conflicts
If you have an audio/video receiver (AVR) or soundbar connected between your Roku and Samsung TV, CEC power commands may get intercepted. The power command might turn the soundbar on/off instead of the TV.
Try connecting your Roku directly to the Samsung TV (bypassing any audio equipment) to test whether power control works. If it does, the issue is with your audio equipment's CEC handling.
If your Samsung TV turns on unexpectedly at random times after setting up CEC, see our guide on Samsung TV auto power on problem. CEC can sometimes cause unintended power cycling.
If your remote won't complete the TV control setup process at all - either failing to detect Samsung or cycling through codes without success - try these approaches.
Complete Remote Reset
Remove the batteries from your Roku remote
Press every button on the remote 2-3 times (this drains residual power from the capacitors)
Wait 60 seconds
Reinsert fresh batteries
Attempt the TV control setup again
Roku Device Factory Reset
As a last resort, factory reset your Roku device: Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Factory reset.
Warning: This erases all your settings, channel logins, and preferences. You'll need to set everything up again from scratch. Only do this if nothing else works.
Community Workaround Reminder
Remember the Samsung-specific trick: Say "Yes" to the first one or two codes even if the music doesn't mute, then say "No" on the third code and continue through setup. This workaround has helped many Samsung TV owners complete pairing successfully.
Compatibility Reality Check
Some very old Samsung TVs (manufactured before 2015) may simply not be compatible with modern Roku remote TV control. If you've tried everything and nothing works, your TV model may lack the necessary IR code support in Roku's database.
If a factory reset causes problems with your Samsung TV getting stuck, our guide on Samsung TV setup loop problem covers recovery steps.
Can't get your physical remote working? The Roku mobile app provides a reliable backup control method.
The official Roku app is free and available on both iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play Store). Search for "Roku" and download the app from Roku, Inc.
Setup requirements:
Your smartphone or tablet must be connected to the same WiFi network as your Roku device
Your Roku device must be powered on and connected to your TV
After installing, open the app and it will automatically scan for Roku devices on your network. Select your device to connect.
The Roku mobile app offers extensive functionality:
Full remote control - All navigation buttons, playback controls, and input selection
Voice search - Use your phone's microphone for voice commands
Private listening - Route audio through your phone's headphone jack or Bluetooth headphones
Keyboard input - Much easier for typing searches and passwords than the on-screen keyboard
Channel browsing - Browse and launch channels directly from the app
Screen mirroring - Cast photos, videos, and content from your phone to the TV
The mobile app cannot control your Samsung TV's power or volume. It only communicates with the Roku device itself. For TV control, you'll need either a working Roku physical remote or your Samsung TV remote.
The app requires an active WiFi connection. If your network goes down, you lose remote functionality. The physical remote uses RF and doesn't depend on WiFi.
Battery drain is another consideration. Using your phone as a remote consumes phone battery, which may not be ideal during extended viewing sessions.
Your physical remote is lost or broken
Temporary backup while troubleshooting
You prefer private listening through phone headphones
You need to type long passwords or searches
For users who need to connect their TV to mobile data while traveling, our guide on Samsung TV phone hotspot connectivity explains the process.
If you're looking to display your laptop content on your Samsung TV alongside Roku usage, check out our MacBook Samsung TV connection guide.
Sometimes you want the opposite setup - using your Samsung remote to control the Roku device. Samsung's universal remote feature makes this possible.
Press the Source button on your Samsung remote
Navigate up to access Universal Remote
Select Universal Remote on the Source screen
Select Start
Choose "OTT Box/Game console" (this category includes Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, etc.)
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete device registration
Your Samsung TV will attempt to detect and configure the Roku device automatically. Once complete, you can use the Samsung remote for basic Roku navigation.
After setup, your Samsung remote can:
Navigate the Roku interface (directional buttons)
Select/confirm choices (OK/Enter button)
Go back (Back button)
Basic playback (play, pause)
The Samsung remote cannot:
Access Roku voice commands
Use Roku-specific shortcut buttons
Perform all Roku functions available on the native remote
This setup works best for users who want to minimize remote switching and don't heavily use voice search.
For setting up other universal remotes with your Samsung TV, our guide on program universal remote Samsung TV covers multiple brands and methods.
New to Samsung TV remotes? Our Samsung TV controller guide explains all the buttons and hidden features.
For users who want the best possible experience, these optimization tips make a noticeable difference.
Not all HDMI ports are equal for CEC purposes. HDMI 1 and HDMI ARC/eARC ports typically offer the best CEC support on Samsung TVs. If you're experiencing intermittent issues, moving your Roku to a different port may help.
The ARC (Audio Return Channel) port is designed for two-way communication, which aligns well with CEC requirements. Even if you're not using ARC for audio, this port often handles CEC commands more reliably.
CEC communication can be disrupted by poor-quality or damaged HDMI cables. For reliable CEC operation, use certified high-speed HDMI cables. Cables that worked fine for video may not handle CEC data correctly.
If you've ruled out other issues and problems persist, try a new HDMI cable before assuming the remote or devices are faulty.
For the fastest remote response:
Connect your Roku directly to your Samsung TV rather than through an AVR or soundbar
Use a wired ethernet connection for your Roku if possible (reduces network-related delays)
Keep Roku firmware updated
Some latency is normal with CEC commands - they're inherently slower than direct IR communication. But excessive delays usually indicate connection issues.
With 1-touch play enabled on both devices, your Roku and Samsung TV should power on together. For power-off synchronization, some Samsung TVs offer an "Auto Power Off" option in the Anynet+ settings that turns connected devices off when you turn off the TV.
If you have multiple Roku devices connected to different TVs in your home, each Roku remote is paired to a specific Roku device. They won't interfere with each other.
You can use the same Roku account across all devices, and your channel preferences will sync. But remote pairing is device-specific.
For Voice Remote Pro users with rechargeable batteries, charge the remote overnight periodically. Low battery levels can cause inconsistent behavior before the remote dies completely.
For standard Voice Remotes with replaceable batteries, quality alkaline batteries last longer than cheap alternatives. Consider rechargeable AA batteries with a separate charger for environmental and cost reasons.
If you're experiencing issues with gaming performance that might relate to HDMI settings, check our guide on Samsung game mode disabling unexpectedly.
For input detection problems when switching between Roku and other devices, see Samsung TV source not detected.
No. Only Roku Voice Remotes and Enhanced Remotes can control Samsung TV volume and power. The Roku Simple Remote (IR-only, no microphone button) does not have TV control capability. If you have a Simple Remote, you'll need to purchase a Voice Remote separately to gain TV control.
Volume is controlled via IR codes transmitted directly from the remote to your TV. Power control typically uses HDMI-CEC (Anynet+) commands sent through the HDMI connection. If volume works but power doesn't, check that Anynet+ is enabled on both your Samsung TV and Roku device. Also verify that 1-touch play is enabled in your Roku's CEC settings.
Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) is available on most Samsung Smart TVs manufactured after 2008. However, functionality varies by model and age. Some older TVs have limited CEC support that may not work reliably with Roku devices. TVs manufactured before 2008 likely don't support CEC at all.
The Roku remote cannot directly control soundbars. However, if your soundbar is connected via HDMI ARC to your Samsung TV and the TV's audio is routed through the soundbar, volume commands may pass through the TV's CEC system to the soundbar. Results vary by soundbar model and configuration.
For Samsung TVs with a separate One Connect Box, connect your Roku device to one of the HDMI ports on the One Connect Box rather than trying to connect directly to the TV itself. CEC functionality should work normally through the One Connect Box. The box simply extends the TV's HDMI ports to a separate location.
Remove the batteries, press every button on the remote 2-3 times to drain residual power, wait 60 seconds, then reinsert fresh batteries. The remote will need to be re-paired to your Roku device and reconfigured for TV control. This process clears any stored settings or codes.
Yes. Roku devices can be paired with multiple remotes, and you can switch between them freely. Each remote will control the device when in use. However, only one voice remote can be actively connected at a time for voice commands. IR remotes don't require pairing and work automatically.
Your Roku remote uses RF/WiFi to communicate with the Roku device and IR codes to control the TV. If the remote controls Roku but not your Samsung TV, the issue is with the IR code setup or Samsung TV settings - not with the remote's basic functionality. Re-run the "Set up remote for TV control" process and try different IR codes.
For additional Samsung TV issues that might affect your streaming experience, our guides on Samsung TV tuner problems and no input detected Samsung provide targeted solutions.
If you also use an Amazon Fire Stick with your Samsung TV, you may encounter similar setup requirements. Check our guide on Fire TV Stick Samsung TV issue troubleshooting. The process to Firestick remote Samsung pairing shares many similarities with Roku remote setup.
Syncing your Roku remote to your Samsung TV transforms a multi-remote juggling act into streamlined one-device control. The process requires enabling Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) on your Samsung TV, configuring CEC settings on your Roku, and running through the TV control setup wizard.
Key takeaways:
Only Voice Remotes and Enhanced Remotes can control Samsung TV volume and power
Anynet+ must be enabled on your Samsung TV for CEC communication
The pairing button location varies by remote model - check the battery compartment or back of the remote
Samsung TVs often require the community workaround (say "Yes" then "No" during setup) for successful pairing
Keep both devices' firmware updated for best compatibility
If setup succeeds, you'll have single-remote control over your streaming experience. If problems persist after exhausting the troubleshooting steps, your specific Samsung TV model may have compatibility limitations with Roku's IR code database.
The Roku mobile app serves as a reliable backup for device control, though it can't handle TV volume or power. For those functions, you'll always need either a working physical remote or your Samsung TV remote.
Firmware updates on both devices occasionally reset settings or introduce changes, so bookmark this guide for future reference. When something stops working that previously worked fine, returning to basics - verifying Anynet+ is enabled and re-running TV control setup - resolves most issues.
For continued streaming optimization, explore how to access Samsung TV Plus Roku app content through your Roku device. And for maintaining peak TV performance, periodically Samsung TV app cache clear to keep everything running smoothly.
Your streaming setup should enhance your entertainment, not complicate it. With your Roku remote properly synced to your Samsung TV, you're ready to enjoy seamless control over your viewing experience.