How to Pair a Samsung or LG TV Remote: Step-by-Step Guide
Has your TV remote stopped working, or did you just get a replacement? Pairing a new remote to your Samsung or LG TV is usually quick — but the steps differ depending on your TV model and remote type. This guide covers everything you need to know.
How to Pair a Samsung TV Remote
Samsung uses two main remote types: the standard IR remote (no pairing needed) and the Smart Remote / Solar Cell Remote (requires Bluetooth pairing).
Samsung Smart Remote (BT Pairing — 2016 and newer TVs)
- Point the remote at the TV and press and hold the Return and Play/Pause buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.
- A pairing message will appear on screen: "Connecting to Samsung Smart Remote..."
- Once paired, the remote will work immediately.
If the Auto-Pairing Doesn't Work
- On your TV, go to Settings → General → External Device Manager → Input Device Manager.
- Select Bluetooth Device List.
- Put your remote into pairing mode by holding the Return + Play/Pause buttons.
- Select the remote from the device list and confirm pairing.
Samsung Standard IR Remote (older models)
IR (infrared) remotes don't require pairing — they work straight out of the box. Simply insert batteries and point at the TV's IR sensor (usually at the bottom centre of the screen). If it's not working, the issue is likely the battery or a faulty remote.
Reset a Samsung Remote
- Remove the batteries from the remote.
- Press and hold the Power button for 8 seconds to discharge any residual power.
- Reinsert the batteries and try pairing again.
How to Pair an LG TV Remote
LG uses two main remote types: the Magic Remote (with pointer/motion control) and the standard IR remote.
LG Magic Remote (2012 and newer Smart TVs)
- Turn on your LG TV.
- Point the Magic Remote at the TV and press the Home button and Back button simultaneously for 5 seconds.
- A registration message will appear on screen.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete pairing.
Alternative LG Magic Remote Pairing Method
- Go to Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV.
- Scroll to Bluetooth Remote Control and select Register Bluetooth Remote Control.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair.
LG Standard IR Remote
Like Samsung IR remotes, LG's standard remotes work via infrared and require no pairing. Insert batteries, point at the TV sensor, and you're good to go.
Reset an LG Magic Remote
- Press and hold the OK button and MUTE button simultaneously for 5 seconds.
- The remote will reset and attempt to re-register with the TV.
TV Remote Not Working After Pairing?
If your remote paired successfully but still isn't responding properly, try these fixes:
- Weak batteries: Even new batteries can be flat. Try a fresh set of AA or AAA batteries.
- Obstructions: For IR remotes, make sure nothing is blocking the line of sight to the TV sensor.
- Interference: Bright sunlight or fluorescent lights can interfere with IR signals. Try in a dimmer environment.
- TV software update: An outdated TV firmware can cause remote issues. Check Settings → Support → Software Update.
- Re-pair the remote: Unpair and re-pair the remote from scratch using the steps above.
- Factory reset the remote: Remove batteries, hold Power for 8 seconds, reinsert batteries.
Do I Need an Original Remote?
Not necessarily. Compatible replacement remotes work just as well as originals for most functions — and cost significantly less. Look for remotes that specifically list your TV model number for guaranteed compatibility.