What to do when the buttons appear not to be working on your Samsung Galaxy device

Last Update date : Aug 21. 2026

If the buttons on your Galaxy device appear to be not responding properly, you may not be able to adjust the volume or turn the device on or off normally. This issue may be caused by temporary software errors, device settings, physical obstruction, or hardware problems. Follow the troubleshooting steps below to check whether the issue is software-related or requires hardware inspection.

Side button being pressed with a thumb on a Galaxy phone.

Note: Device screenshots, menu names, and settings may vary depending on the device model and software version.

Update your Galaxy device software

Outdated software may affect device performance or button functionality.

Settings menu with the Software update option highlighted.

Step 1. Open Settings > Tap Software update.

Software update screen with the Check for updates option highlighted.

Step 2. Tap Check for updates.

A screen confirming that the software is up to date.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions. A confirmation will appear once the software is up to date.

Run Galaxy phone diagnostics for the buttons

You can use the Samsung Members app to diagnose whether the issue is related to the hardware buttons.

Before running diagnostics, check whether a case, dust, or other foreign material is preventing the buttons from being pressed properly.

Run diagnostics in Samsung Members

Samsung Members app with the Support tab highlighted.

Step 1. Open the Samsung Members app > Tap Support.

Samsung Members support screen with the Phone diagnostics Get started button highlighted.

Step 2. Tap Get Started under Phone diagnostics.

* The full diagnostics scan begins. You can stop the process and select specific items to run individual tests.