Replacing a lost or unreliable remote does not have to mean buying an expensive, brand-specific accessory. The best universal remote controls under $100 can simplify everyday TV use while supporting popular brands such as Samsung, LG, Roku, TCL, Sony, and Vizio.
This roundup covers compact replacements, multi-device remotes, backlit designs, and large-button options. Use the guide below to match features, setup requirements, and device compatibility to your home entertainment system.
Best 10 Universal Remote Controls Under 100 Picks for 2026
Broad TV Compatibility
- Works with many major TV brands
- Controls up to three devices
- Includes code list and one-year warranty
Best For: Multi-brand TV replacement needs
Compact Three-Device Pick
RCA Palm-Sized Universal Remote
- Controls up to three devices
- Supports three setup methods
- Compact, comfortable palm-sized design
Best For: Basic TV, DVD/VCR, and cable setups
Four-Device Upgrade
- Controls up to four devices
- Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs
- Includes master volume control
Best For: Mixed TV and audio-video equipment
Best Multi-Device Coverage
Wide-Compatibility Universal Remote
- Supports many major TV brands
- Controls TVs and other AV devices
- 26-foot infrared range
Best For: Mixed home entertainment systems
Best for Streaming Shortcuts
- Dedicated buttons for five streaming apps
- Backlit and preprogrammed for five TV brands
- Controls a TV plus one other device
Best For: Streaming-focused TV setups
Large-Button Entertainment Pick
- Controls up to eight devices
- Glow-in-the-dark buttons
- Five dedicated streaming shortcuts
Best For: Multi-device setups needing a large, visible interface
Simple TV Replacement
- Controls one compatible TV
- Dedicated streaming-app hot keys
- 90-day stated warranty
Best For: Straightforward replacement for a compatible infrared TV
Broad TV Compatibility – Acoyer Universal Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls under 100, this Acoyer model is a practical replacement for many major TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, Roku TV, TCL, and others. It uses infrared, supports up to three devices, and includes a manual and code list to guide setup.
Best For: Households needing one remote for a compatible TV plus up to two additional devices.
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of listed TV brands and some DVD/Blu-ray players and streaming media players.
- Offers up to three-device control with a stated range of up to 30 feet.
- Includes setup instructions, a code list, and a one-year warranty.
Cons:
- Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
- Does not support Roku Streaming Sticks, Fire TV devices, Apple TV, Chromecast TV, or several soundbars listed by the manufacturer.
- Setup may require trying multiple codes or using automatic code search.
This is a sensible low-cost choice when your devices use infrared and appear on the compatibility list. Verify the exact device type before buying, especially if you use a streaming stick or soundbar.
Compact Three-Device Pick – RCA Palm-Sized Universal Remote
Among universal remote controls under 100, the RCA RCR503BE stands out for its compact palm-sized design and straightforward three-device layout. It is designed to consolidate control for a TV, DVD or VCR player, and a satellite receiver, cable box, or digital converter.
Best For: Users who want a small, comfortable remote for three traditional home-entertainment devices.
Pros:
- Controls up to three devices.
- Offers automatic, manual, and direct code-search setup methods.
- Uses an easy-to-hold palm-sized design with a multicolored keypad.
Cons:
- Two AAA batteries are sold separately.
- Its stated device layout is focused on TV, DVD/VCR, and cable or satellite equipment.
- The supplied details list a 10-foot maximum range.
The RCA is a good fit for basic equipment consolidation rather than a broad smart-home setup. Its multiple programming methods are useful if the first code does not work.
Four-Device Upgrade – GE 4-Device Universal Remote
For shoppers seeking universal remote controls under 100 with broader device coverage, the GE 33709 can operate up to four audio and video devices. It supports automatic code search and direct code entry, and its TV button is preprogrammed for Samsung TVs.
Best For: Users consolidating a TV, disc player, cable or satellite receiver, soundbar, or compatible streaming device.
Pros:
- Controls up to four compatible devices.
- Supports thousands of devices from major brands according to the supplied notes.
- Includes master volume control and an ergonomic silver design.
Cons:
- Two AAA batteries are not included.
- It does not work with radio-frequency devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks and Amazon Fire TV/Sticks.
- Warranty coverage is listed as 90 days.
The GE model offers a useful balance of capacity and setup flexibility for conventional infrared equipment. Check whether your streaming hardware uses infrared before relying on it as a complete system replacement.
Simple Four-in-One Control – MYHGRC Universal Remote
This MYHGRC model is a straightforward option among universal remote controls under 100, combining TV, DVD, AUX, and cable controls in one infrared remote. It supports up to four devices and is designed for direct-code setup, with instructions included for pairing.
Best For: Users replacing a lost or damaged remote for compatible TVs, players, soundbars, or cable equipment.
Pros:
- Supports up to four devices, including TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, soundbars, and cable boxes.
- Uses a lightweight, ergonomic design with a stated 0.2-second transmission response.
- Offers direct code entry and included setup guidance.
Cons:
- Two AAA batteries are required and not included.
- The supplied details list a maximum range of 10 meters.
- Compatibility still depends on the specific device model and successful code matching.
The MYHGRC is a practical replacement when you want four basic device categories in one lightweight remote. Use the included instructions and confirm model compatibility if your setup includes less common equipment.
Best Multi-Device Coverage – Wide-Compatibility Universal Remote
If you need universal remote controls under 100 that can manage more than just a television, this LOUTOC model offers broad infrared compatibility. It supports many major TV brands plus devices such as DVD and Blu-ray players, soundbars, streaming media players, set-top boxes, DVRs, VCRs, and audio equipment.
Best For: Shoppers replacing several entertainment remotes with one budget-friendly controller.
Pros:
- Works with a wide range of TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Sony, Vizio, Roku, and more.
- Can control compatible non-TV devices, including soundbars, Blu-ray players, and streaming equipment.
- Offers a 26-foot range, fast response, and multiple setup methods.
Cons:
- Requires code entry or pairing before use.
- Two AAA batteries are required but not included.
Its extensive brand and device coverage makes it a practical choice for a mixed home theater setup. The included manual and code list help simplify programming, although setup may take some trial and error.
Best for Streaming Shortcuts – Backlit OneTouch Remote
Among universal remote controls under 100, the UltraPro Backlit OneTouch stands out for straightforward TV control and built-in streaming shortcuts. It is preprogrammed for Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and Roku TVs, with dedicated Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube buttons.
Best For: Streamers who want illuminated buttons, direct app access, and control of one additional device.
Pros:
- Preprogrammed TV buttons make setup simple for five popular TV brands.
- Fully backlit design improves button visibility in dim rooms.
- Can control a TV plus one additional device, with master volume control across devices.
- Includes dedicated hotkeys for several popular streaming services.
Cons:
- Supports up to two devices rather than a larger home theater system.
- Requires two AA batteries, which are not included.
This remote is a strong fit for everyday TV and streaming use, especially when quick app access matters. Its AUX button can also be reprogrammed for another device through auto code search or direct code entry.
Best for Seniors – Big-Button TV Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls under 100, this Gvirtue model focuses on simplicity and accessibility rather than multi-device control. Its large buttons, tactile feedback, and oversized enter button are designed to make basic TV operation easier for seniors and users with limited dexterity or vision.
Best For: Seniors, visually impaired users, and anyone who wants a simplified TV-only remote.
Pros:
- Large, tactile buttons are designed for easier handling and visibility.
- Works with Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, Philips, Panasonic, Sharp, and other TVs.
- No programming or pairing is required for the supported TV use case.
- Includes a 90-day free replacement warranty offer in the supplied product notes.
Cons:
- Does not work with streaming devices, cable boxes, or unrelated platforms.
- Its 10-meter range is shorter than some competing models.
- Two AAA batteries are required.
This is a sensible choice when clear controls and easy operation are more important than advanced functionality. Because it is limited to televisions, confirm that the intended setup does not require control of a cable box or streaming player.
Flexible 3-Device Pick – Maxitoc Universal Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls under 100, the Maxitoc is a practical choice when you want one infrared remote for up to three home-entertainment components. It supports many major TV brands and can also control compatible streaming players, DVD/Blu-ray players, sound bars, and boxes.
Best For: Households that want one remote for a TV plus up to two additional compatible devices.
Pros:
- Controls up to three audio/video devices.
- Broad brand support, including Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, Vizio, and Roku TVs.
- Includes a user guide and code list for setup.
- Offers a stated range of up to 30 feet.
Cons:
- Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks, Fire TV Sticks, or other RF streaming devices.
- Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
- Programming uses device codes rather than a completely automatic setup.
The Maxitoc stands out for flexible multi-device control and broad listed compatibility. Confirm your equipment uses infrared and check the included code list before buying, especially if you rely on a streaming stick.
Large-Button Entertainment Pick – QFX REM-115 Jumbo Remote
Among universal remote controls under 100, the QFX REM-115 is designed for shoppers who prioritize a large, easy-to-see interface. Its jumbo layout can control up to eight devices and includes illuminated buttons plus dedicated shortcuts for Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, and Disney+.
Best For: Users who want a prominent, simplified remote for several compatible entertainment devices.
Pros:
- Controls up to eight devices from one remote.
- Large jumbo design with glow-in-the-dark buttons.
- Dedicated streaming shortcuts for five listed services.
- Designed to consolidate TV, Blu-ray, cable, and other compatible controls.
Cons:
- The supplied details specify compatibility only with smart TVs that have internet capabilities.
- Requires two AA batteries, which are not included.
- Its large form may be less convenient for users who prefer a compact remote.
The REM-115 is the strongest fit here for visibility and device capacity. Its eight-device design is useful for complex setups, while the smart-TV and internet-capability note makes compatibility checking especially important.
Simple TV Replacement – Angrox Universal TV Remote
For shoppers seeking universal remote controls under 100 for a single television, the Angrox offers a straightforward infrared design with dedicated streaming-app hot keys. It supports many major TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Vizio, TCL, Hisense, Sony, Philips, and Roku TV.
Best For: Users replacing a lost or worn TV remote who want quick setup and simple one-TV control.
Pros:
- Designed to control one television with no additional device programming.
- Supports many major TV brands and Roku TVs.
- Includes dedicated buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu.
- Backed by a stated 90-day warranty.
Cons:
- Does not control multiple devices; maximum support is one TV.
- Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks, TV sticks, TV cubes, or listed sound bars.
- Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
The Angrox is a sensible low-complexity replacement when your main goal is controlling a compatible TV. Its infrared-only operation and extensive exclusions mean you should verify the exact device type before ordering.
How We Picked the Best Universal Remote Controls Under 100
We focused on remotes that offer broad compatibility, practical controls, and straightforward setup at an accessible price. The selection includes simple TV replacements as well as models designed to operate multiple devices, including Blu-ray players, cable boxes, soundbars, and streaming media players.
We also considered usability details that matter in daily operation: button size, layout, range, backlighting, device capacity, and whether the remote is positioned as a direct replacement or requires manual programming. Because compatibility can vary by model and year, buyers should confirm their exact equipment before ordering.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Look For | Featured Options |
|---|---|---|
| Basic TV replacement | Simple layout and broad TV-brand support | TV-focused universal remotes |
| Multiple devices | Three or more device modes and learning or code support | RCA 3-Device, GE, and 8-in-1 models |
| Nighttime viewing | Backlit buttons or high-contrast labeling | UltraPro Backlit OneTouch |
| Limited dexterity | Large buttons and an uncluttered layout | Big Button and QFX jumbo remotes |
Key Buying Factors for Universal Remote Controls Under $100
Device Compatibility
Check whether the remote supports your TV brand and any connected equipment. A remote advertised for “all TVs” may still have limited functions on a particular model, especially for smart-TV menus, voice controls, or proprietary streaming features.
Number of Devices
If you only need power, volume, input, and channel controls, a TV-specific universal remote is usually sufficient. Choose a multi-device model if you want to consolidate a TV, soundbar, cable box, DVD player, or streaming device into one handset.
Setup and Programming
Look for clear code lists, automatic code search, or easy pairing instructions. Simple programming is especially valuable when replacing a remote quickly or setting up equipment for someone who is not comfortable with electronics.
Ergonomics and Visibility
Consider the remote’s size, button spacing, labeling, and grip. Backlighting helps in dark rooms, while large buttons can be easier to identify and press. Compact designs are convenient but may feel crowded for users who prefer tactile separation.
Functions You May Give Up
Universal remotes commonly handle core commands well, but they may not replicate every original feature. Voice search, motion controls, app shortcuts, smart-TV keyboards, and manufacturer-specific menus may require the original remote or a dedicated replacement.
Who Should Buy Which Universal Remote Controls Under 100?
Choose a basic TV universal remote if you want an inexpensive replacement for everyday viewing. Select a three-device or 8-in-1 model when you want to reduce remote clutter across a larger setup. A backlit option suits bedrooms and dim media rooms, while a big-button or jumbo remote is the better choice for seniors, children, or anyone who values maximum readability.
Before purchasing, verify the supported brand list, required batteries, programming method, and return policy. The right choice among these Universal Remote Controls Under 100 is the one that covers your essential devices without adding unnecessary complexity.