The modern era is replete with all manner of entertainment devices, from Smart TVs to soundbars to DVD players to audio devices. With each device comes its own control, and with all these remotes comes clutter. Eliminate it all with a single universal remote!
Universal remotes do exactly what they say—they’re master devices that consolidate all your remote controls into one, and allow you more comprehensive and easier control over your entertainment device setup. Universal remotes are ergonomic and reduce stress by allowing you to control your TV, lights, and multifaceted devices from one single point while also being easy to customize and set up. They’re a remarkable way to negate the hassle of fussing with so many remotes at once, but how do you choose the best one for your numerous devices? We’ve put together this list of our favorite universal remotes, the ones that made our lives substantially easier and more fun.
Read on to see why our experts love these universal remotes!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Universal Remotes Work?
Universal remotes use an infrared signal and programmed smart options to send a signal to all of your devices simultaneously, giving you superior control options for everything in your entertainment setup. Universal remotes sometimes come pre-programmed for easier control, but also feature programmable options giving you enhanced flexibility for controlling your Smart TV, soundbar, Bluray player, DVD player, stereo, and more. They’re extremely convenient and, after basic setup, can be used by anyone in your home.
Can A Universal Remote Work With Any TV?
Modern universal remotes are designed to work with all modern devices sold today, minimizing your stress while maximizing your control. While universal remotes might not work with every single device in your home, they often include a comprehensive list of compatible devices so that you know what to expect from the one you buy. Universal remotes are designed to reduce the clutter of having so many different remotes for your devices, becoming a master remote.
Buying Guide
We’ve put together this comprehensive Buying Guide, the “universal remote” so to speak of accessing info on how to choose the best one. Check it out!
- Compatibility: Ultimately you need to know if this remote can work for the devices you intend to use it on. Check out the features, reviews, and read through the list of compatible Smart TVs, audio players, devices, and more.
- Function: Some universal remotes come with LED screens, smart buttons to immediately go to apps, and control features. Look through each to decide which functions you like the most.
- Programming: Some universal remotes are pre-programmed to work out of the box, and others require online setup. Ensure you’re purchasing the remote that’s right for you, and check out the reviews to see which universal remotes are the easiest to set up.
Angrox Universal Remote Control for Samsung
Best Overall
Compatible With Smart TVs
Operate your smart Samsung TV with the Angrox Universal Remote Control, which works with more models. A high-grade remote that works with most Samsung LED HDTVs, with a farther transmitting distance and improved performance stability. Small and compact so that any hand can grip and use it. Doesn’t require any additional programming or setup, and easily replaces your old or damaged remote.
Why We Love It:
- Compatible with more Samsung Smart TVs, LCD, LED, HDTV, and 3D Smart TVs.
- Made to replace your old remote with its high-grade universal functionality.
- Features a better transmitting distance and more stable performance than your default remote.
- Compact so that anyone can use it, without necessary programming or installation.
Something To Consider:
- Does not come with batteries.
- Not a Bluetooth remote.
Angrox Universal Remote Control for Samsung works with more styles of Samsung Smart TVs and has improved control distance and better performance.
Logitech Harmony Infrared All in One Remote
Most Comprehensive
Supports More Brands
Get rid of your remotes and collect them together into one, with the Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control. Reduce the complexity of your setup by replacing the cutter in your living room with one source control that supports thousands of brands and devices. Features a simplified online setup, a bright color screen, one-click activity buttons, and faster device switching.
Why We Love It:
- Don’t mess with clutter—this remote control can do the work of 5, streamlining your setup.
- Works with over 5000 different brands and devices with a simple online setup.
- Set up online with your computer, with customer support available.
- Bright color screen, channel icons, activity buttons, and easier command navigation.
Something To Consider:
- No way to rename software if you own more than one universal remote.
- Might take some additional problem solving for devices and setups.
Logitech Harmony Infrared All in One Remote replaces your other active remotes and reduces clutter by unifying your setup and working with thousands of devices.
GE Universal Remote Control
Best Design
Improve your Device Library
Gain access to all your audio and visual devices at once with the GE Universal Remote Control, which is compatible with most Bluray players, DVD players, Roku boxes, soundbars, TVs, and more. Pre-programmed for Samsung and Roku, as well as other major brands. Simple setup with online instructions and auto-scan tech to give you Master Volume control and total device operation.
Why We Love It:
- Control up to 4 different devices at once with this universal remote that’s pre-programmed.
- A full remote code library that works with Samsung TVs, Roku, DVD players, Bluray players, and audio equipment.
- Simple online setup with a video—also features auto-scan tech and Master Volume control.
- Use it with any device and consolidate the clutter of all your old remotes into one.
Something To Consider:
- Doesn’t work with Roku TV sticks or Fire sticks.
- Limited functions with Xfinity.
GE Universal Remote Control works with more devices and consolidates your remote library into a singular master device that’s programmed for universal control.
OMAIC Universal Remote Control
Broadest Use
Quick Launch Options
Enjoy wider compatibility with more devices using the OMAIC Universal Remote Control, which works with more smart TVs. Free of any bothersome setup requirements, this remote works out of the box without programming needs. Replace your original remote controls with this universal option that has shorter delays, a stronger signal, and multi-angle transmission. Get more precise control anywhere in the room.
Why We Love It:
- Works with more Smart TV models, and specially designed for VIZIO smart TVs.
- No pesky setup required—pre-programmed so that you can use this device immediately without installation.
- Short key launch, app quick access, better infrared technology for further transmission, and precise control at up to 12 meters.
- Guaranteed manufacturer warranty and device support.
Something To Consider:
- Does not include batteries.
- Shortcut buttons do not feature apps used by everyone.
OMAIC Universal Remote Control consolidates your device remotes and doesn’t require additional programming to function with most Smart TVs out of the box.
MYHGRC Universal Remote Control
Easiest Setup
Replace All Your Devices
Get a more comprehensive replacement remote device with the MYHGRC Universal Remote Control, approved to work with even more brands. Programmed with easy setup steps to work with all your devices. Replace all your remotes and troublesome devices with this single master remote, that’s ergonomically designed to be used by anyone. Fast buttons, more options, and total device control for Smart TVs, soundbars, audio players, etc.
Why We Love It:
- Replace over 16 different types of remotes with this universal controller that works with more Smart TVs.
- Easy programming option and setup that works with Sony, Samsung, Sharp, and Panasonic.
- Replace your cumbersome setup with this single master device that covers your old tired remotes.
- Customer satisfaction guarantee and 5 year warranty from the manufacturer.
Something To Consider:
- Device compatibility can be a mixed bag.
- Does not work with some brands.
MYHGRC Universal Remote Control replaces over 16 different brands of remotes and is more compatible with a higher range of devices, also features a sleek and ergonomic control design.
