There are a lot of things to like about Roku. The simple UI, its streaming capabilities, or the new Find my Remote feature can all be deemed worthy features.
But what attracted me the most is the variegated list of channels on offer. This is what led me to acquire a number of their devices over the years for my streaming sessions.
But don't get me wrong, they are not perfect. Being a Roku user myself, I can say the screen freezes annoy me the most.
To find a solution to the problem, I went online and visited Roku support pages and user forums.
I found out that the Roku tv keeps freezing mostly because of overheating and outdated software.
If your Roku keeps freezing, perform a quick power cycle and update your Roku to the latest version. If the issue is with a particular channel, remove and re-add it. Also, check for issues with the Remote. If the problem persists, try a factory reset.
Check the Basics
![Roku Keeps Freezing: How To Fix In Seconds [2023] - BlinqBlinq (1) Roku Keeps Freezing: How To Fix In Seconds [2023] - BlinqBlinq (1)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/2-3.png)
Always make sure to cover the basic stuff when troubleshooting a problem. These include HDMI, Internet, update, and interference issues.
Check the HDMI Connection
A faulty HDMI cable or a precarious connection can make your Roku put on a different persona. It may be a freezing issue, an AV sync issue, or even an outright blackout (which is easier to find out).
If you are using an external Roku device connected to a smart TV like Samsung's smart TVs, Roku won't show up if the HDMI connections are shaky.
Make sure the cables are connected properly.
Always remember to use HDMI cables that support HDCP 2.2 connection. HDCP is a copyright protocol that is necessary for streaming content on various channels, like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Depending on the model you have, you may want to select the appropriate cable. A 4K capable device may require an HDMI 2.0 (and above) supported cable.
Check your Internet Connectivity
An unstable internet can cause all sorts of problems, a frozen screen being one of them. WiFi issues have always been an issue for select TCL Roku TV models too.
Make sure you have stable internet by checking the speeds using a speed testing software on your mobile or PC.
If the speeds are irregular, consider refreshing the connection by restarting the modem/router.
Simply unplug the router/modem and plug it back in after a few seconds.
Check the speed and then reconnect the device.
If you still have problems, try changing the connection to a wider bandwidth. Some Roku devices support dual-band connections such as the streaming stick series and the Ultra series.
A traditional 2.4 GHz band has its limitations. It cannot support high traffic and if the traffic is high, so is the latency. This can cause buffering and freezing issues on the device.
The wider 5 GHz band doesn't have such limitations. It can support higher traffic without overshooting latency.
Try changing the connection on your Roku to a 5GHz band to avoid further network issues.
Check for Updates
Running on an outdated version of the firmware can make any digital device vulnerable to numerous bugs and errors.
In fact, it is one of the main reasons why Roku's UI keeps slowing down.
Make sure to run your Roku on the latest version at all times.
To update your Roku, follow these steps.
1. In the Home screen, click and open Settings.
2. Open Systems.
3. Click on System Update and Check Now to manually scan for updates.
Wait for the updates to be installed and then restart the device.
Check for Interferences
Another subtle but grave issue with Roku is its susceptibility to interference. A well-known example is an interference issue caused by a Nintendo Switch device.
The problem arises when you play a certain game on the Switch. The wireless transmission between the Switch and the router seemed to make a nearby placed Roku unresponsive.
A quick fix is to Turn Off the WiFi on the Switch. Similarly, make sure that there are no wireless devices placed close to the Roku. Relocating the Roku may also be helpful.
Power Cycle and Restart the Roku
![Roku Keeps Freezing: How To Fix In Seconds [2023] - BlinqBlinq (2) Roku Keeps Freezing: How To Fix In Seconds [2023] - BlinqBlinq (2)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/3-3.png)
If you get a frozen Home screen and the device seems unresponsive to your commands, power cycle the device.
To power cycle a device means unplugging the device and plugging it back in after a few seconds.
This will make all the temporal inconsistencies in the device disappear and also cool down the device.
You could also manually restart the device on the Roku by following these steps.
1. In the Settings tab, click and open System.
2. Click on System Restart.
3. Then press Restart.
In the case of Roku TV, you will have to go to Settings>System>Power>System Restart>Restart.
Earlier (first and second-generation) Roku models may not have this option.
Check and Revert any Changes
Making changes on your Roku (especially the older models) has been reported to result in frozen screens and flickering interfaces.
Try and revert any recent changes you have made on Roku as a troubleshooting step. Restart the device after reverting the changes for better results.
Screensavers and background changes are known to be erroneous. Make sure to change them back to the default ones.
Other changes to take note of are as follows.
Auto-Adjust Refresh Rate Settings on Roku
Claimed by many to be a principal troublemaker, this setting must be turned OFF if you have any issues with the display.
As the name suggests, this option will automatically adjust the Frame rate of your device depending on the content you play.
To turn off Auto-adjust refresh rate settings on Roku, follow these exact steps.
1. On the Settings tab, click and open System.
2. Click on Advanced System Settings.
3. Select Advanced Display Setting and turn OFF the Auto-adjust the Display Refresh rate option.
Restart your device and check for issues.
Turn OFF Bandwidth Saver
Another setting that can cause internet issues and screen freeze is the bandwidth-saver setting.
This setting makes the device go to sleep if the remote has been inactive for over 4 hours.
When you wake up the device from its respite, the UI may not be as responsive as before.
To turn OFF the Bandwidth Saver option
1. Go to the Settings tab and open Network.
2. Click on Bandwidth Saver and disable it.
Restart the device and check for further issues.
Issues with the Roku Remote
![Roku Keeps Freezing: How To Fix In Seconds [2023] - BlinqBlinq (3) Roku Keeps Freezing: How To Fix In Seconds [2023] - BlinqBlinq (3)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/4-3.png)
Sometimes, the problem might not be with the Roku itself, it may be a communication issue with the Remote.
A dead battery or communication interference can cause this issue.
Make sure the remote battery is working, and there are no impedances along the line of sight with the Roku (need not worry about this in the case of RF-enabled remotes).
Other remote-related things to consider are as follows.
Unpair and Re-pair the Remote
If the connection seems to be faulty, try refreshing the connection by unpairing and re-pairing the remote with Roku.
To unpair and re-pair the Roku remote
1. Turn OFF the Roku and remove the batteries for the remote.
2. Turn ON the Roku and plug the batteries into the remote.
3. Press and hold the pairing button next to the remote's battery compartment till you see the blinking LED.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to pair the remote.
Remove Earphones/Headphones Connected to the Remote
If you have connected an earphone or a headphone to the headphone jack on the Remote, you may experience issues on the Shield TV.
Remove the headphones/earphone and restart the remote by removing the batteries.
Roku remote beeping issue is another common issue reported by Roku users.
App/Channel Issues on Roku
Freezing issues may not all be a result of Roku malfunctions, it could also be due to a faulty app.
Several apps, like Netflix and Sling TV, have been known to have issues that can make the whole stream freeze and jitter.
Sure, they will be fixed eventually through an update, but once it occurs, there is no escaping the issue. TCL Roku TVs have also been facing channel issues.
You can log out and re-log into the channel, but it may not be as effective as removing the entire app.
To remove the app, follow these steps.
1. On the Home screen, navigate and hover over the erroneous channel.
2. Press the * button on the remote to bring up a settings menu.
3. Click on Remove channel at the bottom of the list.
4. Confirm by clicking Remove to delete the channel.
Restart the device and then, you can install the channel once more by searching for it on the app store.
Make sure you remove the most recent app you added if the issue came to light after the said channel has been installed.
Hard Resetting the Roku
The last straw in my bag of tricks and tips is to reset the Roku back to its factory setting. This will clear the cache and remove any bugs and errors present in the device.
Follow these steps to reset your Roku.
1. In the Settings tab, click and open System.
2. Click on Advanced System Settings and then select Factory Reset.
3. Enter the special code displayed on the screen and click on OK.
4. Wait for the process to be completed. Set up your Roku again and check for problems.
If the screen is frozen and there is nothing you can do to change it, you can reset the device using a combination of buttons pushed on the Roku remote.
Follow this order to soft reboot the device.
1. Press the Home button 5 times.
2. Then the Up arrow once.
3. Press the rewind button twice.
4. Then the fast forward button twice.
Once the button pushes have been recognized by Roku, the system will eventually reset, and a bouncing Roku logo will appear.
You can also press and hold the reset button (pinhole button in some models) on your Roku to bring up a recovery mode screen. From here, you can update and reset your device.
Final Thoughts
A quick hotfix for a freezing Roku tv is to remove the SD card and restart the device.
SD cards have caused issues in the past so, you might as well give it a try.
If none of the tips seems to placate the issue, contact Roku support for further assistance.
Happy Streaming!
You May Also Enjoy Reading
- Does Roku have a Web Browser: Answered [2023]
- Does Roku TV Support Bluetooth?
- How to Mirror iPad to Roku TV-Multiple Ways [2023]
- Does Roku work with Homekit: How to Connect [2023]
- How To Fast Forward On Roku: Quick Fix [2023]
- Web Video Caster Not Working: How to Fix [2023]
FAQs
How do I fix my Roku when it freezes? ›
- Press Home on your Roku remote.
- Scroll and select Settings.
- Select System.
- Select Advanced system settings.
- Select Factory reset.
- If you have a Roku TV, select Factory reset everything. ...
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
If you see a red flashing light or a “low power” warning, that means your Roku isn't getting enough power. Your Roku may still work, but it can crash or behave differently at any time. A flashing red light or on-screen message indicates that the Roku has insufficient power.
Why does my Roku streaming keep stopping? ›Why Does the Roku Keep Buffering? A slow internet connection, overheating, or an out-of-date operating system can cause a Roku to buffer. Media apps that automatically switch to high-resolution videos while on a slow connection that can't handle larger files can also cause buffering.
Why is my new Roku freezing? ›I found out that the Roku tv keeps freezing mostly because of overheating and outdated software. If your Roku keeps freezing, perform a quick power cycle and update your Roku to the latest version. If the issue is with a particular channel, remove and re-add it. If the problem persists, try a factory reset.
How do you hard reboot a Roku? ›Locate the pinhole Reset button on the back of your TV, near the antenna, HDMI, and audio connections. Using a straightened paperclip (or similar), press and hold the reset button for at least 20 seconds. After a moment, your Roku TV will restart and display the Recovery Mode screen.
Does Roku have to be updated? ›All Roku TV™ models and Roku® streaming players are designed to ensure they are always running the latest version of software. Your Roku device will check to see whether new software is available for download during initial setup and whenever the Roku device is powered on, and then randomly every 24-36 hours.
How many years does a Roku last? ›The average lifespan of a Roku TV is around seven (7) years for regular-to-heavy usage. You can somehow prolong it up to nine (9) years if you maintain and care for it properly.
How long should a Roku device last? ›Like all devices, the Roku stick starts to wear out after three to five years of use. With proper care and maintenance, most users use their Roku stick for up to five to seven years. If you want to prevent your Roku's hardware from degrading, try to avoid exposure to heat stress, dust, and humidity.
How often should I update my Roku? ›Your Roku device should update itself every 24-36 hours. However, there are times when it might not update itself quickly enough. Updating your Roku device manually allows you to get the latest features as soon as they come out.
Do I need to clear cache on Roku? ›You cannot clear the cache on Roku devices because they don't have one, according to the company. Instead of trying to clear a cache, you can try to restart the player and see if that resolves your issues.
Why does streaming keep stopping and starting? ›
Internet buffering problems are usually caused by one of three issues. Your internet connection is too slow to keep up with the incoming data. The streaming provider can't send your device the data it needs fast enough. Your home Wi-Fi network is slowing things down.
How can I boost my Roku signal? ›- Reduce distance: Moving your Roku device and router closer to each other will strengthen the wireless signal. ...
- Eliminate obstructions: Install both devices where there are fewer objects and walls between them.
To reset your Roku device, press the Home button on your remote. Then go to Settings > System > Advanced system settings. Next, choose Factory reset and enter the code on your screen. Finally, select OK and wait for your Roku device to restart.
How do I clear my Roku cache? ›- Make sure “Home” is selected from the main menu.
- From the remote control, press the following buttons consecutively: Press Home 5 times. Press Up. Press Rewind 2 times. Press Fast Forward 2 times.
What's new in Roku OS 11.5? The latest update for Roku streaming devices will add several new features, including new options on the Home Screen Menu, Audio and Voice enhancements, and new ways to discover content.
How do I reset my Roku without unplugging it? ›To restart your Roku without unplugging it, press the Home button on your remote. Then go to Settings > System > System Restart. Finally, select Restart and wait for your Roku device to turn off and on again.
How do I use a stuck Roku? ›- Choose a language. ...
- Connect your Roku device to your network and the internet. ...
- Wait for your Roku device to download the latest software. ...
- Set the display type. ...
- Set up your Roku voice remote to control your TV. ...
- Create a Roku account and activate your Roku device. ...
- You are done!
Press and hold the reset button, which is located in the battery compartment, for about 5 seconds. 5. The pairing light on the remote should start flashing. The re-pairing process may take up to 30 seconds to finish — a notification will appear on the screen when it's complete.
When should I replace my Roku? ›Many older Roku models only support single-band Wi-Fi, and even some recent ones don't support the latest 802.11ac standard. Consider upgrading if your Roku's streaming quality doesn't seem to match your internet speed and/or your router's capabilities.
What will replace Roku? ›- Editors choice. Chromecast with Google TV. See On Best buy. Operating System Android TV 12. Downloadable Apps Yes. ...
- Premium pick. Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019) See On Amazon. Operating System Android TV 11. ...
- Best value. Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite. See On Amazon. Operating System Fire OS 7.
Can a Roku get too old? ›
If you own an affected Roku player, your device will continue to work but you will no longer get new apps or features. So, you can continue to use your older Roku player, but you run the risk of the streaming service ending support for it.
Should you unplug your Roku at night? ›Since Roku devices use so little energy, there's no need to turn them off, so there's no on-board option to do that. There are advantages to that, such as the Roku always being ready to stream and perform automatic updates.
Should you leave Roku on all the time? ›Roku streaming players are low-power devices that are designed to remain on and always connected to the internet. There is no “power button” to press on or off.
What is the oldest Roku? ›The first Roku model, the Roku DVP N1000, was unveiled on May 20, 2008. It was developed in partnership with Netflix to serve as a standalone set-top box for its recently introduced "Watch Instantly" service.
How many Roku devices can I have in my house? ›Hi! Yes you have up to 20 Roku devices on the same Roku account.
Which is better Roku or Firestick? ›But Roku streaming devices have a wider selection of channels. Both devices give you access to the most popular channels like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Hulu, etc. But Roku offers over 3,000 free channels. The Fire Stick offers closer to 200 free channels.
How do I get to the Roku secret menu? ›...
To access the Update and Reset secret menu:
- Press Home five times.
- Immediately press Fast Forward three times.
- Press Rewind twice. The Update and Reset secret menu should open.
There's no Roku subscription. You'll only pay extra if you decide to subscribe to a channel or service, or pay a one-off fee for some content. New channels and new content are added frequently, and devices are updated automatically, so you'll never miss out on new Roku streaming options.
Does clear cache delete everything? ›Clearing your cache only gets rid of the data your device has stored from the websites and apps you visit—it has no impact on your photos or the files you have saved there. Regardless of the device, your photos are safe when you clear your cache.
Is it OK if I clear cache? ›Cache data can slow down your phone's browsing performance since it takes up storage space in your device, so it's good to clear it out regularly.
Will Clear cache delete anything? ›
What Will Clearing Cached Data Do? Most devices have some form of cache cleanup. New data comes in, and older information is removed. This system ensures that your device isn't bogged down by so much storage that it can't tackle anything new.
Why does my video stop after a few seconds? ›The main reason why your video may stop working in the middle may be internet issues. It can happen if your internet connection's speed is slow. As the videos use lots of data, they might stop working when you have slow internet.
What Internet speed is best for Roku? ›For the best viewing results, we recommend a minimum download speed of 3.0 Mbps for standard definition and up to 9.0 Mbps for HD content. You can test your network speed at speedtest.net.
Is Roku better wired or wireless? ›Using a wired connection rather than traditional Wi-Fi alone will vastly improve the quality of your video streaming. Wired home networking solutions like MoCA not only offer a much faster throughput than WiFi alone, but the signal is much more reliable.
How do I check Wi-Fi signal strength on Roku? ›NOTE: After connecting to your wireless network, go to Settings>Network>Signal strength on Roku. If the signal strength is "Excellent" you can skip to the section labeled, "Check your Internet Speed".
How do you manually clear the cache? ›- On your computer, open Chrome.
- At the top right, click More .
- Click More tools Clear browsing data.
- At the top, choose a time range. To delete everything, select All time.
- Next to “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files,” check the boxes.
- Click Clear data.
Benefits of Clearing Cache on Android
In the short term, clearing cache helps you save storage space on your phone. But this is a temporary fix, since new cache files are created all the time as you use apps.
- Close fully out of the browser. ...
- Reopen Chrome and navigate to a non-Lexis website.
- Tap Menu.
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Privacy.
- Tap Clear Browsing Data.
- Check Clear the cache and Clear cookies, site data.
- Tap Clear.
- Top-notch voice remote pro.
- 4K/HDR and Dolby Vision.
- Fast, with wired internet.
Try restarting the Roku device and your router. It will take a few minutes before both devices have restarted. To restart your Roku player or Roku TV, you can either unplug the power cable, wait a moment, and then reconnect it.
Why is my Roku TV not responding? ›
Roku troubleshooting tips:
Check your internet connection. If your network is experiencing disruptions due to outside issues, like network congestion during peak times, you may need to look into getting a faster connection. Try disconnecting your Wi-Fi router for 30 seconds, then reconnecting it.
- Choose a language. ...
- Connect your Roku device to your network and the internet. ...
- Wait for your Roku device to download the latest software. ...
- Set the display type. ...
- Set up your Roku voice remote to control your TV. ...
- Create a Roku account and activate your Roku device. ...
- You are done!
If the remote is unresponsive, replace the batteries and try again. Reset your Roku box or stick and Roku remote. Remove the batteries from the remote, then remove the power cable from the Roku streaming device. Wait 5 seconds, then reconnect the power to the device.
Why is my Roku stick not responding? ›Ensure that the power light on the Roku Streaming Stick is on and flashing. If not a possible issue is that the device is not receiving power. Check and make sure the micro-USB is plugged into the wall, and make sure that it is plugged into the Roku. If the light is not on, inspect the micro-USB port for any damage.
How do I fix an unresponsive remote? ›Make sure none of the remote buttons are jammed or stuck. The remote control battery terminals may be dirty. Remove the batteries and clean the remote control terminals with a small solution of alcohol, using a cotton bud or soft cloth, then place the batteries back into the remote control.
Where is the Roku pairing button? ›Roku voice remotes with standard batteries and a microphone pinhole located below the power button have the pairing button and status light beneath the battery cover. Batteries come with the remote, but are not pre-installed.
How do I refresh my Roku remote? ›To reset your remote, you need to take out the batteries, unplug your Roku device and plug it back in, replace the batteries, and hold down the reset button until the remote re-pairs.
Where is the Roku remote Reset button? ›There is no way to reset a “simple” Roku remote, but you can remove the batteries and reinsert them or replace them with new ones. Or you can also reset your Roku device itself by pressing the Reset button, which you will usually find on the back or bottom of your device.
Can a Roku device wear out? ›Like all devices, the Roku stick starts to wear out after three to five years of use. With proper care and maintenance, most users use their Roku stick for up to five to seven years. If you want to prevent your Roku's hardware from degrading, try to avoid exposure to heat stress, dust, and humidity.