10 Best Universal Remotes 2025 in the United States

This universal remote control by Acoyer is designed to simplify your entertainment experience, offering compatibility with a wide range of devices including TVs from popular brands like Samsung, LG, Vizio, and more. One of its standout features is the ability to control multiple devices, though it is limited to a maximum of three, which might suit many households but could be a drawback for users with more devices.

Setting up the remote is straightforward, following a step-by-step code input method. It may take a bit of patience, as users need to manually enter codes for their devices. However, the included user manual and code list are helpful resources for this process. Compatibility is generally broad, but it’s important to note that it does not work with Roku devices, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

In terms of design, it is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and store. The button layout is fairly standard, which should feel familiar to most users. However, some might find the button spacing less ergonomic, especially during extended use. Smart features are minimal, as the focus here is on basic control of various devices rather than advanced functionalities. Battery life will depend on usage, and the remote requires two AAA batteries, which are not included. Remember to avoid mixing old and new batteries for optimal performance.

The SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote Control offers impressive compatibility, supporting over 500,000 devices across IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi technologies. This makes it a versatile choice for various entertainment systems, including TVs, stereo systems, and set-top boxes. It can handle up to 60 devices, which is suitable for users with extensive setups. The programming method is facilitated through the SofaBaton App, allowing easy management, customization of buttons and activities, and integration with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.

The button layout includes backlit buttons and a thumb scroll wheel for quick device switching, enhancing user experience, especially in low-light conditions. The Raise-to-Wake feature and personalized macro buttons simplify complex operations with single-touch activities. The SofaBaton Hub ensures a strong signal with a 40-foot infrared transmission range and 360-degree control, eliminating signal blind spots.

This remote's design is ergonomic, featuring a digital display and backlight buttons, contributing to its user-friendly nature. The built-in rechargeable battery supports up to 45 days of use, reducing the need for frequent charging. However, the product has a moderate weight of 1.34 pounds, which might be slightly bulky for some users. Users might find the initial setup process involving the app a bit complex.

The GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control (model 40081) is designed to manage up to four audio and video devices, making it a versatile solution for households with multiple entertainment components. It's compatible with a wide range of brands including Samsung, Sony, LG, Vizio, and more. This remote stands out for its extensive code library, which supports thousands of the latest devices, ensuring broad compatibility. However, it does not work with radio frequency devices like Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks, which could be a drawback for some users.

Setting up the remote is straightforward thanks to automatic code search and direct code entry programming methods. It's also preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming media boxes, allowing for immediate use with these devices. The button layout is user-friendly, and the blue LED backlighting is a practical feature for using the remote in low-light conditions.

In terms of design, the classic black finish is stylish and should blend well with most home decors. On the downside, the remote requires two AAA batteries, which are not included. The battery life will depend on the quality of batteries used, and users will need to replace them periodically. Despite these minor shortcomings, the GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control offers a good balance of functionality and ease of use, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to control multiple devices with a single remote.