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10 Best Universal Remotes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Universal TV Remote for LG,Samsung, TCL, Philips, Vizio, Sharp, Sony, Panasonic, Sanyo, Insignia, Toshiba and Other Brands LCD LED 3D HDTV Smart TV Remote Control

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,439
Compatibility
Programming Method

Most important from
7720 reviews

Compatibility
Works great on newer VIZIO models, though powering off and on can be a bit sluggish on older models.
Programming Method
The programming process is straightforward and easy, making it a hassle-free setup.

The Pairtty Universal TV Remote is designed to work with a wide range of TV brands, including popular names like LG, Samsung, Philips, Panasonic, and Sony, among others. This makes it highly versatile and convenient for users with multiple TV brands. However, it can only control one device at a time, which might be a limitation if you have multiple devices in your entertainment setup.

The remote offers two programming methods: a code-based method and a brand search method, both of which are straightforward but may require a bit of patience for first-time users. The button layout is simple and intuitive, which is great for ease of use, but it lacks advanced smart features that some may expect from modern universal remotes.

The remote is lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to hold and use. On the downside, it does not come with batteries, and users need to ensure they use the same type of new batteries for optimal performance. This remote is a good option for those looking to replace an old or damaged remote for a single TV, but it may not be suitable for those seeking advanced features or the ability to control multiple devices.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,439
Compatibility
Programming Method

Most important from
7720 reviews

Compatibility
Works great on newer VIZIO models, though powering off and on can be a bit sluggish on older models.
Programming Method
The programming process is straightforward and easy, making it a hassle-free setup.
#2

Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung/LG/Vizio/TCL/Hisense/Sony/Philips/Sharp and More Brand Smart TVs,Streaming Players,Sound Bar Audio and DVD/Blu-ray Players

Rating
10.0
Compatibility
Programming Method
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
41140 reviews

Compatibility
Pairing is simple, and the remotes function just like the original, so there's no learning curve.
Programming Method
These remotes are so easy to use—just put in the batteries and they're ready to go.
Button Layout and Design
The remotes are simple to use, with buttons that respond precisely and without delay.

This universal remote control by Acoyer is designed to simplify your entertainment experience, offering compatibility with a wide range of devices including TVs from popular brands like Samsung, LG, Vizio, and more. One of its standout features is the ability to control multiple devices, though it is limited to a maximum of three, which might suit many households but could be a drawback for users with more devices.

Setting up the remote is straightforward, following a step-by-step code input method. It may take a bit of patience, as users need to manually enter codes for their devices. However, the included user manual and code list are helpful resources for this process. Compatibility is generally broad, but it’s important to note that it does not work with Roku devices, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

In terms of design, it is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and store. The button layout is fairly standard, which should feel familiar to most users. However, some might find the button spacing less ergonomic, especially during extended use. Smart features are minimal, as the focus here is on basic control of various devices rather than advanced functionalities. Battery life will depend on usage, and the remote requires two AAA batteries, which are not included. Remember to avoid mixing old and new batteries for optimal performance.

Rating
10.0
Compatibility
Programming Method
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
41140 reviews

Compatibility
Pairing is simple, and the remotes function just like the original, so there's no learning curve.
Programming Method
These remotes are so easy to use—just put in the batteries and they're ready to go.
Button Layout and Design
The remotes are simple to use, with buttons that respond precisely and without delay.
#3

SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote (with Backlight), All-in-One Smart Universal Remote Control with Customized APP for TV/Soundbar/DVD/Blu-ray/Projector and More, Macro Buttons & Extended Infrared Range

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Programming Method
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
99 reviews

Compatibility
The SofaBaton U2 offers a significant improvement over older models like the Logitech Harmony, with easier device setup and better support.
Programming Method
Programming the remote is a breeze with the app, eliminating the need for complicated manuals and codes.
Button Layout and Design
Customization options for buttons are praised, enabling control over various appliances and audiovisual devices.

The SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote consolidates control of up to 15 devices, making it ideal for users with multiple entertainment systems. It supports a wide array of devices, thanks to an extensive code database that includes over 6,000 brands and 500,000+ devices. However, it does not support WiFi devices, which might limit its usage for some smart home setups.

The backlit buttons are a nice touch, ensuring usability in low-light conditions. The inclusion of macro buttons is a significant advantage, allowing complex commands to be executed with a single press, which can streamline your routine significantly. Setup is straightforward with the SofaBaton app, which offers customization options like reassigning buttons and creating macros.

The remote's ergonomic design includes a scroll wheel and OLED display for easy navigation and larger buttons for better control. An extended signal range up to 35 feet ensures reliable connectivity from anywhere in your room. On the downside, the reliance on an app for some settings might not appeal to less tech-savvy users. The need for 2 AA batteries, although included, does add to long-term maintenance costs. The SofaBaton U2 is a robust choice for users looking to streamline control of various entertainment devices, provided they don't need support for WiFi devices.

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Programming Method
Button Layout and Design

Most important from
99 reviews

Compatibility
The SofaBaton U2 offers a significant improvement over older models like the Logitech Harmony, with easier device setup and better support.
Programming Method
Programming the remote is a breeze with the app, eliminating the need for complicated manuals and codes.
Button Layout and Design
Customization options for buttons are praised, enabling control over various appliances and audiovisual devices.

Buying Guide for the Best Universal Remotes

Choosing the right universal remote can greatly enhance your home entertainment experience by allowing you to control multiple devices with a single remote. The key to finding the best fit for you is to understand the different specifications and features available, and how they align with your needs. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting a universal remote.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to the range of devices that the universal remote can control. This is important because you want a remote that can operate all your devices, such as your TV, DVD player, sound system, and streaming devices. Universal remotes typically list the brands and types of devices they support. If you have a mix of older and newer devices, look for a remote with broad compatibility. For a simpler setup with fewer devices, a basic model might suffice.
Number of DevicesThis spec indicates how many devices the remote can control simultaneously. It's important because it determines the convenience and efficiency of your remote. Basic models might control 2-4 devices, which is suitable for a simple setup. More advanced models can handle 8-15 devices, ideal for a more complex home entertainment system. Choose a remote that can manage all your current devices, with a bit of room for future additions.
Ease of SetupEase of setup refers to how simple it is to program the remote to work with your devices. This is crucial because a complicated setup process can be frustrating. Some remotes use a code entry method, where you input specific codes for each device. Others offer a more user-friendly approach with automatic code search or smartphone app integration. If you're not tech-savvy, look for a remote with a straightforward setup process.
Button Layout and DesignThe button layout and design affect how easy and comfortable the remote is to use. This is important for ensuring a pleasant user experience. Some remotes have a traditional button layout, while others feature touchscreens or customizable buttons. Consider how you use your devices and choose a layout that feels intuitive. If you prefer tactile feedback, a remote with physical buttons might be best. For a more modern feel, a touchscreen remote could be appealing.
BacklightingBacklighting refers to whether the remote's buttons light up, making it easier to use in low-light conditions. This is important for convenience, especially if you often watch TV in the dark. Some remotes have fully backlit buttons, while others only light up certain keys. If you frequently use your remote in dim environments, a fully backlit model can be very helpful. If this is less of a concern, you might not need this feature.
Smart Home IntegrationSmart home integration means the remote can control smart home devices like lights, thermostats, and smart speakers. This is important if you have or plan to have a smart home setup. Some universal remotes are compatible with popular smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. If you want to consolidate control of your entertainment and smart home devices, look for a remote with this capability. If you don't use smart home devices, this feature might not be necessary.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the remote can operate before needing new batteries or a recharge. This is important for convenience and cost-effectiveness. Some remotes use standard AA or AAA batteries, while others have rechargeable batteries. If you prefer not to change batteries frequently, a remote with a long battery life or a rechargeable option might be best. Consider how often you use your remote and choose accordingly.

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