10 Best Universal TV Remotes 2026 in the United States

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.

The SofaBaton X2 is designed as a highly versatile universal remote, supporting over 6,000 brands and 500,000 devices via IR, Bluetooth, RF, and Wi-Fi. This wide compatibility allows it to control nearly all home entertainment devices, including TVs, soundbars, and streaming players such as Roku and Apple TV. It supports up to 50 devices, making it ideal for users with complex setups. A key feature is its 2.4-inch touchscreen that provides an easy-to-navigate interface and a quick-access panel for frequently used commands, offering a more intuitive experience than traditional button-only remotes.

Setup and customization are made straightforward thanks to the dedicated SofaBaton app, which enables personalized layouts, macros, and one-touch activities like 'Movie Night' to control multiple devices simultaneously. The included charging dock adds convenience by eliminating the need to frequently replace batteries. The remote also integrates with popular smart home systems like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Home Assistant, making it a component of a broader smart home setup. Powerful IR blasters and a separate hub ensure signals reach devices even when hidden, although extending coverage to other rooms requires additional accessories not included in the package.

While the touchscreen enhances modern functionality, some users may find it less tactile than traditional remotes, especially since it lacks backlit physical buttons. Additionally, despite the user-friendly design, the setup involving an app and multiple device connections might feel somewhat complex for those new to smart technology. The presence of a charging dock indicates rechargeable usage, though detailed battery life information is not provided. For those seeking a future-proof, all-in-one remote with smart home integration and comfortable with app-based customization, the SofaBaton X2 presents a strong option. Users preferring simple remotes with physical buttons only may find it less appealing.

The Logitech Harmony 665 Advanced Remote Control is an option for those seeking a lightweight and simple universal remote. One of its notable strengths is its compatibility with televisions through infrared connectivity. However, it only supports one device, which limits its usefulness if you have multiple devices to control, such as a sound system or DVD player.

Users might find the button layout and design to be straightforward and user-friendly, which aids in ease of use. Despite this, the product has been discontinued by the manufacturer, which could pose a challenge for future support or replacement parts.

The ease of setup generally tends to be smooth for Logitech products, although individual experiences may vary. This remote could be suitable for someone who needs a simple and lightweight option for TV control only, but it's not ideal for those looking to manage multiple devices or seeking long-term manufacturer support.