Recommended Free Tools
Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Start with fresh, correctly installed batteries, then identify whether your TCL TV runs Roku, Google TV, Android TV, or Fire TV. TCL uses different remotes and pairing steps across those platforms: a standard infrared (IR) remote usually does not pair, while voice and enhanced remotes may use Bluetooth or another wireless connection. There is no universal TCL remote reset.
Before resetting anything, try the TV’s physical power button, clear objects from the TV’s sensor area, and restart the TV. Then use the instructions for your platform below. These checks can help distinguish a battery or remote fault from lost pairing, a blocked sensor, or a TV problem.
First, identify your TCL TV and remote
Check the TV’s Home screen or the menus you can access. The platform determines the right recovery steps:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- TCL Roku TV: The home screen has Roku branding and a Roku-style interface. Voice or enhanced remotes may have a pairing button in the battery compartment or on the back.
- TCL Google TV: The interface is Google TV, often with a microphone or Google Assistant button on the remote. A relevant menu is Settings > Remote & Accessories.
- TCL Android TV: Older models may have menus such as Device Preferences rather than the Google TV interface.
- TCL Fire TV: The screen uses the Fire TV interface, and the remote may have an Alexa or microphone button. The settings menu may include Device & Software.
Menu labels and procedures can vary by model, remote generation, software version, and region. If you are unsure which platform you have, look at the TV’s on-screen interface rather than choosing a procedure based only on the remote’s appearance.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Support TV Models】RC813 remote Only for TCL Google Smart TV 65QM850G 75QM850G 85QM850G 98QM850G 98QM851G 85QM851G 75QM851G 65QM851G 115QM891G 98QM751G 85QM751G 75QM751G 65QM751G 55QM751G 98S550G 43S551G 50S551G 55S551G 65S551G 75S551G 85S551G 75S571G 65S571G 55S571G 43S571G 55S470G 43S470G 50S470G 58S470G 65S470G 70S470G 75S470G 85S470G 43S450G 50S450G 55S450G 58S450G 65S450G 75S450G 85S450G 50S45G 32S370G 40S370G 43S370G 32S250G 55Q750G, 65Q750G 75Q750G 85Q750G 55Q670G 65Q670G 75Q670G 85Q670G 85Q650G 75Q650G 65Q650G 55Q650G 43Q651G 50Q651G 55Q651G 65Q651G 75Q651G 85Q651G 98Q651G 85Q681G 75Q681G 65Q681G 55Q681G 55Q550G 50Q550G 65Q550G 50Q570G 55Q570G 65Q570G 75Q570G etc.
- 【No Pairing Required】Replacement remote control compatible with TCL RC813 remote, no programming and no pairing needed, just put 2*AAA batteries in and it will work immediately. (Note: Batteries and manual are not included) (Not for TCL Roku TVs) (Not for TCL Fire TVs)
- 【Stable & High-Quality】 Strongest signal by Infrared technology further transmission for multi-angle induction. Precisely control far from 12 meters/40 feet.Fastest response not over 0.2 second to your TV, It supports over 120,000 clicks approved test
- 【6 Popular Shortcut Keys】One key quickly access to popular streaming channels --- NFLX, p-video, YouTube, Channel, Dis and Apple TV. Save you searching time and enjoy a good leisure time faster
- We test it before delivery to make sure it's working. If you are caught in some problems when using our products, welcome to contact us at any time. We are committed to providing you with a satisfactory solution promptly.
IR or wireless? Use the symptoms as clues
A standard IR remote has no pairing button, must be pointed toward the TV, and needs a clear path to the sensor. A Roku voice or enhanced remote usually has a pairing button and communicates wirelessly after pairing. Google TV and Android TV voice remotes can use IR for some basic commands and Bluetooth for navigation or voice. Fire TV remotes pair wirelessly.
This explains a common clue: if Power works but navigation or voice does not, the remote may still be sending an IR command while its Bluetooth or wireless connection has been lost. Conversely, if the remote works only when pointed directly at the TV, it may be relying on IR rather than a functioning wireless connection. TCL describes these platform and connection differences in its Roku remote troubleshooting and Android TV remote guidance.
Run these checks before resetting or replacing the remote
- Remove and check the batteries. Confirm the polarity marks, inspect the contacts for dirt or corrosion, and install a fresh, matching pair. Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types.
- Try several buttons. Test Power, Home, volume, navigation, and Back. If only one or two buttons fail, look for a stuck, dirty, worn, or damaged button. If nothing works, continue with batteries, TV power, and pairing checks.
- Clear the TV’s sensor area. Move soundbars, center speakers, decorations, or other objects that might block the lower bezel. Point an IR remote directly at the front of the TV. A paired wireless remote generally does not need to be aimed.
- Try the TV’s physical power button. If it turns the TV on, the TV has power and the problem is more likely to involve the remote, its signal, or pairing. If the button also fails, investigate the TV’s power or hardware rather than repeatedly resetting the remote. See TCL’s TV power troubleshooting guidance.
- Restart the TV. Use its physical controls if available. Otherwise, unplug it, wait, reconnect it, and allow it to boot before testing again. TCL’s recommendations differ by platform: some instructions use about 10 seconds, others 30 seconds or 60 seconds. Follow the relevant platform steps below instead of treating one wait time as universal.
TCL Roku TV remote troubleshooting
For a standard IR Roku remote
- Install fresh batteries and verify their orientation.
- Clear the TV’s sensor area and aim the remote at the TV.
- Try Power, Home, and Volume.
- If it still fails, restart or power-drain the TV and try again.
- Use the camera test below to check whether the remote emits an IR signal.
For a Roku voice or enhanced remote
These remotes need to be paired with the TV. A pairing button is often inside the battery compartment or on the back.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →- Turn on the TV and stand close to it.
- Open the battery compartment and press and hold the pairing button until its light flashes. Depending on the remote and instructions, this may take roughly three to five seconds.
- Wait for the pairing dialog or confirmation on the TV.
- If pairing does not complete, remove the batteries, power-drain the TV, reinsert fresh batteries, and try again.
For model-specific details, consult TCL’s Roku remote troubleshooting guide. If batteries drain unusually quickly, re-pair the remote and check for a stuck button. TCL says an improperly paired Roku voice remote can drain batteries rapidly. For that particular battery-drain issue, TCL recommends alkaline batteries and advises against rechargeable Ni-Cd or Ni-MH batteries; do not treat that scenario-specific advice as a rule for every TCL remote. See TCL’s Roku voice-remote battery guidance.
Try the Roku app as a temporary remote
If the TV is already connected to Wi-Fi, install the official Roku mobile app, connect your phone to the same network, select the TV, and use the in-app remote. This may not help if the TV is offline, is on another network, is still at initial setup, or needs a remote to connect to Wi-Fi.
Rank #2
- PACKAGE INCLUDED: Pack of 2 remote. Two-pack remote control can solve your home backup remote control needs. Infrared remote no pairing or programming needed. Just Insert 2 Pcs*AAA batteries to get it work (Batteries and manual are not included)
- EXACT COMPATIBILITY: Acoyer universal remote control only for Roku Series TVs, Compatible with TCL Roku TVs, Hisense Roku TVs, Onn Roku TVs, Sharp Roku TVs, Element Roku TVs, Westinghouse Roku TVs, Philips Roku TVs, Insignia Roku TVs, JVC Roku TVs, RCA Roku TVs, Hitachi Roku TVs and Sanyo Roku TVs Series.
- NOT APPLICABLE: TV Remote is NOT Compatible with Roku Stick/Streaming Stick/ Box(1/2/3/4(HD/LT/XS/XD))/ Ultra/ Express/ Premiere/ Player. NOT Compatible with TCL TV, Hisense TV, Onn TV, Sharp TV, Element TV, Westinghouse TV, Philips TV, Insignia TV, JVC TV, RCA TV, Hitachi TV and Sanyo TVs.
- SHORTCUT BUTTONS: Get to favorite apps quickly with shortcut buttons and it have 4 shortcuts buttons. Precisely control far from 10 meters/30 feet and it supports over total 160,000 clicks for all buttons via approved tests.
- AFTER SALE SERVICE: Acoyer remote controls with an unlimited return and refund service in 1-year warranty. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your order, please feel to reach out to us.
TCL Google TV remote troubleshooting
Pair with Home + OK
- Turn on the TV and stand close to it.
- Press and hold Home + OK together.
- Keep holding until the pairing animation or confirmation appears.
This is TCL’s dedicated Google TV pairing shortcut; see TCL’s Google TV remote-pairing instructions.
Pair or reconnect from the TV menu
If you can navigate using TV controls, another remote, or an available input device:
- Open the profile icon or initial at the top right.
- Go to Settings > Remote & Accessories > Pair remote or accessory.
- Put the remote into pairing mode, select it from the list, and confirm Pair.
To reconnect a previously paired remote, open Settings > Remote & Accessories, select it under Accessories, and choose Connect. Labels may differ by software version. TCL’s Bluetooth connection guide covers pairing and connection issues.
If pairing still fails, restart the remote, disconnect unused Bluetooth accessories, or unplug the TV for about 10 seconds and try again. A Google TV phone-control option may help if the TV is already configured and reachable on the same network, but it is not a guaranteed option during first-time setup or when the TV is offline. TCL explains setup and network limitations in its Google TV setup guidance.
TCL Android TV remote troubleshooting
For an older TCL Android TV, first reseat the batteries, try a fresh pair, and clear the TV’s IR sensor. Some remotes use IR for basic commands and Bluetooth for full navigation and voice, so a working Power button does not rule out a lost Bluetooth connection.
Rank #3
- 【Compatible with All TCL TVs】Remote Control Compatible with All TCL Android Smart 4K UHD TVs，However, If the buyer is a TV from another brand, including TCL ROKU, the remote control cannot be used directly. - No Voice Search Function
- 【EASY TO USE】Using our remote couldn't be easier since no programming or setup is required. Just insert 2pcs*AAA batteries, and it is ready to go! (⚠ batteries are not included)
- 【2 Hotkeys】Equipped with 2 shortcut keys, NETFLIX/YouTube providing quick viewing experience
- 【HIGH QUALITY】Our remote has been upgraded to give you a greater transmitting distance (over 35 ft) and has a quick response time,The remote control shell is made of ABS material, which is resistant to falling and has no peculiar smell.
- 【AFTER-SALE SERVICE】Our Remote comes with an unlimited return and refund service in 7 days. We maintain a high standard of excellence and strive a 100% satisfaction to customer .
- If you can navigate, try Settings > More Settings > Device Preferences > About > Restart. The exact labels depend on the model.
- If you cannot navigate, unplug the TV for about 30 seconds, reconnect it, and let it start.
- Stand close to the TV and hold Home + OK to re-pair, if supported by your remote.
- If available, use an Android TV remote-control app on a phone connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
See TCL’s Android TV remote troubleshooting and Android TV pairing guidance. A replacement remote may handle basic IR commands but lack Bluetooth navigation or voice functions, so check compatibility with the exact TV model.
TCL Fire TV remote troubleshooting
Pair during setup
- Move the remote to within about 10 feet (3 meters) of the TV.
- Remove the batteries and wait 30 seconds.
- Reinsert them with the correct polarity.
- Press and hold Home for about 10 seconds. TCL says it may take roughly this long to enter pairing mode.
- When “Press Play/Pause to start” appears, release Home and press Play/Pause.
See TCL’s Fire TV setup-pairing instructions.
Reset most TCL Fire TV remotes
This procedure applies to most, not necessarily all, TCL Fire TV remotes. Remote generations vary, so use the model-specific instructions if the button combination does not work.
- Unplug the TV and wait 60 seconds.
- On the remote, press and hold Left + Menu + Back together for about 12 seconds.
- Release the buttons and wait five seconds, then remove the batteries.
- Plug the TV back in and wait until the screen indicates that the remote is not detected.
- Reinsert the batteries and press Home. If it does not pair, hold Home for about 10 seconds.
Refer to TCL’s Fire TV remote reset instructions and its additional Fire TV remote troubleshooting.
Fire TV app and software update
If the TV is configured and already connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your phone, the official Fire TV app may provide temporary control. It is not dependable during first-time setup or if the TV is not on the network. If you can control the TV another way, TCL gives this update path: Settings > Device & Software > About > Check for Updates. Menu wording can change with software revisions. See TCL’s Fire TV troubleshooting guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Diagnose by symptom
| What happens | Likely causes | What to try next |
|---|---|---|
| No buttons work | Dead or misinstalled batteries, defective remote, lost pairing, or TV not powered | Fit fresh batteries, test the TV’s physical button, then follow the platform’s pairing steps. |
| Remote works only when aimed | IR operation, blocked sensor, or lost wireless connection | Clear the sensor and re-pair if the remote supports wireless pairing. |
| Power works but navigation or voice does not | Lost Bluetooth or wireless pairing on a hybrid or wireless remote | Use the platform-specific pairing procedure. |
| Only some buttons work | Dirty, stuck, worn, or damaged buttons; an audio or external-device issue | Test several buttons and inspect the remote. For volume, test TV speakers and temporarily disconnect external audio. |
| Remote flashes but TV ignores it | Obstruction, incompatible remote, or possible TV sensor fault | Clear the sensor path and test with a known-good compatible remote if available. |
| No flash appears in an IR camera test | Weak batteries or failed IR emitter | Fit fresh batteries and try another phone camera before concluding the remote is defective. |
| Remote repeatedly disconnects | Weak batteries, pairing corruption, distance, or wireless interference | Power-drain the TV, re-pair, and disconnect unused wireless accessories. |
| Batteries last only a few days | Repeated reconnection, a stuck button, or a defective remote | Check for a held button and re-pair, especially on Roku voice remotes. |
| App works but physical remote does not | Remote battery, hardware, or pairing fault | Re-pair or replace the remote after checking compatibility. |
| Neither app nor remote works | TV power, network, software, or hardware fault | Use physical controls if possible, power-cycle the TV, and test it with external devices disconnected. |
Test whether the remote or TV is at fault
IR camera test: only for infrared remotes
- Open your phone’s camera app.
- Point the front of the remote at the camera and press and hold a button.
- Look on the screen for a flashing white, purple, or bright light.
If you see a flash, the remote is emitting an IR signal; that does not prove the TV receives or understands it. Check for a blocked sensor, distance, or an incompatible remote. If there is no flash, try fresh batteries and, if possible, a different camera: some phone cameras filter infrared. This test says nothing about whether a Bluetooth, Roku wireless, or Fire TV remote is paired or working. TCL describes the test in its Roku remote troubleshooting guide.
Rank #4
- 【Packing List】There are two remote controls in the package, so you don't have to worry about not being able to use your TV because of a lost or damaged remote.
- 【Compatibility】Replacement remote control for TCL Google TV, compatible for TCL UHD HDR LED QD Mini LED QLED 4K Google TVs, for TCL QM8, QM7, S5, S4, S3, Q7, Q6, Q5 series tvs. Compatible for 65QM850G, 75QM850G, 85QM850G, 98QM751G, 85QM751G, 98S550G, 43S551G, 55S470G, 43S470G, 55Q670G, 65Q670G etc...(Not for Fire or Roku TVs)
- 【Quick-Access Shortcut Keys】This remote control is equipped with 6 dedicated buttons for popular streaming media channels. With just one press, you can instantly access your favorite streaming channels. No pairing or programming required! Simply insert 2 AAA batteries (Not included) to start using immediately.
- 【Enhanced Durability Range】Designed for longevity by over 160,000+ click-tested buttons and an extended (30ft/10m) operating range. Ergonomic design ensures comfortable use from any corner of your home theater.
- 【Full function replacement】Note: No voice control or included batteries/manual, Popular shortcut keys are only compatible with TCL Google TV itself comes with shortcut programs or popular shortcut keys. For old TVs, you cannot use shortcut programs without shortcut programs.
Compare the physical button, app, and remote
If the TV’s physical button works, the TV has at least basic power and control. If the app works but the physical remote does not, focus on the remote, its batteries, or pairing. If a known-good compatible remote also fails—or the TV’s physical controls fail—TV-side trouble becomes more likely. For a persistent problem, temporarily disconnect HDMI, USB, audio, antenna, and other accessories and test the TV by itself. A soundbar or receiver can also redirect volume control, while an accessory can obstruct an IR sensor. TCL’s power troubleshooting guidance recommends isolating external devices when diagnosing persistent TV control or power issues.
Before you buy a replacement
Identify the exact TV model and platform first, then check whether the replacement supports the features you use. A universal IR remote may provide basic Power, volume, input, and navigation, but usually cannot replace Bluetooth pairing, voice search, private listening, or platform-specific functions. An IR-only remote may therefore control basic commands on a Google TV or Android TV without restoring full navigation or voice. Roku, Google TV, Android TV, and Fire TV remotes are not automatically interchangeable.
Prefer an original or explicitly compatible remote for your exact model if you need voice or wireless features. Check the seller’s compatibility details rather than relying only on “TCL compatible.” TCL recommends confirming compatibility when replacing a Roku remote; see its Roku remote guidance. If your TV is already online, try its official phone app as a temporary control option before buying anything.
When to stop troubleshooting and contact TCL
Contact TCL support if a known-good compatible remote fails, an IR remote emits a signal but the TV does not respond after obstructions are cleared, the remote will not pair after fresh batteries and the correct platform reset, or the TV repeatedly forgets remotes or other Bluetooth devices. Seek TV-side support if physical controls also fail. Liquid or electrical damage warrants service rather than repeated reset attempts.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsHave the TV model number, remote model or FCC information if available, TV platform, software version, symptoms, and steps already tried ready. A factory reset is not a routine remote fix: it can erase Wi-Fi credentials, app logins, installed apps, and picture and audio settings. Use one only if the TV itself is malfunctioning and you have another way to control it, or TCL support directs you to do so.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
