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Finding Your Next Smart Remote: A Buyer’s Guide
Smart TVs are slowly replacing regular TVs and solidifying their position as the new technological normal. With streaming platforms like Netflix and Funimation fiercely competing in the televised-entertainment space, Smart TVs have stepped up and incorporated more applications into the “TV experience”.Is this new TV experience really all that smart if we still have to tediously click through buttons to open up Netflix every single time? You can avoid this if you know the right gadget to buy though. Getting yourself a smart remote for your TV will not only cut down on tedious clicking but can also help elevate your overall viewing experience.Since there are a ton of smart remotes in the market, it can be tough choosing the right one for your specific needs. With this in mind, we compiled a list of some of the top-rated smart remotes for 2023.
Angrox Universal Remote Control
Best Overall
Omaic Smart TV Remote Control
Best Features
Ata-D Universal Remote Control
Elite Design
Yosun XRT136 Universal Remote
Most Functional
Vitinvan Universal Remote Control
Great Value
Factors for Choosing Smart Remotes
The following factors are things you should consider when looking for the a new smart remote:Compatibility
Compatibility is key when looking for a smart remote. You’ll want to consider the devices you plan on controlling with your new remote. Many smart remotes can control more than just your television, too. You might be able to use it to control your sound systems, gaming consoles, and Blu-ray players. If you have a lot of devices, you’ll want to find a remote that can handle them all. You also need to consider the brand of the device you want to control using your smart remote. Some smart remotes are designed to work specifically with certain brands — this is why you should make sure the remote you buy is compatible with your device’s brand. And remember to consider the other devices you might want to use it on, too.Ease of programming
Make sure that the remote you’re looking at does not require you to program or pair it with your devices before you can start using it. This can save you a lot of headaches and eliminate the need to fiddle with complex settings. That is why you should always opt for a smart remote that only needs you to insert some batteries for it to start working. Even if you want to make any changes in the settings, the remote you select should use a simple process for programming it. Put simply, ease of programming can be a very appealing feature for people who are looking for a smart remote that doesn’t require a ton of setup and reprogramming.Ergonomic design
You should also consider an ergonomic design when looking for a smart remote because ergonomically designed products fit into hands better and help minimize fatigue. A good ergonomic design should result in a product that is easy and comfortable to use. This is why you should look for a remote with a soft grip and smooth buttons. The layout of the buttons should also be intuitive and simple.Angrox Universal Remote Control
Best Overall
The Angrox Universal Remote Control is a top-of-the-line product that is compatible with many different Samsung Smart TVs. It offers a longer transmitting distance and stable performance, making it a great choice if you need a reliable remote control. This product also includes all the functions of normal remotes too, making it a great replacement if yours got damaged or lost.The sleek design of this option also makes it easy to grip, so you’ll probably won’t have to worry about dropping it. This product doesn’t require any programming or setup either, so it’s very easy to use. Just put in some batteries and you’re good to go. With its lightweight build and ergonomic design, this pick stands out as the best overall on this list.
Pros
- Durable and easy to use
- Ergonomic design with a lightweight build
- Compatible with many Samsung TVs
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
Omaic Smart TV Remote Control
Best Features
This smart remote from Omaic is a great choice for people looking for a reliable and eco-friendly product. It has a response time of under 0.3 seconds, so you won’t have to worry about your TV lagging behind. This pick is even compatible with almost all Samsung TVs, helping save you time searching for a remote for your specific television.This option is constructed using Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) material that is non-toxic, soft, and long lasting. This product is also highly responsive — even if you’re further away from your TV, letting you watch more comfortably and conveniently.
Pros
- Operates at distances up to 25 feet
- Responsive, eco-friendly design
- High quality and durable
Cons
- Might be difficult to install the batteries
Ata-D Universal Remote Control
Elite Design
This option from Ata-D is a comfortable and easy-to-use remote control that makes an ideal replacement. Using the shortcut keys for Netflix, Prime-Video, and Rakuten-TV, you can conveniently tune into your favorite content quickly. This remote is an upgraded version of the previous model, and it’s designed for a greater transmitting distance (over 30 feet) as well as more stable performance.This pick also features a lightweight, ergonomic build that’s comfortable to hold. You don’t need to worry about programming or pairing this smart remote either, you can just take it out of the box and start using it. This product is known for its responsive buttons and is compatible with a wide range of televisions.
Pros
- Comes with a hotkey shortcuts
- Uses a comfortable design
- Lightweight and easy to operate
Cons
- No voice control button
Yosun XRT136 Universal Remote
Most Functional
Looking for a reliable universal remote for your Vizio TV? Well, check out this product by Yosun. This versatile remote is compatible with almost any Vizio TV, and it comes equipped with buttons for tuning into Amazon, Netflix, Iheartradio, Vudu, and Crackle streaming services, whenever you want.This smart remote also offers quick transmission and response times of just 0.2 seconds, helping make sure your TV doesn’t lag behind your commands. Thanks to its high-quality ABS construction, it should last a long time. This pick even employs a new chip technology and intelligent power-saving feature, which helps maintain its battery life.
Pros
- High-quality, quick transmission time
- No setup required
- Advanced chip and infrared technology
Cons
- Buttons might click loudly
Vitinvan Universal Remote Control
Great Value
The Vtinvan Universal Remote Control is a high-quality, reliable product that offers some great value. This pick is very easy to use, and it doesn’t require any programming or pairing — just take it out of the box and start using it. This remote even features six hotkeys, allowing you almost instant access to your favorite streaming service with the touch of a button.Thanks to its infrared technology, you can control your television even from longer distances. This remote stands out from the market because of its fast response time and durability. The buttons are also made of silicone, which gives them a softer feel.
Pros
- Includes six essential hotkeys
- Doesn’t require programming
- Made of non-toxic, durable materials
Cons
- Only compatible with certain Vizio TVs
People Also Asked
Can universal remotes operate smart TVs?
Your universal remote should function with your smart TV as long as it contains an infrared sensor (or whatever connection type your remote uses, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi).
What is a smart remote exactly?
You can have complete control over your smart TV by using a smart remote control. By speaking into the built-in microphone, you can even select TV functions. You can also navigate quicker using the touchpad — or by using the remote like a mouse and simply pointing and clicking.
Do I need to program my smart TV remote for my TV?
No, generally smart TV remotes only require you to plug in some batteries to use them on your preferred TV. You do need to make sure that the remote is compatible with your TV’s model before you start struggling to make it work though.
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