Best Universal Remotes for Samsung TVs (2026)
The best universal remotes for Samsung TVs in 2026.
At a Glance
Several current universal remotes are marketed specifically for Samsung compatibility, with backlit and standard variants. Here's how they compare.
5 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a Universal Remotes for Samsung TVs (2026)
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Device Compatibility Codes
A universal remote works by sending pre-programmed infrared codes matched to your specific TV or device brand. Check the listing's compatible brand list before buying, since coverage varies by manufacturer and model year.
Number of Devices Controlled
Remotes are rated for a maximum device count (typically 3, 4, 6, or 8). Buy for your actual device count, since a higher-rated remote costs more without added benefit if you only have a TV and a streaming box.
Setup Method
Auto-search setup cycles through codes automatically until the device responds; manual code entry requires looking up a specific code from a included list. Auto-search is generally easier for non-technical users.
Learning Function
A learning remote can copy button commands directly from an original remote, useful for devices without a pre-programmed code in the universal remote's database.
Backlighting & Button Layout
A backlit remote is genuinely easier to use in a dark room, and a simplified button layout with fewer, larger buttons reduces confusion for less tech-comfortable users.
Best Universal Remotes for Samsung TVs (2026)
GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control
About this pick
Backlit buttons paired with Samsung-specific compatibility, genuinely useful in a dark room.
What earns this the top spot is broad device compatibility paired with a setup process that doesn't require a manual to figure out. GE backs this with a code database wide enough to cover most common TV and device brands.
Best all-around pick for a Samsung-only household. It's the premium pick in this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want backlit Samsung-specific compatibility
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Backlit buttons for dark-room visibility
- +Samsung-specific compatibility
- +Ships with Backlit Buttons, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Samsung TV Remote Control, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From GE, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −Narrower brand focus than multi-brand universal remotes
- −Priced at the top of this comparison, so the upgrade needs to be worth it for your use case
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
- −Worth double-checking the listing on number of devices controlled before buying, since that's a key differentiator in this category
GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control
About this pick
Similar backlit Samsung-specific design worth cross-shopping against the pick above.
It covers the same core universal remote function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (device count, backlighting, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Worth comparing directly on price against the top pick above. It's priced toward the higher end of this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers comparison shopping backlit Samsung remotes
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Backlit buttons for dark-room visibility
- +Samsung-specific compatibility
- +Ships with Backlit Buttons, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Samsung TV Remote Control, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From GE, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −Narrower brand focus than multi-brand universal remotes
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific universal remotes for samsung tvs comparison
- −Sits in the middle of the pack on price, not a standout bargain or splurge either way
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
UltraPro Backlit OneTouch Universal Remote Control
About this pick
UltraPro's OneTouch setup genuinely simplifies pairing to a Samsung TV compared to manual code entry.
It covers the same core universal remote function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (device count, backlighting, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best if setup simplicity is your top priority. It's priced toward the lower end of this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want the simplest pairing process
Check price on AmazonPros
- +OneTouch setup simplifies pairing
- +Backlit buttons included
- +Ships with OneTouch Setup, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Replacement TV Remote, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From UltraPro, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −Broader brand compatibility than needed if Samsung-only
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific universal remotes for samsung tvs comparison
- −Sits in the middle of the pack on price, not a standout bargain or splurge either way
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
GE Big Button Universal Remote Control for Samsung
About this pick
GE's big button remote includes Samsung compatibility alongside other brands at an accessible price.
It covers the same core universal remote function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (device count, backlighting, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best for the lowest-cost entry into Samsung TV compatibility. It's the most affordable pick in this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want a lower-cost Samsung-compatible option
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Samsung compatibility at an accessible price
- +Big buttons for easy use
- +Ships with Big Button, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Samsung Compatible, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From GE, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −No backlighting on this model
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific universal remotes for samsung tvs comparison
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
- −Worth double-checking the listing on backlighting & button layout before buying, since that's a key differentiator in this category
How We Evaluated These Universal Remotes for Samsung TVs (2026)
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
Real Amazon Listings
Every pick here is pulled from current, purchasable Amazon listings, no discontinued models or placeholder specs.
Brand Compatibility Verification
We check each remote's stated compatible brand list against common TV and device manufacturers.
Setup Method Comparison
We compare auto-search, manual code entry, and learning function support as stated in each listing.
Brand Track Record
We weigh how consistently a brand has delivered on code database breadth and reliability across its universal remote line.
Use-Case Fit
Picks are ordered with a specific buyer's device setup and priorities in mind, not a single best-overall metric.
How to Choose the Right Universal Remotes for Samsung TVs (2026)
By Priority
| Your priority | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| Buyers who want backlit Samsung-specific compatibility | GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control |
| Buyers comparison shopping backlit Samsung remotes | GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control |
| Buyers who want the simplest pairing process | UltraPro Backlit OneTouch Universal Remote Control |
| Buyers who want a lower-cost Samsung-compatible option | GE Big Button Universal Remote Control for Samsung |
By Budget
| Priority | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| The most affordable pick in this comparison | GE Big Button Universal Remote Control for Samsung (Budget Pick) |
| Balanced pick | GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control (Great Alternative) |
| Top-rated pick | GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control (Best Overall) |
GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control vs. GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control
GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control
Our top pick in this comparison, ranked 1 of 4. Buyers who want backlit Samsung-specific compatibility.
GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control
A strong alternative, priced toward the higher end of this comparison. Best if buyers comparison shopping backlit samsung remotes.
Rank vs. Price Position
| Rank | Price position |
|---|---|
| #1, GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control | The premium pick in this comparison |
| #2, GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control | Priced toward the higher end of this comparison |
| #3, UltraPro Backlit OneTouch Universal Remote Control | Priced toward the lower end of this comparison |
| #4, GE Big Button Universal Remote Control for Samsung | The most affordable pick in this comparison |
For Universal remote for Samsung TVs Buyers Specifically
If you're buying for this exact use case, don't just default to the top-ranked overall pick, match the specific badge to your priority instead.
GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control is the clearest all-around pick in this comparison, but check the badges above for a better fit if your priority is narrower.
When to Spend More / Save
Spend more if
You want the most complete feature set and don't mind paying a premium for GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control-tier hardware.
Save if
You just want reliable core functionality, GE Big Button Universal Remote Control for Samsung covers the basics at the most affordable pick in this comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you program a universal remote?
Most current remotes use auto-search setup, holding a button while the remote cycles through codes until your device responds, or a code-entry method using a lookup table included in the manual or app. Some remotes also support pairing directly with a phone app for automated setup.
Will a universal remote work with any TV brand?
Most universal remotes support a wide range of major brands, but check the specific listing's compatibility list before buying, since coverage and code database size vary between remote models and manufacturers.
What's the difference between a universal remote and a learning remote?
A universal remote uses a pre-programmed database of codes matched to known device brands and models. A learning remote can additionally copy commands directly from an original remote, useful for devices not in the database.
Can a universal remote for Samsung TVs replace multiple remotes at once?
Yes, that's the core function, one remote programmed to control your TV, streaming device, soundbar, and other components instead of juggling several separate remotes.
Do universal remotes work with smart TV apps and streaming services?
Most universal remotes handle basic TV functions (power, volume, input, channel) and can navigate a connected streaming device's on-screen menu, but dedicated app-launch buttons vary by remote model, not universal across all devices.
Bottom Line
best overall: GE Backlit Buttons Universal Remote Control - best overall pick in this roundup.
See the full rankings above for all picks with pros, cons, and best-for summaries.
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