10 Best Universal Remote Controls for Easier TV Setup in 2026

The best universal remote controls make everyday TV use simpler by replacing lost, confusing, or overcrowded remotes with one dependable handset. The right choice depends on your television brand, desired features, and whether you need control for more than the TV.

This roundup compares 10 options ranging from straightforward replacement remotes to rechargeable, backlit, and all-in-one models. Use the guide below to narrow your choices by compatibility, layout, power, and household needs.

Best 10 Universal Remote Controls Picks for 2026

Best Four-Device Pick – GE Backlit Universal Remote

Among universal remote controls, this GE model stands out for households that want to operate up to four compatible audio and video devices from one handset. Its broad code library, blue backlighting, and preprogramming for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming media boxes make it a practical replacement remote.

Best For: Users managing a TV, streaming box, disc player, soundbar, or other compatible devices in a dimly lit room.

Pros:

• Controls up to four compatible devices.
• Supports thousands of devices from major brands.
• Blue LED backlighting improves button visibility.
• Offers automatic code search, direct code entry, and master volume control.

Cons:

• Two AAA batteries are required but not included.
• Does not work with RF-only devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks and Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
• Has a 30-foot maximum range and infrared connectivity.

This is a well-rounded choice if four-device capacity and illuminated controls matter most. Confirm that your equipment uses infrared before buying.

Best Three-Device Option – Philips Universal TV Remote

This Philips model is a compact option among universal remote controls, replacing up to three compatible entertainment remotes. It adds useful navigation features, including DVR controls, direct sub-channel access, and a streaming app hotkey.

Best For: Living rooms, bedrooms, dorms, and other setups with up to three compatible devices.

Pros:

• Controls up to three compatible devices.
• Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming media boxes.
• Includes DVR controls, menu navigation, and direct sub-channel access.
• Provides primary audio control without switching modes.

Cons:

• Two AA batteries are required but not included.
• Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks.
• Infrared range is limited to a stated 30 feet.

Choose this remote if you need straightforward three-device control and extra playback and navigation buttons. Its smaller capacity may be limiting for a more complex media system.

Best Broad TV Compatibility – Acoyer Universal TV Remote

For shoppers comparing universal remote controls across many television brands, this Acoyer model supports a wide list of major and lesser-known TV brands. It uses infrared programming with a supplied code list and also includes automatic code-search instructions when direct codes do not work.

Best For: Replacing a lost or damaged infrared TV remote across a broad range of listed smart TV brands.

Pros:

• Supports numerous brands including Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, TCL, and more.
• Includes a user manual and code list.
• Provides manual code entry and automatic code-search guidance.
• Has a stated one-year warranty and after-sales support.

Cons:

• Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks, Fire TV devices, Apple TV, Google Chromecast TV, or several listed soundbars.
• Two AAA batteries are required but not included.
• Infrared operation limits compatibility with devices requiring other connection methods.

This model makes the most sense when your television appears on its compatibility list and you want a simple infrared replacement. Check the exclusions carefully, especially if your setup uses streaming sticks or a soundbar.

Best Rechargeable Pick – GE Rechargeable Backlit Remote

This rechargeable GE model offers a convenient alternative to battery-powered universal remote controls. Its built-in lithium polymer battery, backlighting, four-device capacity, and streaming app hotkeys make it suited to modern compatible entertainment systems.

Best For: Users who want a rechargeable remote for up to four compatible devices and frequent access to supported streaming apps.

Pros:

• Built-in rechargeable battery can stay powered for months on one charge.
• Controls up to four compatible devices.
• Dedicated Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and YouTube hotkeys are included.
• Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming boxes.

Cons:

• Not compatible with RF-only devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks and Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
• Streaming hotkey support for user-installed apps may vary.
• Its stated infrared range is 25 feet.

If avoiding disposable batteries is a priority, this is the strongest fit in the group. Verify that your devices use infrared and that the included app shortcuts match your viewing habits.

Best Value – GE 4-Device Universal Remote

For shoppers comparing universal remote controls for a straightforward home entertainment setup, the GE 4-Device Universal Remote offers control for up to four compatible audio and video devices. Its infrared design, broad brand support, and preprogrammed Samsung TV button make it a practical replacement remote.

Best For: Households that want one affordable remote for a TV, Blu-ray or DVD player, cable receiver, soundbar, or streaming player.

Pros:

• Controls up to four compatible devices.
• Supports thousands of devices from major brands.
• Includes automatic code search, direct code entry, and master volume control.
• Ergonomic silver design fits comfortably in hand.

Cons:

• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
• Infrared-only operation does not support radio-frequency devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks.

This GE remote is a solid choice when you need dependable control of several traditional entertainment components without advanced smart-home features.

Most Versatile – SofaBaton U3 Smart Universal Remote

The SofaBaton U3 is designed for shoppers seeking universal remote controls that can manage a more complex entertainment system. It supports infrared, Bluetooth, and radio-frequency devices, while app setup, macros, voice control, and an air-mouse mode add flexibility beyond a basic TV remote.

Best For: Multi-device home theaters with TVs, soundbars, streaming devices, and other compatible equipment.

Pros:

• Supports up to 30 devices through IR, Bluetooth, and RF connectivity.
• Stores custom macros for multiple commands with one button press.
• Maintains simultaneous Bluetooth connections with up to three devices.
• Offers app setup, a growing library covering 6,000-plus brands, and an air-mouse mode.

Cons:

• Voice control is not compatible with Apple TV Siri, Fire TV Alexa, or standard infrared-only devices.
• R1 Repeater support requires the separately sold repeater.
• Its broader feature set may be more than needed for a single-TV setup.

With its wide connectivity options and customization tools, the U3 is the strongest fit for users who want one configurable controller rather than a simple replacement remote.

Best for Basic TV Control – Angrox Universal TV Remote

Among universal remote controls, the Angrox Universal TV Remote focuses on simple one-TV operation. It uses infrared connectivity, supports many major TV brands, and includes dedicated streaming hot keys for convenient access to popular apps.

Best For: Replacing a lost or worn TV remote when you only need control of one compatible television.

Pros:

• Works with many Samsung, Vizio, LG, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Sony, and Roku TVs.
• Includes one-click buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu.
• Setup uses two AAA batteries and the included instructions.
• Backed by a 90-day warranty.

Cons:

• Controls only one device and uses infrared connectivity.
• Not compatible with streaming sticks, TV cubes, many listed soundbars, or Fire TV devices.
• Two AAA batteries are not included.

This remote is a sensible low-complexity option for compatible televisions, but confirm your exact TV and streaming setup before buying because compatibility exclusions are extensive.

Best Backlit Pick – UltraPro OneTouch Universal Remote

For shoppers comparing universal remote controls, the UltraPro OneTouch is a practical choice for households with a Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, or Roku TV. It arrives preprogrammed for those brands, includes a fully backlit design, and can also control one additional device.

Best For: TV owners who want backlit buttons, streaming shortcuts, and simple two-device control.

Pros:

• Preprogrammed TV controls for Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and Roku TVs.
• Fully backlit with dedicated Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube hotkeys.
• Can control a TV plus one additional device, with master volume control.
• U.S.-based technical support and online programming videos are available.

Cons:

• Requires two AA batteries, which are not included.
• Supports a maximum of two devices.
• The AUX button is initially programmed for Roku boxes unless reprogrammed.

This is a strong fit when clear visibility and quick streaming access matter more than controlling a large entertainment setup. Its limited two-device capacity keeps operation straightforward.

Best Wide-Compatibility Pick – LOUTOC Universal TV Remote

The LOUTOC is among the more broadly compatible universal remote controls for mixed-brand entertainment systems. It supports numerous TV brands and can also operate devices such as DVD and Blu-ray players, soundbars, streaming players, set-top boxes, DVRs, VCRs, and audio equipment.

Best For: Households needing broad brand coverage and control for several types of home entertainment equipment.

Pros:

• Compatible with TV brands including Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Vizio, Sony, Onn, Toshiba, Philips, and others.
• Supports DVD and Blu-ray players, soundbars, streaming players, set-top boxes, DVRs, VCRs, and audio devices.
• Offers code-entry setup with multiple codes per device brand and an automatic pairing method.
• Designed for 26-foot range, 0.2-second response, and 50,000 presses.

Cons:

• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
• Setup may require trying multiple codes before every button works correctly.
• The listed maximum number of supported devices is one.

Choose this model if compatibility across varied equipment is the priority. Its setup process is more involved than a preprogrammed remote, but the included code list and broad device coverage add flexibility.

Best Simple TV Replacement – EWO'S Universal Smart TV Remote

The EWO’S universal remote control is designed primarily as a straightforward replacement for compatible smart TVs. It covers Samsung, Vizio, LG, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Sony, and Roku TVs, uses infrared control without pairing, and includes shortcut buttons for quick app access.

Best For: Users replacing a lost or damaged TV remote who want fast setup without controlling extra devices.

Pros:

• Supports several major TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Vizio, TCL, Hisense, Sony, Philips, and Roku.
• Infrared operation does not require pairing and is designed for quick setup.
• Includes four application shortcut buttons and a browsing-history button.
• Offers a listed 32-foot range and a 90-day warranty return service.

Cons:

• Designed for televisions only and supports one device.
• Not compatible with Roku streaming sticks, TV sticks, TV cubes, Fire TV devices, or listed soundbars.
• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.

This remote makes sense when you need a basic TV-only replacement and your television is among the supported brands. Check the stated exclusions carefully, especially if you use a streaming stick, cube, or soundbar.

How We Picked These Universal Remote Controls

We focused on compatibility, ease of setup, button layout, visibility, power options, and overall use case. The selection includes simple TV replacements for common brands such as Samsung, LG, Vizio, TCL, Hisense, Sony, Philips, and Roku, along with more versatile options for users who want to control multiple components.

We also considered practical details that affect daily use: backlit buttons for dark rooms, clearly labeled controls, rechargeable batteries, and whether the remote is designed for a specific TV family or broader home-entertainment setup. Always verify the listing’s compatibility information before ordering, especially for newer smart-TV models.

Quick Comparison

Type	Best For	Features to Look For
Basic replacement remote	Replacing a lost or damaged TV remote	Brand compatibility, simple setup, essential buttons
Backlit remote	Nighttime viewing and dim rooms	Illuminated keys, readable labels, comfortable layout
Rechargeable remote	Reducing disposable battery use	Charging method, battery life, charging indicator
All-in-one remote	Managing multiple home-theater devices	Device capacity, programming process, macro or activity support

Key Buying Factors for Universal Remote Controls

Compatibility and Setup

Confirm that the remote supports your exact TV brand and the functions you use most, including input selection, streaming shortcuts, volume, menus, and playback controls. A remote may power a television on and off while still lacking full access to smart-TV features. Check whether setup uses automatic code search, a printed code list, or an app.

Button Layout and Visibility

Look for large, well-spaced buttons if several people will use the remote. Backlighting is especially helpful in bedrooms and home theaters, but it can affect battery life. Dedicated streaming and input buttons can save time, while an uncluttered layout may be better for children or older users.

Power and Durability

Battery-powered models are convenient because replacement batteries are widely available. Rechargeable versions reduce battery waste and may be more convenient for frequent use, provided the charging routine suits your household. Also consider the remote’s size, grip, and resistance to everyday drops.

Single-TV Versus Multi-Device Control

A TV-only replacement is usually the simplest and least expensive choice. If you regularly switch between a television, streaming player, soundbar, cable box, or Blu-ray player, an all-in-one model can reduce remote clutter—but may require more programming and maintenance.

Who Should Buy Which Universal Remote Controls?

• Choose a basic universal TV remote if you need an affordable replacement for one compatible television.
• Choose a backlit model if you watch in low light or often struggle to identify small buttons.
• Choose a rechargeable remote if you use the remote frequently and prefer not to keep spare batteries nearby.
• Choose an all-in-one model if you want one controller for several entertainment devices and are comfortable with a more involved setup.
• Choose a simplified layout for guest rooms, older adults, children, or anyone who uses only basic TV functions.

Before purchasing, compare the supported brands with your exact television model and review which smart functions are available. The best Universal Remote Controls are the ones that perform the commands your household actually uses without adding unnecessary setup or button clutter.