The fastest way to find your Roku remote

If your remote is lost in your home, use your phone instead. read the official Roku app (available free on iOS and Android), connect it to the same WiFi network as your Roku device, and you can control everything from your phone when ready — no pairing needed, no waiting for a replacement to arrive. This works for volume, channel navigation, and all settings changes.

If you need the physical remote back because you prefer it or want a backup, Roku sells replacements directly. A standard Roku remote costs between $20 and $30 depending on the model. You can order one from Roku's website, Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart. Before you buy, check which Roku model you own (usually printed on the back of the device or in your Settings menu under System Information) so you get the right remote — not all remotes work with all Roku devices.

Key Takeaways

  • The Roku mobile app turns your smartphone into a full remote control and works when ready over WiFi without any setup.
  • Replacement Roku remotes cost $20 to $30 and are available from Roku directly, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.
  • Check your Roku model number before ordering a replacement remote, because different Roku devices use different remote types.
  • If you want to keep your device find while using your phone as a remote, you can still lock down settings and parental controls through the Roku app.

Using the Roku app as your remote

The Roku app gives you full control without touching the physical remote. Open the app, select your Roku device from the list, and you see a virtual remote on your screen with all the same buttons: directional pad, select, home, back, and volume. You can also type text directly into search boxes using your phone's keyboard instead of hunting through letters on a remote.

The app works as long as your phone and Roku device are on the same WiFi network. You do not need to pair them or enter a code — the app finds your Roku automatically. If your phone and Roku are on different networks (for example, if you have a guest network), the app will not connect, but you can switch your phone to the same network temporarily to control the device.

One advantage of using the app: you can still lock down your Roku settings and parental controls through the same app. If you are concerned about unauthorized changes to your device settings, you can set a PIN that protects access to Settings, even if someone has the physical remote.

Finding your physical remote in your home

Before you buy a replacement, spend 10 minutes checking the places remotes usually hide. Look between couch cushions, under blankets or pillows, on nightstands and end tables, in the kitchen near where you watch TV, and in any bags or jackets you wore recently. Check the floor under and behind furniture — remotes often fall and roll out of sight.

If you have pets, check their beds and favorite spots. If you have children, ask them directly and check their rooms, toy boxes, and anywhere they play. Remotes are small enough that a child might have picked it up and left it somewhere unexpected.

If you still cannot find it after a thorough search, use your phone as a remote while you decide whether to replace the physical one. Many people find they prefer the phone app once they get used to it, so you may not need to buy a replacement at all.

Choosing the right replacement remote

Roku makes several remote types, and they are not all compatible with every Roku device. The main types are the standard infrared remote (works with older Roku devices and requires line of sight to the TV), the enhanced remote with voice control and a headphone jack, and the Roku Voice Remote Pro with a microphone and rechargeable battery.

To find your Roku model, look at the back or bottom of your device — it usually says "Roku" followed by a number or name (like Roku 3, Roku Streaming Stick+, Roku Ultra). You can also find this in Settings by pressing Home on any remote or in the Roku app, then going to Settings > System > About. Write down the exact model name.

Once you know your model, go to Roku.com/products/remotes or search for your model number on Amazon or Best Buy. The product page will show which remotes are compatible. Buying the wrong remote will not damage anything, but it straightforward will not work with your device, so double-check before you order.

Where to buy a replacement remote

Roku sells remotes directly through Roku.com. Ordering from Roku usually takes 5 to 10 business days for delivery. Amazon typically has Roku remotes in stock and offers faster shipping if you have Prime membership. Best Buy and Walmart both carry Roku remotes in stores and online, so you can pick one up the same day if you need it urgently.

Prices are similar across all retailers — usually $20 to $30 for a standard remote, more for enhanced models with voice control. Compare shipping costs and delivery times across retailers before you order, especially if you want the remote quickly.

Avoid third-party "universal" remotes marketed as Roku-compatible unless they specifically list your exact Roku model. These often have limited functionality and may not control all features of your device.

Setting up a replacement remote when it arrives

When your new remote arrives, most Roku remotes pair automatically. Turn on your Roku device, point the new remote at it, and press any button. The remote should connect within a few seconds. If it does not, try pressing the pairing button (usually on the back of the remote) and wait for a light to blink, then point it at your Roku device again.

If you are replacing an infrared remote with a newer model that has WiFi or Bluetooth, you may need to go into Settings > Remotes & Devices to complete the pairing. The on-screen instructions will walk you through it. If you run into trouble, Roku's support site has model-specific pairing guides.

Once your new remote is working, you can still use the Roku app on your phone as a backup. Having both options means you always have a way to control your device, even if one remote goes missing again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any remote with my Roku device?

No. Roku remotes are model-specific, and a remote made for one Roku model usually will not work with another. Before buying a replacement, check your Roku model number in Settings > System > About and confirm the remote is listed as compatible with that exact model.

Does the Roku app work if my internet is down?

No. The Roku app requires WiFi to communicate with your device. If your internet is out, you will need the physical remote or a replacement. This is one reason many people keep both the app and a physical remote available.

What if my replacement remote still does not work after pairing?

Try replacing the batteries first — many "broken" remotes just have dead batteries. If new batteries do not help, check that you have the correct model for your Roku device. If you ordered the wrong one, contact the retailer about a return. If you ordered the right one, Roku's support team can help troubleshoot over the phone or through their website.

Can I use my phone remote to change parental controls and security settings?

Yes. The Roku app has full access to all settings, including parental controls, PIN protection, and privacy options. You can lock down your device settings through the app just as you would with the physical remote.

How much does a Roku remote cost?

Standard Roku remotes typically cost $20 to $30. Enhanced remotes with voice control or additional features cost more, sometimes $40 to $50. Prices vary slightly by retailer and model. Check Roku.com, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart to compare current prices for your specific remote type.