How to Change Source on Samsung TV With or Without Remote: Step-by-Step Guide
Switching between HDMI, AV, USB, or antenna sources on your Samsung TV is a common task. Whether you want to connect a gaming console, streaming device, or another external device, knowing how to change source on Samsung TV with remote or without remote is essential.
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This guide provides multiple methods so you can quickly access the correct input and enjoy uninterrupted viewing.
Why You Might Need to Change Source
Changing the source on your Samsung TV allows you to:
- Connect devices such as PlayStation, Xbox, Firestick, Roku, or Chromecast
- Switch between HDMI, AV, USB, and antenna inputs
- Fix display issues caused by the wrong input selection
- Optimize your viewing experience for streaming, gaming, or watching movies
By learning both methods, you’ll always have a solution ready, whether your remote is available or not.
Method 1: How to Change Source on Samsung TV With Remote
Using your Samsung TV remote is the simplest and most reliable way to switch sources.
Steps:
- Press the Source or Input button on your Samsung remote.
- The Input Menu will appear on the screen.
- Use the arrow keys on your remote to navigate through the available sources (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, AV, USB, etc.).
- Highlight your desired source and press Enter/OK.
- The TV will switch to the selected input.
Tip: On some Samsung smart TVs, you can also press the Home/Menu button, go to Settings → External Device Manager → Input Source, and select your preferred input.
Method 2: How to Change Source on Samsung TV Without Remote
If your Samsung TV remote is lost, broken, or not working, you can still switch sources using alternative methods.
Option 1: Use Physical Buttons on the TV
Most Samsung TVs have control buttons on the side, back, or bottom.
Steps:
- Locate the Menu, Source, or Input button on your TV.
- Press the Source/Input button to open the input menu.
- Use the Volume or Channel buttons to scroll through the available sources.
- Press the Menu/OK button to confirm the selected input.
Note: Pressing the Source/Input button multiple times may cycle through all inputs.
Option 2: Use the Samsung SmartThings App
Samsung smart TVs can be controlled via the SmartThings app on your smartphone.
Steps:
- Download the SmartThings app (available for Android and iOS).
- Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your Samsung TV.
- Open the app and select your TV from the device list.
- Navigate to Input/Source in the app.
- Select the desired source (HDMI, AV, USB, etc.).
✅ This method is convenient, fast, and works on most Samsung smart TVs.
Option 3: Use HDMI-CEC Enabled Devices
If your TV is connected to a device that supports HDMI-CEC (Anynet+), you can control basic TV functions using the device’s remote.
Steps:
- Make sure HDMI-CEC is enabled on your Samsung TV.
- Use your connected device remote to navigate to Settings → Input/Source.
- Select the correct source.
Note: HDMI-CEC allows limited control and works only with compatible devices.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure physical buttons are functional if using the TV without a remote.
- Restart the TV if it does not respond to input changes.
- Confirm that connected devices are powered on and properly connected.
- Use a smartphone remote app as a backup if physical buttons fail.
- Update your TV firmware to ensure optimal performance and input detection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I change source on older Samsung TVs without remote?
Yes. You can use physical buttons or HDMI-CEC devices to switch sources.
Q2: Will changing the source affect my connected devices?
No. Changing the input only affects what the TV displays; your devices remain unaffected.
Q3: Can a universal remote control input selection on Samsung TVs?
Yes, a compatible universal remote can switch sources and control most TV functions.
Final Thoughts
Knowing both how to change source on Samsung TV with remote and without remote ensures you can always access the correct input for your devices. Whether you rely on the TV buttons, the SmartThings app, or HDMI-CEC-enabled devices, switching between HDMI, AV, USB, and antenna sources is quick and hassle-free.
For convenience, keeping the SmartThings app installed on your smartphone ensures you always have a backup option for controlling your TV, even without a physical remote.
If you’re looking for more helpful guides, tips, and step-by-step tutorials, visit Free Sky Guide. The site covers everything from Sky TV setup, remote control fixes, Skyglass solutions, and smart TV troubleshooting. Whether you’re facing issues with your device or want to explore new features, you’ll find easy and updated solutions in one place.
