6 Best PS5 Media Remotes (August 2026): Expert Reviews
I spent the last six weeks testing six different PS5 media remotes in my living room, swapping between them during movie nights, Blu-ray marathons, and late-night streaming sessions. After roughly 40 hours of hands-on use, I can tell you this: a dedicated PlayStation 5 remote transforms how you use your console for anything that isn’t gaming. The DualSense controller works fine for menus, but holding a gamepad while watching a 3-hour movie is the kind of discomfort you don’t notice until you stop doing it.
The official Sony PS5 media remote has been the go-to pick since launch, but the 2026 market now includes several third-party alternatives that promise more features for less money. Some of those promises hold up. Others fall apart after a week of use. I bought all six remotes with my own money, paired each one to a standard PS5 disc edition console, and ran them through the same battery of tests: Netflix navigation, 4K Blu-ray playback, TV power and volume control, and general couch ergonomics. Here’s what actually works.
Our Top 3 Tested PS5 Media Remotes for 2026
PlayStation Media Remote
- Official Sony build
- 14k+ reviews
- IR TV control
- Plug-and-play pairing
JDDWIN Media Remote
- Dedicated Netflix/YouTube buttons
- Bluetooth 5.0
- IR learning
- Budget-friendly
Comparing the Best PS5 Media Remotes in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation Media Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote |
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| JDDWIN Media Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
| EJGAME Media Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
| Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Renewed |
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Check Latest Price |
 PlayStation Media Remote Renewed |
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Check Latest Price |
1. PlayStation Media Remote – The Official Pick Most PS5 Owners Should Buy
- Plug-and-play Bluetooth pairing
- Responsive media playback controls
- IR transmitter controls TV power and volume
- Compact and lightweight design
- No backlit buttons
- Battery life drains quickly
- Can only pair with one TV device
The official PlayStation Media Remote is the remote I keep coming back to. After testing it alongside five competitors, it remains the benchmark for what a PS5 media remote should do. Pairing took about 12 seconds from the moment I pulled the tab out of the battery compartment. The PS5 detected it immediately, walked me through TV brand selection, and the next thing I knew, the volume buttons were talking to my TCL television without any extra configuration.
Build quality is where this remote separates itself from most third-party options. The matte white finish matches the PS5 console’s design language almost perfectly. It weighs about 4.5 ounces with batteries installed, which is light enough for one-handed operation but heavy enough to feel solid in the hand. The buttons have a satisfying click and the directional pad has just enough resistance to prevent accidental presses while you’re reaching across the couch for a snack.
In real-world use, this remote made me reach for my PS5 for media far more often. Before I had it, I’d default to my Apple TV for streaming because the DualSense felt awkward. After two weeks of using the official PlayStation Media Remote, I started using my PS5 for everything from Disney+ to Plex. The dedicated playback controls (play, pause, fast forward, rewind) sit exactly where my thumb expects them, which is a small detail that makes a big difference during long viewing sessions.
TV Control and IR Performance
The IR transmitter in this remote is the single biggest reason it outscores most competitors. Once I ran through the initial TV brand setup in the PS5 settings menu, the power button turned my television on and off reliably from across the room. The volume buttons worked through walls, around the entertainment center, and even with the TV mounted above a fireplace. I never had to aim the remote directly at the TV like I do with my Samsung smart remote.
One limitation I hit: the remote can only pair with one TV device at a time. If you have a soundbar with TV passthrough or use a receiver, you may need to set the volume to control both devices separately. For most users with a single TV and a standard soundbar, this isn’t an issue.
Media Navigation Speed
Menu navigation is where Bluetooth beats IR. The remote’s connection to the PS5 is essentially instant. There’s no perceptible lag between pressing a button and seeing the action on screen. When I switched from this remote to a third-party IR-only option, the difference was noticeable, especially when scrubbing through a 4K Blu-ray chapter.
Battery and Long-Term Use
Here’s the one place the official remote disappoints. The two AA batteries that come in the box lasted me about three weeks of moderate use before I needed to swap them. That’s not terrible, but several third-party options we’ve tested do better. I picked up a pack of rechargeable AAs and that solved the problem, but it’s an extra expense to factor in. A Reddit thread I checked mentioned similar battery concerns from over 200 users, so this is a known issue, not a defect.
2. Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control – A Slimmer Official Alternative
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Sleek and slim profile
- Easy setup process
- Good IR range for TV control
- IR-only connection (slight lag)
- No backlit buttons
- Plastic back can slide on smooth surfaces
The Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control is essentially a more streamlined version of the official PlayStation Media Remote. It uses a built-in lithium-ion polymer battery instead of AA cells, which is a big plus for anyone tired of buying replacement batteries. The design is slightly thinner and lighter than the standard version, which made it feel more comfortable during my extended testing sessions.
Setup was identical to the official remote: pull the tab, the PS5 detects it, run through TV brand configuration, and you’re done. The IR transmitter worked just as well as the more expensive official model, turning my TV on and off from 12 feet away without any aiming required. For users who primarily care about TV control and Blu-ray playback, this remote performs identically to its sibling.
Rechargeable Battery Advantage
The biggest differentiator is the rechargeable battery. I used this remote for two weeks of daily streaming and Blu-ray playback before the battery indicator started showing low charge. Charging via the built-in port took about 90 minutes. If you have a USB cable near your entertainment center, you’ll never need to buy batteries. For eco-conscious buyers or anyone who has a drawer full of dead AAs, this is a meaningful upgrade.
Connection Type Trade-Offs
This remote uses IR-only connectivity to the PS5 itself, which is where I noticed a small but real difference. Menu navigation is fast but not instant. When I pressed the directional pad to scroll through a long list of movies in my library, there was a barely perceptible delay compared to the Bluetooth-equipped official remote. For most users, this delay is unnoticeable. For users coming from a Bluetooth remote, it can feel slightly sluggish.
3. JDDWIN Media Remote Control – Best Third-Party Pick With Streaming Shortcuts
JDDWIN Media Remote Control Compatible with PlayStation 5
- Dedicated Netflix/YouTube/Disney+/Spotify buttons
- Bluetooth 5.0 lag-free connection
- IR learning for any TV
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- No batteries included
- Limited long-term review data
- Battery door design is tricky
The JDDWIN Media Remote is the dark horse of this roundup. When I first unboxed it, I expected a budget option that would feel cheap and cut corners. Instead, I got a remote with dedicated streaming app buttons, Bluetooth 5.0, and an IR learning feature that lets it work with any TV. The early reviews are limited (only 4 ratings at the time of testing), but the 5.0 average rating reflects my experience: it punches well above its price point.
What sets this remote apart is the four dedicated streaming buttons along the bottom. One press takes you directly to Netflix. Another opens YouTube. The third launches Disney+ and the fourth opens Spotify. On the official Sony remote, you have to dig through the PS5 media row to find these apps. With the JDDWIN, they’re one button press away. For households that switch between streaming services constantly, this is a real time-saver.
Bluetooth 5.0 and IR Learning
The Bluetooth 5.0 connection to the PS5 is rock solid. I never experienced a single drop in the three weeks I used this remote as my primary controller. The IR learning feature is what impressed me most. Instead of being limited to a preset list of TV brands, this remote can learn the power and volume IR codes from any TV remote. I pointed my TCL remote at the JDDWIN, pressed the buttons to teach it, and from that point on, it controlled my TV flawlessly.
This is a feature even the official Sony remote doesn’t offer. If you have an older TV or a brand that’s not in Sony’s preset list, this JDDWIN remote will probably work where others fail.
Ergonomics and Grip
The remote weighs 3.2 ounces without batteries, which is light enough to hold one-handed for a full movie without fatigue. The textured back provides a secure grip even when your hands are sweaty. The D-pad has a slightly more pronounced click than the official Sony remote, which I actually preferred for navigation.
Honest Limitations
Two things to know before buying. First, the package does not include batteries. You’ll need to supply your own. Second, the battery door design is genuinely frustrating. It took me about three minutes and a small flathead screwdriver to open it the first time. Once I figured out the trick (slide and lift simultaneously), it was easier, but I can see this being a real annoyance for users who plan to swap batteries frequently.
4. EJGAME Media Remote Control – Best Budget Pick Under $25
EJGAME Media Remote Control Compatible with PlayStation 5, Gaming Remote for PS5,TV Power/Volume Controls
- Under $25 price point
- Responsive Bluetooth connection
- IR for TV power and volume
- Comfortable ergonomic shape
- Setup requires patience
- Battery cover difficult to open
- Button layout differs from official
The EJGAME Media Remote is the cheapest remote in this roundup, and it surprised me with how well it performed for the price. At well under $25, I expected compromises in build quality, responsiveness, or feature set. What I found was a fully functional PS5 media remote that handles the basics competently. The 4.0 rating from 12 reviewers matches my experience: it’s not perfect, but it delivers solid value.
The Bluetooth pairing process was the most frustrating part of testing this remote. The first time I tried to pair it, the PS5 didn’t recognize it. I had to reset the remote (hold three buttons for five seconds), navigate to a different settings menu, and try again. The second attempt worked. Once paired, the connection remained stable for the rest of my testing period.
Button Layout and Daily Use
The button layout is similar to the official Sony remote, but the placement of a few keys is slightly different. The power button sits at the top rather than next to the directional pad, and the volume rockers are positioned a bit higher. After three days of use, my muscle memory adjusted and I could navigate without looking. If you switch frequently between this remote and the official Sony one, expect a short adjustment period.
IR Performance Compared to Bluetooth
The IR transmitter worked reliably for TV power and volume once I configured it through the PS5 settings. The Bluetooth connection to the console was equally solid. I never noticed any input lag, even when fast-forwarding through a long recording. For the price, the dual connectivity setup is impressive.
Who Should Buy This
If you want a PS5 media remote without spending $30, the EJGAME is the most affordable option that still delivers core functionality. It’s not as polished as the official Sony remote, and the setup process requires more patience. But for budget-conscious buyers, students in a dorm, or anyone who wants a backup remote, this gets the job done.
5. Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control (RENEWED Premium) – Best Renewed Value
- Lower price than new
- Rechargeable Li-Po battery included
- Renewed Premium inspection process
- 3-year factory defect coverage
- Limited review data
- Some units may have quality issues
- No original packaging
The Renewed Premium version of the Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control is a smart way to get an official Sony remote at a lower price. Amazon’s Renewed Premium program inspects each unit, replaces any defective parts, and offers a 90-day limited warranty. For users who trust the Sony brand but want to save a few dollars, this is a sensible middle ground.
My test unit arrived in a generic white box with a USB charging cable and the remote itself. There were no visible scratches or signs of heavy use. Pairing was identical to a brand-new unit, and all functions worked as expected. I tested TV power, volume control, Blu-ray navigation, and streaming app access, and everything performed at the same level as the new version I tested earlier in this roundup.
Warranty and Risk Considerations
The 90-day warranty covers defects, not accidental damage. If the remote stops working within three months, Amazon will replace it. After 90 days, you’re on your own. The 3-year factory defect coverage listed in the product specs is provided by the seller, not Amazon, so check the listing details carefully before purchasing.
Renewed Premium products go through a more rigorous inspection process than standard Renewed items. They’re supposed to look and function like new. My test unit met that standard. With only 5 reviews averaging 4.0 stars, the sample size is small, but the experiences reported match what I saw firsthand.
6. PlayStation Media Remote for PS5 (Renewed) – Budget Renewed Option
- Lowest price for official Sony remote
- Same functionality as new unit
- 90-day Amazon warranty
- Easy setup process
- Some units may have defects
- Renewed packaging not retail
- Limited inventory
The standard Renewed version of the PlayStation Media Remote is the cheapest way to get an official Sony PS5 remote. At under $25, it costs less than most third-party options while still delivering the official Sony experience. The 4.4 rating from 12 reviewers suggests most buyers are satisfied, and my test unit confirmed that this is a solid purchase for budget-conscious users.
Functionally, this remote is identical to the new version sold for $30. Same Bluetooth pairing process, same IR transmitter, same button layout. The only differences are cosmetic: my test unit had light scuff marks on the back that weren’t visible during normal use, and it shipped in a brown box instead of retail packaging. For users who care more about performance than presentation, this is a smart buy.
What Renewed Actually Means
Amazon’s Renewed standard tier includes products that have been inspected, tested, and cleaned. They should work like new, but they may have minor cosmetic imperfections. The 90-day warranty is the same as the Premium tier, so you have protection if something goes wrong. With only 10 units left in stock at the time of writing, this option may not be available for long.
How to Choose the Best PS5 Media Remote for Your Setup
Picking the right PS5 media remote comes down to a few key decisions. Our team has used all six remotes in this roundup, and these are the factors that matter most when making your choice.
Official Sony vs Third-Party Remotes
The official Sony remotes cost $30-32 new, while third-party options range from $23 to $25. The price difference is real, but the feature gap is small. Sony’s remotes offer reliable Bluetooth pairing, well-tested IR transmitters, and build quality that matches the PS5 console. Third-party remotes often include extra features like dedicated streaming buttons or IR learning at a lower price.
For users who want the safest, most predictable experience, the official Sony PS5 media remote is the way to go. For users who want more features for less money, the JDDWIN and EJGAME remotes deliver solid value. The choice depends on how much you value brand consistency versus feature set and savings.
Connectivity: Bluetooth vs Infrared
Bluetooth remotes connect directly to the PS5 and respond instantly. They don’t require line-of-sight, so you can point them anywhere. The official Sony remote and the JDDWIN and EJGAME remotes use Bluetooth for console connection.
Infrared is used for TV control on all remotes in this roundup. IR requires line-of-sight to the TV in most cases, though some remotes (like the JDDWIN with IR learning) handle this better than others. For TV power and volume, IR is the standard and works reliably when properly configured.
Streaming App Shortcuts That Matter
Dedicated buttons for Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Spotify are a real convenience if you switch between services often. The official Sony remote has app shortcuts, but they’re configured through the PS5 menu rather than physical buttons. The JDDWIN remote has actual physical buttons for these services, which is faster and more intuitive. If streaming is your primary use case, dedicated buttons are worth the small premium.
Battery Life and Power Options
AA batteries are convenient because you can swap them instantly, but they drain faster than rechargeable options. The official Sony remote gets about three weeks of moderate use per set of AAs, which is shorter than I’d like. The Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control uses a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts about two weeks per charge. The JDDWIN and EJGAME remotes also use AA batteries but with similar drain characteristics.
For users who hate buying batteries, the rechargeable Sony model is the best choice. For everyone else, picking up a pack of rechargeable AAs solves the problem for any remote in this roundup.
Ergonomics and Button Layout
Every remote in this roundup is designed for one-handed use. The differences are subtle: the official Sony remote has a slight curve to the back that some users love and others find awkward. The JDDWIN and EJGAME remotes are flatter and lighter. The Sony rechargeable model is the thinnest of the bunch. If possible, try to handle one in person before buying. If not, the official Sony remote is the safest bet for average hand sizes.
Setup and Pairing Considerations
All six remotes in this roundup pair through the PS5 settings menu under Accessories. The official Sony remotes are plug-and-play: the PS5 detects them immediately. Third-party remotes sometimes require a manual reset (usually holding three buttons) and a second pairing attempt. Once paired, the connection is stable. Setup takes between 1 and 5 minutes depending on the remote. If you have a TV from a major brand (Sony, Samsung, LG, TCL, Vizio), the IR setup is also automatic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PS5 media remote worth buying?
Yes, the PS5 media remote is worth buying for anyone who uses their console for streaming, Blu-ray playback, or as a media center. It eliminates the need to use a DualSense controller for non-gaming tasks, which improves comfort during long viewing sessions. Most users find the convenience justifies the $25-32 cost within the first week of use.
What is the best media remote for PS5?
The best PS5 media remote for most users is the official PlayStation Media Remote. It has reliable Bluetooth pairing, an effective IR transmitter for TV control, and build quality that matches the PS5 console. For users on a budget, the JDDWIN Media Remote offers dedicated streaming buttons and Bluetooth 5.0 at a lower price.
Can I use a third-party remote with my PS5?
Yes, third-party remotes work with the PS5 as long as they support Bluetooth connectivity to the console and IR for TV control. Models from JDDWIN, EJGAME, and others have been tested and work reliably. The main difference from official Sony remotes is occasional setup friction and the lack of guaranteed long-term software support.
How do I pair a PS5 media remote?
To pair a PS5 media remote, insert batteries or charge the remote, then go to Settings u0026gt; Accessories u0026gt; General u0026gt; Bluetooth Accessories on your PS5. Put the remote in pairing mode (usually by holding three buttons for 5 seconds), select it from the list of available devices, and follow the on-screen prompts. The whole process takes 1-3 minutes.
Why is my PS5 media remote not working?
If your PS5 media remote is not working, the most common causes are dead batteries, a forgotten pairing, or interference from other Bluetooth devices. Try replacing the batteries first, then re-pair the remote through the PS5 settings menu. If the issue persists, reset the remote by holding the power and OK buttons for 10 seconds, then pair again.
Final Verdict: Which PS5 Media Remote Should You Buy in 2026?
If you want the safest, most reliable pick, the official PlayStation Media Remote remains our editor’s choice. The 14k+ user reviews and our own testing confirm it’s the gold standard for PS5 media control. If you’d rather save a few dollars, the JDDWIN Media Remote is the best third-party option we’ve tested, especially if you use streaming services heavily. For buyers on a tight budget, the EJGAME Media Remote delivers core functionality at the lowest price. Pick the one that matches how you actually use your PS5, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed with just the DualSense.
