Roku remains the unchallenged leaderin streaming gadget , and fromstreaming USB sticks to set top boxesthey still make some of the most reliable and user - favorable gadget on the market . That ’s not to say that they are without fault however , as most tech is necessarily prone to glitch and hiccups . Maybe you ’ve encountered a bug or two yourself when using your favourite apps , or you ’re wonder if an issue you ’re accept was make by abad frame-up . In this scout , we ’ll break down how to situate the absolute majority of your Roku problems , as well as name some quick fixes for other problem you ’re likely to encounter while using a Roku equipment .
Most problems on a Roku , especially those that involve freezing or operating bug , can be lick through one of the following :
If you already know how to do these surgical process , you could proceed with them , or check our more specific muddle further below . Otherwise , keep reading for a step - by - tone method acting of fill out each one .
Restart your Roku device
Many Roku problems can be quickly solved by a restart . Here ’s how to get that done :
pace 1 : Scroll up or down and selectSettings .
Step 2 : SelectSystemand thenPower .
Step 3 : look on your equipment , you may not see aPowerselection . If you alternatively seeSystem restart , select that rather .
Step 4 : Use the remote control ’s guiding pad to spotlight the Restart push button and pressOK . Your Roku gimmick will now re-start .
Restart your frozen Roku
Sometimes , your Roku cyclosis equipment will just freeze up , and the remote control appear to be completely unresponsive . When this occur , you may often restart the gimmick without needing the on - screen menus . To do this , follow this button - press sequence on your Roku distant precisely :
stone’s throw 1 : weigh theHomebutton five times .
Step 2 : iron out theUparrow one metre .
Step 3 : Press theRewindbutton two times .
Step 4 : Press theFast Forwardbutton two clock time .
Step 5 : After a few seconds of completing this sequence , your Roku should restart .
And if your Roku wo n’t even reply to these commands , a third selection would be to completely unplug the twist from power . Unplug , wait about 10 seconds , and then reconnect the power cable . Once your Roku restarts , catch your remote to assure if your equipment is respond to button prompts again .
Update your Roku
If a restart does n’t facilitate , your software system may be the problem . Roku computer software update usually happen automatically in the background , without any need for you to take action . But now and then , this process does n’t work and it ’s a safe idea tocheck and refresh your Roku OSmanually . If you ’re experience trouble , it ’s always a respectable musical theme to hold back the status of your Roku software before incite on .
Step 1 : Press theHomebutton on your Roku remote control .
whole tone 2 : Scroll up or down and selectSettings , thenSystem , thenSystem update .
Step 3 : This screen door will show you the current software system and work up version and the date and time it was added to your Roku . SelectCheck nowto manually check for update .
Step 4 : If an update for your software or your set up line is usable , it will be downloaded and install mechanically and your Roku will reboot . It ’s very of import that this summons is reserve to complete without interruption
Factory reset your Roku
A manufactory reset is a thermonuclear option for determine job . As the name suggests , it returns your Roku gadget to the same state it was in when you pulled it out of the box . This means that all of your setting including download channels and internet preferences will be pass over out . As such , we suggest keep this one in your back sac for when everything else fails .
Step 2 : Scroll up or down and selectSettings , thenSystem , andAdvanced system configurations .
stone’s throw 3 : SelectFactory reset , manufacturing plant readjust everything , and then follow the on - covert instructions .
The above steps simulate your Roku is still responsive and gives you the alternative of using the on - blind menus . If it does n’t , switch to plan B by using the physical reset clit on your equipment ( see below ) .
Use the physical buttons to factory reset
On some Roku merchandise , like the Streaming Stick+ 4 K , the reset button can be pushed with your digit . On fixed - top devices like the Roku Ultra , it ’s commonly a recess clit that requires a paper clip or other small , pointed object to printing press .
Once you ’ve found it , make indisputable your Roku gadget is powered on , then compress and hold theReset buttonfirmly for about 10 second . The indicator light will blink rapidly on most Roku equipment when the factory reset is complete .
How to fix Roku remote control problems
Current Roku twist all ship with remotes that use wireless connectivity to deliver commands to their correspond twist . If you own an older Roku mannikin , it may have shipped with a " Roku simple remote " or a " Roku Players Remote " — these habituate an infrared ( IR ) lightness to transmit commands and it might have unmediated line - of - web site to your Roku gadget .
The newer remote control are enhanced “ point - anywhere ” devices that use a wireless connection to send commands , and it does n’t necessitate to be pointed at your Roku twist at all . The Roku Voice Remote use AA batteries , whereas the 1st and 2nd variation of the Roku Voice Remote Pro are rechargeable . Other than how they are powered they are functionally identical for the purposes of troubleshooting .
Before you try on to fix problems with your Roku remote , you should figure out which one you have .
Alternatively , you may always try downloading the Roku Remote app from the Io or Google swordplay store . The app allows your phone to function as a Roku remote control and might provide a solution if your remote control is damaged beyond repair .
How to solve issues with the Roku simple remote
IR remotes need to be capable to “ see ” the Roku gadget they control . Almost all problems with IR remote control stem from the remote control not having a direct line of sight to your Roku equipment . Most of the time , IR signals can jounce off wall and ceiling to reach their target , but even then , if your Roku twist is bewilder behind another object , those IR signaling wo n’t make it .
Step 1 : When seated wherever you normally watch telly , if you may see the entire front side of your Roku machine , you should be okay . If you may’t , move the Rokuuntil you may . Never place a Roku gadget that uses an IR remote behind your TV or inside a locker .
Step 2 : The remote control ’s assault and battery also can be a job . If the remote works well sometimes , but not all the prison term , test pulling the batteries out and replacing them . That might ready a job with a poor connection .
measure 3 : faint IR signals can be another trouble . remember of an IR remote control as a flashlight that shines a light that you ca n’t see . If the battery are old , that light will be too rickety . If the battery are really depleted , the remote control might not answer to clitoris presses at all . Try replacing the assault and battery with new ones .
How to solve issues with Roku voice remotes
These remote are a bit more advanced , so there are several way to troubleshoot their mathematical process . The first pace is to examine the same barrage tricks as above — remove and replace them , or simply install new ones . You may also wish topair and reset your Roku remote control .
However , the latest Rechargeable Voice Remote Pro that comes with the Roku Ultra and Streaming Stick 4K+ do not have obliterable batteries , for this one you should make certain it ’s in full charge and that your Roku is ladder the latest OS ( see above ) .
For received voice remotes with batteries , if removing or replacing them does n’t help oneself , the next pace is to resume both the Roku gadget and the remote control :
gradation 1 : take out the power cable television from the Roku gadget .
Step 2 : take away the batteries from the remote .
gradation 3 : Plug the Roku machine back in , and waitress for it to fetch up booting up — you should see the home base screen .
whole step 4 : Reinsert the batteries into the remote and wait about 30 second base . The remote should now respond to button presses .
How to re-pair your Roku voice remote
If the restart operation above does n’t sterilise your problem , you may require to mate the remote again to your Roku :
whole tone 1 : Remove the big businessman cable length from the Roku machine and remove the batteries from the remote . If you have a Roku Rechargeable Voice Remote Pro , read on .
stone’s throw 2 : Plug the Roku gimmick back in , and waitress for it to fetch up bring up up — you should see the place screen . Then , reinsert the batteries into the remote ( rechargeable remote control excluded ) , but do n’t replace the stamp battery cover yet .
footfall 3 : weightlift and hold the pairing clit inside the electric battery compartment ( or in the case of the Rechargeable Voice Remote Pro , it can be found on the back at the bottom ) for three seconds or until you see the mate light on the outside begin to flash .
Depending on your remote control , the pairing light might be beside the pairing button , or on the top surface of the remote control , near the bottom ending . If the light does not wink , stress again .
If you have an older Roku remote without a pairing push button , press and hold theHomebutton andBackbutton for 5 seconds alternatively , until you see the status visible light flash .
stride 4 : Wait for 30 indorsement while the outside establishes a connection with your Roku gadget . You should then see the remote pairing dialogue on your TV screen .
In rarified example , wireless signaling interference can cause problems with raise remote control . If you own a Roku Streaming Stick or Streaming Stick+ and they ’re stop up into an HDMI porthole on the rearward control board of your idiot box , an HDMI extender cable television service could help move the Stick away from the chief body of the TV , thereby reducing any interference the idiot box could be causing . If you own a Roku Streaming Stick , Roku will send you one of these cable television for liberal .
It ’s also possible that there ’s just too much congestion on the 2.4GHz frequency used by the remote control to communicate with the Roku . One way to lick that problem is to switch your Wi - Fi router to a dissimilar wireless television channel . Another solution is to switch your Roku to your router ’s 5GHz meshwork if it has one .
How to fix Roku Wi-Fi problems
If you ’re experiencing degraded picture or audio timber , overall slowness of your Roku when react to commands , or you see “ not connect ” in the top right-hand corner of your dwelling house screen , you ’re probablydealing with Wi - Fi issues . Checking Wi - Fi signaling strength is the good place to lead off . Check the status of your Internet connection strength by run toSettings > connection . Assuming you ’re actually connected to Wi - Fi , the signal long suit will be listed as Excellent , Good , Fair , or Poor . If it ’s Fair or Poor , you should attempt to improve it .
Obviously , relocate your TV wo n’t be an choice very often , but you might still benefit from relocating the Roku itself . Try shift it and see if it helps . Roku Sticks are harder to reposition because they ’re unremarkably plug right into the TV , but an HDMI extender cable can give you the extra play you postulate to reposition them .
If your Roku gimmick has an Ethernet interface and you ’re able to connect it to an Ethernet cable television , this is an light way to test if it ’s your Wi - Fi that ’s at break .
A “ not connect ” substance on the home blind indicate that you ’re either altogether outside of your Wi - Fi mesh ’s range , or you ’ve enter the wrong Wi - Fi watchword for your router . If your sound , pad of paper , or laptop is connect via Wi - Fi — in the same oecumenical positioning as your Roku — that suggests a job with the password . Check your Roku ’s internet setting and try again .
If you see Roku error codification 009 , it means that your Roku is successfully connected to your router , but it ca n’t reach the Internet . If your other Wi - Fi devices are operate normally , restart the Roku . If the other equipment ca n’t connect either , try rebooting your modem and router , and then reset your devices . If this break down , you should reach your cyberspace service supplier .
If move your Roku is out of the interrogation , consider strike your Wi - Fi router , or correct its international antennas if it has any . Even small changes to your router can have a big shock on how wireless signal move around your house . If you ’ve noticed Wi - Fi difficulty with one or more machine in your home ( other than your Roku ) , it may be worth it to promote to a new router altogether .
If your home is on the big side , or there are many walls and floor between your entertainment machine and your router , a mesh systemmay be your best stakes . With a meshwork meshing , your chief router will broadcast to a series of smaller “ nodes ” throughout your home . rather of struggling to geminate with the main router , a gadget like a Roku will have a much easier meter connecting to one of your new internet ’s orbiter nodes .
How to fix Roku audio problems
Audio problems on the Roku , like no audio , falsify sound recording , or audio frequency dropout , can be have by package options or problem with your hardware and/or cables bet on the complexity of your apparatus .
Before trying any of the abide by solution , we suggest you first turn off your Roku and connected gadget , unplug the power , hold back 10 seconds and then punch it back in and power your gear on again . It sounds cockamamy , but you ’d be astonied how many problems — including audio trouble — this can fix .
No audio at all? Check your connections and selected inputs
If your Roku is a stick - trend equipment connected directly to your telly , you’re able to skip this segment .
Step 1 : check out to check that your HDMI , optical , or component transmission line are securely enclose into your Roku on the one goal , and yourAV receiver , HDMI switcher , or soundbar , on the other goal .
whole step 2 : verify all of your components are powered on .
Step 3 : checker that you ’ve selected the right remark on your AV receiver , HDMI whipper , or soundbar .
Step 4 : Check to see if your audio component ’s mute function is on ( if it is , grow it off ) .
Still no audio? Check your Roku’s audio settings
If your Roku is connected to an Ab receiver or soundbar using an optical ( TOSLink ) cable television , try the pursuit :
measure 1 : contract theHomebutton on your Roku remote control , then scroll up or down and selectSettings .
Step 2 : SelectAudioand define HDMI and S / PDIF toDolby D(Dolby Digital ) .
If your Roku is connected to an AV receiver , soundbar , or TV via HDMI , try the following :
Step 3 : constrict theHomebutton on your Roku remote and scroll up or down and selectSettings .
footstep 4 : Select Audio and set Audio mode toStereoand set HDMI toPCM - stereophonic system .
Still no audio? Swap your cables
It ’s reasonably rare , but on occasion , your HDMI , ocular , or component cables can be faulty . If none of the steps so far have helped , adjudicate switching out your cable(s ) with another set . This can be frustrative if you do n’t have an extra set handy , but the good word is that all three type are inexpensive and you’re able to find them at your local retailer or online .
How to fix selective audio
Sometimes , you ’ll hear audio on some form of mental object but not others . This is usually a compatibility job with the audio recording format(s ) you ’re trying to toy and the audio format(s ) your connected gear can endorse . If this happens , prove the same procedure as above for HDMI devices and if you ’re using an optical ( TOSLink ) transmission line , specify HDMI and S / PDIF to PCM - Stereo .
You’re expecting surround sound but you’re only getting stereo
usually your Roku can check the capability of your TV , AV liquidator , or soundbar mechanically , but sometimes it needs help . If you ’re watchingsurround sound contentthat ’s salute in Dolby 5.1 orDolby Atmos , but you may only hear stereophonic sound :
stone’s throw 1 : PressHomeon your distant control and scroll up or down toSettings .
footstep 2 : SelectAudio . Your HDMI ( or HDMI and S / PDIF on Roku players with an optical connector ) will likely be jell toAuto Detect . Choose the alternative that matches the capabilities of your TV , AV receiver , or soundbar .
Step 3 : Channels can have their own discrete audio setting . For example , Netflix may command you to select English ( 5.1 ) under Audio and Subtitles .
How to fix garbled or distorted audio
We ’ve see report , specifically related to the Roku Ultra , but possibly on other model as well , of garbled or distort sound . A fix that seems to work in this instance is to start playback of the desired video , then :
footstep 1 : Press theStarorAsterisk ( * ) button .
footstep 2 : Scroll toVolume Modeand selectOFFby scrolling right .
How to fix audio and video that are out of sync
Some users have reported that their audio and television lose sync while playing content . Though somewhat counterintuitive , a fix that seems to work ask tweaking the video refresh property :
footfall 1 : press out theHomebutton on your Roku remote and scroll up or down and selectSettings .
footfall 2 : SelectSystem , thenAdvanced organisation scene , and then selectAdvanced exhibit configurations .
footstep 3 : SelectAuto - adjust exhibit refresh rateand chooseDisabled .
Keep in creative thinker that while this has been have a go at it to deposit audio sync way out , it can also stick in some unwanted video problem like image fitfulness . If this happens , switchAuto - adjustback toEnabled .
How to fix Roku video problems
problem demand video calibre like buffering , stuttering , or degraded point can commonly be traced back to your web connection . Before actuate on , see our segment onWi - Fi problems . If your Wi - Fi connection is unchanging , it ’s possible that your internet plan does n’t leave sufficient bandwidth for the content you ’re attempt to stream .
Roku recommends a minimumdownload speed of 3.0 Mbpsfor stock definition and up to 9.0 Mbps for HD content . 4 super C HDR content may require up to 25 Mbps . You cancheck your actual download speedhere .
If your plan provide the necessary speed for the content you ’re endeavor to watch , control to see if anyone else in your home is using high bandwidth diligence on your other machine . You may also want to check your router ’s administration preferences to see if there are any unnamed machine using your connection .
How to manually adjust your video bit rate
If you ’ve sample everything to lick your buffering problem and are quick to throw in the towel , here ’s one more trick that might help .
ordinarily your Roku will choose the best scrap pace to employ automatically — one that match your net connexion speed — but on uncommon occasions , setting this manually postulate to happen . You do this through a hidden context screen :
footstep 1 : On your Roku remote control , pressHomefive times .
gradation 2 : PressReverse scanthree clock time , and then pressForward scantwice .
Step 3 : From theBit Rate Overridescreen that is exhibit , selectManual pick .
Step 4 : pick out a lower scrap pace and see if that work out the problem . If not , retell this sequence and select a lower bit charge per unit .
How to fix Roku HDMI problems
Another uncouth Roku problem relate to the use of HDMI cable . When two or more equipment connect via HDMI , they must establish a “ handshake . ” Generally utter , once establish , that handshake continues to govern the connection without take . However , now and then the handshake does n’t chance when the equipment link up , or the shake let interrupted .
When this happens , it can cause a variety of problem from black screens to flashing video , to HDCP error messages . As with many problems , a dependable fix is to power everything down , remove and reinsert the HDMI cable ends into each twist , and then restart .
How to fix Roku HDCP errors
HDCP errors that are n’t resolved this way may be a symptom of a different job . HDCP stand for High - bandwidth Digital Content Protection , and it ’s a way of preventing people from copying pic and shows that they stream on devices like a Roku . But unless each equipment in your HDMI chain supports the same level of HDCP , the video signal ca n’t get through and you ’ll see an HDCP error .
For illustration , if you ’re using a Roku Streaming Stick+ or a Roku Ultra to stream 4 KB content from Netflix , all of your devices must stand HDCP 2.2 . But if you have any older AV receiver or soundbar between your Roku player and your 4 atomic number 19 TV , it may not be HDCP 2.2 compatible .
To test to see if this is the problem , try connecting your Roku directly to your TV . If the problem goes away , that ’s a good sign your middle twist is n’t HDCP 2.2 - compliant . Your option at this full stop is to stick to non-4 K contentedness ( only 4 K need HDCP 2.2 ) , find a elbow room to get around your AV telephone receiver or soundbar for telecasting ( perhaps by using theHDMI ARC connectionon your goggle box ) , or upgrade that mediate machine .
Replace your cables
Though a rare Roku issuing , occasionally the HDMI cable system themselves are the problem . If you ’re see flashing video , or no video recording at all — or perhaps video recording with “ sparkles ” — these can all indicate potentially faulty cablegram . Before buying new cables , judge swapping your Roku ’s HDMI cable with any other HDMI cable you have , as a test . It ’s very unlikely that two of your cables have problems , so if one works , you lie with you should substitute the one that does n’t .
There is one situation where you may need to replace a utterly skilful HDMI cable television . 4 K HDR signals use a lot of bandwidth — much more than HD . Older HDMI cables might miss the necessary bandwidth to carry all of that data faithfully between devices , peculiarly over longer distances like 10 pes or more .
If you suspect this use to your situation , you probably need to buy a new Premium High - Speed HDMI cable television service . But do n’t worry — they ’re comparatively inexpensive and you’re able to buy them almost anywhere . Check out our fullHDMI cable buying pathfinder .
How to fix Roku hardware problems
Roku equipment are usually extremely dependable , but here are two situation where the computer hardware itself can experience problems .
Overheating
If your Roku machine sits on top of other equipment or is located in a poorly ventilate infinite , it can overheat . If this happen , you ’ll see an on - screen admonition message look in the top right corner of your filmdom . Some Roku devices like the Ultra and Roku Express also have a front LED that will turn hearty red when they overheat .
If your gadget overheats , immediately turn it off , disconnect the power , and disconnect all cables . Wait at least 10 transactions before reconnecting it and power it back up . If you see the unanimous red light or warning message again , recapitulate this process . If it still happens , you should contact Roku Support , as it may indicate a more serious problem with your twist .
Insufficient power
If your Roku equipment is power by USB — e.g. , Streaming Sticks and Roku Express — there ’s a possible action it ’s not getting enough power . This normally happen when the great unwashed stop up their USB power cable into an available USB embrasure on their TV or their AV receiver . Unfortunately , not all USB ports deliver the same amount of exponent , and some are n’t intend to supply power at all .
The best path to solve the “ deficient power ” on - screen monition ( or flashing cherry-red LED on the front of Roku Express or Express+ ) is to plug the USB cable into the USB great power arranger that shipped with your equipment . This transcriber is designed to rescue the correct amount of power your Roku needs . If , after switching to the include arranger , you still get the insufficient power warning , you should try plugging the transcriber into a different power wall socket . If you ’re using a power strip or an extension cord , judge punch the arranger directly into a bulwark socket .
How to fix Roku app problems
The Roku app for iOS and Android is a must - have add - on for your headphone . It can act as a replacing remote control , plus you may add / remove channel , use the secret hearing function , and cast videos and photos from your sound to your television .
But none of those things will wreak if the app ca n’t find your Roku equipment .
Your Wi - Fi web is likely at the heart of the problem , so before move on , consult theWi - Fi problems plane section . If that does n’t help , here are a few things you could seek .
Make sure your phone and Roku are on the same network
Some Wi - Fi routers let you create a guest connection that is physically separated from your normal Wi - Fi connection . It ’s potential that your phone or your Roku are using these two dissimilar networks . If so , they wo n’t see each other . check that both devices are using the exact same Wi - Fi connection .
Most Wi - Fi routers create two freestanding meshing for each Wi - Fi frequency stripe ( 2.4GHz and 5GHz ) . Though technically it should n’t matter if your phone and Roku are using different frequencies ( both bands share the same subnet on your router so devices can lecture to one another ) , to be absolutely sure , locate both your phone and your Roku on the same Wi - Fi frequency band .
Check your Roku’s network access
It ’s possible that internet approach to your Roku has been incapacitate . Here ’s how to check and correct :
Step 1 : compress theHomebutton on your Roku remote , then selectSettingsthenSystemfollowed byAdvanced system configurations .
Step 2 : SelectExternal Controland thenNetwork Access .
Step 3 : Make sureDefaultorPermissiveis selected . “ Default ” should work , but if not , assay “ Permissive . ”
Still can’t find your device? Try connecting manually
stair 1 : Inside the Roku app , at the bottom of the twist find screen ( or within the three - window pane bill of fare ) , tapConnect Manuallyand enrol the IP address of your Roku equipment . you may regain the IP name and address by visitingSettings > internet > Abouton your Roku gadget .
Step 2 : Restartyour Roku equipment and ensure it is connected to the right wireless internet .
gradation 3 : Quitand thenRestartthe Roku mobile app on your gimmick .
How to check if it’s the Roku network, and not your device
There is always the off chance that streaming or buffering refer consequence you may be feel are due to either a particular streamers servers or Roku ’s service being down on a fussy day . If you ’ve already try a bunch of hardware troubleshooting to no avail , thencheck out Downdetectorto see if wide-eyed issues with the Roku service of process are being account .
If all else fails, reach out to Roku
If you ’re have a job that has n’t been handle here , or you ’re just wanting to reach someone from Roku for assistance , you’re able to useRoku ’s living siteto produce a ticket and reach out to an agent . A Roku account is required to do this , and as of this authorship Roku does not have a sustenance headphone numeral .
Alternatives to Roku
If you ’re still feel issue with your Roku and want to giveother streaming devicesa twirl , here ’s a short list of some competitive cyclosis equipment , along with mention perquisite .
Apple television 4 K — With 4 K streaming , Airplay mirroring , iCloud syncing between your iOS devices , and mess of apps , the Apple TV is a solid stake for media streaming ( especially for Apple fans ) .
Amazon Fire TV — Are you a fan of all thing Alexa ? The Amazon Fire television set offer Alexa - power voice control , along with flock of apps and skills to make your wise TV experience smarter than ever before .
Chromecast with Google TV — There ’s a lot to do it about Google ’s latest Chromecast . Enjoy app - casting from a phone or tablet , along with a customized dwelling screen with movies , shows , and other depicted object recommended just for you .
