Last weekend, I lost the remote control from my TCL TV.
Looked everywhere, but nowhere to be found.
Now, you can imagine the frustration of how I was supposed to turn on my TV.
But luckily, I found some easy ways to do so without the remote.
Read on to find out:
- What is T-link, and how to activate it.
- 5 ways to turn on your TCL TV without the remote.
- How to use Alexa or Google Assistant to turn on your TCL TV.
- And lots more…
How to turn on TCL TV without remote – 5 ways
You can turn on your TCL TV without the remote by using the physical power button at the backside of your television. You can also turn it on by using a remote application on your tablet or smartphone. Another way is using a smart speaker or game console.
#1: Using the Power Button
The most straightforward way to turn on your TCL TV is by using the power button located on the TV itself.
‘But where is the power button on a TCL TV?’
Usually, the power button is located just underneath the TCL logo at the bottom center.
You have to go all the way underneath to the back to find the button.
When you find it, simply press it, and the TCL TV turns on.
If you need visual guidance, here’s a helpful video on how to do it on a TCL Roku TV:
And if you happen to use a TCL Android TV, the power button is often located at the back of the TV.
Now, I can imagine you don’t want to get up and turn it on every time with the power button.
No worries, turning on your TCL TV can be done much easier by…
#2. Using a universal remote control
If your original TCL remote is glitchy or broken, you can simply replace it with a universal remote.
But before you buy a new one, just give your old remote one last inspection.
Check the following:
- Batteries – if they’re inserted correctly or need to be replaced with fresh ones.
- Buttons – for sticky or stuck buttons, be sure to unjam them.
- Sensors – make sure that the remote and TV sensor are not being blocked by dirt or objects.
If you did all that and still have no luck at all, then it’s time for a replacement.
I found this model that’s very good and compatible with many TCL TV models.
And I found this version that works especially with TCL ROKU TVs.
Note: When you buy a new remote, make sure to check if it’s compatible with your TCL TV model.
This solution works like a charm and also for other TV brands, depending on the compatibility of the universal remote control.
You might also like: Are TCL TVs Good For Gaming? 6 Real Reasons Why…
#3. Install a remote application
Many TCL TVs offer the option to control them via your smartphone or tablet by using a remote application.
This method is super convenient if you often lose your physical remote.
Note: Your TCL TV and smartphone must be connected to the same WiFi.
That said, simply install the TCL Home app (Android/iOS) and control your TV.
If you happen to have a TCL Roku TV, then install the Remote for TCL – Roku TV app (Android/iOS).
Next, follow the on-screen instructions and complete the setup.
When you’re finished, use the app’s power button to turn on your TCL TV.
#4: Give voice commands
Nowadays, you can have your own personal virtual assistant that executes your voice commands.
They can help you answer questions, manage your smart home devices, and even control your TV.
Just set up the TV skill, connect your TV to your virtual assistant, and give the correct voice command.
Note: The TV and virtual assistant need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi.
That said, here are a few examples.
Google Assistant
There are TCL Android TVs that have Google Assistant built-in.
Simply press the Google Assistant button (colored bubbly button) from the remote and give a voice command.
For example: ‘‘Hey Google, turn off TCL TV’’.
And if you don’t have the Google Assistant built-in, then simply connect a Google Home speaker to your TCL TV.
That way, it can work together with your TCL TV and execute voice commands like turning off the TV.
Amazon Alexa
Alexa is the personal assistant created by Amazon.
It’s installed on Amazon devices like:
- Echo.
- Echo Dot.
- Echo Spot.
- Echo Show.
So, if you connect one of these to your TCL TV, you can also give it voice commands.
For example: ‘’Alexa, turn off TCL Roku TV’’.
Try it out!
You might also like: 5 Steps To Reset A Toshiba TV In Seconds
#5. Using T-Link (HDMI CEC)
TCL TVs often support HDMI Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) technology.
This allows one remote or joypad to control multiple devices in your multimedia setup.
‘’You mean it’s possible to turn on my TCL TV with the remote from my soundbar or the controller from my PlayStation 5?’’
Exactly!
It works with every other device that also supports this technology.
You simply connect both devices with an HDMI cable to the HDMI CEC ports.
However, not all devices have this exact port.
And even if they have it, it’s usually just one.
You need to look for the HDMI port that is labeled as HDMI CEC or check the manual.
Plus, a lot of brands give their market this feature under different names.
TCL names it T-Link on their TCL Android TVs, and you can activate it by taking these 4 easy steps:
- Press the Settings button (gear icon) from the remote.
- Go to System.
- Select T-Link.
- Toggle it On.
When you’re done, you can connect the other device that also supports it.
And when that happens, you can turn on your TV with that other remote or joypad.
For example, you can connect your PlayStation 5 and turn on your TCL TV with the PS5 controller.
Simply enable the HDMI CEC feature on your TCL TV.
Then, hook it up to the PS5 with an HDMI cable.
And then, you only need to activate the HDMI CEC feature on the PS5 by following these 5 easy steps:
- Select Settings.
- Go to System.
- Navigate to HDMI.
- Toggle ON Enable HDMI Device Link.
- And toggle on Enable One-Touch Play.
And then, simply turn on your TCL TV with the PS5 controller.