Most of us associate remote controls with televisions, although many other appliances and devices also use them. When we hear a report that a Samsung remote isn't working , we automatically think of a problem with the Samsung TV.
The remote control is a device that helps you navigate the TV menus, change channels, control the volume level, and so on. But sometimes, TV remote controls stop working.
There may be problems with the keys, the batteries, the infrared emitter, the receiver in the TV, in short, the fault can be due to different causes. Here we will see more details about these faults, and some resolution methods that you can apply to recover your remote control.
Samsung Remote Not Working
When your Samsung Smart TV remote stops working, you can't access most of the TV's functions. The navigation function is completely useless without the remote. Therefore, it's essential to resolve this issue.
Is your Samsung remote not working ? It might be damaged. However, here are some troubleshooting instructions to help you fix a malfunctioning Samsung TV remote.
For example, most of them are dead battery issues, physical damage, pairing issues. In most cases, the IR sensor issue prevents the remote from working. All of these have a solution, and that's what we'll see below.
1. Test the operation by moving closer to the Samsung TV
When you point the remote at your Samsung TV, and press the power button with no response, you may be too far away from the set.
In some cases, certain systems require a minimum sensor distance of approximately 6 meters. Move a little closer to the Samsung Smart TV and try pressing the power button again.
Make sure there is no furniture or other appliances between the TV and the remote. There should be a clear path from the sensor on the remote to the TV's infrared receiver.
2. Replace the batteries with new ones
It often happens that the remote control starts to fail, performing the actions we ask of it more slowly, or not at all. You must ask yourself: When was the last time I changed the batteries in the remote control?
If you have been using them for a long time, it is best to change the batteries. They usually have two AA or AAA batteries and can be removed from the back of the remote by removing a cover.
We recommend that you replace it with a new pair of batteries, so that you can properly test the functionality of the remote and rule out any other faults.
After making the change, verify that the remote works correctly.
3. Clean your Samsung remote
If your TV is changing channels or volume on its own, it means there is dust or grime on the TV remote. The grime can leave a key stuck and cause the TV to start acting up, changing channels, turning up the volume, or changing settings on its own.
So, the first thing you need to do is clean your Samsung remote. Let's see the instructions for this:
- Remove the batteries from the TV remote control.
- Wipe the touch controls with a microfiber cloth to remove dust particles from the remote.
- Try cleaning between the crevices of each key with the microfiber cloth. Don't leave any spot uncleaned.
- After cleaning, check to see that none of the keys are getting stuck or sticking.
- Now insert the batteries into the remote control, correctly. All remote controls have explanatory drawings of the battery positions.
- Check if the remote control problem has disappeared.
You might also be interested in: Samsung Smart Switch not working. Causes, Solutions, Alternatives
4. Clean the infrared sensor on the remote control
The infrared sensors on your Samsung TV remote help send signals to the TV when users give inputs. However, it may be that dust or dirt on the surface of the infrared sensor blocks the signals from reaching the receiver.
In this case, clean the infrared sensor with a microfibre cloth. You will find it on the front of the remote control, and it is usually protected by a plate. This plate must be completely clean, without any stains.
Take advantage and clean the infrared receiver plate on the Samsung TV as well. You will find it on the front of the TV, under the screen, in the central part. After that, turn on your TV and then start using the remote control. Now, your TV should receive the signals without any problems.
5. Check that the Samsung remote control is paired
Most of the time, the remote control does not work on the TV because it has not been paired. When you remove the batteries or turn off your TV, the remote control may unpair itself.
This happens when you perform a full reset on your Samsung TV . If this is the case, you need to pair your Samsung Smart TV with the remote control again. To do this, follow the instructions below:
- On the remote control, press the “ROI"And"Play / Pause” at the same time, and for at least 5 seconds.
- When you release the buttons, your smart TV Samsung starts to sync with the smart remote control.
- Then test if it works properly.
This method works with almost all Samsung Smart TV models , and some other conventional models. You should test it to see if it works with yours.
6. Reset the remote control
Obviously, the problem is your remote control. By now, it should be showing signs of life. If your Samsung TV remote control has not worked after applying the instructions above, reset your smart remote control.
To do that, follow these steps:
- Remove the batteries from the remote control.
- Then press the power button for at least 8 seconds to reset the TV remote.
- Now, reinsert the batteries into the remote control.
- Then pair the remote control, following the instructions we gave you in method 4.
- Done, now check if the remote control works properly.
7. Disable and enable Bluetooth on your Samsung Smart TV
If you have paired your remote via Bluetooth to your Samsung Smart TV at any time since you purchased it, turn it off and then check if the Bluetooth was interfering with the infrared signal.
If you don't need Bluetooth, you can leave it off, and only use infrared. Then turn Bluetooth back on on the TV so it can communicate with other devices.
Make sure there are no obstructions or other interfering devices between the TV and the remote control.
For example, electromagnetic devices can create obstructions to the infrared, so try to avoid placing any devices between the remote control and the TV as much as possible.
8. Install the Remote for Samsung TV app on your smartphone
If none of the above methods worked to fix the remote control problem on your Samsung Smart TV, install the Remote for Samsung TV app on your smartphone.
With this app, you can turn your smartphone into a remote control for your Samsung TV, while you take the remote control to a repair shop.
You can easily get the app on the Google Play Store , using the link we've provided.
You can use this app to navigate and control your TV. It will also help you update your TV's firmware and reset your TV to factory settings if you deem it necessary.
9. Update the firmware
If you've made it this far and haven't been able to resolve the remote control issue, there may be a software issue - your TV is running outdated firmware.
To resolve the issue, you need to update your TV to the latest version. To do that, proceed with the following steps:
- Go to the "Configuration” from your Samsung TV.
- Then select “All configurations".
- Now select "Support".
- Under “Support”, select “Upgrade system".
- Choose "Network” and then the update begins.
Once the update is complete, check if the controller that was failing regains its functionality.
Alternatives to the Samsung Remote
If you have tried all the methods we have mentioned and still have not been able to solve your problem with the Samsung remote, you also have the option of getting a universal remote.
Universal remote controls have greatly improved their designs, adding more functions and being compatible with an endless number of models and brands of televisions.
However, you can't just buy the first one you come across. Ideally, you should buy a universal remote that is compatible with Samsung TV and also has good reviews from other users.
To make your purchase easier, we have selected some universal remote controls that are compatible with Samsung, and that also have very good reviews. Let's get started.
1. SofaBaton Universal Remote Control
The SofaBaton universal remote control is a well-designed universal remote that offers many more features than you might expect for such a low price.
You can control up to 15 devices, including infrared and Bluetooth-based AV devices, and of course, our Samsung Smart TV. So it's more flexible than many of the lower-priced remotes on the market.
It has an intuitive button layout that includes most of the control options you'll need, and the OLED display makes it easy to switch between the different AV devices you want to control.
You can program the SofaBaton using a convenient setup app for iOS and Android , and the app provides many customization options to reassign what the remote control buttons can do.
The SofaBaton has a slightly steep learning curve for someone who has never programmed a universal remote. But despite these issues, the SofaBaton is the best option we've found for your Samsung Smart TV.
2. One for All Smart Control 8 Universal Remote Control
The One for All Smart Control 8 Universal Remote Control is a simple and affordable remote control for people who want to control all their equipment via infrared (IR).
You can't control Bluetooth-based devices like Google Chromecast or Nvidia Shield TV, but it will work well with most AV products, including most cable and satellite set-top boxes, Blu-ray players, soundbars , game consoles, and AV receivers.
If you are not sure how to control your device, try this, point the remote at the ground in the opposite direction of the device you are supposed to control, then press any button.
If the remote still executes the command, then you are using Bluetooth or RF, not IR.
The One for All Smart Control 8 can control eight devices and has all the important buttons you'll need, including five activity controls that let you group devices to watch a movie, play video games , and more.
Most of the programming is done the old-fashioned way, by manually putting the remote control into programming mode and pressing many buttons.
3. Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote
The Logitech Harmony Elite universal remote control can be considered among the best on the market, boasting great compatibility with devices, models, and brands.
Of course, its compatibility doesn't stop at just TVs. Being Logitech, it has a wide compatibility, both with different types of devices, as well as models and brands on the market.
This remote control comes with an app that simplifies setup and even allows you to use Wi-Fi to control devices remotely. It also features voice activation, making it compatible with Alexa and Google Home.
The Harmony Elite impresses with its robust, powerful design, large buttons, and a simple, user-friendly display. With its basic and more advanced features, you'll get a lot of use out of it in your home.
Of course, it is not a budget option as it is still expensive, but its great quality, compatibility and features put it on our list.
4. Caavo Smart Control Center
The Caavo universal remote control starts with the HDMI Switch + Control Hub, a set-top box-like device where you can connect your Samsung TV, game console, soundbar, and more. After that, everything can be easily controlled from the remote.
The control center interface is really very simple, easy to use and suitable for all ages. So don't worry, its learning curve is really short. The control center has Smart functions, with which it can check your consumption pattern and adapt to it.
It's compatible with a ton of devices, models and brands, including Samsung TVs. Plus, it comes with voice control, which is awesome to see on universal equipment.
On top of all this, the Caavo Smart Control Center can easily work with 4K Ultra-HD images, something few can yet offer.
5. Logitech Harmony 665 Universal Remote Control
A slightly more affordable option than the Logitech Harmony Elite is the Harmony 665 , a universal remote that has everything you need.
This universal remote, being Logitech, offers you great compatibility of more than 270.000 devices, including of course the Samsung TV. As long as the TV you are controlling uses infrared, you can pair them. You can control up to 10 devices simultaneously with this remote.
Among the features that stand out, we can name the fact that it offers the ability to customize and configure more than 20 buttons, to pre-program them to your convenience.
Plus, with its bright, illuminated buttons, you'll never lose control at night when you're binge-watching. The Logitech Harmony 665 is a premium remote.
If you run into any problems, an on-screen help feature can guide you through how to troubleshoot any issues that arise.
6. Universal Remote Control Application – Lean Remote
Like most apps, there's a high turnover of apps based on the updates they need to make to stay current. One app that's been around for a long time is the Lean Remote app.
When you download the Lean Remote app , it essentially creates separate remote controls for each of your devices on your smartphone.
The app is able to connect to your TV, supporting multiple brands of IR-based TVs as long as it has an IR blaster that allows you to control IR with your phone.
The app facilitates many other features that you can take advantage of by downloading the app and trying it out with your devices.
What Are Some Benefits Of Universal Remote Controls?
Among the first benefits you should consider when getting a universal remote is its convenience. It's convenient to set up and pair, since they come with apps that do almost everything for you. This makes configurations easy.
Old-fashioned pairing was often quite cumbersome, but with the new generation of universal controllers, this has disappeared to make way for simpler apps and methods.
In some cases, you can even use your smartphone as a universal remote control. They come with an app for that. Apps for universal remotes are usually very good, keeping basic and intermediate functions available to the user.
However, you may find that the original devices will be much better in some functions.
To close
You might also be interested in: Triangle with Arrows Icon on Samsung | What Does It Mean
When your Samsung remote isn't working , you can fix it by applying these instructions to both your remote control and your Samsung TV.
Also, if none of the methods worked in your case, you should buy a universal remote or use your smartphone as a remote, while taking the original remote in for repair.
You can also contact Samsung technical support and clear up any doubts.
My name is Javier Chirinos and I am passionate about technology. Ever since I can remember, I have been interested in computers and video games, and that passion has turned into a job.
I have been publishing about technology and gadgets on the Internet for over 15 years, especially in mundobytes.com
I am also an expert in online marketing and communication and have knowledge in WordPress development.