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9 Best Roku Remotes
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Roku Remotes
Choosing the right Roku remote can make using your streaming device much easier and more enjoyable. Rather than just picking the first option, it's good to understand the various features these remotes can offer, as they can impact your comfort and convenience when watching TV or browsing content. Taking a little time to consider your needs—such as how many devices you want to control, where you watch TV, and your preference for voice or manual controls—will help you find a remote that suits your habits and improves your overall streaming experience.Remote Type (Simple vs Enhanced)The remote type refers to whether the remote is an infrared (simple) model or an 'enhanced' (advanced) version using radio frequency or Wi-Fi. Simple remotes send a signal like a traditional TV remote and require a direct line of sight, which means you have to point it directly at the Roku to work. Enhanced remotes, however, don’t need a direct line of sight and can work even if the Roku device is behind the TV or in a cabinet. If you often have the device in a hidden or inconvenient spot, an enhanced remote is more suitable, but if your device is always visible, a simple remote is usually just fine.
Voice ControlVoice control allows you to speak commands instead of pressing buttons, and it's useful for quickly searching for shows, launching apps, or even controlling power and volume on some TVs. Some remotes have a built-in microphone for this feature, while others don’t support it at all. If you prefer hands-free operation, have trouble navigating menus, or like to search content often, getting a remote with voice control can save time and effort. Otherwise, if you’re comfortable using buttons, you may not need this feature.
TV Power and Volume ControlThis feature lets the Roku remote control your TV’s power and volume, so you don’t need to juggle multiple remotes. Some Roku remotes include buttons specifically for these functions, while basic ones might only control Roku streaming functions. If you want a streamlined setup and fewer remotes lying around, consider a remote with TV power and volume controls. If your current remote system works well for you, or if your TV is older and not compatible, this feature may not be essential.
Private Listening (Headphone Jack)Private listening involves plugging headphones into the remote to listen to TV audio without disturbing others. Some enhanced Roku remotes have a headphone jack for this, making it easy to watch late at night or in shared spaces. If you often watch TV when others are asleep or like the idea of immersive sound, look for a remote with a headphone jack. If you rarely need this function, standard remotes without this feature will be sufficient.
Shortcut ButtonsShortcut buttons are pre-set keys on the remote that instantly open popular streaming channels. The presence and number of these buttons can vary. If you use certain streaming services regularly, having dedicated shortcut buttons can make it quicker to launch them. However, if you prefer scrolling through menus or if your favorite services aren’t represented, this may be a less important feature.
Pairing and Setup ProcessHow the remote pairs with your Roku device matters, especially if you’re setting it up for the first time or replacing a lost remote. Some remotes are plug-and-play and work out of the box, while enhanced models may require a pairing process. If you want simplicity, choose a model with easy or automatic pairing. If you’re tech-savvy and fine with a few steps for more features, an enhanced remote will be a good fit.