How To Turn ON Hisense TV Without Remote – 4 Methods
By Robert Jones · 2021-09-22
Lost your Hisense TV remote? Happens to the best of us. Don't worry, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to get your Hisense TV powered on, even without that little plastic stick.
Right, you've just settled in. Kettle's boiled, cuppa in hand, maybe a biscuit or two, and you're ready for an evening with the telly. Then it hits you – that little black (or silver, or grey) rectangle is gone. Vanished. Your Hisense remote has done a runner, hasn't it? Happens more often than you'd think, even in my workshop, surrounded by kit. It's a proper pain when all you want to do is switch on, but don't fret. We can get that Hisense TV glowing again without its official keeper. **Quick Verdict: Best bet? The Hisense ConnectLife app or a decent universal remote. Built-in buttons are a last resort.** I've been faffing about with speakers, amps, and all sorts of home cinema gear for over two decades now. Twenty years. Blimey. In that time, I've seen more remotes disappear than I've had hot dinners. Kids, dogs, the mysterious black hole behind the sofa – they all conspire to snatch that little plastic stick. It's infuriating, isn't it? Especially when you're just after that power button to relax, or, in my case, to fire up a Hisense TV for a quick audio test before sending it back. I distinctly remember a Hisense ULED model I had in for review, oh, maybe three years back. Cracking picture, really impressive for the money, but the remote was tiny. Almost too small for my big hands, and slippery. Naturally, it went AWOL the very day I had a proper listening session lined up with a new pair of bookshelf speakers. Spent a good half hour tearing the workshop apart, muttering to myself, convinced the cat had made off with it. Then I remembered the alternatives. Saved my bacon, that did. So, if you're in the same boat, don't despair. We'll get that screen glowing again, no problem.  *Turning on your Hisense TV without the remote. It's a common problem, honestly. Seen it countless times in the SpeakersMag workshop.* ## Why Your Hisense Remote's Gone Walkabout (or Packed Up) Before we dive into the solutions, let's be honest about *why* we're here. It's rarely malice from the remote itself, usually just life getting in the way. Here are the usual suspects I've come across time and again: * **The Sofa Monster:** This is the big one, isn't it? Cushions are like black holes for remotes. They slide down the back, under the seat, sometimes even into the armrest. I've found old sweet wrappers, loose change, and even a missing spanner or two down there when giving the sofa a good shake. Don't underestimate its power to swallow small electronics. * **Children (and sometimes pets):** Bless 'em. They see a button, they press a button. Then they leave it in the toy box, under the bed, or even in the garden if they've been playing outside. My grandkids are masters at this. As for pets, a chewed-up remote is a tell-tale sign your dog wasn't getting enough attention that day. My old Jack Russell once made off with an entire home cinema remote, leaving just the battery cover. The cheek of it! * **Flat Batteries:** Obvious, I know. But often overlooked. We assume it's lost when it's just run out of juice. Give the batteries a quick check. If they're old, swap 'em out. You'd be surprised how often this is the culprit. * **Actual Damage:** Dropped it one too many times? Spilled a cuppa on it? Stepped on it? Remotes aren't built like tanks, generally speaking. A crack or a sticky button can render it useless. * **Just Misplaced It:** We all do it. Put it down somewhere daft and can't remember where. The kitchen counter, the bathroom, tucked inside a magazine. It happens. My missus found my car keys in the fridge last week. No idea how they got there. ## Method 1: The Old-Fashioned Buttons on the TV Itself This is always my first port of call, isn't it? Before you go tearing the house apart, have a look at the TV itself. Most Hisense models, even the fancy smart ones, still have some basic controls built into the chassis. Usually, they're a bit hidden, a bit fiddly, but they're there for emergencies. ### Where to Look for TV Buttons Typically, you'll find these buttons in one of a few spots: * **Bottom Edge (Centre or Right):** Often directly beneath the screen, sometimes subtly integrated. Feel around, run your hand along the edge. You might find a single multi-function button or a small cluster. * **Side Panel (Right or Left):** On larger TVs, they might be tucked away on the side, usually towards the bottom. Think about where the input ports are – they're often nearby. * **Back Panel:** Sometimes, particularly on older or very thin models, they're on the back. A bit of a stretch, but they'll be there. You might have to peer around with a torch. ### What to Look For What you're after is usually a combination of: * **Power Button:** Obvious, really. Sometimes it's a push-in button, other times a rocker switch. It might even be a touch-sensitive spot, so a gentle press is all it needs. * **Volume Up/Down:** Usually separate buttons, or part of a multi-function rocker. * **Channel Up/Down:** Again, often separate or integrated. * **Input/Source:** Crucial if you need to switch from, say, your Freeview box to your PlayStation. * **Menu/OK:** Less common to find full menu controls, but some sets have a basic "OK" or "Select" function. With Hisense, I've noticed they often use a single, multi-directional joystick-like button. You push it in for power/select, then nudge it up, down, left, or right for volume, channels, or input selection. It's not ideal, but it works. It's a bit like trying to drive a car with your knees, but it gets you there. Bear in mind, some of the newer, super-slim Hisense models are moving towards having *just* a power button, or even no physical buttons at all beyond the initial setup. Proper annoying, that is. **Pros:** * No extra faffing about with apps or pairing. * Always there (unless physically broken). * Free! **Cons:** * Often fiddly and hard to find in the dark. * Limited functionality – usually just power, volume, channel, input. * Can be a pain to reach if your TV's wall-mounted. * Newer models might have very few buttons, or none at all. ## Method 2: The Hisense ConnectLife App – Your Smartphone to the Rescue This is, hand on heart, my preferred method when the remote goes on holiday. If you've got a smartphone, you've got a remote. Hisense has its own app, 'ConnectLife', and it's generally pretty decent for basic controls. It's designed for all their smart home stuff, but TV control is usually bundled in. ### How to Get Started with ConnectLife 1. **Download the App:** Head to your phone's app store (Google Play for Android, Apple App Store for iPhone) and search for "Hisense ConnectLife". Download and install it. It's free, of course. 2. **Account Setup (Optional, but useful):** It might ask you to create a Hisense account. You don't *always* need to for basic TV control, but it helps if you have multiple Hisense devices or want to use advanced features later. 3. **Connect to Wi-Fi:** Crucial step. Your phone and your Hisense TV *must* be on the same Wi-Fi network. If your TV isn't on Wi-Fi, this method won't work. You'll need to get it online first, probably using the physical buttons if you're stuck. 4. **Add Your TV:** Open the ConnectLife app. It should have an option to "Add Device" or "Scan for Devices". Select your Hisense TV from the list. If it doesn't appear, double-check your Wi-Fi and make sure the TV is powered on (even if just to standby) and connected to the internet. 5. **Pairing:** Sometimes the app will display a code on your TV screen that you need to enter into your phone. This confirms you're the one trying to take control. Smart, really. 6. **Take Control:** Once paired, you should have a virtual remote on your phone screen. Power, volume, channels, input, navigation – it's all usually there. Some models even offer a full keyboard for typing in search queries, which is a blessing compared to pecking out letters with a D-pad. I've used this app quite a bit when reviewing Hisense TVs. It's not quite as responsive as a physical remote for lightning-fast channel surfing, but for just getting the blooming thing on and selecting an input, it's a lifesaver. Plus, it's harder to lose your phone than a tiny remote, isn't it? Unless you're me, and regularly misplace both. **Pros:** * Full remote functionality (often more than physical buttons). * Convenient if your phone is always nearby. * No extra cost. * Easier to type with a smartphone keyboard for smart TV functions. **Cons:** * Requires your TV to be connected to Wi-Fi. * Requires your phone to be on the same Wi-Fi network. * Can drain your phone battery if used extensively. * Not always as tactile or responsive as a physical remote. * App might need updating, causing temporary glitches. ## Method 3: Universal Remotes – A Smarter Long-Term Solution If you're regularly losing your Hisense remote, or you've got a stack of remotes for all your different bits of kit (soundbar, Blu-ray player, streaming stick, etc.), a universal remote is a proper godsend. I've had a few different ones over the years, from basic programmable ones to the fancy smart hubs. ### Types of Universal Remotes * **Basic Universal Remotes (IR):** These are your standard, inexpensive remotes. You program them with codes for your TV. Sometimes they come pre-programmed for common brands like Hisense. They use infrared (IR) light, just like your original remote. * **Learning Remotes:** A step up. These can "learn" commands from your original remote. You point your original remote at the learning remote, press a button, and the learning remote memorises the signal. Brilliant for obscure functions or if a code isn't available. * **Smart Hub Remotes (RF/Wi-Fi):** The big boys. Think Logitech Harmony (though they've sadly stopped making new ones, second-hand is an option). These connect to a hub that then sends IR, RF, or Wi-Fi commands to your devices. They can control multiple devices with single button presses ("Watch TV" turns on TV, soundbar, and switches inputs). Pricey, but transformative for complex setups. ### Choosing and Setting Up a Universal Remote 1. **Check Compatibility:** Make sure the universal remote explicitly supports Hisense TVs. Most good ones will. Check the product description or the manufacturer's website. 2. **Find the Code:** The remote will come with a list of codes. Look for the Hisense section. Input the code, and test the power button. If it works, great! If not, try the next code on the list. 3. **Auto-Search (if codes fail):** Many universal remotes have an auto-search function. You press a button, and it cycles through codes until your TV responds. This can take a while but is usually effective. 4. **Learning Function (if available):** If you've still got your old Hisense remote (even if it's damaged), a learning remote can copy its functions. This is the most reliable way to get all the obscure buttons working perfectly. I've used basic universal remotes in the workshop for quick tests when I can't find the original. They're usually a tenner or two on Amazon or from Argos. For my main home cinema setup, I used to swear by a Logitech Harmony Elite. It was brilliant, but like I said, new ones are hard to come by now. There are other brands stepping in, though, like SofaBaton. Worth a look if you want something really comprehensive. It's an investment, but it saves so much faffing about with multiple remotes. **Pros:** * A dedicated physical remote, often more robust than original. * Can control multiple devices (TV, soundbar, Blu-ray, etc.). * Less reliant on network connectivity than phone apps. * More tactile and responsive than a touchscreen for most people. **Cons:** * Initial setup can be a bit fiddly with codes or learning. * Another remote to potentially lose (though often larger). * Quality varies – cheap ones can be a bit sluggish. * Can cost a few quid, especially for smart hub versions. ## Method 4: HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) – The Hidden Helper This is a feature many people don't even know they have, but it's a proper lifesaver. HDMI-CEC allows devices connected via HDMI to talk to each other. So, if you turn on your PlayStation or a streaming stick like a Fire TV, it can tell your Hisense TV to switch on and go to the correct input automatically. ### How HDMI-CEC Works (and how to use it) Most modern Hisense TVs have HDMI-CEC. Hisense usually calls it "CEC" or "Anynet+" (if it's a Samsung TV, but Hisense will have its own specific name, often just "CEC" in the settings, or sometimes "HDMI Control"). 1. **Ensure it's Enabled:** Go into your Hisense TV's settings menu (you might need to use the physical buttons or the ConnectLife app to get there first). Look for "System" or "Settings," then "HDMI" or "External Inputs." You should find an option to enable "CEC" or "HDMI Control." Make sure it's switched on. 2. **Connect Compatible Devices:** Plug in devices that also support HDMI-CEC. Most modern Blu-ray players, streaming sticks (Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV), game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), and AV receivers will have it. 3. **Power On the Device:** Now, when you power on that connected device (e.g., your PlayStation), it should send a signal to your Hisense TV, waking it up from standby and switching to the correct HDMI input automatically. Magical, isn't it? I use this all the time without even thinking about it. My main TV, not a Hisense admittedly, but the principle is the same, fires up as soon as I switch on my Nvidia Shield. It's one less remote interaction, which is always a bonus. Just remember, it only works for *turning on* and *switching inputs* when another CEC-enabled device is powered up. It won't help you navigate the TV's smart menus if no other device is active. **Pros:** * Automatic power-on and input switching. * No need for extra remotes or apps for this function. * Works seamlessly in the background. * Great for simplifying daily use. **Cons:** * Only works if you have CEC-enabled devices connected. * Doesn't provide full TV control (volume, channel, smart features). * Can sometimes be a bit flaky or inconsistent between brands. * Requires initial setup through the TV's menu. ## What to Do If Your Hisense Remote Is Totally Fried (or Lost for Good) Sometimes, none of the above really solves the *long-term* problem. Your original remote is gone, broken, or just eaten by the sofa. What then? ### 1. Buy a Replacement Original Remote Yep, the obvious one. You can often find direct replacements online. Search for your specific Hisense TV model number (usually found on a sticker on the back of the TV) plus "replacement remote." Websites like Amazon, eBay, or specialist electronics spares sites often stock them. Prices vary, but expect to pay between £10-£30. Make sure it's a *genuine* replacement or a high-quality replica to ensure all functions work correctly. ### 2. Invest in a Quality Universal Remote As mentioned in Method 3, this is a solid choice. If you're tired of remote clutter and want something robust, a good quality universal remote is worth the investment. It can consolidate several remotes into one, making life much simpler. Brands like SofaBaton are worth investigating. Even a basic one from your local Tesco or Argos can do the trick for just the TV. ### 3. Rely on the Smartphone App (ConnectLife) If you're quite tech-savvy and always have your phone nearby, and your TV is reliably connected to Wi-Fi, sticking with the Hisense ConnectLife app as your primary remote is a perfectly valid long-term strategy. It's free, and offers most of the functions of the physical remote. ### 4. Consider a Smart Speaker (Voice Control) If you've got an Amazon Echo or a Google Home speaker, some Hisense TVs (especially the newer smart ones with VIDAA OS) can integrate with them. This means you can say things like, "Alexa, turn on the TV" or "Hey Google, switch to BBC One." You'll need to enable the "skill" in your Alexa or Google Home app and link your Hisense account. This is brilliant for quick commands, but it won't replace all remote functions. ## Comparison of Methods | Method | Cost | Ease of Use | Full Functionality? | Long-Term Solution? | Notes | | :---------------------- | :-------------- | :-------------- | :------------------ | :------------------ | :----------------------------------------------------------- | | **TV Buttons** | Free | Hard, Fiddly | No (Basic Only) | No (Emergency Only) | Limited controls, often hard to reach and find. | | **ConnectLife App** | Free | Moderate | Yes (Most Features) | Yes | Requires Wi-Fi, phone battery dependent. | | **Universal Remote** | £10 - £100+ | Easy (Once Setup) | Yes | Yes | Can control multiple devices, good tactile feel. Setup can be tricky. | | **HDMI-CEC** | Free | Easy (Automatic) | No (Limited) | Yes (for power/input) | Automatic, but only works with connected devices. | | **Replacement Remote** | £10 - £30 | Easy | Yes | Yes | Just like having your old remote back. | | **Smart Speaker** | Free (if owned) | Easy (Voice) | No (Voice Commands) | Yes (for commands) | Requires compatible TV and speaker. | ## Who This Advice Is For * **Anyone who's lost their Hisense remote (temporarily or permanently):** Obvious, I know. But it's the primary reason we're all here. * **Families with curious children or playful pets:** If your remote has a habit of disappearing into the abyss, these methods offer a way to regain control. * **Tech-savvy individuals who prefer using their phone:** The ConnectLife app is a neat solution if you're always glued to your smartphone. * **People with multiple home cinema devices:** A universal remote or savvy use of HDMI-CEC can simplify a cluttered coffee table. * **Those on a budget:** All the initial solutions are free, saving you from having to buy a new remote right away. ## Who Should Skip This (or reconsider) * **Someone who wants a pristine, original remote experience:** If you truly hate phone apps or fiddly buttons, you'll want to buy a direct replacement quickly. * **If your Hisense TV is very old and not a smart model:** The ConnectLife app and HDMI-CEC might not be compatible, leaving you with just the TV buttons or a universal remote. * **People without Wi-Fi at home:** The app method won't work for you. * **If you get frustrated by technology easily:** Setting up universal remotes or troubleshooting app connections might not be your cup of tea. Stick to buying an exact replacement. ## FAQ: Your Hisense Remote Woes Answered ### Q: Can I use any universal remote with my Hisense TV? A: Most major universal remotes will have codes for Hisense. However, it's always best to check the product description or the manufacturer's code list to confirm compatibility before you buy. Some very cheap or generic ones might struggle with Hisense-specific functions, but for basic power and volume, you'll usually be alright. ### Q: My Hisense TV has no physical buttons at all! What do I do? A: Right, some of the very newest, sleekest models are like this. If there's genuinely no power button or multi-function joystick, your best bet is usually the Hisense ConnectLife app. You'll need to ensure the TV is plugged in and has power, and ideally connected to Wi-Fi (if it's a smart TV). If it's never been connected to Wi-Fi and you have no remote, you might be in a bit of a pickle and need a replacement remote to get things set up initially. Some will power on to a setup screen when first plugged in, which might give you a window to connect it to your network via the app. ### Q: Does the Hisense ConnectLife app work even if my TV is off? A: Generally, yes, if the TV is in standby mode and connected to your Wi-Fi. The app sends a "wake" signal over the network. If the TV is completely unplugged or has lost its network connection, the app won't be able to turn it on remotely. You'd need to use physical buttons or a replacement remote in that scenario. ### Q: How do I find my Hisense TV's model number? A: The model number is usually on a sticker on the back of your Hisense TV. It might also be in the user manual if you still have that knocking about. You'll need this if you're ordering a specific replacement remote, so it's worth jotting down somewhere safe. ### Q: My original remote was voice-controlled. Can a universal remote do that? A: Most basic universal remotes won't replicate voice control functions. You'd need a more advanced "smart" universal remote with integrated voice assistant capabilities, or you could rely on a separate smart speaker (like an Echo or Google Home) linked to your Hisense TV, as I mentioned earlier. For a direct replacement of *all* original features, including voice, a genuine Hisense replacement remote is usually the only way. ## Final Word Look, I get it. Losing a remote is one of those modern annoyances that just grinds your gears. But with a bit of know-how, you're not stranded. Whether it's fumbling for the hidden buttons, tapping away on your smartphone, or investing in a decent universal remote, there are plenty of ways to get that Hisense TV back in action. Don't let a missing bit of plastic ruin your evening. Give these methods a whirl, and you'll be back to catching up on your favourite shows in no time. Keep the volume up, and the picture sharp, eh? Happy viewing!