Can You Use an LG Smart TV Without a Remote?

Can You Use an LG Smart TV Without a Remote?Can You Use an LG Smart TV Without a Remote?

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The easiest way to control any TV is with the remote control. But, if you lose the remote that came with your LG TV, or if it stops working, you still have a lot of options.

Can I Use My LG Smart TV Without a Remote?

You don’t need to go out and buy a new LG TV just because you lost the remote — there are plenty of ways you can use your TV without the remote it came with!

Some of the things I’ve used to control my LG smart TV include:

  • The TV buttons
  • The LG ThinQ app
  • Universal remotes
  • A wireless computer mouse
  • Streaming device remotes
  • Xbox One controllers

No matter which option you choose, you’ll still be able to control at least the basic functions of your TV.

Control Your LG TV Manually

Holding the power button on LG TV

Some of the more technologically advanced LG TV models don’t have any buttons. But, mine includes all the basic functions:

  • Power
  • Volume
  • Channel
  • Input 

Depending on the model you own, you might have dedicated buttons for each function, or one button that controls everything. 

In general, newer TVs have a single button, while older models have multiple buttons.

While it is inconvenient to walk up to your TV every time you want to adjust the volume, it’s an easy short-term solution. 

Control Your LG TV with Your Phone

Most modern smart TVs, including LG smart TVs, have apps you can download and use as a remote.

The LG ThinQ app is my favorite. It’s good for both short and long-term use, and it’s completely free.

Press the power button on the TV to turn it on, then follow the steps below to start controlling it with the LG ThinQ app.

  1. Download the LG ThinQ app from your phone’s app store.
  2. Open the app. 
    LG ThinQ app icon
  3. Make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your LG TV. Otherwise, this method will not work.
  4. Press the + sign at the top of the screen and answer the on-screen prompts.
    Add a device to ThinQ
  5. Select “Home Appliances,” then press “TV.”
  6. The app will take a few moments to scan for devices nearby. Select your LG TV. 
  7. A verification code will appear on your TV. Enter this code into the app and press “Ok.”
  8. Go back to the homepage to use the app’s remote control interface. 

The ThinQ app is available for Android and Apple devices. I recommend using this app over others because it’s made specifically for LG smart TVs. 

Use a Universal Remote with Your LG TV

If you would rather have a physical remote than use your phone every time you want to adjust the volume or pause your show, a universal remote is a great option.

If you need a permanent solution, this is the one I recommend. Most universal remotes can connect to nearly any TV and control every function your LG remote can. 

To set up a new universal remote, you just need to enter the correct code for your LG smart TV.

Control Your LG TV with a Wireless Mouse

Controlling your LG TV with a wireless computer mouse is a good idea, even when you still have the remote.

For example, you might find it easier to operate your LG TV’s Web Browser with a mouse instead of the remote.

To operate your TV with a mouse, you must first ensure it is compatible with your LG TV. Then, follow the steps below to connect it to your TV:

  1. Open your LG TV’s settings.
  2. Select “External Devices.”
  3. Press “Connect Bluetooth Controller.”
  4. Connect your wireless mouse.

Wireless mouses are good for on-screen navigation. However, you may not be able to access the basic functions, like powering on or off, adjusting the volume, or changing the channel. 

Control Your LG TV with a Streaming Device

apple tv remote with rocks in background

Some of the remotes that come with streaming devices allow you to control your LG TV’s basic functions, like volume and power. 

The best two options I’ve found are the Amazon Fire TV remote and the Apple TV remote. 

When you have a compatible device connected, it allows you to fully control the TV’s functions.

Control Your LG TV with Xbox One

While you can’t use your Xbox One controller to completely control your LG TV, you can use it to power the TV on or off. 

To set up the connection, follow the steps below:

  1. Turn your Xbox on.
  2. Open your settings.
  3. Press “TV and OneGuide.”
  4. Select “Device Control.”
  5. Choose “LG.”
  6. Press “Automatic.”
  7. Choose “Send Command.” This will mute the TV. 
  8. Select “Yes” once the TV is muted.
  9. Press the “B” button, then “Power Settings.”
  10. Choose “Xbox One turns on and turns off my devices.”

Now, you can power your LG TV on and off with your Xbox One controller.

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