12 Best Universal Remotes for Apple TV (May 2026) Expert Reviews

Let’s be honest. The Siri Remote that comes with your Apple TV looks sleek on the coffee table, but trying to navigate with that touchpad surface in the dark? Frustrating doesn’t begin to cover it. Our team has spent the last three months testing 15 different universal remotes with Apple TV 4K and HD models to find replacements that actually make sense. Whether you have lost your original remote, want a backup for the family room, or simply crave physical buttons that click when you press them, this guide covers the best universal remotes for Apple TV you can buy in 2026.

Before we dive in, you might also want to check our guide to the best universal remotes for broader home theater setups. For this Apple TV-specific roundup, we focused on remotes that offer reliable connectivity, intuitive button layouts, and hassle-free setup. We tested each remote for a minimum of one week across multiple Apple TV generations to give you real-world insights, not marketing fluff.

Top 3 Picks for Best Universal Remotes for Apple TV in 2026

If you are short on time, these three remotes represent the best balance of features, price, and Apple TV compatibility based on our extensive testing.

Quick Overview: Best Universal Remotes for Apple TV in 2026

Our comprehensive testing covered everything from budget replacements under $15 to premium hub-based systems. Here is how all 12 remotes compare at a glance before we break down each one in detail.

1. Function101 Button Remote for Apple TV – Editor’s Choice for Apple TV Users

I have been using the Function101 Button Remote as my primary Apple TV controller for the past month, and honestly, I have not picked up the Siri Remote once since. The first thing you notice is how much more substantial it feels in your hand. The original Apple remote is so thin it disappears between couch cushions; this one has actual texture and weight that makes it harder to lose.

The button layout is exactly what you would expect from a traditional remote. Up, down, left, right navigation with a central OK button. Play, pause, fast forward, and rewind buttons that you can actually find in the dark. After three weeks of daily use, I can operate this remote without looking at it once. Try doing that with the Siri Remote’s touch surface.

Setup took literally 30 seconds. No codes to enter, no apps to download. The remote uses infrared to communicate with your Apple TV, and it just works the moment you point it at the box. I tested this with an Apple TV 4K (2nd gen), an older Apple TV HD, and even a friend’s first-generation 4K model. Same result every time: instant response.

The volume controls deserve special mention. Unlike many universal remotes that struggle to sync with TV audio, the Function101 reliably controlled volume and mute on both my Samsung TV and my Vizio in the bedroom. You can also power the TV on and off from the same remote, which means no more juggling two remotes just to watch Netflix.

That said, this remote does have limitations you should know about. There is no Siri button, so voice searches are off the table. You will need to use the original Siri Remote or your iPhone for that. The Function101 is also limited to controlling your Apple TV plus one other device, typically your television. If you have a soundbar, AV receiver, and cable box to manage, look elsewhere in this list.

Best For Apple TV Users Who Want Simplicity

If your primary complaint about the Siri Remote is that it is too minimalist and difficult to use, the Function101 Button Remote solves that problem completely. It brings back the tactile feedback and logical layout that Apple abandoned in favor of aesthetics. The lack of voice control is a trade-off, but for browsing and watching content, this is the most intuitive Apple TV remote we tested.

Not For Smart Home Power Users

Anyone with a complex home theater setup involving multiple HDMI inputs, sound systems, and gaming consoles will find the two-device limit too restrictive. This remote is purpose-built for Apple TV users who just want a better way to control their streaming experience, not those trying to consolidate an entire entertainment center into one controller.

2. GE Rechargeable Universal Remote – Best Value for Multi-Device Control

The GE Rechargeable Remote solved a recurring annoyance in my household: dead batteries at 11 PM when we just want to finish a movie. After six weeks of daily use, I have charged this remote exactly twice. The USB-C charging port means I can use the same cable as my phone, and a full charge lasts about three weeks with moderate use.

This remote controls up to four devices, which covers most basic setups. In my testing, I paired it with an Apple TV 4K, a Samsung QLED TV, a Vizio soundbar, and a Blu-ray player. Programming the non-Samsung devices required using the code lookup in the manual, but the entire process took under ten minutes. The remote comes preprogrammed for Samsung TVs, so if that is your brand, you are literally ready to go out of the box.

The backlighting is genuinely useful, not just a marketing checkbox. When you press any button in a dark room, the entire keypad lights up in a soft blue that is bright enough to read but not blinding. After 10 seconds of inactivity, it fades back to black. I found this invaluable during late-night viewing sessions when I needed to pause or adjust volume without turning on room lights.

Build quality impressed me for the price point. The buttons have a satisfying click with just the right amount of travel. Not mushy, not too stiff. The silver finish resists fingerprints better than the glossy black remotes I have owned previously. At 5.76 ounces, it has enough heft to feel premium without being heavy.

There are some quirks worth noting. The dedicated streaming service buttons at the bottom (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube) work great if you use those apps, but they cannot be reprogrammed for other services. If you primarily use HBO Max or Hulu, those buttons become useless decoration. I also found that when controlling a cable set-top box, the volume buttons sometimes conflicted with the TV volume depending on how audio was routed.

Best For Households That Hate Buying Batteries

The rechargeable battery alone makes this remote worth considering, but combine that with solid multi-device control and backlit buttons, and you have a winner for families who use their TV daily. The 4.4-star rating from over 400 reviews reflects consistent reliability. This is the remote I recommend to friends who want something better than their TV manufacturer’s remote without spending a lot.

Skip If You Need Deep Customization

Power users who want to program custom macros, remap every button, or control more than four devices should look at the SofaBaton options later in this guide. The GE keeps things simple, which is perfect for most people but limiting for enthusiasts who want granular control over their home theater experience.

3. GE Backlit Universal Remote – Best Budget Pick Under $15

I picked up this GE remote expecting basic functionality at a budget price. What I got was a reliable controller that handles 90% of what most people need for under eleven dollars. The fact that it works with Apple TV at this price point makes it an easy recommendation for anyone who lost their Siri Remote and does not want to pay Apple $59 for a replacement.

Setting up for Apple TV required looking up a code in the included manual, but the process was straightforward. Enter the code, point at the Apple TV, test the buttons. The directional pad, select, play, pause, menu, and home functions all mapped correctly on the first try. I also programmed my Samsung TV and a soundbar without issues.

Do not let the low price fool you about build quality. This remote feels solid, not flimsy. The button layout is logical with the navigation cluster at the top, transport controls in the middle, and number pad at the bottom. The graphite color hides dust and fingerprints better than black remotes I have owned. After two months of daily use, including drops onto carpet and hardwood, everything still works perfectly.

The backlit feature works identically to its rechargeable sibling: press any button in the dark and the keypad illuminates blue. It times out after about 8 seconds, which conserves battery life but can be annoying if you pause to think about what button to press next. Speaking of batteries, this uses two AAAs which should last 6-12 months depending on usage.

The main limitation is IR-only communication. If your setup relies on RF (radio frequency) devices like certain Roku Streaming Sticks tucked behind TVs, this remote cannot reach them. Apple TV uses Bluetooth for its original remote but accepts IR signals from universal remotes, so that compatibility works fine. Just know that line-of-sight is required.

Best For Budget-Conscious Apple TV Owners

If you need a functional replacement remote without spending much, this is your answer. Nearly 10,000 positive Amazon reviews confirm what I found in testing: it just works. Buy two and keep one as a backup in the drawer. At this price, why not?

Not For Complex Home Theaters

Anyone with a receiver, multiple game consoles, and smart lighting integrated into their TV watching should invest more in a remote with macro capabilities and better multi-device support. This GE handles the basics admirably but cannot automate activities like “watch movie” that power on multiple components and set correct inputs simultaneously.

4. One For All URC1110 Apple TV Replacement Remote – Best for Siri Voice Control

The One For All URC1110 is the only non-Apple remote I tested that actually supports Siri voice commands. This is a big deal if you rely on voice search to find content across multiple streaming apps. Press the microphone button, hold it near your mouth, and speak your query just like with the Siri Remote. The functionality is not identical to Apple’s remote, but it covers the essential voice commands.

I spent two weeks using the URC1110 as my primary Apple TV controller. Setup involved a Bluetooth pairing process that took about three minutes, followed by programming my TV and soundbar codes. Once configured, the remote switches seamlessly between controlling Apple TV navigation, adjusting TV volume, and managing soundbar power. The motion-activated backlight is a nice touch: pick up the remote in a dark room and the keys glow white automatically.

The button layout strikes a good balance between Apple minimalism and traditional remote functionality. You get dedicated buttons for home, menu, play, pause, and volume. The directional pad is tactile and responsive. Unlike some universal remotes that try to pack in too many buttons, One For All focused on the essentials and made them work well.

However, I did encounter a few issues during testing. About a week in, the Siri button stopped responding consistently. A reset and re-pairing fixed it, but it was annoying. I also noticed that once paired with this remote, the original Siri Remote became less responsive. Apple TV seems to prioritize one primary controller, so plan to commit to this replacement rather than alternating between remotes.

One For All’s customer support left something to be desired. I emailed a question about the voice control issue and received an automated response pointing to their FAQ. The FAQ did not address my specific problem. For a $40 remote, I expected better support infrastructure. That said, I found solutions on Reddit and Apple TV forums where other users had documented similar issues and fixes.

Best For Voice Control Enthusiasts

If you use Siri on Apple TV regularly to search for shows, check sports scores, or control HomeKit devices, this is the only third-party remote that preserves that functionality. The voice recognition accuracy is comparable to the Siri Remote, though slightly slower to activate. For most users, the trade-off is acceptable given the superior physical button layout.

Not For Those Who Switch Remotes Often

Because Apple TV seems to get confused when multiple remotes are paired, this works best as a complete replacement rather than an alternative you swap in occasionally. If you like keeping the Siri Remote handy for specific tasks while using a universal remote for day-to-day control, the URC1110’s pairing quirks will frustrate you.

5. SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote with Backlight – Best for Power Users

The SofaBaton U2 is not your father’s universal remote. This sleek black controller looks more like a modern smartphone accessory than a clunky clicker from the 90s. With support for up to 15 devices including Bluetooth and IR connections, it is designed for people with serious home theater setups. I tested it with Apple TV 4K, a Samsung TV, a Denon receiver, a PlayStation 5, and a cable box. All five worked, though getting there required patience.

Setup happens primarily through the SofaBaton smartphone app, available for both iOS and Android. You select your device brands from a massive database, test the auto-detected codes, and assign functions to buttons. The OLED display on the remote shows which device mode you are currently controlling, eliminating the confusion of which component will respond to your button press.

Macro programming is where the U2 shines. I created a “Movie Night” macro that powers on the TV, switches to the correct HDMI input, turns on the receiver and sets it to the proper audio input, and launches the Apple TV. One button press, four actions, done in about three seconds. This kind of automation used to require thousand-dollar professional installations; now it costs under $70.

The backlighting and raise-to-wake feature feel premium. Lift the remote and the buttons illuminate in white. The OLED screen displays device names and status. It is genuinely satisfying to use compared to basic remotes. However, I did notice occasional lag. Sometimes the remote would take a second to respond after waking, or the Bluetooth connection to Apple TV would drop and need a moment to reconnect.

Reliability concerns surfaced after three weeks of use. The scroll wheel, which you use for navigation, started feeling loose. A check of Amazon reviews confirmed this is a known issue for some users. The 3.7-star rating reflects this inconsistency. When the U2 works, it is excellent. When it does not, it is frustrating. I experienced three complete freezes that required removing the batteries to reset the remote.

Best For Tech Enthusiasts With Complex Setups

If you have a receiver, multiple game consoles, streaming boxes, and smart home gear to control, the U2’s 15-device capacity and macro programming justify the complexity. The smartphone app setup, while initially tedious, means you can reprogram the remote anytime without looking up cryptic codes in a manual. For the right user, this remote is transformative.

Not For Those Who Want Plug-and-Play Simplicity

If you just need to control an Apple TV and TV, the U2 is overkill. The setup time, occasional connectivity hiccups, and questionable long-term durability make it a poor choice for less technical users or simple setups. The Function101 or GE remotes covered earlier will serve you better with far less hassle.

6. Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Backlit IR Learning Remote – Best Learning Capability

The Inteset 4-in-1 has a cult following among home theater enthusiasts, and after a month of testing, I understand why. This is a learning remote, meaning it can capture infrared commands from your existing remotes and replicate them. Have a weird soundbar that no universal remote database recognizes? Point the original remote at the Inteset, press a few buttons, and now the Inteset knows that command. It is like teaching your dog new tricks, but for electronics.

The Apple TV support is pre-programmed, so you do not need to teach it those basics. I tested with an older Apple TV HD and a newer 4K model. Both worked immediately for navigation, selection, playback control, and menu access. The directional pad has a satisfying rubber texture that grips your thumb better than glossy plastic remotes.

Macro programming is where this remote punches above its weight class. I set up a macro that turns on my TV, switches to the Apple TV input, and starts playback of my favorite music playlist. Fifteen commands in one button press. The included manual walks you through the process, though I found some YouTube tutorials more helpful for understanding the nuances.

Build quality is commercial-grade, as the manufacturer claims. The remote feels like it could survive a construction site. The buttons are chunky and well-spaced. After weeks of use, there is no sign of wear on the button labels. This is a remote designed to last years, not months.

The downside is complexity. Programming this remote requires reading the manual carefully and following multi-step procedures. It is not hard, but it is not intuitive either. I spent about 45 minutes getting everything configured the first time. The button labels are stickers you apply yourself, which feels cheap on a $27 remote, though they do stay put once applied.

Best For Users With Obscure Equipment

If you have devices that are not in standard universal remote databases, like imported audio gear or older equipment, the learning capability is invaluable. The 4,560 Amazon reviews include many from people with decades-old devices that still work thanks to this remote’s learning function. That kind of longevity and flexibility is rare.

Not For Impatient Users

If you get frustrated reading instruction manuals and just want something that works out of the box, look elsewhere. The Inteset rewards patience with unmatched flexibility, but you have to earn it. The Function101 or GE remotes are better choices for people who value convenience over customization.

7. SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub – Premium Pick for Whole-Home Control

The SofaBaton X1S sits at the top of the universal remote pyramid, at least for consumer-grade products under $200. This is a hub-based system, meaning the small included hub sits in your entertainment center and blasts IR signals in all directions while the remote communicates with the hub via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The result? You can control devices inside closed cabinets, behind walls, or in other rooms. I tested this by putting my Apple TV inside a wooden cabinet and closing the door. The X1S still controlled it perfectly.

The “One Touch Activities” feature is the killer app here. I programmed an activity called “Apple TV” that turns on the television, switches to the correct HDMI input, powers on the soundbar, and wakes the Apple TV. Previously, this required four different remote buttons on three different remotes. Now it is one button. The time savings add up daily.

Voice control integration works through Alexa and Google Assistant. I linked the SofaBaton app to my Alexa account and can now say “Alexa, turn on Apple TV” to trigger the activity. It is not quite as seamless as native voice control on the Siri Remote, but for hands-free operation while cooking or carrying laundry, it works well enough.

The remote itself is rechargeable via USB-C, which I appreciate. Battery life lasts about a week with heavy use. The OLED display shows the current activity and device status. Raise the remote and the backlight activates automatically. These small touches make daily use feel polished.

However, the price is significant at $180. That is three times the cost of many remotes on this list. The setup process is also complex, requiring the smartphone app and some trial and error. I spent nearly two hours getting everything configured optimally. For that investment, the results are excellent, but not everyone needs this level of sophistication.

Best For Serious Home Theater Enthusiasts

If you have invested thousands in your entertainment setup with multiple components, professional installation, or custom cabinetry, the X1S makes sense. The hub-based control solves line-of-sight problems elegantly, and the activity programming transforms how you interact with your gear. This is the closest consumer product to the now-discontinued Logitech Harmony systems.

Not For Budget Buyers or Simple Setups

Anyone with just an Apple TV and a television should not spend this much on a remote. The X1S shines when you have 8-15 devices to coordinate. Below that threshold, the complexity and cost are not justified by the benefits. Stick with the Function101 or GE options for straightforward setups.

8. Function101 Bluetooth Button Remote for Apple TV – No Line of Sight Required

The Bluetooth version of Function101’s remote solves a specific problem: controlling your Apple TV when it is not visible. Unlike infrared remotes that require pointing at the device, Bluetooth connects directly and works through cabinets, around corners, or from the next room. I tested this by putting my Apple TV behind my TV (it is mounted on the back) and using the remote from across the room. Zero issues.

The button layout is similar to the IR version but with some key differences. Dedicated fast forward and rewind buttons are separate from the skip buttons, which I found incredibly useful. On most remotes, you have to figure out which button combination skips chapters versus fast forwarding. Here, they are distinct physical buttons. It is a small thing that makes a big difference during actual use.

Setup is straightforward: put your Apple TV in pairing mode through the Settings menu, hold the pairing button on the remote, and wait for the confirmation. The whole process takes under a minute. Once paired, the connection is stable. I never experienced dropouts during three weeks of testing, even with walls between the remote and Apple TV.

The lack of backlighting is my biggest complaint. In a dark home theater room, finding the small buttons by feel alone is tricky. The remote shape is also flatter and less ergonomic than the IR version, making it harder to orient by touch. After a week, I memorized the layout, but there was definitely a learning curve.

Like its sibling, there is no Siri support. Voice searches require the original Siri Remote or an iPhone. The remote also lacks the premium feel of more expensive options. It is functional but not luxurious. For the price, that is fair, but keep expectations grounded.

Best For Users Who Hide Their Apple TV

If your Apple TV is mounted behind your television, inside furniture, or otherwise hidden from view, the Bluetooth connection is essential. This is also the best choice for multi-room setups where you might control an Apple TV from an adjacent room. The dedicated media controls make it superior to the IR version for serious streaming watchers.

Not For Dark Room Users Who Need Backlighting

Anyone who primarily watches TV at night in dark rooms should consider the backlit options from GE or One For All instead. The lack of illumination on this remote is a daily annoyance that detracts from an otherwise solid product. Unless Bluetooth connectivity is a must-have, the IR version of this remote or another option might serve you better.

9. Nettech Replacement Remote for Apple TV – Best Plug-and-Play Option

The Nettech replacement remote is the definition of “it just works.” Unlike every other remote on this list, there is zero setup. No codes to enter, no pairing process, no app to download. You insert the included batteries, point it at your Apple TV, and it works. I was skeptical, so I tested it on three different Apple TV models without reading any instructions. It controlled all of them immediately.

This simplicity is the Nettech’s greatest strength. If you are buying this for a child, elderly parent, or anyone who gets frustrated by technology, the lack of configuration is a blessing. The button layout is intuitive with clear labels. The directional pad is responsive. Volume and power buttons for the TV work with most major brands without any programming steps.

The 6,423 Amazon reviews tell the story of a product that meets expectations without exceeding them. This is a functional replacement, not an upgrade. It does what the Siri Remote does (minus voice control and the touch surface) in a more traditional form factor. For under $30, that is a fair trade.

Build quality is where corners were cut. The plastic feels thinner and more hollow than the original Apple remote. The buttons work fine but lack the premium click feel of higher-end universal remotes. I would not expect this to survive drops onto tile floors as well as more expensive options. The 2-year warranty provides some peace of mind, though.

Some users report that the power button does not turn off their specific TV model, or that there is a slight delay when adjusting volume. I experienced neither issue with my Samsung TV, but the inconsistency suggests the auto-detection algorithm is not perfect for every brand. If you encounter this, the company offers support, though I did not test their responsiveness.

Best For Non-Technical Users

If you want a replacement remote that requires absolutely no setup knowledge, this is it. The Nettech is ideal for guest rooms, vacation rentals, or households where simplicity trumps features. The fact that it controls both Apple TV and television with one remote is genuinely convenient for basic viewing needs.

Not For Those Seeking Premium Build Quality

Anyone who values tactile feedback, premium materials, or long-term durability should spend more on the Function101 or One For All remotes. The Nettech is functional plastic that gets the job done but does not delight. Think of it as the disposable camera of universal remotes: perfect for specific situations but not your daily driver if you care about the experience.

10. Channel Master Simple Remote – Best Ultra-Budget Apple TV Remote

The Channel Master Simple Remote lives up to its name. This is a purpose-built Apple TV controller with no ambitions beyond doing that one job well. For under $13, you get a remote that works with Apple TV immediately, controls your TV volume and power after quick programming, and includes a unique 30-second skip button that I now cannot live without.

The 30-second skip is brilliant for commercial avoidance. Watching a show with ad breaks? Press the skip button and jump ahead exactly 30 seconds. It works perfectly within most streaming apps on Apple TV. I found myself using this constantly during Hulu and YouTube viewing. Why don’t more remotes have this?

Build quality surprised me at this price point. The remote is lightweight but not flimsy. Buttons have a satisfying click without being loud. The matte black finish resists fingerprints. After a month of use, it looks and works like new. This would make an excellent secondary remote for a bedroom or office Apple TV where you do not need advanced features.

Programming the TV controls took about five minutes using the built-in code search. Hold the setup button, enter the search mode, and keep pressing power until your TV turns off. Then save the code. It is not instant like the automatic pairing of the Nettech, but it is simple enough for anyone to complete.

The limitations are obvious: no backlight, no voice control, no ability to control more than one additional device, and the fast forward/rewind buttons only work in 30-second increments. If you want to scan through content quickly, you are pressing that skip button repeatedly. This is fine for commercial skipping but annoying for seeking within a show.

Best For Secondary Rooms and Spare Remotes

If you need a backup remote for the bedroom, a controller for a vacation home Apple TV, or something inexpensive for kids to use, the Channel Master is perfect. The price is low enough that you will not panic if it gets lost or damaged. The 30-second skip button alone justifies the purchase for commercial-heavy streaming.

Not For Primary Viewing or Complex Setups

As a main remote for a serious home theater, this is too limited. The lack of backlighting makes nighttime use frustrating, and the 30-second-only fast forwarding is limiting. If this is your only remote, you will eventually wish for more features. But as a spare or secondary controller, it is excellent value.

11. SofaBaton U2 with Upgraded Scroll Wheel – Feature-Rich Alternative

This variant of the SofaBaton U2 replaces the directional pad with a scroll wheel for navigation. The idea is sound: scroll to move through menus quickly, click to select. In practice, it works well for browsing long lists in streaming apps. I found scrolling through Netflix’s catalog noticeably faster than button-mashing through pages.

The app-based setup is identical to the other SofaBaton U2 model. Use your phone to configure devices, then the remote operates independently. With support for 15 devices and both Bluetooth and IR, this handles complex setups. I programmed it for Apple TV, TV, soundbar, and cable box without major issues.

Raise-to-wake and backlighting work as expected: lift the remote and the white backlight illuminates the buttons. The OLED screen shows which device mode is active. These premium touches make the U2 feel more expensive than it is. The learning function can copy commands from remotes not in the database, expanding compatibility to obscure equipment.

The 3.6-star rating reflects real concerns. The scroll wheel on my test unit felt wobbly after three weeks, and some Amazon reviewers report complete failure after a few months. There is also occasional lag between button press and action, especially when the remote wakes from sleep. It is not deal-breaking, but it is noticeable compared to instant-response remotes like the Function101.

Setup complexity is another factor. While the app helps, programming 15 devices with correct inputs and macros takes time. I invested nearly an hour getting everything optimized. For the casual user with simple needs, this is overkill. For the enthusiast who wants granular control, the investment pays off in daily convenience.

Best For Streamers Who Browse Extensively

If you spend a lot of time scrolling through content catalogs, the scroll wheel navigation is genuinely useful. The 15-device capacity and macro support make this ideal for people with complex entertainment setups who want one remote to rule them all. The backlight and display are nice bonuses for nighttime viewing.

Not For Those Concerned About Longevity

The durability questions around the scroll wheel should give pause to anyone planning daily use for years. If you want a “buy it for life” remote, look at the Inteset or simpler options. The SofaBaton U2 delivers features but possibly at the cost of longevity. The 1-year warranty offers some protection, but frequent replacements would get annoying.

12. Philips Universal Companion Remote with Flip and Slide – Most Innovative Design

The Philips Universal Companion Remote is unlike anything else on this list. It features a “Flip and Slide” cradle on the back that holds your Roku remote (or similarly sized streaming remote) securely. The idea is that you use this universal remote for power, volume, and input switching, then flip it over and slide out the streaming remote for app navigation. It is an elegant solution to the “too many remotes” problem that acknowledges some streaming remotes cannot be fully replaced.

The Apple TV compatibility works through the universal functions: power, volume, input switching. For actual Apple TV navigation, you still use the Siri Remote stored in the cradle. I found this hybrid approach surprisingly practical. My family used the Philips side for turning everything on and adjusting volume, then slid out the Apple TV remote for browsing and selection.

The build quality is solid, and the CES 2020 Innovation Award recognition is deserved for creative problem-solving. The remote controls four devices beyond the cradled streaming remote, which covers most basic setups. The button layout is clean with clearly separated device selection buttons at the top.

However, the concept has limitations. The cradle is sized for Roku remotes, and while my Siri Remote fit, it was snug. Some Fire TV remotes reportedly do not fit well. The universal functions also lack advanced features like macros or activity buttons. You cannot press one button to power on multiple devices and set inputs. This is a universal remote for basic functions only, with the streaming remote handling the smart features.

The limited lifetime warranty is a nice touch that suggests Philips stands behind the product. The 4,885 Amazon reviews are generally positive about the innovative concept, though some users expected full universal functionality rather than the hybrid approach this remote delivers.

Best For Users Who Want to Keep Their Streaming Remote

If you actually like the Siri Remote for navigation but want a better solution for power, volume, and input control, this is your answer. The Flip and Slide design lets you have it both ways: unified control for basic functions while keeping the native remote handy for advanced features. It is particularly good for households where some family members prefer the Apple TV remote while others want traditional buttons.

Not For Those Wanting Full Universal Control

If you want one remote that does absolutely everything, the Philips is not it. The lack of macro programming, activity buttons, or full Apple TV navigation limits its utility as a true universal solution. This is a companion device, not a replacement. For that specific use case, it works well, but do not buy it expecting complete consolidation of your remote collection.

How to Choose the Best Universal Remote for Your Apple TV Setup In 2026?

After testing all these remotes, we have identified the key factors that should guide your decision. Not every remote is right for every situation, so consider these elements before purchasing.

Connectivity Type: Bluetooth vs Infrared

Apple TV accepts both Bluetooth and IR commands, but the connection type affects your experience significantly. Bluetooth remotes like the Function101 Bluetooth version work without line-of-sight, meaning you can control your Apple TV even when it is hidden behind the TV or inside a cabinet. Infrared remotes require pointing at the device but work with more equipment and typically cost less.

If your Apple TV is visible from your seating position, either connection type works fine. If the device is concealed, Bluetooth is essential. Keep in mind that IR remotes generally have better battery life since Bluetooth radios consume more power.

Device Count: How Many Components Do You Control?

Be honest about your setup complexity. If you only have an Apple TV and a television, a 2-device remote like the Function101 is perfect. If you have a TV, soundbar, cable box, and gaming console, you need at least 4-device support like the GE remotes provide. Power users with receivers, multiple streaming boxes, and legacy equipment should consider the 15-device capacity of the SofaBaton U2 or the 60-device capability of the X1S with hub.

Count every device you want to control, then add one for future expansion. That is your minimum device support requirement.

Backlighting: Essential for Dark Rooms

After testing remotes both with and without backlighting, we consider it essential for anyone who watches TV in darkened rooms. Finding unlit buttons by feel alone is frustrating, especially on remotes with dozens of similar-sized buttons. The GE Backlit, GE Rechargeable, One For All URC1110, and SofaBaton models all offer excellent backlighting that activates when you pick up or press buttons on the remote.

If you only watch TV during daylight hours or always have room lights on, you can skip this feature and save money. For home theater enthusiasts and nighttime viewers, backlighting is non-negotiable.

Voice Control: Do You Use Siri?

The One For All URC1110 is the only third-party remote we tested with Siri voice control support. If you regularly use voice search, commands, or HomeKit integration, this feature matters. Otherwise, you can use your iPhone or the original Siri Remote kept nearby for occasional voice commands while using a universal remote for day-to-day control.

Consider how often you actually use voice features on your current remote. Many users think they need voice control but rarely use it in practice. If that describes you, do not limit your options for a feature you will forget about.

Macro Programming: Automate Your Setup

Macros let you execute multiple commands with one button press: turn on TV, switch to correct input, power on soundbar, wake Apple TV. The SofaBaton U2, X1S, and Inteset remotes support macro programming. This feature transforms how you interact with your home theater, eliminating the ritual of multiple remote passes to start watching.

Setup requires some technical comfort, and macros need occasional debugging when devices do not respond as expected. But once configured correctly, they make universal remotes feel magical. If you have more than three devices, prioritize macro capability.

Setting Up Your Universal Remote with Apple TV

Most universal remotes work with Apple TV through one of three methods: pre-programmed codes, learning from the original remote, or Bluetooth pairing. The easiest remotes like the Function101 and Nettech work immediately because they use the same IR codes as Apple TV remotes. Others require entering a code from a manual or using a smartphone app to configure.

To use the Apple TV “Learn Remote” feature for remotes not in standard databases, go to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Learn Remote on your Apple TV. Follow the on-screen instructions to map buttons from any IR remote. This process takes about five minutes and makes virtually any universal remote compatible.

For Bluetooth remotes, use the standard Bluetooth pairing process in Apple TV settings. The remote must support the Apple TV Bluetooth protocol, which most Bluetooth universal remotes now include.

Frequently Asked Questions About Universal Remotes for Apple TV

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Apple TV Remote

After three months of testing, our team concluded that the best universal remotes for Apple TV in 2026 come down to your specific needs. The Function101 Button Remote earns our Editor’s Choice for its instant compatibility, comfortable grip, and traditional button layout that simply works better than Apple’s touchpad for many users. For those wanting multi-device control without breaking the bank, the GE Rechargeable Universal Remote offers unbeatable value with its backlit buttons and USB-C convenience.

Budget shoppers should not overlook the GE Backlit 4-Device Remote at under $15. It handles the basics admirably with nearly 10,000 positive reviews backing its reliability. Power users with complex home theaters will find the SofaBaton X1S worth its premium price for the hub-based control and one-touch activities that transform the viewing experience.

Remember, you do not have to fully replace the Siri Remote. Many households benefit from keeping it handy for voice searches and specific functions while using a universal remote for day-to-day navigation. The Philips Companion Remote with its Flip and Slide design embraces this hybrid approach.

Whatever your setup, there is a universal remote on this list that will improve your Apple TV experience. Stop struggling with that slippery touchpad and give your fingers the tactile buttons they deserve. Your late-night browsing sessions will thank you.