Are you frustrated because you can’t figure out how to control volume on your Roku remote? You’re not alone. Many Roku users struggle with volume control, especially when they discover their remote doesn’t have volume buttons or when the volume buttons suddenly stop working.
The good news is that we’ve created this complete guide to help you understand and solve all Roku remote volume control issues. Whether you have a Roku Express, a Voice Remote, or any other Roku model, you’ll find the answers you need right here.
Key Takeaways
- Not all Roku remotes have volume buttons – Basic Roku Express models come with simple remotes without volume controls
- Voice Remotes can control TV volume – If you have a Roku Voice Remote, you can set it up to control your TV’s volume
- Setup is required for volume control – Voice Remotes need to be programmed to work with your TV through the settings menu
- Multiple solutions exist – From using your TV remote to upgrading your remote, there are several ways to manage volume
- Troubleshooting is often simple – Most volume control issues can be fixed with basic steps like checking batteries or re-pairing
Understanding Roku Remote Types and Volume Control
Before we dive into solutions, it’s important to understand that not all Roku remotes are created equal. Roku makes different types of remotes for different models, and volume control capabilities vary significantly between them.
The basic Roku Express comes with what Roku calls a “Simple Remote.” This remote does not have volume buttons or power buttons. It’s designed to be a basic, infrared (IR) remote that only controls the Roku device itself. If you have this remote, you’ll need to use your TV’s original remote to control volume.
On the other hand, Roku Express 4K+ and most other Roku models come with a “Voice Remote.” This remote includes volume buttons, power buttons, and even a microphone for voice commands. The Voice Remote can be programmed to control your TV’s volume and power through a feature called CEC (Consumer Electronics Control).
If you’re wondering why your Roku remote has no volume control, it’s likely because you have the basic Simple Remote model. This is common with entry-level Roku devices and is completely normal. The good news is that you have options if you want volume control capabilities.
How to Set Up Volume Control on Roku Voice Remote?
If you have a Roku Voice Remote (one with volume buttons), setting it up to control your TV’s volume is straightforward.
Here’s how to adjust volume on Roku remote when it’s not working:
- Press the Home button on your Roku remote
- Go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes
- Select your voice remote, then choose “Set up remote for TV control”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to program your remote
During setup, your Roku will play music and ask if you can hear it. This helps it find the right control codes for your TV. You’ll need to answer “Yes” or “No” as the music plays and stops. If your TV brand isn’t found automatically, you can enter it manually using the on-screen keyboard.
For controlling volume with Roku remote to work properly, make sure:
- Your TV volume is turned up during setup
- You point the remote directly at your TV
- Your TV supports HDMI-CEC (most modern TVs do)
- Your Roku device is plugged into a wall outlet, not your TV’s USB port
If you have a Roku Voice Remote Pro, you can even control volume with voice commands like “Hey Roku, turn up the volume” or “Hey Roku, set volume to 10.”
What to Do When Your Roku Remote Doesn’t Control Volume?
It’s frustrating when your Roku remote doesn’t control volume, especially if it used to work before. Here are the most common reasons why your Roku does not control volume and how to fix them:
Check the Batteries Low batteries are the most common cause of remote issues. Replace the batteries in your remote with fresh ones and try again.
Re-pair Your Remote Sometimes the remote loses its connection to the Roku device. To re-pair:
- Remove the batteries from your remote
- Unplug your Roku device from power
- Wait 10 seconds, then plug the Roku back in
- When the Roku home screen appears, reinsert the batteries
- The remote should automatically pair
Redo the TV Control Setup If your Roku remote doesn’t control volume, the TV control setup might need to be redone:
- Go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes
- Select your remote and choose “Set up remote for TV control”
- Follow the setup steps again
Check Your TV’s CEC Settings Some TVs have CEC turned off by default. Look in your TV’s settings menu for options called:
- HDMI-CEC
- Anynet+ (Samsung)
- BRAVIA Sync (Sony)
- SimpLink (LG)
- EasyLink (Philips)
Make sure CEC is enabled for the HDMI port your Roku is connected to.
How to Control Volume on Roku Express?
The Roku Express is one of Roku’s most popular models, but it often confuses users because of its limited remote capabilities. If you’re wondering about Roku Express volume control, here’s what you need to know:
Basic Roku Express The standard Roku Express comes with a Simple Remote that has no volume buttons. With this model, you have two options:
- Use your TV’s original remote to control volume
- Upgrade to a Roku Voice Remote (sold separately)
Roku Express 4K+ This model includes a Voice Remote with volume buttons. If you have this version, follow the setup steps mentioned earlier to enable volume control.
Alternative Solutions If you have the basic Roku Express and want volume control without buying a new remote, consider:
- Using the Roku mobile app (available for iOS and Android)
- Programming a universal remote to work with both your TV and Roku
- Using your cable/satellite remote if it has universal capabilities
The Roku mobile app can be a great solution when your Roku remote no volume control situation is frustrating. The app includes a virtual remote with volume controls that works through your phone.
How to Fix Volume Issues on Roku Remote?
When you need to fix volume on Roku remote, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. Here’s a comprehensive approach:
Basic Troubleshooting
- Replace the batteries in your remote
- Restart your Roku device by unplugging it for 10 seconds
- Check that nothing is blocking the signal between remote and device
- Make sure you’re within range (about 20 feet) of your Roku
Advanced Solutions If basic steps don’t work, try these:
Reset Your Remote For Voice Remotes:
- Press and hold the Back and Home buttons simultaneously for 20 seconds
- Wait for the remote to restart and re-pair automatically
For rechargeable Voice Remotes with a pairing button:
- Press and hold the pairing button for 20 seconds
- Wait for the remote to restart
Check for Interference Other devices can interfere with your remote’s signal:
- Move away from fluorescent lights
- Keep away from other remotes and wireless devices
- Avoid direct sunlight on the Roku device
Update Your Roku Software Outdated software can cause issues:
- Go to Settings > System > System update
- Select “Check now” to install any available updates
When to Replace Your Remote If you’ve tried everything and your Roku remote doesn’t control volume, it might be time for a replacement. Contact Roku support or purchase a new remote from their website or authorized retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there no volume button on my Roku remote?
Your Roku remote likely doesn’t have volume buttons because you have a basic Roku model that comes with a “Simple Remote.” These remotes are designed to be basic, infrared controllers that only navigate the Roku interface. They don’t include volume or power buttons to keep costs down for entry-level devices. If you want volume control, you’ll need to either use your TV’s remote or upgrade to a Roku Voice Remote, which includes volume buttons and can be programmed to control your TV.
How do I control volume on Roku Express?
Controlling volume on Roku Express depends on which model you have. The basic Roku Express comes with a Simple Remote that has no volume buttons, so you must use your TV’s original remote for volume control. The Roku Express 4K+ includes a Voice Remote with volume buttons that can be set up to control your TV’s volume. Alternatively, you can use the Roku mobile app on your smartphone, which includes virtual volume controls, or upgrade to a Voice Remote if you have the basic model.
Why did my Roku remote stop controlling volume?
If your Roku remote suddenly stopped controlling volume, several issues could be at play. The most common causes are dead batteries, a lost connection between the remote and Roku device, or a problem with the TV control setup. Try replacing the batteries, re-pairing the remote by removing batteries and unplugging the Roku device, or redoing the TV control setup in the settings menu. Sometimes, a software update on either the Roku or TV can also cause volume control to stop working, requiring you to set it up again.
Can I use my phone to control Roku volume?
Yes, you can use your phone to control Roku volume by downloading the official Roku mobile app (available for both iOS and Android). The app includes a virtual remote that appears on your phone screen with all the same buttons as a physical remote, including volume controls. This is especially helpful if you have a Roku Express with a Simple Remote that lacks volume buttons, or if your physical remote isn’t working properly. The phone remote works through your home WiFi network, so make sure your phone and Roku are connected to the same WiFi.
Do I need a different remote for volume control?
You might need a different remote for volume control if you have a basic Roku model that came with a Simple Remote. The Simple Remote doesn’t have volume buttons and cannot be programmed to control your TV. In this case, you would need to purchase a Roku Voice Remote (which has volume buttons) or use your TV’s original remote. However, if you already have a Voice Remote that’s not controlling volume, you likely just need to set it up properly rather than replace it.
How do I set up my Roku remote to control TV volume?
To set up your Roku Voice Remote to control TV volume, press the Home button on your remote, then go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes. Select your voice remote and choose “Set up remote for TV control.” Follow the on-screen instructions, which involve testing whether you can hear music that plays and confirming when the volume changes. Your Roku will automatically try to find the right control codes for your TV brand. If it can’t find your TV automatically, you can enter the brand manually using the on-screen keyboard.
Why does my Roku Express not have volume buttons?
Your Roku Express doesn’t have volume buttons because it’s the basic model that comes with a “Simple Remote.” Roku designed this remote to be a cost-effective, basic controller that only navigates the Roku interface. It uses infrared (IR) technology and doesn’t include advanced features like volume control or voice commands. This helps keep the price low for entry-level streaming devices. If you want volume control, you can either use your TV’s remote, upgrade to a Roku Express 4K+ (which includes a Voice Remote), or purchase a Voice Remote separately.
Conclusion
Now you know everything about how to control volume on Roku remote, regardless of which Roku model you own. Whether you have a basic Roku Express with a Simple Remote or a Voice Remote that needs setup, you have multiple options for managing your TV’s volume. Remember that most volume control issues can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps like checking batteries or redoing the TV control setup.
If you’re still having trouble with Roku remote volume control, don’t hesitate to visit Roku’s official support page for more detailed help. And if you’re experiencing other streaming issues, check out our guide on why your smart TV keeps buffering or learn how to connect a universal remote to your TV for even more control options.
With the information in this guide, you should be able to solve any Roku remote volume control issue and enjoy your streaming experience without frustration. Happy streaming!
