We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Universal TV Remotes 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

for Samsung-Smart-TV-Remote-Control-Replacement,Universal Remote for 2019 2026 Samsung Frame Curved Crystal Smart TVs, with Voice Control

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,273
Compatibility
Ease of Setup
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
65939 reviews

Compatibility
Works perfectly and connects easily, making it a great value and an ideal replacement for the original remote.
Ease of Setup
Setup is instant with no programming needed, and all buttons respond quickly and reliably.
Button Layout and Design
The remote is very sturdy with smooth buttons, offering excellent quality for the price.

This Acoyer universal remote is tailored specifically for Samsung Smart TVs made between 2019 and 2026, making it a solid choice if you own a recent Samsung Frame, QLED, LCD, or LED TV. It works with many popular Samsung models and replaces original remotes like the BN59 series, which means compatibility is strong but limited to Samsung only—not truly universal across all brands. It supports voice control and four shortcut buttons, which can make navigating your TV easier, especially if your original remote had voice features. However, voice commands require your TV’s own hardware to be compatible, so this remote won't add voice control if your TV doesn't already support it. The remote is designed with durability in mind, using a tough ABS shell and buttons tested to last through heavy use. The button layout is ergonomic with 22 buttons, including larger ones that suit elderly users or families with kids, making it simple to use for most people.

Setup is straightforward since it only pairs with one device at a time via infrared, but it lacks multi-device control if you want to manage other gadgets like soundbars or streaming boxes from the same remote. It runs on two AAA batteries, providing a standard battery life without any rechargeable option. For those with a compatible Samsung TV seeking an easy-to-use, reliable replacement with voice and shortcut features, this remote is a good fit. However, if your needs include controlling multiple brands or devices, or if your TV doesn’t support voice commands, you might want to consider other options.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,273
Compatibility
Ease of Setup
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
65939 reviews

Compatibility
Works perfectly and connects easily, making it a great value and an ideal replacement for the original remote.
Ease of Setup
Setup is instant with no programming needed, and all buttons respond quickly and reliably.
Button Layout and Design
The remote is very sturdy with smooth buttons, offering excellent quality for the price.
#2

Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung/LG/Vizio/TCL/Hisense/Sony/Philips/Onn/Sharp/Element/Westinghouse/Sanyo/Emerson TV and More Brand Smart TVs

Rating
8.8
Compatibility
Ease of Setup
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
65939 reviews

Compatibility
Works perfectly with multiple Roku-connected TVs, making it ideal for rental properties.
Ease of Setup
Straightforward setup—just insert batteries and it's ready to go.
Button Layout and Design
Reliable and simple to use, with buttons that respond precisely and without delay.

The Acoyer Universal TV Remote Control promises broad compatibility with various devices, including TVs, DVD/Blu-ray players, media streaming devices, and sound bars, covering prominent brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, and more. One major limitation is its incompatibility with Roku Streaming Sticks, Roku Sound Bar, and Bluetooth/RF streaming devices, which rely on infrared connection only. This may limit its usage for some users with these specific devices.

The remote can manage up to three devices simultaneously, which might be sufficient for basic home entertainment setups. The setup process is straightforward, requiring users to input a specific 4-digit code from the provided list, and an automatic code search feature adds convenience if initial attempts fail. However, this manual setup might be a bit cumbersome for those who prefer plug-and-play solutions.

The button layout is intuitive, ensuring ease of use, and the design is simple and practical. The remote is lightweight and fits comfortably in hand, making it user-friendly for everyday use. One downside is the lack of included batteries, requiring users to have two AAA batteries on hand. In terms of after-sales service, Acoyer promises quick responses to customer inquiries, indicating a commitment to customer satisfaction. In essence, the Acoyer Universal TV Remote Control is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile, easy-to-use remote for a variety of devices, but may not be the best fit for users with Roku or Bluetooth/RF streaming devices.

Rating
8.8
Compatibility
Ease of Setup
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
65939 reviews

Compatibility
Works perfectly with multiple Roku-connected TVs, making it ideal for rental properties.
Ease of Setup
Straightforward setup—just insert batteries and it's ready to go.
Button Layout and Design
Reliable and simple to use, with buttons that respond precisely and without delay.
#3

Apple TV Siri Remote (3rd Generation)

Rating
8.2
Compatibility
Button Layout and Design
Additional Features

Most important from
1567 reviews

Compatibility
This remote is a solid replacement for older Apple TV remotes, providing a refined and responsive user experience.
Button Layout and Design
The touch-enabled clickpad offers smooth and precise navigation, making browsing and scene selection effortless.
Additional Features
USB-C charging is a convenient upgrade, replacing the older Lightning port and making recharging quick and easy.

The Apple TV Siri Remote (3rd Generation) is designed specifically for Apple TV models, making it a great choice if you own an Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD. It supports just one device, so it’s not suitable if you want a single remote to control multiple gadgets. The touch-enabled clickpad offers smooth navigation with swipes and circular gestures that make finding scenes or browsing playlists easier. Voice control via Siri adds convenience, allowing you to quickly search for shows or control playback without pressing buttons.

Setup is straightforward since it's mainly plug-and-play with Apple TV devices. The button layout is minimalistic and ergonomic, focused on usability without overwhelming you with too many options. A handy USB-C port lets you recharge the built-in battery quickly, so you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries often.

If you’re looking for a universal remote that handles multiple brands or devices, this one won’t fit that need due to its limited compatibility and device support. For those wanting seamless, precise control and voice commands for their Apple TV, this remote is a solid pick.

Rating
8.2
Compatibility
Button Layout and Design
Additional Features

Most important from
1567 reviews

Compatibility
This remote is a solid replacement for older Apple TV remotes, providing a refined and responsive user experience.
Button Layout and Design
The touch-enabled clickpad offers smooth and precise navigation, making browsing and scene selection effortless.
Additional Features
USB-C charging is a convenient upgrade, replacing the older Lightning port and making recharging quick and easy.

Buying Guide for the Best Universal TV Remotes

Choosing the right universal TV remote can greatly enhance your viewing experience by allowing you to control multiple devices with a single remote. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and features that differentiate various models. This guide will help you navigate through these specifications and make an informed decision based on your needs.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to the range of devices and brands that the universal remote can control. This is crucial because you want a remote that can operate all your devices, such as your TV, sound system, and streaming devices. Universal remotes typically list the brands and models they support. If you have a mix of older and newer devices, look for a remote with a broad compatibility range. For those with the latest gadgets, ensure the remote supports the newest technology standards.
Number of DevicesThis specification indicates how many devices the remote can control simultaneously. It's important because it determines the convenience and functionality of the remote. Basic models may control 2-3 devices, which is suitable for a simple setup with just a TV and a sound system. More advanced models can handle 8-10 devices or more, ideal for a home theater setup with multiple components. Choose a remote that can manage all your current devices and any you plan to add in the future.
Ease of SetupEase of setup refers to how simple it is to program the remote to work with your devices. This is important because a complicated setup process can be frustrating and time-consuming. Some remotes use a code entry method, where you input specific codes for each device, while others offer automatic or guided setup through an app or on-screen instructions. If you're not tech-savvy, look for a remote with a straightforward setup process, such as those with automatic or app-based configuration.
Button Layout and DesignThe button layout and design affect how user-friendly the remote is. This is important because a well-designed remote can make it easier to navigate and control your devices. Look for a remote with a logical and intuitive button arrangement, with frequently used buttons like volume and channel controls easily accessible. Consider the size and feel of the buttons, especially if you have larger hands or vision impairments. A backlit remote can be useful for use in low-light conditions.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of the remote. These might include voice control, touch screens, programmable macros (which allow you to execute multiple commands with a single button press), and smart home integration. These features are important if you want a more advanced and versatile remote. If you enjoy using voice assistants or have a smart home setup, look for a remote that supports these technologies. For those who prefer simplicity, a basic model without extra features might be more suitable.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the remote can operate before needing new batteries or a recharge. This is important because frequent battery changes can be inconvenient and costly. Some remotes use standard AA or AAA batteries, while others have rechargeable batteries. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, look for a remote with long battery life or a rechargeable model. Consider how often you use the remote and choose one that aligns with your usage patterns.

FAQ