The time has finally come to replace your old TV. You’ve checked every spec down to the nit count, but have you thought about the remote? Is it missing essential features, or is it so feature-packed that you’re left fumbling to find that one rarely-used yet super-important button? Is it compatible with the rest of your entertainment system? How easy will it be to replace if you don’t want an aftermarket duplicate?
When buying my first TV, the only thing I considered about the remote was whether it came with batteries or not. I learned the hard way that this minor oversight can lead to major frustration right out of the box. If you haven’t ever fought to set up a new television with a poorly designed remote, you should consider yourself lucky. Before buying your next TV, take some time to consider the included remote’s layout and functionality, as well as what features it offers you to save yourself a few headaches.
Consider the Hardware First
With any new tech, I like to research the hardware first. Fancy features quickly become useless if the most basic things are a struggle or fail to work properly. Most TVs will come with their brand-specific remote, which is fine if most or all of your entertainment setup is part of the same device ecosystem. In that case, all you need to check is how many devices your remote can connect to versus how many you would like to connect. If this isn’t the case for you, however, then you will want to consider whether you’re okay with having multiple remotes or if it’s time to look at aftermarket options.
You’ll also want to make sure the layout is familiar enough, the buttons are easy to use, and that it’s fully compatible with your existing equipment. Sure, your TV remote can connect to Bose products, for instance, but have you checked that it works with your specific setup? Can you easily control all the necessary features of each device you connect to? Conversely, you also don’t want a remote with so many personally useless buttons that simply changing the input feels like trying to pilot a spacecraft.
Speaking of buttons, what kind of conveniences does your new TV remote have packed in? For instance, some remotes have quick access buttons for popular streaming apps like Netflix or Disney+. If the remote for your dream TV has app shortcuts, check to make sure they include apps you actually use or want to sign up for. If the remote doesn’t have your preferred apps by default, try ordering online to see if you can switch or upgrade to a similar remote with different preinstalled apps.
Another thing to consider regarding the remote’s buttons is whether they’re backlit or not. Some remotes are so simple and intuitive that you can control your devices with ease, even in the dark. The more features included and types of devices you can control, however, the easier it is to become lost in even the most intuitive remote. In this case, a backlight can be a real time-saver when all you want to do is settle in for the night.
The final things I like to consider when it comes to a remote’s construction are how it connects and how it’s powered. Remotes that are powered by standard batteries and connected via an IR sensor are still the default. However, this may not be the configuration for you. If you frequently find yourself without the right batteries, and at the worst times, then a rechargeable remote might be better for you. Similarly, if you have multiple devices in the same line of sight, getting a Bluetooth, Wi-FI, or RF remote would be a great proactive step to avoid having to take up gymnastics just to get the correct device to respond without affecting the rest.
The majority of features come down to hardware and device compatibility, but TV remotes are more than just the sum of their parts. Outside these two factors, there are a few key things to take into account. For starters, there’s the age-old conundrum of losing the remote. TV remotes have been getting lost since they were invented. It’s a wonder the first one was even able to be advertised to the public. Many people have resorted to unconventional, yet effective measures to keep track of the remote, such as attaching a Bluetooth tracker, taping the remote to something difficult to lose, or attaching Velcro to keep it in one place when not in use.
A much simpler way to avoid this problem is to check whether your potential remote has a way to be found, such as a voice-activated tone. If it doesn’t, you can also check to see if an app version of the remote is available. While it likely won’t help you find your lost remote, a TV remote app can be a decent placeholder during the search or until you can get a replacement. It is worth noting, though, that remote apps typically don’t offer the full range of controls that a physical remote does. This is something worth considering if you plan to use your remote for a multi-device setup.
On the subject of lost remotes, it’s a good idea to check how easily replaceable your remote will be in the event it finds its way to Far, Far Away Land, never to be seen again … or to be seen as soon as you get that shiny new one. Either way, you’ll want to make sure that getting a new remote won’t cost you an outrageous amount or send you on a Laura Croft-esque expedition tracking down a lost relic of your own in the lands of eBay.
Our Recommendations
Most people are familiar with the Roku brand, having made a name for itself with the introduction of their streaming devices, followed by partnerships with TV manufacturers, and now building TVs of their own. All Roku-built TVs, streaming devices, and third-party TVs with Roku built in come with the standard Roku remote, which features app shortcuts, a sleep timer, and instant rewind. While this is a very basic remote when it comes to features, it can easily be replaced for only $10 and is perfect for most people.
If you need more from your remote, you can upgrade to Roku’s most feature-packed options for just $30 without losing any of the design practicality Roku is known for. Both the first and second editions of the Roku Voice Remote Pro feature app shortcuts, voice control options, a voice-activated lost remote finder, a button for personal shortcuts, and both come with a rechargeable battery. Unfortunately, Roku remotes are only compatible with Roku devices, which isn’t ideal if you’d also like to control your game consoles, cable box, or other non-Roku media devices.
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For entertainment setups with multiple devices, such as those mentioned, a better option would be a universal remote. Sadly, Logitech’s Harmony line has long been discontinued. However, there are still many good options for universal remotes. One For All is a company that offers home entertainment accessories with a major focus on remotes, having created one of the first universal remotes. Their recently released Smart Control Pro line provides support for up to 12 devices, easy setup with the One For All app, and these remotes are designed to keep up with ever-changing technology.
While the remote may not be a decision-making factor, it’s certainly worth considering before buying that picture-perfect TV set. Does it already meet your needs? Will you be purchasing a streaming device or a universal remote alongside your new TV, or will you attempt to program a custom universal remote? No matter what you decide, evaluating your options ahead of time can help you avoid unnecessary hassle from day one.