The basic steps to pair an older Samsung remote
Most older Samsung remotes pair to the TV through one of two methods: infrared (IR) line-of-sight) or Bluetooth. The method depends on your remote model and TV year. Start by pointing the remote directly at the TV's sensor (usually a small dark circle on the front bezel) from about three feet away. If the TV responds to button presses, the remote is already working and you do not need to pair it. If it does not respond, try replacing the batteries first — this solves the problem in most cases.
If new batteries do not work, your TV may need the remote to be re-paired. Most Samsung TVs from 2016 and earlier use infrared only and do not require pairing — they work as long as the remote has power and a clear line of sight to the sensor. Newer Samsung models (2017 and later) often use Bluetooth, which requires an active pairing step. Check your TV's manual or the model number on the back to determine which type you have.
Key Takeaways
- Replace the batteries in your remote first, since dead batteries are the most common reason an old Samsung remote stops working.
- Infrared remotes (older models) need a clear line of sight to the TV's front sensor and do not require pairing.
- Bluetooth remotes (2017 and later) must be paired through your TV's settings menu, usually under Remote or Bluetooth options.
- If your remote is lost or broken, you can control most Samsung TVs through the SmartThings app on a smartphone as a temporary workaround.
How to pair a Bluetooth Samsung remote
If your TV uses Bluetooth and the remote is not responding, you will need to put the TV into pairing mode. On most Samsung TVs, this is done through the Settings menu. Press the power button on the TV itself (not the remote) to turn it on, then use the TV's physical buttons to navigate to Settings. Look for an option labeled Remote, Bluetooth Devices, or Accessories — the exact wording varies by model year.
Once you find the remote pairing section, select the option to add or pair a new device. Your TV will enter pairing mode for about two minutes. During this time, hold down the Return and Play buttons on your Samsung remote simultaneously for three to five seconds until you see a light blink on the remote or a confirmation message on the TV screen. The remote should now be paired and ready to use.
If the pairing does not work after two attempts, power off both the TV and remote completely. Wait 30 seconds, then power them back on and try again. Sometimes a full power cycle clears temporary connection problems.
Troubleshooting when the remote still does not work
If pairing does not solve the problem, check whether the remote is physically damaged. Look for cracks, water damage, or stuck buttons. Press each button firmly — if some buttons work and others do not, the remote may have internal damage that cannot be fixed. Samsung does not repair individual remotes; you would need to purchase a replacement.
For infrared remotes, make sure nothing is blocking the sensor on the TV's front panel. Dust, pet hair, or a piece of tape over the sensor will prevent the remote from working. Gently clean the sensor with a soft, dry cloth. Also check that the remote's infrared lens (the dark plastic window on the front) is clean and not cracked.
If the TV responds to some buttons but not others, the remote's internal circuit board may be failing. This typically cannot be repaired and a replacement remote is the next step. Samsung sells official replacement remotes for most TV models, and third-party universal remotes designed for Samsung TVs are also available at electronics retailers.
Using your smartphone as a temporary remote
While you arrange a replacement remote, you can control your Samsung TV through the SmartThings app on an iPhone or Android phone. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play, then open it and tap the plus icon to add a device. Select your TV from the list of available devices and follow the on-screen steps to connect. Once connected, the app displays a virtual remote with all the standard buttons.
The SmartThings app works over your home Wi-Fi network, so your phone and TV must be on the same network. The app also lets you control other Samsung smart home devices from one place, though for TV control alone, the basic remote interface is all you need. This is a workaround for the short term — a physical remote is faster and more reliable for daily use.
Buying a replacement remote that works with your TV
Samsung sells official replacement remotes for most TV models. To find the right one, look up your TV's model number (printed on the back or in the manual) and search for it on Samsung's website or a retailer like Best Buy or Amazon. Official Samsung remotes cost between $30 and $60 depending on the model and features.
Universal remotes designed for Samsung TVs are cheaper (usually $15 to $30) and work with most Samsung models from the last 10 to 15 years. These remotes use infrared and do not require pairing — they work immediately out of the box. However, they may not include every button or feature of the original remote, and some advanced functions (like voice control on newer TVs) are not available on universal remotes.
Before buying, confirm that the replacement remote is compatible with your specific TV model. Check the product listing or manual to see which TV years and models it supports. If you buy from a retailer with a return policy, you can test it at home and return it if it does not work with your TV.
Checking your TV model and remote type
The easiest way to know whether your remote uses infrared or Bluetooth is to check your TV's manual or look up the model number online. The model number is usually on a sticker on the back of the TV or inside the battery compartment of the remote. Samsung's website has a support section where you can enter your model number and download the manual, which lists the remote type and pairing instructions.
Another way to tell is by looking at the remote itself. Bluetooth remotes often have a small LED light on the front that blinks when you press buttons. Infrared remotes have a dark plastic lens at the top but no LED. If you are unsure, try the infrared test: point the remote at your TV in a dark room and press a button while looking at the remote's top through your phone's camera. If you see a faint light flash on the camera screen, it is an infrared remote. Bluetooth remotes will not show this light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Samsung remote from one TV model on a different Samsung TV?
Most Samsung remotes work across multiple TV models from the same era, especially if both use infrared. However, some newer Bluetooth remotes are paired specifically to one TV. Check the manual or contact Samsung support with both model numbers to confirm compatibility before buying a used remote.
Why does my remote work sometimes but not consistently?
Inconsistent response usually means weak batteries, a dirty sensor on the TV, or an obstruction between the remote and TV. Replace the batteries first, then clean the TV's sensor with a soft cloth. If the problem continues, the remote's internal circuit may be failing and a replacement is needed.
Do I need to pair an infrared Samsung remote?
No. Infrared remotes do not require pairing — they work as long as they have power and a clear line of sight to the TV's sensor. If an infrared remote is not working, the issue is almost always dead batteries or a blocked sensor.
What should I do if I lost my Samsung remote?
Use the SmartThings app on your phone to control the TV while you order a replacement remote. You can also use the physical buttons on the TV itself to navigate menus and change channels, though this is slower than using a remote.
Are third-party universal remotes as good as Samsung's official remotes?
Universal remotes are reliable for basic functions like power, volume, and channel changes, and they cost less. However, they may not support advanced features like voice control or smart home integration. If you use your TV's smart features regularly, an official Samsung remote is the better choice.