The universal remote control has the advantage of being able to adapt to different models, types and brands of audiovisual and home automation devices. In this guide and comparison of the best universal remotes, we offer you the models that are compatible with your TV and other digital devices, and that incorporate several control and adjustment options.
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Our selection
"This universal remote control is easy to handle, has a large button and performs basic functions on your TV, such as channel selection and volume…"
"This inexpensive universal remote control is compatible with virtually all brands of television. It uses infrared technology and can replace 4 remotes."
"Logitech's Harmony Elite universal remote control uses multiple link technologies, is compatible with all home automation and multimedia devices, and can support up to 15…"
"This universal remote works just like any other Samsung remote, regardless of your TV model. As soon as the batteries are inserted, the remote is…"
"No configuration is required to use this universal remote control on an LG TV. Just put in the batteries to enjoy it."
This universal remote control is easy to handle, has a large button and performs basic functions on your TV, such as channel selection and volume control. It is compatible with all brands of TV sets.
14,39 £ on AmazonPhilips has developed this universal remote control with the aim of fulfilling the basic functions of controlling your TV. With this model, you can change channels or turn the sound volume up or down. This remote control is quick to set up. If you have a problem configuring it, you can visit the website dedicated exclusively to this purpose. It is compatible with all brands of TV sets.
In terms of design, this model is equipped with large keys, with perfectly legible inscriptions for more comfort. It has a good grip and the risks of it slipping are minimized. It is powered by 2 AAA batteries. It should be noted that this remote control is compatible with older generation TVs and digital TVs. It is very easy to use, of good quality and supports repeated use. In addition, it is offered at an affordable price.
This inexpensive universal remote control is compatible with virtually all brands of television. It uses infrared technology and can replace 4 remotes.
9,59 £ on AmazonIn the category of cheap universal remotes, we are pleased to discover the One For All Contour 4, which is compatible with all brands of TVs, but it also supports DVD, satellite, Digital Media Player and Blu-ray. Linking to the 4 devices it can support through an infrared connection, this remote control has a range of 10 m.
To use this universal remote, the configuration is done in 3 steps, but the process will be completed in less than a minute. A detailed guide will be provided at the time of purchase. On a completely different note, the One For All Contour 4 also has a Function Transfer option, allowing you to copy specific functions from your old remote to this universal version. The fact that all these features will cost you only €11 is an excellent argument.
Logitech's Harmony Elite universal remote control uses multiple link technologies, is compatible with all home automation and multimedia devices, and can support up to 15 devices.
279 £ on AmazonThe fact that the Logitech Harmony Elite universal remote control has a screen and buttons already shows that it is a high-end device. It's compatible with all remote-controlled devices: lighting systems, TVs, appliances, etc. You can pair it with 15 devices as long as they are within a distance/radius of 10 m. The connection is made by infrared, Bluetooth or WiFi; the commands will be centralized thanks to the Logitech Hub function.
For more options, complement this Logitech universal remote with the Harmony app, turning your smartphone into a twin version of the Harmony Elite. The Harmony Elite is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which can be recharged with a USB Type A cable. If you have a Smart TV, the remote control gives you direct access to Amazon Alexa and streaming platforms.
This universal remote works just like any other Samsung remote, regardless of your TV model. As soon as the batteries are inserted, the remote is ready to use.
10,15 £ on BoulangerThis One For All universal remote control is compatible with all Samsung televisions, regardless of the model. It does not require any particular configuration: you put the 2 AAA batteries and it is ready to use. Please note that this remote control has a range of 10 m and can only be used on a Samsung TV. It does not support Bluetooth or WiFi; the link is made exclusively by infrared wave.
User feedback reports smooth operation of this universal remote control. For connected Samsung TVs, keys on the remote work as shortcuts to streaming platforms. Basically, this is a basic accessory without a hub, but it's fully functional, efficient and durable. It will replace a damaged or unresponsive Samsung TV remote very well.
No configuration is required to use this universal remote control on an LG TV. Just put in the batteries to enjoy it.
12,79 £ on BoulangerOlder LG TV models, digital and connected versions are compatible with this universal remote control for LG TV. It requires no configuration and only 2 AAA batteries to work properly. We appreciate the ergonomic shape and the easy grip of this universal remote control with large buttons and a range of up to 10 m. It should be noted that the infrared technology requires a clear field between the TV and the remote control.
This universal remote control is quite basic and does not support Bluetooth, WiFi or Hub. It does, however, have directional buttons to easily navigate between channels and options. It also has buttons that act as shortcuts that quickly direct you to the streaming platforms you can access from your LG Smart TV.
Any specific needs?
The best universal remote in 2022
The best entry-level universal remote
The best high-end universal remote
The best universal remote for Samsung TV
The best universal remote for LG TV
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Philips SRP3011/10
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One For All Contour 4
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Logitech Harmony Elite
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One For All for Samsung TV
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One For All for LG TV
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This universal remote control is easy to handle, has a large button and performs basic functions on your TV, such as channel selection and volume control. It is compatible with all brands of TV sets.
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This inexpensive universal remote control is compatible with virtually all brands of television. It uses infrared technology and can replace 4 remotes.
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Logitech's Harmony Elite universal remote control uses multiple link technologies, is compatible with all home automation and multimedia devices, and can support up to 15 devices.
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This universal remote works just like any other Samsung remote, regardless of your TV model. As soon as the batteries are inserted, the remote is ready to use.
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No configuration is required to use this universal remote control on an LG TV. Just put in the batteries to enjoy it.
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Supported devices
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TV
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TV, DVD, Satellite, Digital Media Player, Blu-Ray
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Any home automation and multimedia device
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Television
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Television
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Maximum number of devices to control
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1
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4
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15
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1
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1
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Linkage
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Infrared
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Infrared
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Infrared, WiFi, Bluetooth
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Infrared
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Infrared
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Range
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10 m
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10 m
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10 m
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10 m
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10 m
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Power supply
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2 AAA batteries
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2 AAA batteries
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Rechargeable battery
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2 AAA batteries
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2 AAA batteries
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The transmission standard is an important criterion for the purchase of a remote control. There are two types of transmission standards. Firstly, there are the infrared (IR) remotes. The devices in your living room have the particularity to work with this transmission standard. It is very reliable and inexpensive. However, infrared cannot penetrate walls and obstacles. Moreover, it cannot operate over a great distance. The second transmission standard is radio wave (RF) transmission. It is not influenced by obstacles and has a greater coverage distance.
The options are also to be considered when choosing a universal remote control. For more performance and convenience, manufacturers are incorporating more and more advanced options. You can find models with touch screens to improve handling. Some have backlit keys so you can operate them even in low light conditions. Others have the ability to duplicate some of the functions of your original remote, using a transfer option. Some universal remote control models incorporate a motion sensor and automatically turn on the TV as soon as you grab it.
These two criteria are very important and cannot be overlooked. It is imperative to know if the remote in question is compatible with your devices. Then, it is essential to know up to how many devices you can control with the remote. Generally speaking, the models available on the market have the ability to control four devices. You can control your media player (DVD or Blueray), your TV, your decoder and your Hi-Fi system at the same time. If you plan to control other devices remotely, there are remotes on the market that can control up to twenty devices and accessories. But it is always important to know if this model will be compatible with all your devices.
To operate, the remote control needs electrical power. The power supply mode has an important place in the choice criteria. The autonomy depends on the use of the remote control, but for more practicality and efficiency, it must have powerful batteries or batteries, otherwise you would have to recharge or change them all the time. The remote controls with screens are the most power-hungry. These models must be equipped with rechargeable batteries. To recharge them, nothing could be easier than connecting them to a computer or a smartphone charging box. For the classic models without screen, with common features, we can choose a battery power supply.
The design is a point not to be taken lightly. Indeed, the remote control is part of the elements arranged in your living room or your room. It must have an appearance that suits you. It should also be easy to handle, with well-spaced and well thought-out buttons, as well as an easy and comfortable grip. Also, look for models with shock and drop protection for added durability.
A universal remote control is a tool that allows you to remotely control various electronic devices such as TVs, DVD or Blu-ray players, home theater systems, etc. Depending on the model, it can even be used to control shutters, blinds, alarms or even lighting in your living area. Depending on the model, it can even be used to control shutters, blinds, alarms or lighting in your living area.
This type of remote control is used to replace a damaged or lost model. In addition, it could also be used to centralize the management and control of devices in a single remote control instead of using a bunch of remotes that only clutter the room. There are pre-programmed models that are compatible with a specific list of devices. Their primary function is to replace the original remote control. There are also programmable models that can be adapted to more devices.
Remote controls can operate using infrared or radio frequency signals. For the first one, the user has to point the remote control towards the device, without any obstacles. For the radio frequency link, the coverage distance is greater, it is no longer necessary to point at the device and the presence of obstacles does not prevent the link.
Universal remote controls are divided into two categories: pre-programmed universal remote controls and programmable universal remote controls.
The design of a pre-programmed universal remote control is quite basic and in general, it has the same appearance as a conventional remote control. However, you can find waterproof, shockproof and ergonomic models.
This type of remote control is generally used to replace an out-of-service or lost remote control. It is not expensive and can be used to control several devices. It has a limited use because it is programmed for an exhaustive list of devices and for troubleshooting. Before purchasing this type of remote control, it is important to check its compatibility list and make sure your device is on that list.
The programmable universal remote control is also called "learning remote control". This type of universal remote control is best suited for users who want to replace the many remotes invading their home with one.
It is more advanced and modern. It has great versatility and can have a screen to perform its task efficiently. Moreover, it admits several functionalities. In addition to being able to control your multimedia devices such as TV, player, satellite decoder, sound system, it is also capable of controlling other equipment in your home, such as alarms, shutters, blinds or lighting for example.
Even though these types of remotes are designated as universal, you should make sure that the model is compatible with your device. Depending on the model, your device may not be compatible, and therefore not recognized by the remote. It is therefore imperative to know the compatibility, for example by consulting the list of recognized devices on the manual or on the manufacturer's website.
A universal remote control is a type of remote control that is usually used as a replacement for the original remote control of a device. The latter may be damaged or lost. There are several models on the market. You can quickly find the right universal remote control to control a specific device. Even little known devices have the chance to have compatible remote control devices again. This is possible because some types of universal remotes have a learning capability. The signal emitted by the remote control is quite strong and universal remote controls can be found with infrared or radio frequency. Depending on the model, the remote control may be shock resistant or even waterproof.
Universal remote control applications installed on smartphones, whether Apple or Android products, are alternatives to physical universal remotes. They are very convenient, because the management of the devices is done from a product that we use every day that is the smartphone. It's an economical solution. However, even if on the surface this method is practical, it is still limited. Indeed, the connectivity for this method is mainly focused in the infrared link standard, even if there are other wifi versions. Some smartphones do not have infrared connectivity. Yes, you can use IR emitters that connect to the device's jack, but you should also keep in mind that some manufacturers no longer equip their devices with these connectors. Several lesser known brands are not supported by these applications either.
In conclusion, the physical universal remote control remains the most suitable and reliable of these two approaches to controlling electronic devices. It is intended for this use. There is a wide choice on the market and the universal remote control is more versatile while being easy to use. Mobile applications, on the other hand, can quickly present limitations, especially in terms of compatibility and the devices that can be supported.
Easy to use
Contrary to popular belief, a universal remote control is easy to program. Usually, programming this device, when it is first used with the appliance it is to control, is quite simple. The steps are usually outlined in the user and configuration guide that comes with the product. All you have to do is follow the key combinations mentioned and you're done. It only takes a few minutes to get a working remote control.
Versatile
The use of a universal remote control offers the user the ability to control several devices from a single remote control. For example, you can control your TV, your stereo, your optical player or your DTT or satellite decoder at the same time. No more need to have lots of remotes invading the room, when a single remote control can easily do the job.
Make your life easier
In addition to being able to control your electronic devices, some models can even control the home automation part of your home such as the opening of the gate, the management of alarms, air conditioning, roller shutters or blinds. Universal remote controls therefore offer the possibility of centralized management of your home, in an optimal way with little effort. This makes your daily life much easier.
Economical
Because a single universal remote control can replace the function of several remotes, it is an economical solution. You only have to buy a universal remote control to operate a device whose remote control is damaged, but in the future it can still be used as a remote control for other devices if their remote controls fail, without having to go to the purchase box. Plus, you only need to buy batteries for one remote instead of buying multiple remotes each time.
Possibility to customize the keys
Depending on the model of universal remote control, you can program a specific function or customize a key to make it easier and easier to use. You can then create programs such as "watch a video". Several actions can then be performed at the same time on several devices, such as the DVD player, TV and sound system, so that the video can be played on the player, displayed on the screen and heard through the sound system.
In our opinion, the best brands of universal remote controls in 2022 are :
One For All is the world's leading innovator of universal remote controls to suit every lifestyle. The company manufactures remote controls and has been a leader in wireless control technology for 20 years. Its products are sold in 5,000 stores in North America and in more than 13,000 stores in Europe.
Based in Amsterdam, Philips is one of the leading lighting and household appliance companies. Founded in 1891 in Eindhoven, the brand is renowned for its televisions, vacuum cleaners, laser hair removal devices and coffee machines. In recent years, Philips has expanded its range with ergonomically designed universal remote controls. These are state-of-the-art and compatible with more than 1000 devices. In fact, the Philips brand is true to its values by offering products that are simple to use, but of superior quality.
Founded in 1981 in Apples, this Swiss company has an exceptional track record of innovation and quality in its products, including remote controls, mice, speakers and keyboards. Logitech offers a variety of universal remote control models, reflecting the meticulous work and creative spirit of the brand. Logitech's innovative, high-end devices let you enjoy a wide range of integrated applications in a single remote.
Founded on March 1, 1938, this South Korean company is well known in the world of technology product design. It is well known for its impeccable quality, continuous innovation and unparalleled design. More than 15 devices can be controlled on Samsung remotes.
HD-LINE products are currently very popular on the French and European market. This brand elaborates its devices with the greatest care, combining modernity, aesthetics, innovation and simplicity of use. This brand offers universal remote controls of excellent quality, including the famous remote control with fixed codes, which can also be used as a car and home alarm, as well as an emergency button.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Use the brand code
In general, your universal remote control is delivered with a list of codes, grouped by product family (TV, DVD player, stereo, etc.) and by brand. This allows you to quickly set up your universal remote control with the main functions. Access the settings function and enter the code. Afterwards, a quick test will check the operation of the universal remote control. It is quite possible that the same brand and type of device has several codes. Use auto-discovery if ever a code does not work.
Try auto-discovery
It's a matter of
testing several signals to determine which one is the right one to control the device you want. To use auto-discovery, point the remote at the device you want to control. Then start the auto-discovery program and stop the program when the device turns off. Using the universal remote, turn the device back on and test the other controls. If it works, it's ready. If not, run the program again to test other signals.
Clean your remote control regularly
As
the remote control is used frequently, it should be serviced regularly. So, start by taking it apart, taking care not to damage any parts. Clean the circuit board with soapy water to remove grease and dust. Use an eraser to rub the contacts with a cloth. A brush and lukewarm water will be sufficient to clean the membrane. As for the pads, they can be removed with paper. Once these steps are complete, leave these components in a dry place away from dust for an hour or so and reassemble.
Use the macro functions
Some
universal remotes have these macro functions that, with the press of a single button, can perform several actions in a row. The most common one is turning off several devices in a row (TV, satellite decoder, etc.).
Reset your remote control in case of failure
If
your universal remote control has a bug, you must reset it. Therefore, first remove the battery and press the "T out" button. Then, put the generator back on and wait for two flashes. Then hold down the 8 and 2 buttons and see if the light comes on permanently. Then enter the reset code shown in the manual. Once this is done, your remote control is in factory configuration mode. All you have to do is reprogram it according to your devices.
All suppliers, especially the major brands, offer a guarantee for universal remote controls. You can always return your remote control to the service technicians to check for faults. However, choose carefully according to the selection criteria and do a test before buying your universal remote control.
The universal remote control is for those who are looking for more advanced features and options. If theremote control is limited to channel changes, volume control and various sound and picture quality settings, you won't need to buy this equipment. However, if you need a single remote to control all your devices, a universal remote is highly recommended. Some models can even control your home automation system.
Themaintenance of a universalremote control requires a basic notion of DIY. Indeed, you will need to unscrew the back to access the parts that need cleaning. Also, make sure you know where the buttons are located to avoid any malfunction. Once you have access to the inside, grab some cotton and tweezers and start cleaning all the components.
The choice depends on the device with which the remote control will be used. If this is your first purchase, it is best to find out what type of remote control you have, how it works and what options are available. If you need to replace a specific model, you should take the model already programmed by the supplier.
Setting up a universal remote control is easy as you just need to point it at the device so that it detects the presence of the device, activate the automatic search and wait for it to turn off. Once all these steps are completed, you can stop the program. Be sure to test that all the controls on the remote control are working properly.
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