10 Best Universal Remote Controls for Easy TV Setup in 2026

The right universal remote control can replace a lost, worn-out, or confusing TV remote without adding another complicated device to your coffee table. This roundup compares 10 practical options for popular Samsung, LG, Vizio, Roku, TCL, Sony, Hisense, and other televisions.

We focused on everyday usability, compatibility, visibility, power options, and value so you can choose a straightforward replacement for your setup.

Best 10 Universal Remote Controls Picks for 2026

Best Overall – GE 4-Device Backlit Universal Remote

If you need one of the more versatile universal remote controls for a mixed entertainment setup, this GE model can operate up to four compatible devices. Its broad code library, backlighting, and master volume control make it practical for everyday TV and media-center use.

Best For: Households controlling a TV, streaming player, disc player, soundbar, or cable box with one remote.

Pros:

• Controls up to four compatible audio and video devices.
• Blue backlighting improves button visibility in dim rooms.
• Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming boxes.
• Supports automatic code search, direct code entry, and master volume control.

Cons:

• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
• Does not work with RF-only devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks and Amazon Fire TV Sticks.

With a 30-foot stated range and support for thousands of devices, this is a strong all-purpose pick when you want backlighting and four-device control without moving to a more specialized remote.

Best Rechargeable – GE Rechargeable 4-Device Universal Remote

This GE model stands out among universal remote controls for its built-in rechargeable battery. It also combines four-device control, backlit buttons, and dedicated streaming shortcuts for a convenient living-room setup.

Best For: Users who want to avoid disposable batteries while controlling a TV and several compatible entertainment devices.

Pros:

• Built-in lithium polymer battery can remain powered for months on a charge.
• Includes an 18-inch USB-A to USB-C charging cable and charging indicator.
• Controls up to four compatible TVs, players, streaming devices, soundbars, or receivers.
• Dedicated Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and YouTube buttons are included.

Cons:

• Streaming hotkeys may vary with user-installed apps.
• Does not support RF-only Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
• Its stated range is 25 feet, shorter than some comparable GE models.

The rechargeable design is the main reason to choose this remote. It offers broad infrared compatibility and useful app shortcuts, provided your devices support the included controls.

Best Samsung Backup – YesBes 3-Pack Samsung TV Remotes

Unlike multi-device universal remote controls, this three-pack is designed specifically for Samsung televisions. It is a practical choice for replacing lost remotes or keeping spares available in multiple rooms, with no setup required beyond inserting batteries.

Best For: Samsung TV owners who want inexpensive replacement or backup remotes for compatible Samsung smart, LED, LCD, HDTV, and 3D televisions.

Pros:

• Three remotes provide convenient home backups.
• Designed to work with compatible Samsung TV series without programming.
• Includes Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu shortcut buttons.
• Uses infrared transmission with a stated range of up to 10 meters.

Cons:

• Controls one television device rather than multiple entertainment components.
• Two AAA batteries per remote are required and not included.
• Its compatibility is focused on Samsung TVs, not a broad range of brands.

If your priority is Samsung TV replacement coverage rather than universal component control, the three-pack offers useful redundancy and straightforward operation.

Best Budget Pick – GE Silver 4-Device Universal Remote

For shoppers seeking straightforward universal remote controls, this silver GE model provides four-device operation and broad brand compatibility in an ergonomic design. It is preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and supports automatic or direct setup for other compatible equipment.

Best For: Budget-conscious users who want a simple four-device remote with a comfortable shape and a clean silver finish.

Pros:

• Controls up to four compatible audio and video devices.
• Works with thousands of devices across major brands.
• Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and includes master volume control.
• Offers automatic code search and direct code entry programming.

Cons:

• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
• Does not support RF-only Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
• It lacks the backlighting listed for some other GE universal models.

This is a sensible no-frills option when you want broad infrared compatibility and four-device control, while its silver finish and ergonomic shape add a little polish.

Best Backlit Pick – UltraPro OneTouch Universal Remote

For shoppers comparing universal remote controls, the UltraPro OneTouch is a practical choice for replacing a lost or damaged TV remote. It comes preprogrammed for Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and Roku TVs, with backlighting and direct streaming-app shortcuts.

Best For: TV owners who want a backlit remote with simple brand-based setup and control of one additional device.

Pros:

• Preprogrammed for five popular TV brands, including Roku TVs.
• Fully backlit for easier button visibility.
• Includes Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube hotkeys.
• Can control a TV plus one additional device, with master volume control.

Cons:

• Requires two AA batteries, which are not included.
• Supports a maximum of two devices.

The UltraPro stands out among universal remote controls for its combination of backlighting, streaming shortcuts, and preprogrammed TV support. Its included U.S.-based technical support is also useful if setup questions arise.

Best Broad Compatibility – Acoyer Universal TV Remote

This Acoyer model is one of the more broadly compatible universal remote controls for households with TVs from different brands. It supports many major and secondary TV brands and can also operate select DVD/Blu-ray and media-streaming devices through infrared.

Best For: Shoppers seeking a low-cost replacement remote with wide TV-brand coverage and support for up to three devices.

Pros:

• Works with many brands, including Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, Roku TVs, TCL, and more.
• Supports up to three devices, including televisions and DVD/Blu-ray players.
• Offers direct-code setup and automatic code search.
• Includes a user manual and code list.

Cons:

• Does not work with Fire TV devices, Apple TV, Google Chromecast TV, or several soundbars.
• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
• Infrared operation requires aiming the remote at the device.

Its broad brand list makes this Acoyer remote a flexible option, but compatibility limits matter. Check the exclusions carefully if your setup includes streaming sticks, soundbars, or other non-infrared equipment.

Best Two-Pack for Samsung TVs – LOUTOC Samsung TV Remotes

If you need universal remote controls specifically for Samsung televisions, this two-pack provides a convenient backup. The infrared remotes are designed for Samsung Smart, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, and series TVs and require no pairing or programming.

Best For: Samsung TV households that want a spare remote or two replacements without programming.

Pros:

• Includes two replacement remotes for backup coverage.
• Compatible with Samsung Smart, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, and series TVs.
• Requires no pairing or programming.
• Offers a stated range of up to 10 meters, or 32 feet.

Cons:

• Designed for Samsung TVs rather than multiple device types.
• AAA batteries and a manual are not included.
• The listing details only three shortcut buttons.

This LOUTOC pack is best viewed as a straightforward Samsung replacement rather than a multi-device controller. The no-programming design and two-remote package make it useful for keeping a spare on hand.

Best Multi-Brand Coverage – LOUTOC Universal TV Remote

For shoppers comparing universal remote controls, the LOUTOC SRP9232D stands out for broad compatibility across Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Sony, Vizio, Roku, Onn, Toshiba, Philips, and other TV brands. It can also control compatible DVD and Blu-ray players, soundbars, streaming media players, set-top boxes, DVRs, VCRs, and audio devices, although setup requires code entry or automatic pairing.

Best For: Households that want one infrared remote for multiple brands and entertainment devices.

Pros:

• Supports a wide range of TV brands and other home entertainment devices.
• Offers a 26-foot operating range and 0.2-second response time.
• Includes a user manual and code list for guided setup.

Cons:

• Requires programming with device codes or the automatic pairing procedure.
• Two AAA batteries are required but not included.
• Listed maximum supported devices is one, despite its broad device compatibility.

The LOUTOC is a practical choice when compatibility breadth matters more than instant setup. Its included documentation and multiple code options can help, but buyers should expect a little programming before use.

Best Vizio Replacement – Young XRT112 Universal Remote

Among universal remote controls, the Young XRT112 is a focused replacement for compatible Vizio televisions, including many D-, E-, and related model families. It uses infrared control, provides dedicated Amazon, Netflix, and MGO buttons, and includes a one-year warranty.

Best For: Owners of compatible Vizio smart TVs who want a straightforward replacement remote.

Pros:

• Designed for a broad list of Vizio TV models.
• Includes convenient Amazon, Netflix, and MGO shortcut buttons.
• Backed by a one-year warranty and satisfaction guarantee.

Cons:

• Compatibility is limited to televisions rather than multiple device categories.
• Only supports a 22-foot range.
• Requires two AAA batteries, which are not stated as included.

This remote makes the most sense as a Vizio-specific replacement rather than a whole-home universal controller. Check your television’s model number against the compatibility list before ordering.

Best Long-Range TV Remote – EWO'S Smart TV Replacement Remote

This EWO’S replacement is one of the simpler universal remote controls for Samsung, LG, Vizio, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Sony, and Roku TVs. It uses infrared and is advertised as working without pairing after inserting two AAA batteries, while its shortcut buttons provide quick access to selected apps.

Best For: Smart TV owners seeking a simple TV-only remote with long range and app shortcuts.

Pros:

• Supports many popular TV brands, including Roku TVs.
• Offers a 45-foot range and response time of up to 0.1 second.
• Includes four app shortcut buttons and a browsing-history button.

Cons:

• Does not work with Roku streaming sticks, TV sticks, TV cubes, or Fire TV devices.
• Not compatible with several listed soundbars.
• Two AAA batteries are not included.

The EWO’S remote is appealing for basic TV control and a generous operating range, but its exclusions are important. Confirm that you use a supported smart TV rather than a separate streaming stick, cube, or soundbar.

How We Picked These Universal Remote Controls

We selected models based on broad brand compatibility, essential TV controls, button visibility, setup simplicity, and practical value. The list includes basic replacement remotes, backlit designs, rechargeable options, and multipacks for households that need a spare.

Compatibility claims can vary by television model and remote revision, so check your TV’s exact brand and required functions before ordering. A remote that handles power and volume may not support every smart-TV shortcut or streaming-device feature.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Look For
Low-cost replacement	Simple universal TV remote with essential controls
Dark rooms	Backlit buttons or a glowing keypad
Frequent use	Rechargeable battery or durable construction
Multiple TVs	Wide brand compatibility and easy programming
Spare remotes	Two- or three-pack value bundles
Vizio-specific replacement	Remote designed specifically for Vizio televisions

Key Buying Factors for Universal Remote Controls

Compatibility

Confirm that the remote supports your television brand, display type, and smart-TV platform. Some models work with basic infrared commands but may not replace Bluetooth pairing, voice control, pointer functions, or proprietary menus.

Layout and Visibility

Choose a familiar button arrangement with clearly labeled power, volume, input, navigation, and home controls. Backlighting is especially useful for nighttime viewing, while oversized buttons can help users who prefer a simpler layout.

Power and Maintenance

Battery-powered remotes are easy to keep running with spare AA or AAA cells. Rechargeable models reduce battery replacement but require periodic charging and may be less convenient if the remote is frequently misplaced.

Setup and Extras

Look for straightforward code entry, automatic programming, or clearly explained instructions. Dedicated app, streaming, or shortcut buttons can save time, but they are useful only when they match the services you actually use.

Who Should Buy Which Universal Remote Controls?

Choose a basic universal remote if you want an inexpensive replacement for everyday power, volume, input, and channel control. A backlit model is the better fit for dark rooms or anyone who regularly struggles to identify small buttons.

Consider a rechargeable option for a main living-room remote that sees heavy daily use. Multipacks make sense for larger homes, guest rooms, or families that want a spare available. If every television in your home is from Vizio, a Vizio-focused replacement may offer the simplest match. For mixed-brand households, prioritize broad compatibility and verify smart-TV features before purchasing.