Finding the right replacement remote can restore convenient control without replacing a working television. This roundup compares 10 universal remote controls covering major brands, Roku TVs, backlit designs, rechargeable options, and value multipacks.
Use the guide below to match your TV brand, preferred features, and budget with a practical replacement remote for everyday viewing.
Best 10 Universal Remote Controls Picks for 2026
Best Overall
- Controls up to four compatible devices
- Broad brand and device compatibility
- Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs
Best For: Mixed home entertainment setups
Best Two-Pack
- Includes two infrared remotes
- No pairing or programming required
- Four shortcut buttons for apps
Best For: Compatible Roku TV owners needing a spare
Best for Dark Rooms
- Blue backlighting aids nighttime use
- Controls up to four devices
- Preprogrammed for Samsung and Roku
Best For: Dim-room viewing and multi-device setups
Best Samsung Replacement
LOUTOC Two-Pack for Samsung TVs
- Two remotes included
- No programming or pairing needed
- Designed for Samsung TV series
Best For: Samsung TV replacements and backups
Best Rechargeable Pick
GE Rechargeable TV Remote Control
- Rechargeable battery with included USB-C cable
- Controls up to four infrared devices
- Backlit keypad with streaming shortcuts
Best For: Multi-device households wanting a rechargeable remote
Best Broad TV Compatibility
- Supports many major TV brands
- Includes manual and code-list setup guidance
- Up to 30-foot infrared range
Best For: Replacing an infrared remote for a listed TV brand
Best for Comfort
EONCHARM Universal Samsung TV Remote
- Works with many Samsung TV series
- No programming or setup required
- Includes Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu shortcuts
Best For: Samsung TV owners needing a simple replacement remote
Most Versatile
- Works with many TV brands
- Supports several entertainment device types
- 26-foot infrared range
Best For: Multi-device home entertainment systems
Best for Streaming Shortcuts
- Supports many major TV brands
- Dedicated streaming hot keys
- 90-day return warranty
Best For: Compatible TVs with convenient app shortcuts
Best Overall – GE 4-Device Universal Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls, the GE 4-Device model is a versatile choice for managing a mixed home entertainment setup. It supports up to four compatible devices, includes automatic code search and direct code entry, and comes preprogrammed for Samsung TVs.
Best For: Households that want one remote for a TV, disc player, cable box, soundbar, or other compatible devices.
Pros:
- Controls up to four audio and video devices.
- Supports thousands of devices from major brands.
- Offers master volume control and multiple setup methods.
- Comfortable ergonomic design with a silver finish.
Cons:
- AAA batteries are not included.
- Does not work with radio-frequency devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
This GE remote is a practical all-purpose option when you need broad infrared compatibility and four-device control. Its main limitation is that it cannot replace RF remotes for certain streaming sticks.
Best Two-Pack – Roku TV Replacement Remotes
If you need replacement universal remote controls for Roku televisions, this two-pack offers a straightforward backup solution. The infrared remotes require no pairing or programming; insert two AAA batteries and use the shortcut buttons to access supported apps.
Best For: Homes with compatible TCL, Hisense, Onn, Sharp, Element, Westinghouse, Philips, Insignia, JVC, RCA, Hitachi, or Sanyo Roku TVs.
Pros:
- Includes two replacement remotes.
- Ready to use without pairing or programming.
- Includes four shortcut buttons for favorite apps.
- Offers a stated 30-foot range and one-year warranty.
Cons:
- AAA batteries and a manual are not included.
- Works only with Roku TV models, not standard TVs from those brands.
- Not compatible with Roku sticks, boxes, players, or streaming devices.
This pack makes sense when you specifically own supported Roku televisions and want a spare remote on hand. Carefully check the TV type, since it is not a general-purpose remote and does not support Roku streaming hardware.
Best for Dark Rooms – GE Backlit 4-Device Remote
Among universal remote controls, this GE model stands out for its blue backlit buttons, which make it easier to operate in dim rooms. It can control up to four compatible devices, is preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming media boxes, and includes master volume control.
Best For: Viewers who use their entertainment system at night and want a backlit remote with multi-device support.
Pros:
- Blue LED backlighting improves button visibility in dark rooms.
- Controls up to four audio and video devices.
- Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming media boxes.
- Supports automatic code search, direct code entry, and master volume control.
Cons:
- AAA batteries are not included.
- Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV/Sticks.
- Uses infrared connectivity, with a stated range of up to 30 feet.
The backlighting is the key advantage here, especially for bedroom or evening viewing. It retains the flexibility of a four-device universal remote, but compatibility should be verified if your setup relies on streaming sticks.
Best Samsung Replacement – LOUTOC Two-Pack for Samsung TVs
For Samsung owners seeking simple universal remote controls, this two-pack is designed specifically for Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, and 3D models. The infrared remotes require no programming, include three shortcut buttons, and are rated for use from up to 10 meters away.
Best For: Samsung TV owners replacing a lost or damaged remote or keeping a second unit as a backup.
Pros:
- Includes two replacement remotes.
- Compatible with Samsung TV series listed by the manufacturer.
- No pairing or programming is required.
- Offers three shortcut buttons and a stated 0.5-second response time.
Cons:
- Controls one television rather than multiple device types.
- AAA batteries are not included.
- Compatibility is limited to Samsung televisions.
This is a focused replacement rather than a whole-home universal remote. It is a convenient value pack for Samsung households, provided your television is among the supported models or series.
Best Rechargeable Pick – GE Rechargeable TV Remote Control
Among universal remote controls, the GE Rechargeable TV Remote Control stands out for households that want fewer battery changes and control for several entertainment devices. Its infrared design supports up to four devices, while the backlit keypad and app shortcut buttons add convenience for evening viewing.
Best For: Users who want a rechargeable, backlit remote for up to four infrared audio and video devices.
Pros:
- Rechargeable battery can run for months on a charge, with a USB-C to USB-A cable included.
- Controls up to four devices, including TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, soundbars, and cable or satellite receivers.
- Fully backlit keypad, master volume control, and preprogrammed Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and YouTube hotkeys.
Cons:
- Infrared only; it is not intended for RF devices such as Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
- Setup for some brands and devices may require automatic code search or direct code entry.
This is a practical upgrade for a multi-device setup, especially if you prefer a slim remote that reduces disposable-battery use. Confirm that your streaming equipment uses infrared before buying.
Best Broad TV Compatibility – Acoyer Universal TV Remote
This Acoyer model is one of the more broadly listed universal remote controls for replacing a lost or damaged TV remote. It supports many major television brands and offers infrared control for TVs and selected DVD or Blu-ray devices, with manual code entry and automatic code search available.
Best For: Shoppers replacing a basic infrared TV remote across a wide range of listed television brands.
Pros:
- Compatible with many brands, including Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, Onn, TCL, Sharp, RCA, and more.
- Includes a user manual and code list for manual programming.
- Offers a listed range of up to 30 feet and supports up to three devices.
Cons:
- Requires two AAA alkaline batteries, which are not included.
- Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks, Fire TV devices, Apple TV, Google Chromecast TV, or several listed soundbars.
- Programming may require trying multiple codes or using automatic code search.
The Acoyer is a sensible low-complexity replacement when your equipment accepts infrared commands. Its long compatibility list is useful, but the exclusions make checking your exact device type essential.
Best for Comfort – EONCHARM Universal Samsung TV Remote
For Samsung owners, the EONCHARM is a focused alternative to general-purpose universal remote controls. It is designed for Samsung LCD, LED, HDTV, 3D, and Smart TV models, with no programming required and shortcut buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu.
Best For: Samsung TV owners seeking a compact replacement that works without programming.
Pros:
- Compatible with Samsung Smart TV and other listed Samsung TV series, including models from 2017 through 2024.
- No programming or setup is required according to the supplied product notes.
- Compact design with 44 buttons and dedicated Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu shortcuts.
Cons:
- Designed for Samsung televisions rather than controlling multiple brands or device types.
- Uses two AAA batteries, which are not included.
- The listed maximum range is 10 feet.
This remote makes the most sense when you want a straightforward Samsung replacement and do not need control of a soundbar, player, or cable box. Verify your TV model or original remote number if you need a precise match.
Most Versatile – Multi-Device Universal Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls, the LOUTOC SRP9232D stands out for its broad device coverage. It can be programmed for many TV brands plus compatible DVD and Blu-ray players, soundbars, streaming players, set-top boxes, DVRs, VCRs, and audio devices.
Best For: Households that want one infrared remote for several home-entertainment devices.
Pros:
- Supports numerous TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Sony, and Vizio.
- Also supports various DVD, Blu-ray, audio, soundbar, and streaming devices.
- Offers a claimed 26-foot range and 0.2-second response time.
- Provides code-based setup plus an automatic pairing method in the manual.
Cons:
- Setup may require trying multiple codes for some devices.
- Two AAA batteries are required but not included.
- The listing identifies the maximum supported device count as one, so verify your intended setup before buying.
This is the strongest option here for broad equipment compatibility, though buyers should be comfortable with code-based programming and confirm their specific devices first.
Best for Streaming Shortcuts – Simple TV Universal Remote
This Angrox remote is a straightforward choice among universal remote controls for compatible televisions. It uses infrared, supports many major TV brands and Roku TVs, and includes dedicated shortcut buttons for several streaming services.
Best For: TV owners who want a simple replacement remote with one-click streaming access.
Pros:
- Compatible with many Samsung, Vizio, LG, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Sony, and Roku TVs.
- Includes dedicated buttons for NFLX, Video, Dis+, and Hulu.
- Uses a simple setup process with two AAA batteries and the included manual.
- Backed by a 90-day return warranty.
Cons:
- It controls televisions only rather than multiple device categories.
- Not compatible with Roku streaming sticks, TV sticks, TV cubes, several soundbars, or Fi TV devices.
- Batteries are not included.
Choose this model when your priority is convenient TV control and quick access to streaming apps. Its device exclusions make compatibility checking especially important.
Best for Long Range – Fast-Response TV Remote
The EWO’S RCFNA21 is a focused TV replacement for shoppers seeking universal remote controls with long-range infrared operation. It covers many popular smart TV brands and Roku TVs, while adding streaming shortcuts and a browsing-history button.
Best For: Viewers who want a responsive TV-only remote with an advertised 45-foot range.
Pros:
- Works with many Samsung, LG, Vizio, Roku, TCL, Hisense, Sony, and Philips TVs.
- Advertises up to 45 feet of infrared control range.
- Includes four application shortcut buttons and a browsing-history button.
- Claims response of up to 0.1 second and testing for more than 150,000 clicks.
Cons:
- Compatible with televisions only.
- Not compatible with Roku streaming sticks, TV sticks, TV cubes, several soundbars, or Fi TV devices.
- Two AAA batteries are required and not included.
This model is appealing for larger rooms or viewers who value quick button response, but its narrow TV-only compatibility means it is not a replacement for a multi-device remote.
How We Picked These Universal Remote Controls
We focused on replacement remotes that cover widely used television brands, including Samsung, LG, Roku, Vizio, Sony, TCL, Hisense, Philips, and Onn Roku TVs. The selection also considers useful differences such as backlit buttons, rechargeable power, multipack value, and compatibility with smart, LED, LCD, HDTV, and 3D models.
Because compatibility can vary by exact TV model and remote version, buyers should confirm the listing details before ordering. A remote described as universal may still exclude certain functions, voice controls, streaming shortcuts, or advanced smart-TV features.
Quick Comparison
- Best for broad brand coverage: Choose a multi-brand GE or similarly labeled universal remote.
- Best for Samsung owners: Consider a Samsung-focused replacement for a simpler setup and familiar button layout.
- Best value: Two-packs are useful for replacing multiple remotes or keeping a spare.
- Best for dark rooms: Select a backlit model with illuminated buttons.
- Best for fewer batteries: A rechargeable remote may reduce disposable battery use, provided charging is convenient.
- Best for Roku TVs: Verify that the remote specifically supports your Roku TV brand, such as TCL, Onn, or another compatible model.
Key Buying Factors for Universal Remote Controls
Compatibility
Start with the television’s brand and exact model number. Check whether the remote supports smart-TV menus, input switching, volume control, streaming buttons, and any specialized functions you use regularly.
Setup and Programming
Look for clear pairing or code-entry instructions. Some replacement remotes work immediately with selected brands, while others require a setup sequence. If you are buying for an older or secondary TV, simple programming may matter more than advanced features.
Button Layout and Visibility
Large, clearly labeled buttons can make everyday use easier. Backlighting is especially helpful in a dark room, but confirm whether it activates automatically or requires pressing a dedicated button.
Power and Build
Battery-powered models are easy to replace, while rechargeable versions can be more convenient over time. Check whether batteries or a charging cable are included, and consider the remote’s size, grip, and expected durability.
Who Should Buy Which Universal Remote Controls?
Choose a broad universal model if one remote needs to operate a mixed-brand television setup. Choose a brand-specific replacement if you want the simplest possible match for a Samsung or another supported TV. Choose a two-pack for multiple rooms, a spare, or better per-unit value. Choose a backlit remote for nighttime viewing, and choose a rechargeable model if you prefer a reusable power solution.
Before purchasing, compare the supported brands, required batteries or charging accessories, included features, and return policy. These checks help ensure the replacement handles the controls you actually need rather than only basic power and volume functions.