TV & Video

The 10 Best Universal Remotes for All True TV Lovers

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Lea Kuscer Avatar
Lea Kuscer
3 March, 2024 • Updated 10 days ago
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The Best Universal Remotes
Universal remote control is a useful gadget if you have multiple TVs in your home.

Buying just one will save you the hassle of finding and storing multiple remotes that you currently have cluttering up your living area. Not only this gadget will use up less space but will work on any TV you own.

However, there are loads of universal remote tech gadgets currently on the market, and each one has different features and design. It’s why we searched through a dozen independent media outlets and Amazon reviews to help you find the right one.

So let’s start by knowing what you should consider before buying an universal TV remote.

IN A HURRY? CHECK OUT OUR EDITOR’S CHOICE
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control

It is important to know what you are looking for, and what TVs the remotes work on. Our experts have reviewed the 10 best universal remotes to help you with your decision.

Things to Consider

To ensure that you get the best universal remote tech gadgets on the market you should consider some important factors and help you out we have come up with a list of the most important factors. So, check out the following 5 factors that you should consider before buying a universal remote tech gadget:

1. Number of devices controlled

There are remotes that can control one device and others that can control 8 or more. It is important that you consider how many devices you need to control when you start your universal remote shopping.

2. Compatibility

Depending on the type and brand of universal remote control that you select, there is variation in terms of what devices and brands the remote will be compatible with. As a result, you must consider what brands your devices are, and consider whether you will need a branded universal remote or a remote that can control devices from a range of different brands.

3. Ease of use

There is nothing worse than not being able to turn on your TV or other entertainment devices. Therefore it is important that you consider how easy the universal remote that you select is to use. A good way to do this is by reading user reviews.

4. Ease of set up

Depending on the universal remote that you select, there will be different options for how to set up the remote so that it is compatible with all of your devices. Some universal remotes can be set up manually while others are set up automatically by linking them with software online. Make sure to consider what type of setup works best for you.

5. Price

Finally, price. This is an important consideration as it may affect the other areas. There are a lot of universal remotes out there, and the range of prices is just as large. Therefore, it is important that you consider what budget to set before you start shopping for your universal remote control.

QUICK OVERVIEW

The Best Universal Remote


Products Features
EDITOR’S PICK
3.6
1,860+
1860+
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote ControlLogitech Harmony Elite Remote Control
  • Connects up to 15 home entertainment and connected home devices including Amazon Alexa
  • One-touch activity button to automatically power on and switch the device to right settings
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300
  • Connects up to 15 home entertainment and connected home devices including Amazon Alexa
  • One-touch activity button to automatically power on and switch the device to right settings
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300
Check price
at Amazon
MOST REVIEWED
3.8
8,910+
8910+
Logitech Harmony 650 Remote Control
Logitech Harmony 650 Remote ControlLogitech Harmony 650 Remote Control
  • Can support up to 8 of your devices
  • It has right color screen technology which helps you to know where your favorite channel icons are
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $200
  • Can support up to 8 of your devices
  • It has right color screen technology which helps you to know where your favorite channel icons are
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $200
Check price
at Amazon
TOP PICK
3.6
1,075+
1075+
Logitech Harmony Ultimate One
Logitech Harmony Ultimate OneLogitech Harmony Ultimate One
  • Awesome controller that enables you to navigate between TV, movies, music, games
  • Have over 50 favorite-channel icons
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $250
  • Awesome controller that enables you to navigate between TV, movies, music, games
  • Have over 50 favorite-channel icons
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $250
Check price
at Amazon
BUDGET PICK
4.2
355+
355+
Sony RMVZ320 Universal Control
Sony RMVZ320 Universal ControlSony RMVZ320 Universal Control
  • Enables you to have centralized control of all of your Audio Video devices
  • Easy to use and can be used with devices that are non- Sony too
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $25
  • Enables you to have centralized control of all of your Audio Video devices
  • Easy to use and can be used with devices that are non- Sony too
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $25
Check price
at Amazon
BUDGET PICK
4.2
1,035+
1035+
Smart TV Remote for Samsung
Smart TV Remote for SamsungSmart TV Remote for Samsung
  • Super simple to use, and the buttons are all easy to see
  • It has a number of hotkey shortcuts to most popular functions
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $10
  • Super simple to use, and the buttons are all easy to see
  • It has a number of hotkey shortcuts to most popular functions
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $10
Check price
at Amazon
BUDGET PICK
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control
Home theater control. Whole home control.

After reviewing various Power Towers, we found that the Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control is The Best Universal Remote in the market right now.

3.6
1,860+
1860+
  • Connects up to 15 home entertainment and connected home devices including Amazon Alexa
  • One-touch activity button to automatically power on and switch the device to right settings
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300

Under $10

Smart TV Remote for Samsung (AA59-00784C)

Smart TV Remote for Samsung (AA59-00784C)

Features

  • For Samsung TV, Smart TV, 3D LED and HDTV models
  • Hotkey shortcuts to Smart TC functions
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $10

This Universal Remote Control is suitable for Samsung TV, Smart TV, 3D LED and HDTV models. The control is super simple to use, and the buttons are all easy to see. The remote only requires 2 AAA batteries for it to work. The batteries are not included in this price.

For less than $10 you can have this Samsung Universal Remote Control and not only is it a great way to control your devices, but it is also ideal for those who may have lost their Samsung remote during a house move, or maybe even down the back of the sofa.

A great feature of this remote is that it has a number of hotkey shortcuts to most popular Samsung Smart TV functions which makes it even easier to find your favorite programs and TV applications. The remote is completely genuine and is registered as a Samsung Remote part with the # AA59-00652A.

Pros
  • Good substitute for your original remote
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Weak IR signal

Sony RMVZ320 7-Device Universal Remote

Sony RMVZ320 7-Device Universal Remote

Features

  • Works with DVD, TV, and VCR
  • Compatible with most major brands
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $25

The RM-VLZ620 Universal remote control enables you to have centralized control of all of your Audio Video devices which is awesome as not only does it prevent the need for multiple remotes to clutter up your home, but also it saves you the trouble of operating other A/V devices with different remote controls.

The remote can control DVD, TV and VCR functions.This RM-VLZ620 Universal remote control is easy to use and can be used with devices that are non- Sony too. All you have to do is set the manufacturer’s code for each device to any of the eight Device Select buttons.

Simple and effective- so with this remote you can centralize control of all of your Sony devices and can also control non-Sony devices. What is more, with this easy to use remote you can even set new, personalized functions so that the remote can perform a consecutive procedure by simply pressing one button.

Features
  • Many functions
  • Responsive
Cons
  • The menu button not functional on all devices

Under $15

Philips SRP5107/27 Universal Remote Control

Philips SRP5107/27 Universal Remote Control

Features

  • Works with AV devices since 1990
  • Illuminated keys on primary buttons
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $15

Philips SRP 5107/27 is a good buy if you are looking for an universal remove under $25. It isn’t the latest mode in the market but it has integrated leraning keeps to keep it updated and working with current and future models, especially with the DVR and HD devices.

One key benefit of buying this remote is that it works with AV devices since 1990 so if you are holding on to one of the older boxes, expect this remote to work like a charm. It has LED illumnated keys on primary buttons so it can be used in the dark.

The Philips SRP5107/27 can memorize setup codes even when you change the battery which makes it a great budget universal remote that can last a while.

Pros
  • Good substitute for your original remote
  • Affordable
  • Illuminated keys
Cons
  • Discontinued by manufacturer

Under $100

Logitech Harmony 350 Universal Remote

Logitech Harmony 350 Universal Remote

Features

  • Compatible with 270,000+ devices
  • 5 channel presets
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $100

With this Logitech Harmony 350 universal remote control, you can get rid of up to 8 of your current remotes to streamline your device control system and reduce your clutter. The Logitech Harmony 350 universal remote control can control your TV, cable/satellite box, DVR, Blu-ray player and more with this really easy to use remote control.

Thanks to a simple guided online setup you can easily connect the remote to your Internet-connected computer to quickly download commands for all your devices and then you are ready to go.

The Logitech Harmony 350 universal remote control features a range of buttons that can give you control over all of your devices. The remote has a number of specially set buttons that you can customize and then press to turn on your TV and cable/satellite box with just the right settings.

The remote also has a number of possible programmable favorite settings so that you can personalize your control and have a number of one-touch buttons that you can easily press so that you can quickly jump to any one of your 5 favorite channels.

The Logitech Harmony 350 universal remote control is the World’s most compatible remote as unlike most other remote controls it can work with 225,000+ devices and 5,000+ brands. Amazingly, the Logitech Harmony 350 universal remote control is even compatible with new devices as more and more are added regularly to Harmony’s online database.

Pros
  • Spare buttons
  • Easy to set up
Cons
  • Refurbished models don’t last long

Logitech Harmony Companion All in One Remote Control

Logitech Harmony Companion All in One Remote Control

Features

  • Compatible with 270,000+ devices
  • Harmony Hub
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $100

With the Logitech Harmony Home Control Remote, you can download the app and use your smartphone or the included Harmony Remote for really simple one-touch control of your home devices including your entertainment systems and home automation devices such as Philips Hue lights or Nest Learning Thermostat.

The Logitech Harmony Home Control Remote includes full-featured home entertainment controls including dedicated home automation controls which makes controlling your devices a doddle. What is more, with this remote you can control the devices that you have hidden behind cabinet doors or walls such as game consoles.

It is really easy to setup the Logitech Harmony Home Control Remote as all you need to do is set it up on a computer or download the available smartphone app and then go through that.

The device is compatible with over 270,000 devices, so it is sure to be able to control the devices in your home including your TV, satellite or cable box, blue-ray player or Apple TV.

Pros
  • Works with Alexa
  • Simple app setup
Cons
  • Issues with the functionality

Under $150

Logitech Harmony Smart Control with Smartphone App

Logitech Harmony Smart Control with Smartphone App

Features

  • Compatible with 270,000+ devices
  • Harmony Hub
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $150

With this Logitech Harmony Smart Control, you can use your smartphone or the included Harmony Remote to control your entertainment devices which makes controlling devices so much easier and prevents the need for multiple remotes.

The Smartphone app which is available on the App store and is also compatible with Android devices includes Swipe and Tap control for one-touch control of your entertainment system.

You can set up to 50 favorite channel icons, set your standard volume limit, control media playback, and more- the app is seriously awesome and a great addition to your device control set up.

Included in the app (which is called Harmony Hub), you can easily control your devices no matter where they are, even if the devices are hidden behind cabinet doors or walls. For example, you can control your game consoles such as PS3, Wii, and Xbox 360 which are kept in cabinets with the app.

What is more, the Logitech Harmony Smart Control is future-proofed because it can control up to 8 devices and works with over 270,000 devices including cable TV boxes, Apple TV, Roku, Sonos, Amazon Fire TV, Phillips Hue, Xbox One, PS3, and TV-connected PC or Mac.

Pros
  • Works with Alexa
  • Simple app setup
Cons
  • Disabled local API of the Hub
  • Firmware update issues

Under $200

Caavo Control Center Smart Remote and Home Theater Hub

Caavo Control Center Smart Remote and Home Theater Hub

Features

  • Compatible with 270,000+ devices
  • Works with Google Voice and Amazon Alexa enabled devices
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $200

Smart Remote and Home Theater Hub from Caavo is indeed smart. It not only helps you find the perfect program to watch thanks to its powerful recommendation engine, but you can also really easily switch between most of your entertainment devices with a simple tap of a button.

It controls every app connected to your TV, such as Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Hulu, NBC, Netflix, CBS, NOW, Showtime & Showtime Anytime, Starz, iTunes, Plex, etc.

This remote can replace the jumble of old remotes that you currently have in one intelligent package. The Smart Remote also looks great and will fit in any modern home.

Further to being able to control your TV and related to other devices, the Remote can also control up to 4 home theater devices. The Control Center enables you to use the device with the help of Alexa and Google Voice-enabled devices.

The Caavo remote control has an iOS mobile app that lets you control the TV directly from your iPhone and offers you channel tuning, Program Guide, DVR, and Live TV functions.

Pros
  • Works with Alexa and Google Voice-enabled devices
  • Simple app controls
Cons
  • Difficult to set up
  • Lack of updates

Logitech Harmony Ultimate One Universal Remote

Logitech Harmony Ultimate One Universal Remote

Features

  • Compatible with 225,000 devices
  • Personalized touchscreen
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $200

The Logitech Harmony Ultimate control is an awesome controller that enables you to navigate between TV, movies, music, games and your most frequently used commands with one touch of the remotes screen.

The Logitech Harmony Ultimate control enables you to have over 50 favorite-channel icons so that you can easily and quickly find the shows you want. You can personalize the touch screen with icons that you use the most.

What is more, you can also organize and re-order buttons, activities, and channel icons the way you like them, right on the remote so that you don’t have to waste time looking for them.

With this amazing Logitech Harmony Ultimate control you can control up to 15 IR devices in your home, and the device is also compatible with 225,000+ devices and 5,000+ brands with new devices added regularly to Harmony’s online database so you will always be able to control the devices that you have in your home.

A great additional feature is the included charging station because it keeps the Logitech Harmony Ultimate controller fully charged so that it is ready to use and easy to find. With this remote control, you’ll never have to hunt for your remote or change batteries again.

Pros
  • Easy setup
  • Easy customization
Cons
  • Poor battery life
  • Difficult to connect it to a computer

Under $250

Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control

Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control

Features

  • Compatible with 5,000+ brands
  • One-click activity buttons
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $250

Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared Remote Control can support up to 8 of your devices. Set up is really easy and is simply enabled when you complete the software setup.

By replacing the remotes that you currently have with this Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared Remote Control, you can completely reduce the complexity of controlling your devices and also minimize the clutter in your living room. Say goodbye to juggling remotes and complicated equipment settings.

A great feature of the Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared Remote Control is that it has right color screen technology which helps you to know where your favorite channel icons are, and plus it has easy to use commands for easy navigation within and between your devices.

What is more, with one-touch activity buttons like “Watch a DVD” you can easily and automatically switch the right devices to the right settings with this simple remote control.

What is more, the Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared Remote Control has a bright color screen, as well as one-click activity buttons, and control of five devices, so that you can access TV, movies and music effortlessly and you can even do it in the dark.

Amazingly, the Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared Remote Control is compatible with more than 225,000+ devices from 5000+ brands.

Thanks to an online database the remote is compatible with devices that you currently own and will also be compatible with devices that haven’t even come out yet thanks to an online database. To complete the simple online setup all you need is your PC or Mac and the remote.

Pros
  • Easy setup
  • One-click activity buttons
Cons
  • Issues with working properly

Under $300

Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control

Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control

Features

  • Compatible with 270,000 devices
  • Harmony Hub
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300

The Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control is the most powerful and intuitive Harmony remote on offer. The remote offers all-in-one control of up to 15 home entertainment and connected home devices which is pretty amazing! Just think of the number of remotes you can get rid of thanks to this Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control.

This amazing remote works with over 270,000 devices: so you can controls your TV, satellite or cable box, Apple TV, Roku, TiVo, Blu-ray player, game consoles, plus connected lights, locks, thermostats, sensors and more with only one remote.

The remote is like no other remote as it has a full color touch screen so that you can simply swipe and tap to control channels, movies and volume. Also you can set up to 50 favorite channels and smart home devices like Philips Hue lights.

The remote has been designed so that you can do a number of one-touch clicks like: “Watch a Movie” which enables your device to automatically power on and switch devices to the right settings.

Pros
  • Easy setup
  • Works with Alexa
  • One-click activity buttons
Cons
  • Issues with customer service

Conclusion

Finding the right universal remote tech gadget can make all the difference in terms of being able to watch your TV’s in your home, and not being able to! In order to help you find the perfect universal remote tech gadget, we put together this list of considerations for you to look over. Happy shopping!

*All prices mentioned above were at the time of publishing.

Lea Kuscer Avatar
Written by
Lea Kuscer
Lea Kuscer is a nature admirer, ecological cosmetics and jewelry maker, avid traveler, language professor by trade, but above all, a marketing maniac who's enthusiastic about testing new products. Her mission is to share her passion with gadget lovers and those who would like to make their life more comfortable with the best products on the market. Let's get on an exploring adventure together!