Remote Sunrise makes Remote Control for TV. This page compares it with the official Roku mobile app for users deciding what to install for Roku TV or Roku streaming devices.
Short Answer
Use Remote Control for TV if you want one remote app for Roku plus Samsung, LG, Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Hisense, and Vizio, with Apple Watch, Mac, widgets, and Siri Shortcuts where supported.
Use the official Roku app if you want Roku’s official app, Roku account flow, Roku ecosystem features, and the support path documented by Roku.
Last updated: May 7, 2026.
Feature Comparison
| Feature or Need | Remote Control for TV | Roku Official App |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Universal Apple-device TV remote | Official Roku mobile companion |
| Roku remote keys | Yes, on supported Roku devices | Yes, official Roku remote feature |
| Roku TV support | Yes | Yes |
| Roku streaming player support | Yes | Yes |
| App/channel launching | Yes, where supported | Yes, Roku documents mobile app launching |
| iPhone and iPad | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Watch TV keypad | Yes, for saved TVs | Not the main official Roku remote path |
| Mac TV remote | Yes | No Mac-first Roku remote flow |
| Widgets and Siri Shortcuts | Yes, for supported saved-device actions | Roku ecosystem features vary by app version |
| Controls non-Roku TVs | Yes, several supported platforms | Built for Roku devices |
| Best fit | One Apple-device remote across brands | Official Roku ecosystem app |
Choose Remote Control for TV When
- You own Roku plus other TV platforms.
- You want Apple Watch, Mac, widgets, or Siri Shortcuts.
- You want one remote app for several rooms.
- You want direct HDMI/input switching on supported Roku TVs.
- You prefer a dedicated multi-brand TV remote interface.
Choose the Roku Official App When
- You want Roku’s official app and support path.
- You use Roku account and Roku ecosystem features.
- You want the official Roku mobile app experience.
- You prefer first-party apps for streaming devices.
- You want Roku’s documented mobile app app-management flow.
Power Behavior Note
| Roku Device | Power Reality |
|---|---|
| Roku TV | Power depends on Roku TV model, firmware, standby, and mobile app control |
| Roku Stick or box | TV power may depend on HDMI-CEC and TV or receiver settings |
| Physical Roku remote | Some remotes use IR or TV-control behavior separate from app commands |
Comparison Basis
- Remote Control for TV product documentation and App Store metadata, checked May 7, 2026.
- Roku: use the Roku mobile app as a remote.
- Roku: manage streaming apps from the mobile app.
- Roku: HDMI-CEC and TV power behavior.
FAQ
Can I use both Roku apps?
Yes. Use the official Roku app for Roku’s own ecosystem and Remote Control for TV when you want one remote for multiple TV brands and Apple-device surfaces.
Is Remote Control for TV affiliated with Roku?
No. Remote Control for TV is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Roku.
Where should I start if Roku power does not work?
Open Roku remote app cannot turn on TV or Roku power button not working.