No Menu Button on Vizio Remote? (Here's How to Access Settings)
If you have recently bought a Vizio smart TV and have taken a look at the remote, you have probably noticed something a little strange right off the bat: there is no menu button on a Vizio remote.
Once you noticed this, you probably also have wanted to know all about how to use your remote and how to access your Vizio remote settings since it’s not a click of a button away.
If there is no menu button on your Vizio remote, you can still access the menu settings by using the SmartCast app, downloading a smartphone app that uses IR, using voice command through Chromecast or Google Home, hold down buttons on the TV, buy a newer Vizio remote, or buy a universal remote.
As you can see, while it may seem odd that there is no menu button on your Vizio remote, you do have options when it comes to accessing your settings. We’ll talk all about that in this article, so you can make life easier on yourself in the long run.
How to Access the Settings with No Menu Button on the Vizio TV Remote
If you’re not used to having a remote without a menu button, we don’t blame you. The good news is there are other options to access the menu, so you aren’t completely at a loss. These methods include:
- The SmartCast App
- Smartphone Apps that Use IR
- Voice Commands
- TV Buttons
- Newer Vizio Remotes
- Universal Remotes
Use the SmartCast App
The SmartCast app essentially turns your smartphone into a remote for your TV. Once you download the app, open it, and find your device. Then, click on the “gear” icon to open up the settings. From there you will be able to make any changes to your TV settings.
Be sure your TV is on and connected to the network. Otherwise, the “gear” icon will be grayed out. You should also ensure both the app and the TV are up to date to the latest firmware.
SmartCast works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home, which means you can optimize your home’s entertainment systems and make life more convenient for you. SmartCast essentially renders remotes obsolete since you can access your TV settings through your smartphone or by using voice commands and routines.
Download a Smartphone App that Uses IR
If your smartphone supports IR, you will be able to o=download a third-party app that allows you to use your phone as a universal remote. This will let you control your TV and set up the remote to match your own personal preferences.
You can see if your phone supports IR by looking at the manufacturer’s website or by looking in the user manual.
Use Voice Commands to Chromecast/Google Home
Another way to access the menu is through Chromecast or Google Home. With these devices, you can set up voice commands that will make your life much easier. When you set up these commands, you won’t ever have to use a physical remote again.
Hold Down the Input and Volume Down Keys
This first option is far from convenient because it involves you getting up and going over to the TV. This can be a pain, especially if you’re just wanting to sit back and relax. That said, it is a way to access the menu, so we’re giving it a mention.
There are four buttons on the bottom of a Vizio TV. The two you’ll need are the input button and volume down button. Hold both these buttons down for a few seconds and a bar will pop up on the screen with all menu options.
Buy a Newer Vizio Remote
Vizio remotes without a menu button are mostly from 2011 or 2012. Newer models of the remotes now do have a menu button and they will pair with older devices. The best part about using a Vizio remote is they don’t require any additional setup, so you can begin using it right away. Vizio also offers remotes that work across all Vizio devices.
Connect to a Universal TV Remote
The good news is Vizio TVs will work with any universal remote. The bad news is it will require extra programming to run on your TV. This makes using a universal remote a less convenient option than getting a new Vizio remote, but it will still allow you to access the menu settings easily.
Once you get the remote, pair it with your Vizio TV by following the user manual. Depending on the remote you get, the buttons may be pre-configured, or you may be able to configure them yourself. Many universal remotes can pair across multiple devices as well, which can declutter your home and simplify your entertainment needs.
Get in Touch with a Vizio Customer Support Team
Whether you’re not satisfied with having no menu button on the remote or you’re experiencing other issues with your Vizio TV, contacting customer support is always an option. They may be able to give you additional information about your options and clarify any other questions you have, too.
What if Your Vizio TV Menu Isn’t Working?
Now you know how to access your TV’s menu setting, but what if that menu appears not to be working? Here are the most common issues people experience with their Vizio TV menu:
- The menu won’t stay open.
- The menu keeps popping up.
- They aren’t able to select menu options.
- They can’t navigate to the menu.
- The menu button on the remote isn’t working (when it’s there).
Depending on what’s going wrong, the issue usually can be resolved with one of these fixes:
- Power cycle the TV
- Remove remote batteries
- Replace remote batteries
- Unstick remote buttons
So, What Can You Do Since Your Vizio Remote Doesn’t Have a Menu Button?
Vizio’s TV and remote come with a wide range of functions, which makes the lack of menu button all the more surprising. There isn’t really a clear reason as to why Vizio decided to leave this button out. That said, It appears they fixed the problem with their newer remotes, but if you have an older remote, there are still ways to reach the menu.
This includes downloading an app, using voice commands through Chromecast or Google Home, going through the actual TV, or getting a new remote. If you’re still experiencing issues, you can always reach out to Vizio customer support, and they can help you through any other problems you may have with your Vizio TV and remote.
I am a copywriter and editor based in the Las Vegas area with nearly a decade of experience under my belt writing landing pages, cost guides, blog posts, newsletters, case studies, and social media content. I have a degree in Strategic Communication and experience working in both the account and creative spheres. My goal is to always be discovering new interests and bettering myself as a writer and editor along the way.
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