

If you are experiencing the issue where your Roku remote only power button works, you’re not alone. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the possible causes and provide step-by-step solutions to restore full functionality to your Roku remote.
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Common Reasons Behind Roku TV Remote Only Power Button Works
There are several reasons why your Roku remote only power button works, while the rest of the buttons remain unresponsive. The power button operates separately in some cases, meaning that even when the remote isn’t fully functional, it might still turn your Roku TV on or off. Below, we explore some common causes:
- Low or dead batteries: Weak batteries can cause inconsistent behavior in the remote.
- IR signal blockage: If your Roku remote uses infrared (IR), obstacles between the remote and the device can interfere with signals.
- Pairing issues: If you have a Roku enhanced remote, it may have lost its pairing with the TV.
- Software glitches: A firmware issue in the Roku device may prevent remote buttons from working.
- Physical damage: If your remote has been dropped or exposed to moisture, some buttons may stop functioning.
- Interference from other devices: Wireless interference can disrupt communication between the remote and Roku device.
Identifying the exact cause can help in applying the right solution. In the next section, we’ll go through multiple troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue effectively.
How to Solve Only Power Button Works on Roku Remote
Now that we’ve identified possible reasons why your Roku remote power button works but nothing else, let’s go over how to fix it. We have outlined five different solutions, each targeting a specific cause of the issue. By following the step-by-step troubleshooting process, you can restore your Roku remote’s full functionality.
– Check and Replace the Batteries
One of the most common reasons for a non-responsive Roku remote is low or dead batteries. Here’s how to check and replace them:

Step 1. Open the battery compartment on the back of the Roku remote.
Step 2. Remove the existing batteries and wait for about 30 seconds.
Step 3. Insert new AA or AAA batteries, depending on your Roku remote model, then close the battery cover and test the remote.
– Re-pair the Roku Remote
If the Roku remote not working except power button persists, proceed to the next solution. For Roku remotes that use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, re-pairing can help restore functionality:
Step 1. Remove the batteries from the remote.
Step 2. Unplug your Roku device from the power source and wait for 10 seconds.
Step 3. Plug the Roku device back in and wait for it to restart.

Step 4. Insert the batteries back into the remote, then press and hold the Pairing button inside the battery compartment for 5 seconds.
Step 5. Wait for the pairing light to blink, then release the button. Follow on-screen instructions if prompted.
– Perform a Power Cycle on Roku Device
If re-pairing the remote does not work, restarting your Roku device can help resolve potential software glitches that may interfere with the remote’s functionality. A system reboot can clear temporary bugs, refresh connections, and restore normal operation. Follow these steps to restart your Roku device properly:
Step 1. Unplug the Roku device from the power outlet, remove the batteries from the Roku remote,and wait for 1-2 minutes.
Step 2. Plug the Roku device back into the power outlet and turn it on, and insert the batteries into the remote and test it.
– Ensure There Are No Signal Interferences
If you are using an infrared (IR) Roku remote, it relies on a direct line of sight to communicate with your Roku device. Unlike Wi-Fi or Bluetooth remotes, an IR remote requires a clear path between the remote and the Roku sensor to function properly.
Step 1. Remove any objects blocking the line of sight between the remote and the Roku device.
Step 2. Clean the IR sensor on both the remote and the Roku device.
Step 3. Try using the remote closer to the Roku device.
Step 4. Test the remote by pointing it at a smartphone camera to see if the IR emitter is working.
– Use the Free Roku Remote App as an Alternative
If none of the above solutions work, you can still control your Roku device using a free universal Roku remote app, which acts as a fully functional remote. This is a great alternative while troubleshooting your physical Roku remote or waiting for a replacement.

Download Remote for Roku TV
Step 1. Install the remote app on your mobile device, then ensure your mobile device and Roku device are covered by the same wireless network.
Step 2. Launch the virtual remote, then tap “Tap to Select” to choose your Roku from the device list to finish the pairing procedure. Once the process succeeds, you can click the onscreen buttons to control your Roku.
To Sum Up
Dealing with the Roku TV remote only power button works can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue. In this guide, we covered common causes and detailed solutions. By following these steps, you should be able to restore your Roku remote’s full functionality
Roku Remote Only Power Button Works FAQ
Q: Why is my Roku remote turning the TV on but not working?
If your Roku remote turns the TV on but does not work otherwise, it could be due to low batteries, lost pairing, IR interference, or a software issue. Try replacing the batteries, re-pairing the remote, clearing obstructions, or restarting your Roku device to resolve the issue.
Q: How do I reset my unresponsive Roku remote?
- Remove the batteries from the remote, then unplug your Roku device and wait for 10 seconds.
- Plug the Roku device back in and turn it on, and insert the batteries into the remote.
- Hold the pairing button inside the battery compartment for 5 seconds, and follow on-screen instructions if needed.