Security be damned. Did you know your Roku streaming device is packed with hidden menus and secret screens? These advanced features are tucked away behind special remote-control codes, giving you access to powerful diagnostic tools, developer options, and customization settings not found in the standard Roku interface. Here’s everything you need to know about Roku’s secret menus—and how to unlock them.
What Are Roku Secret Menus?
Roku secret menus are hidden screens designed primarily for developers and advanced users. They provide detailed system information, troubleshooting tools, and settings that let you fine-tune your device far beyond the usual options. Whether you want to check your network performance, adjust HDMI settings, or even manage ad displays, these menus put more control in your hands.
Why Use Roku’s Hidden Screens?
There are several reasons you might want to explore these secret menus:
- Troubleshooting: Diagnose network issues, check system stats, or perform a soft reset.
- Advanced Control: Adjust HDMI settings, view CPU temperature, or access developer features.
- Customization: Manage ad display options and screenshot formats.
How to Access Roku’s Secret Menus
To access these menus, start from the Roku Home screen (with no video playing) and enter the codes below using your Roku remote. The button presses must be quick and precise for the menu to appear.
Most Useful Roku Secret Menus and Codes
| Menu Name | Button Sequence (on Roku remote) | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Developer Settings | Home ×3, Up ×2, Right, Left, Right, Left, Right | Enable developer mode, sideload test channels, manage developer account |
| System Info & Update | Home ×5, Fast Forward, Play, Rewind, Play, Fast Forward | Shows system info, allows updates, diagnostics |
| Screenshots & Ads | Home ×5, Up, Right, Down, Left, Up | Cycle ad settings, screenshot output, image service |
| HDMI Secret Screen | Home ×5, Down, Left, Up ×3 | View and adjust HDMI settings, input tests |
| Platform Details | Home ×5, Fast Forward, Play, Rewind, Play, Fast Forward | See CPU temp, speed, device info, and more |
| Wireless Details | Home ×5, Up, Down, Up, Down, Up | Wi-Fi strength, logs, AP speed test |
| Reboot (Soft Reset) | Home ×5, Up, Rewind ×2, Fast Forward ×2 | Quickly reboot your Roku device |
| Channel Info | Home ×3, Up ×2, Left, Right, Left, Right, Left | Shows installed channel versions and build numbers |
Highlights of Roku’s Hidden Features
- Ad Controls: The Screenshots & Ads menu lets you adjust certain ad settings, including disabling scrollable ads on some devices.
- Developer Playground: The Developer menu is essential for anyone building or testing private Roku channels.
- Network Diagnostics: The Wireless Details menu provides deep insights into your device’s network performance and can help resolve streaming issues.
A Word of Caution
While exploring these menus is generally safe, changing advanced settings can affect your Roku’s performance or stability. Only adjust settings if you understand their function, and avoid making unnecessary changes.
Quick Reference Table: Popular Roku Secret Menus
| Purpose | Code Sequence |
|---|---|
| Developer Settings | Home ×3, Up ×2, Right, Left, Right, Left, Right |
| System Info & Update | Home ×5, Fast Forward, Play, Rewind, Play, Fast Forward |
| Screenshots & Ads | Home ×5, Up, Right, Down, Left, Up |
| HDMI Details | Home ×5, Down, Left, Up ×3 |
| Wireless Details | Home ×5, Up, Down, Up, Down, Up |
| Reboot | Home ×5, Up, Rewind ×2, Fast Forward ×2 |
