10 Best Universal Remotes 2026 in the United States

The SofaBaton X2 universal remote is designed to handle a wide range of devices, supporting over 50 device types from more than 6,000 brands using various connection methods including Bluetooth, IR, RF, and Wi-Fi. This makes it a great fit if you want a single remote to control everything from your TV and streaming gadgets to soundbars and gaming consoles. Setting it up is made easier with a dedicated app that helps customize buttons and activities, though the touchscreen and app may take some time to get familiar with if you prefer simpler remotes.

Its standout feature is a bright 2.4-inch touchscreen combined with physical shortcut buttons, which offers intuitive navigation and quick access to common controls. The remote also includes a backlight for use in dark rooms and a Type-C charging dock, so you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries often. It uses a nonstandard rechargeable battery rather than common AA or AAA types, which might be a minor inconvenience if you prefer easy swaps. One major advantage is the deep smart home integration: it works smoothly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Home Assistant, allowing voice commands and automation across your entertainment and smart devices.

Weighing around 2 pounds, it is a bit heavier than average remotes but still manageable. The SofaBaton X2 is well suited for users looking for a modern, feature-rich universal remote with touchscreen and smart home capabilities, though it might be more complex than basic models and requires some initial setup time.

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.

The Logitech Harmony 665 Advanced Remote Control offers a simple and lightweight option for controlling a single television. Its straightforward infrared connectivity makes it easy to use, but it lacks compatibility with multiple devices, which is a significant downside for those looking for a truly universal remote.

The absence of smart features and limited device support might make it less appealing to tech-savvy users or those with more complex home entertainment setups. Additionally, since it has been discontinued by the manufacturer, finding support or replacements might be challenging.

For someone seeking a basic, easy-to-use remote for their television, this could be a suitable choice if they can find it available.