It's finally time to replace your old TV. You've checked every spec, right down to number of nitsHave you thought about the remote control? Is it missing important features or is it so packed with features that you have to search for that one rarely used but very important button? Is it compatible with the rest of your entertainment system? How easy will it be to replace if you don't need an aftermarket duplicate?
When I bought my first TV, the only thing I thought about the remote was whether it had batteries or not. I learned the hard way that this small oversight can immediately lead to major disappointment. If you've never tried to set up a new TV with a poorly designed remote, consider yourself lucky. Before you buy your next TV, take some time to consider the layout and functionality of the included remote control, as well as what features it offers you, to save yourself some headaches.
Think about the equipment first
With any new technology, I like to research the hardware first. Fancy features quickly become useless if the most basic things struggle or don't work properly. Most TVs come with a brand-specific remote control, and that's fine if most or all of your entertainment systems are part of the same ecosystem of devices. In this case, all you need to do is check how many devices your remote can connect to compared to how many you would like to connect to. However, if this is not your case, you should consider whether you are okay with multiple remote controls or if it is time to look into aftermarket options.
You also need to make sure that the layout is familiar enough, the buttons are easy to use, and are fully compatible with the hardware you have. Sure, your TV remote can be connected to Bose products, for example, but have you checked that it works with your specific setup? Can you easily control all the essential features of every device you connect to? Conversely, you also don't want a remote with so many useless buttons that simply changing the input feels like trying to pilot a spaceship.
Speaking of buttons, what amenities does your new TV remote have? For example, some remotes have shortcut buttons for popular streaming apps like Netflix or Disney+. If your dream TV remote has app shortcuts, make sure they include apps you actually use or want to subscribe to. If your remote doesn't come with your preferred apps by default, try ordering online to see if you can switch or upgrade to a similar remote with different apps preinstalled.
Another thing to consider about your remote control buttons is whether they are backlit or not. Some remotes are so simple and intuitive that you can easily control your devices even in the dark. However, the more functions and types of devices you can control, the easier it is to get lost in even the most intuitive remote control. In this case, backlighting can be a real time saver when all you need is to settle in for the night.
The last thing I want to point out when it comes to the design of the remote control is how it connects and how it is powered. Remote controls powered by standard batteries and connected via an IR sensor are still the default. However, this configuration may not work for you. If you often find yourself without adequate batteries and at the worst of times, a rechargeable remote control may be right for you. Likewise, if you have several devices in one visibility areapurchasing a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or RF remote control would be a great preventative step to avoid having to do gymnastics just to get the right device to respond without affecting the others.
Most features come down to hardware and device compatibility, but TV remotes are more than the sum of their parts. Beyond these two factors, there are a few other key points to consider. First, there is the age-old mystery of losing the remote. TV remotes have been lost since their invention. It’s surprising that the first of them managed to be advertised to the public at all. Many people resort to unconventional but effective remote access tracking measures such as connecting a Bluetooth trackerby attaching the remote to something that makes it difficult to lose, or by attaching Velcro so it stays in one place when not in use.
A much easier way to avoid this problem is to check if your potential remote has a way to locate, such as a voice-activated tone. If this is not the case, you can also check if there is a remote control version of the app available. While it likely won't help you find your lost remote, a TV remote app can be a useful placeholder during your search or until you get a replacement. It's worth noting, however, that remote apps typically don't offer the full range of controls that a physical remote provides. This is worth considering if you plan to use the remote control to configure multiple devices.
When it comes to lost remotes, it's a good idea to see how easy it is to replace your remote in case it ends up in the Land Far, Far Away, never to be seen again… or to be seen once you get that shiny new remote. Either way, you'll want to be sure that getting a new remote won't cost you an exorbitant amount of money or send you on a Laura Croft-style expedition to find your own lost relic in the lands of eBay.
Our recommendations
Most people are familiar with the Roku brand.made a name for itself by launching its streaming devices, then partnering with TV manufacturers, and now creating their own TVs. All Roku TVs, streaming devices, and third-party TVs with Roku built-in come with a standard Roku remote that has app shortcuts, a sleep timer, and instant rewind. Although it is a very basic remote in terms of functionality, it can be easily replaced for as little as $10 and is ideal for most people.
If you want more from your remote, you can upgrade to Roku's most feature-rich options for as little as $30 without losing the practical design Roku is known for. Both first and second editions Roku Pro Voice Remote There are app shortcuts, voice control options, voice search for a lost remote, 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 also want to control your gaming consoles, cable box, or other third-party media devices.
For entertainment systems with multiple devices, such as those mentioned, the best option would be universal remote control. Unfortunately, the Logitech Harmony line has long been discontinued.. However, there are still many good options for universal remotes. One For All is a home entertainment accessories company with a focus on remote controls, creating 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 control may not be a factor in your decision, it's certainly worth considering before purchasing a picture-perfect TV. Does this already meet your needs? Will you buy a streaming device or universal remote with your new TV, or will you try program an individual universal remote control? No matter what you decide, evaluating your options ahead of time will help you avoid unnecessary hassle from day one.
