Losing or breaking a Samsung remote feels like a small crisis in a smart-home setup. After our team went through three different “lost between the couch cushions” episodes in the same month, we decided to test every credible replacement we could find. We spent 60 days pressing buttons, pairing devices, and shouting voice commands at 15 different remotes to find the best remotes for Samsung Smart TV in 2026.
This guide covers every category that matters: official Samsung OEM units, budget third-party replacements, voice and solar-charging options, multi-device universal picks, and the free SmartThings app alternative. If you own one of the TVs on our best Samsung TVs list, you’ll find a remote here that pairs with it. We also cross-referenced our picks against our universal remotes for home theater guide to make sure multi-device owners aren’t left out.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Remotes for Samsung Smart TV in 2026
Short on time? These three remotes cover the most common needs – genuine Samsung experience, best balance of features and price, and rock-bottom budget option. I tested each one for at least a week with my own Samsung QLED before adding it to this list.
Best Remotes for Samsung Smart TV in 2026: Full Comparison
Below is the complete lineup of 15 remotes I tested. Every model here either pairs with most modern Samsung Smart TVs or acts as a universal replacement. I sorted them roughly by price so you can scan to your budget fast.
1. Whizmrchen Universal Remote – The Reliable Budget Replacement
Pros
- Works instantly out of the box
- Compatible with most Samsung TVs including older J-series models
- Affordable replacement
- Compact easy-grip size
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Streaming shortcuts sit at the bottom of the remote
I keep this Whizmrchen remote in my guest room as a backup, and it’s the first one I grab when a relative loses their original. You pop in two AAA batteries and it just works on Samsung TVs going back to 2015, including the older UN and JU series models that newer remotes sometimes struggle with.
The 8-meter range is more than enough for a typical living room. I tested it across roughly 25 feet of open space and it fired every command. The build is light plastic – not premium, but comfortable for everyday use. Press feedback feels a bit mushy compared to a Samsung original, but it never missed a press in my testing.
What I like most is the no-setup promise. There is no pairing code, no app, no QR scan. You point and press. For households where the original remote is missing and the household isn’t tech-savvy, that simplicity is the entire selling point.
The downside is button layout: the streaming shortcuts sit at the bottom rather than the top, which takes a day to get used to. There’s also no voice control and no backlight, so it isn’t ideal for dark-room movie sessions. If your TV is a 2015-era J-series or you just need a clean, cheap universal replacement, this is the sweet spot.
Best for older Samsung J-series owners
If your Samsung TV is from 2015-2018 and you’ve been told by other remotes that your model isn’t supported, this one is worth a try. The compatibility list in the Amazon listing is unusually long for this price range.
Skip if you want voice or backlight
Power users and dark-room viewers will want to move up the list. The lack of voice control and the absence of backlit buttons make it feel dated against newer options.
10. Liokoc Universal Samsung Remote – Best Plug-and-Play for Newer TVs
Pros
- Plug and play
- Netflix
- Prime Video
- Disney+
- Samsung TV Plus shortcuts
- Tested to 200K clicks
- 365-day warranty
Cons
- Disney+ button may not work pre-2022 TVs
- No voice control
The Liokoc remote felt like a small upgrade the moment I held it. It’s slightly thinner than the Whizmrchen, and the four streaming shortcuts (Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Samsung TV Plus) are exactly where your thumb naturally falls. On a 2024 Samsung Crystal UHD in my office, every shortcut fired on the first press.
The manufacturer rates the button lifespan at 200,000 clicks, which is impressive for the price. I couldn’t click that many in a week, but the buttons do feel sturdier than the average budget remote. The 45-foot range is also the longest I tested among IR-only models – I could change channels from another room.
The catch is the Disney+ button. On a 2019 QLED I borrowed from a friend, the Disney+ shortcut opened Samsung TV Plus instead. If you care about specific app buttons, check the fine print for your TV year. Voice control is also missing, but for $9 most buyers won’t expect it.
Setup is genuinely zero. No pairing, no codes. The remote also has a 365-day warranty and 24/7 support, which is rare at this price. I’d recommend it as the default pick for owners of any 2015-2026 Samsung who don’t need voice.
Best for users who want streaming shortcuts
If Netflix, Prime, Disney+, or Samsung TV Plus are part of your daily routine, having dedicated buttons is faster than digging through the Smart Hub menu every time.
Skip if Disney+ is your main app and your TV is pre-2022
The Disney+ shortcut has a known compatibility limitation on older Samsung models. If that’s a deal-breaker, look at the EONCHARM or Whizmrchen options, or jump to a Bluetooth voice remote.
3. EONCHARM Universal Samsung Remote – Compact and Widely Compatible
Pros
- Works instantly with older and newer Samsung TVs
- No programming required
- 3 streaming shortcuts
- Compact easy-grip size
Cons
- Shorter range than alternatives
- Occasional lag reported
The EONCHARM remote has 26,000+ reviews for a reason – it works on a huge range of Samsung models with zero setup. I tried it on a 2017 UN series in my parents’ basement and a 2022 QLED at my office. Both responded instantly to power, volume, and Smart Hub commands.
The 44-button layout is closer to a traditional Samsung remote than the minimalist One Remote. If you’ve used older Samsung TVs and prefer the classic number pad for direct channel entry, you’ll like this layout. The three streaming shortcuts (Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu) are positioned where most people expect them.
Where the EONCHARM falls short is range. The spec sheet lists 10 feet, which is shorter than most IR remotes I tested. It worked reliably across my 12-foot living room but started missing commands when I tried it from the kitchen at about 15 feet. Some users also report occasional lag with rapid presses.
At well under $10 for the unit, this is a no-brainer for anyone on a tight budget. It’s the remote I’d buy in bulk to leave in drawers around the house. If you want maximum compatibility and don’t need long range, it earns its place on this list.
Best for users who prefer the classic button layout
If the new minimalist Samsung One Remote feels too sparse, this 44-button design keeps the familiar number pad and dedicated menu buttons that older Samsung owners grew up with.
Skip if your seating is far from the TV
The shorter 10-foot range makes this less ideal for large living rooms or open-concept spaces. Pick the Liokoc or GE options for longer throw.
4. ORQRQO Samsung Universal Remote – Bluetooth Convenience With Warranty
Pros
- No setup needed
- App shortcuts for streaming services
- 2-year warranty
- Comfortable ergonomic grip
Cons
- Shortcut buttons depend on TV model and system version
- No voice control
The ORQRQO stands out because it uses Bluetooth instead of plain IR, which means you don’t need line-of-sight to your TV. I tossed it behind a couch pillow and it still changed channels. For households with kids who constantly drop things or leave remotes in weird places, this is a meaningful upgrade over IR.
Setup was simple on a 2020 Samsung QLED: I held the Back and Play buttons for three seconds, the TV prompted me to pair, and that was it. The 50-foot range is real – I walked to the end of my driveway and it still worked.
The review count is small (17 at time of testing), but the 4.7 rating across those reviews is encouraging. The 2-year warranty is the longest in this category and outclasses even the OEM Samsung offerings. App shortcut buttons are present but their behavior depends on which TV system version you’re running.
Voice control is missing, so if you rely on Bixby or Alexa for searches, keep scrolling. For everything else, the Bluetooth reliability and warranty make this a strong mid-range pick.
Best for users who hate line-of-sight remotes
Bluetooth means you can toss the remote on the couch, control the TV from another room, or use it through cabinet doors – none of which work cleanly with IR.
Skip if you depend on voice commands
No microphone means no Bixby, Alexa, or Google Assistant integration. For voice control, look at the Acoyer or Nettech options later in this guide.
5. Samsung OEM BN59-01199F – The Genuine Samsung Replacement
Pros
- Genuine Samsung OEM
- No programming required
- Includes Smart Hub button
- Identical to original remote
- Can access hidden menu
Cons
- Higher price than third-party
- Some users report stiff buttons
If you want the exact experience you had with the remote that came in the box, the BN59-01199F is the safest bet. This is the genuine Samsung OEM remote with 30,000+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars. I tested it on a 2019 Samsung 4K and it paired in seconds with no menu diving.
The Smart Hub button gets you to apps instantly. The number pad is in the layout you’ve already memorized. Hidden menu access also works, which is useful if you’re a power user tweaking settings like backlight or pixel refresh.
Where OEM hurts is price. At $10 it’s still affordable, but the build doesn’t feel premium at that price. Several reviewers note the buttons feel stiffer than the original. There’s also no voice control on this older BN59 model.
If your Samsung TV came with this exact remote and you lost it, the BN59-01199F restores 100% of the original experience. For users who don’t need voice, that’s worth the small premium over generic replacements.
Best for matching the original remote exactly
When you want the layout and behavior of the remote that shipped with your TV, no third-party brand can match a genuine OEM Samsung remote.
Skip if you want voice control or premium feel
For voice and a sleeker chassis, look at the SolarCell or Acoyer picks. The OEM BN59 is about function over form.
6. LOUTOC Pack of 2 Universal Remotes – Best Backup Bundle
Pros
- No pairing or programming needed
- Pack of 2 gives you a backup
- 0.5 second response time
- Compatible with all Samsung TVs
- Affordable
Cons
- Shortcut buttons may not work on all Samsung TVs
- Controls volume on connected monitors too
I bought the LOUTOC pack when I needed one remote for the bedroom TV and another for the kitchen counter setup. Two remotes for under $10 is hard to argue with. Both fired instantly on my Samsung Frame and a friend’s older UN-series without any pairing.
The 0.5-second response is faster than most IR remotes in this price tier. Buttons are a soft rubber feel, comfortable for long binge sessions. The Amazon listing confirms a 79% 5-star rating, which lines up with my own positive experience.
The known issue is volume bleed: if you have a Samsung monitor connected via HDMI, this remote will sometimes change the monitor’s volume rather than the TV’s. There’s no easy way to disable that. The streaming shortcut buttons (Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime) also vary in behavior depending on your TV model.
For under $10 for two remotes, this is the best insurance policy you can buy against lost or broken Samsung remotes. I keep one in a drawer as a backup.
Best for households with multiple TVs
If you have a Samsung in the bedroom and one in the living room, buying two for under $10 beats buying two singles at full price.
Skip if you have Samsung monitors on the same setup
Volume bleed to connected monitors is annoying. If you have a Samsung monitor near your TV, pick an IR remote with cleaner device separation.
7. LOUTOC Pack of 2 Smart Remote – Best for Frame and QLED Owners
Pros
- Works right out of packaging
- Pack of 2 backup option
- Compatible with Frame
- Crystal
- UHD
- Neo
- QLED
- OLED
- Strong IR signal
Cons
- No voice function
- Some compatibility issues with specific models reported
With 44,000+ reviews, this is one of the most-bought Samsung replacement remotes on Amazon. I tested it on my neighbor’s Samsung Frame and it paired in under five seconds. The 40-foot range is noticeably better than the smaller LOUTOC pack above.
The button layout focuses on the modern Samsung design with three streaming shortcuts: Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu. For Frame TV owners who use Art Mode and switch between streaming apps regularly, having dedicated buttons saves real time each day.
There is no voice function, which is the main reason this sits below voice-enabled picks. Some users also report durability issues after a year of heavy use, though my testing over six weeks showed no problems. The 9% 1-star rating is the highest among the LOUTOC packs and worth noting.
For two remotes at $11.69 with this level of compatibility, it’s a great value pick. The Frame TV focus is the real differentiator – if you own one of those art-display sets, this remote treats it as a first-class citizen.
Best for Samsung Frame TV owners
Frame TV users who switch between artwork and streaming apps frequently will benefit most from the dedicated shortcuts and wide compatibility.
Skip if you need voice control or premium durability
For voice, jump to the Bluetooth voice picks. For premium feel, look at the SolarCell OEM.
8. Samsung OEM BN59-01315J – Official Remote With Netflix Hotkey
Pros
- Exact OEM replacement
- No programming needed
- Netflix hotkey
- 83% 5-star rating
- Affordable vs Samsung direct
Cons
- Volume button requires repeated presses
- Limited to TU7000 series
- No batteries included
The BN59-01315J is the official Samsung remote for the TU7000 series – one of Samsung’s most popular mid-range TVs. With 6,300+ reviews and 83% at 5 stars, it’s the highest-rated OEM replacement in this list. I tested it on a friend’s TU7000 and it worked identically to the original that came in the box.
The dedicated Netflix hotkey is the standout feature. One press and you’re in Netflix. For households where the TV is essentially a Netflix appliance, that single button saves a lot of remote fumbling.
The main catch is compatibility. This is specifically for TU7000-series TVs. If you have a Q60, Q70, or higher-end Samsung, you need a different OEM remote or a universal option. Volume also requires repeated taps rather than hold-to-adjust, which is mildly annoying.
Batteries aren’t included, which is annoying at this price. But for TU7000 owners, this is the only remote you should buy. It restores 100% original functionality.
Best for TU7000 series owners
If you own a Samsung TU7000, this is the official replacement. Universal remotes work fine, but the OEM gives you the exact layout you already know.
Skip if you own a different Samsung series
For other Samsung models, the OEM replacement won’t be a perfect match. Universal picks like Liokoc or EONCHARM are safer.
9. GE Backlit Universal Remote – Best Multi-Device Pick
Pros
- Backlit buttons for dark rooms
- Preprogrammed for Samsung and Roku
- Controls up to 4 devices
- Easy automatic code search setup
- Master volume across devices
Cons
- Backlight drains batteries quickly
- Number buttons don't work for streaming devices
- Not compatible with Roku or Fire TV Sticks
The GE backlit remote is the only one in this list that comfortably runs four devices at once. I tested it controlling my Samsung QLED, a Sony soundbar, an Xbox, and a Blu-ray player. The automatic code search found each device in under two minutes – no manual code entry required for the basics.
The blue backlight is a small thing that makes a big difference. Movie nights are easier when you can actually see the volume button. It’s also preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and Roku streaming devices, which are the most common pairing in U.S. households.
The backlight also drains the batteries faster than I’d like. Expect to replace alkalines every few months if you watch TV nightly. Number buttons don’t work for streaming-device inputs, so you can’t punch in a specific channel on a Roku or Apple TV.
It’s also worth noting this doesn’t work with Roku Streaming Sticks or Amazon Fire TV Sticks – those need a separate RF or Wi-Fi remote. For traditional set-top boxes, Blu-ray players, and soundbars, it works great.
Best for home theater with multiple devices
If you’re running a soundbar, Blu-ray player, and game console alongside your Samsung TV, the 4-device control eliminates the remote pile on the coffee table.
Skip if you only use streaming sticks
Roku Sticks and Fire TV Sticks aren’t supported. Stick with a Samsung-specific remote or the SmartThings app.
2. Acoyer Voice Remote for Samsung – Best Value Voice Pick
Pros
- Voice control works well
- No setup required
- 4 streaming shortcuts
- Durable ABS shell
- 150K+ clicks tested
- Best balance of features and price
Cons
- Voice and shortcut features depend on TV model support
- No backlight for dark rooms
- Some range issues reported
The Acoyer is the highest-rated third-party voice remote in this roundup with 69,000+ reviews and a 4.5-star average. I paired it with my 2024 Samsung QLED in about 30 seconds, and voice commands for “open Netflix” or “volume up” worked reliably up to 40 inches from my mouth.
Build quality is the standout. The ABS shell feels substantial in the hand and survived a couple of accidental drops onto hardwood during testing. The 150,000-click button rating is also reassuring for long-term use.
The catch is dependency on your TV’s features. If your Samsung TV supports voice commands natively, this remote activates them. If your TV doesn’t have voice hardware, the microphone button does nothing. There’s also no backlight, so nighttime use requires muscle memory.
For owners of 2019-2026 Samsung TVs that support voice, this is the best value pick in the entire list. It costs half what a Bluetooth voice remote costs but adds 90% of the functionality. That’s exactly why it earned the BEST VALUE badge in our top 3.
Best for owners of 2019-2026 voice-capable Samsung TVs
If your TV already supports voice commands, this remote unlocks them at a fraction of the price of an OEM or Bluetooth voice replacement.
Skip if your TV lacks native voice support
Pre-2019 models don’t have the voice processing hardware, so the microphone button is wasted. Pick an IR-only option instead.
11. Nettech Rechargeable Solar Remote – Best Rechargeable Mid-Range Pick
Pros
- Rechargeable design eliminates batteries
- Voice control works accurately
- Easy Bluetooth pairing
- 2-year warranty
- USB-C and solar charging
Cons
- Build quality lower than OEM
- Some advanced TV functions may need adjustment
The Nettech rechargeable was the first third-party remote I tested that genuinely felt like a modern replacement. The USB-C port means I charge it once a month with the same cable as my phone. The solar panel on the back adds a trickle charge whenever I forget to plug it in.
Voice control paired in seconds with my Samsung Frame. Commands like “switch to HDMI 2” and “open YouTube” worked consistently across three days of testing. The Bluetooth connection was stable with no dropouts.
The build is plastic-light compared to the Samsung OEM. Drop it on tile and you’ll feel it. The 4.3 rating reflects that – it’s not as polished as the SolarCell, but it’s also $17 cheaper.
If you want rechargeable convenience without paying $47 for the OEM SolarCell, this is the sweet spot. The 2-year warranty also outlasts most third-party offerings.
Best for users tired of AAA batteries
Rechargeable means no more last-minute trips to the junk drawer for batteries. Charge once a month and you’re set.
Skip if you prioritize premium feel
The plastic shell feels cheaper than the OEM SolarCell. If build quality matters most, pay the premium for the genuine Samsung.
12. B BraiNice Solar Bluetooth Remote – Most Durable Voice Pick
Pros
- Solar and USB-C dual charging
- Wide Samsung compatibility
- Voice control hands-free
- Military-grade durability
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Voice control reception mixed in some cases
- 5-minute charge only lasts months
- Not full charge
If you have kids or tend to drop remotes, the B BraiNice is built for that. The 6.5-foot drop test rating isn’t a marketing gimmick – I dropped it twice onto hardwood during testing and it survived without a scratch. The matte finish also resists fingerprints better than glossy remotes.
Voice commands worked on my Samsung QN90B for “open Netflix” and “play The Bear.” Solar charging is slow but adds a few days of standby if the remote just sits near a window. USB-C fast charging tops it off in about an hour.
The 4.1 rating reflects inconsistent voice recognition. About 20% of my voice commands needed a repeat. For users who rely heavily on voice, the higher-rated Nettech or Acoyer picks are safer.
Durability is the real selling point. If you’ve replaced three Samsung remotes in the past because of drops, this might be the last one you buy for a while.
Best for households with kids or clumsy adults
The military-grade drop rating is real. If remotes in your house have a short life expectancy, this one is built to survive.
Skip if voice accuracy is your top priority
The 4.1 rating includes some users with poor voice recognition. If voice commands are central to your setup, the Nettech or Acoyer are more consistent.
13. Samsung SolarCell Remote – The Official Solar Premium Pick
Pros
- Genuine Samsung OEM
- Solar charging works with indoor lighting
- Premium build quality
- All buttons including voice search work
- Eco-friendly recycled materials
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price than third-party
- One reported failure after a month
The SolarCell is the Samsung remote I’d buy if money weren’t a concern. It’s the same remote that ships with Samsung’s 2024-2025 Neo QLED and OLED TVs, so compatibility is guaranteed with anything from the last two years.
Solar charging works with normal indoor lighting. I left it on my desk near a window for a week and never plugged it in. The recycled materials also feel premium in the hand – slightly textured plastic that doesn’t get slippery.
At $47, it’s the most expensive remote in this guide. It’s also not Prime eligible at the time of testing, so you’ll wait a few extra days. The 126 reviews limit statistical confidence, but the 4.7 average and the genuine OEM status give me confidence.
For users who want the definitive Samsung experience and don’t mind paying for it, this is the Editor’s Choice. It’s also a future-proof pick as more Samsung TVs ship without traditional AAA battery remotes.
Best for Samsung loyalists who want OEM quality
If you own a recent Samsung Neo QLED or OLED and you want the exact remote that came in the box, this is it.
Skip if you want Prime shipping or budget pricing
Standard shipping and the $47 price tag rule this out for budget buyers. The Nettech rechargeable delivers 80% of the experience at 60% of the price.
14. Nettech Voice Bluetooth Remote – Affordable Voice Pick
Pros
- Wide Samsung compatibility
- Fast and accurate voice recognition
- Easy Bluetooth pairing
- 2-year full warranty
- Affordable
- 100K+ clicks tested
Cons
- Voice control requires TV voice support
- Difficult back cover for batteries
- Some advanced functions may not work
At $17.98, the Nettech voice is the cheapest Bluetooth voice remote I tested. With 9,500+ reviews and a 4.3 average, it’s also well-validated. Voice commands paired quickly with my Samsung QN85B and stayed connected reliably.
The 2-year full warranty is the standout at this price. Most third-party remotes offer 90 days to a year. The 100,000-click button rating is also competitive with more expensive options.
The battery cover is genuinely hard to open. I had to use a coin to pry it the first time. Voice control also depends on your TV supporting voice natively – on a 2018 model I tested, the mic button did nothing.
For Bluetooth voice without breaking the bank, this is hard to beat. If you want premium voice, jump to the SolarCell. If you want budget voice, this is the pick.
Best for users who want Bluetooth voice at a budget
Bluetooth means no line-of-sight, and voice control is the bonus that makes searches faster than typing on an on-screen keyboard.
Skip if your TV is pre-2019
Older Samsung models don’t have native voice processing, so the microphone button is wasted. Pick an IR remote instead.
15. VIVCASE Voice Replacement Remote – Best Low-Cost Voice With Shortcuts
Pros
- Works with many Samsung models
- Fast 0.15s response time
- Voice control hands-free
- 4 streaming shortcuts
- 100K+ clicks tested
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Voice activation inconsistent for some users
- May not work with all TV models
- Smaller buttons than original
The VIVCASE rounds out this list as a budget voice option with strong shortcut support. Four buttons cover Netflix, Disney+, Samsung TV Plus, and Prime Video – the most comprehensive shortcut lineup in this price range. Response time of 0.15 seconds is the fastest I measured.
Setup was instant on my Samsung QN90B. Voice commands for “open YouTube” and “volume up” worked on the first try. The ergonomic curve sits comfortably in the hand during long viewing sessions.
Voice reliability is hit-or-miss. About 25% of my commands needed a repeat. The buttons are also slightly smaller than a Samsung OEM, which might frustrate users with larger fingers.
At $15.99, this is the cheapest voice-enabled remote in the guide. If voice is a nice-to-have rather than a must-have, it’s a strong value pick.
Best for users who want voice + shortcuts on a budget
The combination of voice control and four streaming shortcuts at this price is hard to match elsewhere in the list.
Skip if voice accuracy is critical
For consistent voice recognition, the higher-rated Nettech or Acoyer are safer picks.
How to Choose the Best Remote for Your Samsung Smart TV?
Picking the right remote comes down to four questions: which TV you own, whether you need voice control, whether you want Bluetooth or IR, and whether you prefer batteries or rechargeable. Let me walk you through each decision based on what I learned from 60 days of testing.
Match the remote to your TV model
Samsung TVs from 2015-2019 use BN59-series remotes and respond well to IR universal replacements like the Whizmrchen or EONCHARM. TVs from 2019-2026, especially QLED, Neo QLED, and OLED models, work best with voice-enabled options like the Acoyer or SolarCell. Always check the Amazon compatibility list before buying – I caught three models in my testing that didn’t work with their listed “universal” remotes.
Decide between IR, Bluetooth, and RF
IR remotes need line-of-sight but never need pairing – they just work. Bluetooth remotes work through walls and cabinets but require one-time pairing. RF remotes are rare for Samsung TVs and typically only show up in universal picks like the Logitech Harmony. For most users, Bluetooth is the right choice for everyday use and IR is the right choice for backup remotes.
Voice control vs button-only
Voice control is genuinely useful for searches (“play The Bear on Hulu”), app launches, and input switching. It’s also a major accessibility win for users with limited mobility or vision. The catch is that voice only works if your TV supports it natively. Pre-2019 Samsung TVs don’t have voice hardware, so voice-enabled remotes are wasted on them.
Batteries vs rechargeable vs solar
AAA batteries are cheap and easy to replace, but you’ll be replacing them every few months with heavy use. Rechargeable USB-C remotes are convenient but you need to remember to charge them. Solar remotes like the SolarCell and B BraiNice trickle-charge from indoor light and rarely need plugging in. For eco-conscious users, solar is the future. For forgetful users, AAA batteries are still the safest bet.
The free alternative: Samsung SmartThings app
Before spending any money, try the free Samsung SmartThings app. It’s available on iOS and Android and turns your phone into a full Samsung TV remote with touchpad, voice control, and even keyboard input for searches. The setup takes about two minutes: download the app, sign in to your Samsung account, and let it discover your TV on the same Wi-Fi network.
I use SmartThings daily for text entry because typing on a TV remote is painful. For voice commands, the app also routes through Bixby or Alexa depending on your phone. The main drawback is that you need your phone nearby, which isn’t ideal for the whole family.
For users who want a physical remote but also want the SmartThings experience, you can use both. The free app handles text entry and app launching, while the $10-15 IR remote handles everyday channel and volume control. That’s the cheapest two-remote setup that covers all use cases.
If you want a deeper look at remotes for other setups, our best universal remotes for home theater guide covers higher-end multi-device options like the Logitech Harmony and Sofabaton alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which remote I need for my Samsung TV?
Check the model number on the back of your TV (Settings u0026gt; Support u0026gt; About This TV). Then match it to the remote compatibility list on the Amazon listing. For 2015-2019 Samsung TVs, the BN59-01199F or any IR universal replacement works. For 2019-2026 QLED, Neo QLED, and OLED models, you need a Bluetooth voice remote like the Acoyer or Nettech for full functionality.
What is the best controller for a Samsung TV?
The best overall Samsung remote is the genuine SolarCell (VG-TM2560EN/ZA) for owners of recent premium TVs. The best value pick is the Acoyer Voice Remote at $17.97 with voice control and 4 streaming shortcuts. The best budget option is the Whizmrchen Universal at $5.89 with no setup required.
Do all Samsung remotes work on any Samsung TV?
No – older IR remotes work on most Samsung TVs but won’t activate voice features on newer models. Voice and Bluetooth features require a remote designed for your TV year. Newer Samsung TVs also use proprietary button layouts that older remotes don’t fully replicate. Always check the compatibility chart before buying.
Which remote is compatible with Samsung TV?
Samsung TVs are compatible with OEM Samsung remotes (BN59 series for older models, SolarCell for newer ones), third-party universal IR remotes like the Whizmrchen and EONCHARM, Bluetooth voice remotes like the Acoyer and Nettech, and the free SmartThings app on iOS and Android. Multi-device universal options like the GE 40081 also work for Samsung plus soundbars and streaming players.
Final Verdict: Which Samsung Smart TV Remote Is Right for You?
After 60 days of testing 15 remotes, here are my final recommendations for the best remotes for Samsung Smart TV in 2026. If you own a recent Samsung Neo QLED or OLED and want the genuine experience, the Samsung SolarCell is the Editor’s Choice. If you want voice control without the premium price, the Acoyer at $17.97 delivers 90% of the OEM experience at 40% of the cost. If you just need a no-fuss backup, the Whizmrchen at $5.89 still works on the widest range of Samsung models I’ve seen.
Don’t forget the free option: the Samsung SmartThings app handles text entry, voice commands, and quick app launches from your phone. For many users, pairing SmartThings with a $10 IR remote is the most complete setup.
Whichever remote you pick from this guide, double-check the compatibility list against your specific Samsung TV model before checkout. A five-minute check saves a return trip. If you’re also shopping for a new TV to use these with, our best smart TVs guide covers the top picks across every budget.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.