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Roku Remote Comparison: Which Features Make an Upgrade Worthwhile?

A Roku voice remote can add voice search and, on some models, TV controls or Pro features. Check compatibility and choose based on what you will actually use.
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Upgrading from a Roku Simple Remote is worthwhile if you want voice search, TV power or volume control, or a specific extra on a compatible voice-remote model. If the Simple Remote already handles your everyday navigation and you do not need those features, the available feature differences offer no clear reason to replace it.

What changes when you switch to a voice remote?

The simplest way to tell the remotes apart is the voice button: Roku describes the Simple Remote as having no voice button. A compatible voice remote adds push-to-talk commands, such as searching for comedies or launching The Roku Channel. The label “voice remote” does not mean every model has the same features.

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TV power and volume depend on the model and your television

Some voice remotes can control TV power and volume. Roku’s setup procedure tests the TV and asks whether you can hear test audio. Results vary: Roku notes that some TVs allow volume control but not power control, and HDMI-CEC may need to be enabled. Confirm that the remote edition includes TV controls, then test it with your television. Roku’s TV-control setup instructions explain the process.

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Pro features are model-specific

Selected Voice Remote Pro models add features such as hands-free voice commands, a rechargeable battery, personal shortcuts, a lost-remote finder, and Headphone Mode. Check the exact generation’s feature list rather than assuming every Pro remote includes every feature. Headphone Mode works with a compatible remote and headphones, muting the TV speakers during private listening; Roku’s mobile app is another option in supported setups. The finder requires a compatible remote with a built-in speaker, and a low battery or being outside wireless range may prevent it from sounding.

#1 Best Overall
Roku Voice Remote, Replacement TV Remote Control
  • Easy voice search & control: Quickly search across thousands of top channels, play entertainment, control your streaming, and more with your voice
  • No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, control your Roku device, switch inputs on your Roku TV, and more—all in a tap
  • Pre-set channel shortcuts: Pre-set channel shortcuts let you launch popular streaming channels with the push of a button, all without having to scroll
  • Simple setup: Simply turn on your Roku device and pull the battery tab on the back of the remote and it should pair automatically
  • Works with your Roku device: Roku Voice Remote works with all Roku TV models, Roku audio products, and most Roku players*

Check compatibility before buying

Not every voice remote works with every Roku device. Find your device model under Settings > System > About, then check Roku’s current remote and device compatibility information. Confirm the exact device and remote generation before purchase. Roku says Voice Remote Pro is compatible with Roku players, Streambars, and Roku TVs shipped since 2017, as well as some older devices; check the compatibility information for your particular setup.

Set up TV controls

  1. On your Roku device, go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes.
  2. Select your voice remote, then choose Set up remote for TV control.
  3. Follow the on-screen audio test and confirm whether the test sound is audible.
  4. If your Roku player connects through a soundbar or receiver, temporarily connect it directly to the TV during setup so Roku can identify the TV brand.

If volume works but power does not, that can be a TV compatibility limitation rather than a failed setup.

Rank #2
Sale
Roku Voice Remote | Replacement TV Remote Control with Voice Control, Simple Setup, & Pre-Set App Shortcuts - Compatible with Roku TV, Players, & Audio Devices (Pack of 2)
  • The information below is per-pack only
  • Easy voice search & control: Quickly search across thousands of top channels, play entertainment, control your streaming, and more with your voice
  • No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, control your Roku device, switch inputs on your Roku TV, and more—all in a tap
  • Pre-set channel shortcuts: Pre-set channel shortcuts let you launch popular streaming channels with the push of a button, all without having to scroll
  • Simple setup: Simply turn on your Roku device and pull the battery tab on the back of the remote and it should pair automatically
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Which remote should you choose?

Option Best fit What to verify
Keep the Simple Remote You are happy navigating with its directional pad and do not need voice, TV controls, or premium extras. No upgrade is needed if your current remote works for your routine.
Compatible voice remote You want push-to-talk voice search or want one remote to handle TV power or volume. Confirm compatibility with your Roku device, TV-control support on that remote edition, and whether your TV supports the controls you want.
Voice Remote Pro You specifically want a Pro feature such as hands-free voice, a rechargeable battery, or a finder. Features vary by generation; check the exact model’s feature list and device compatibility.

There is no established price comparison or measured time saving for voice control here, so the decision turns on whether the added functions solve a problem for you and on the current price of the specific compatible model.

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Best Value
Sale
2 Pack Replacement Remote Control Only for Roku TV, Compatible for TCL Roku/Hisense Roku/Onn Roku/Sharp Roku/Philips Roku/Element Roku/Westinghouse Roku TVs (Not for Roku Stick, Box or Speaker)
  • No Setup Required: the remote control replacement for Roku TV which can solve your home backup remote control needs. Simply Insert 2 AAA batteries (Not included) , then turn on your device and it will automatically pair, perfectly replacing your original remote control
  • Upgrade Material: our remote replacement is made of high quality ABS and silicone, ABS improves durability, can be used for a long time, and also keeps you and your children away from harm
  • Completely Compatible: the replacement remote controls only for roku series TVs, compatible with TCL Roku TVs, Hisense Roku TVs, Onn Roku TVs, Sharp Roku TVs, Philips Roku TVs
  • Notice: Only for roku tv, not for roku stick/roku box 1/2/3/4(HD/LT/XS/XD), not for roku ultra/roku express/roku premiere and roku player
  • Key Features: Get to favorite apps quickly with 8 shortcut buttons for Disney, Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Primevideo sling, Apple TV+ and VUDU. Strongest signal by mature infrared technology, farther transmitting distance, stable performance, following the movement of the tv page without obvious delay
Rank #4
Sale
Roku RCA1R Voice Remote
  • Convenient Voice Controls
  • TV Power, Volume, And Mute Buttons
  • Pre-Set Channel Shortcut Buttons
Rank #3
Roku Voice Remote Pro (2nd Ed.), TV Remote Control with Backlit Buttons
  • Stay powered for months: Keep your remote running for three months on a single charge. With 50% more battery life and USB-C charging, Roku Voice Remote Pro (2nd Edition) is the ultimate TV companion.
  • Built for movie nights: No more fumbling in the dark to find the pause button or turn up the volume. Always know what you’re about to press with easy-to-see backlit buttons.
  • Just talk to it: Got popcorn fingers? Leave the remote in the other room? Just say “Hey Roku” from across the couch and control your streaming with your voice.
  • Find your lost remote: Don't break a sweat tearing apart the couch. Just say “Hey Roku, where’s my remote?” or find it using the free Roku Mobile app.
  • One that does it all: No more juggling remotes. Roku Voice Remote Pro (2nd Edition) powers up your TV, adjusts the volume, and controls your Roku device.

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.

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