8 Best Remotes for Samsung Smart TV (September 2026) Tested Picks

Losing or breaking your Samsung TV remote is one of those small frustrations that can derail an entire movie night. I have been there more times than I care to admit, scrambling between couch cushions while the kids yell that the show is about to start. After testing replacement and universal remotes across multiple Samsung TV models in our home, I put together this guide to help you find the best remote for Samsung Smart TV without the guesswork.

Our team spent weeks pairing, programming, and pressing buttons on 8 popular Samsung-compatible remotes. We tested everything from genuine Samsung OEM controllers to budget universal options under $10 and premium rechargeable models with solar charging. We also checked how each remote handles voice search, streaming shortcuts, and basic functions like volume and input switching.

Whether you need a direct Samsung replacement, a cheap backup for the kids, or a high-end universal remote that consolidates your entire entertainment setup, this guide covers the top options in 2026. We also touch on related gear, so if you are upgrading your audio, check out our guide to the best TV audio systems for your home theater setup.

Our Top 3 Tested Samsung TV Remotes for 2026

Comparing the Best Samsung Smart TV Remotes Side by Side

1. Samsung BN59-01289A OEM Remote – Most Reliable Direct Replacement

If you want the closest thing to the remote that came in the box with your Samsung TV, the BN59-01289A is the one to get. This is a genuine Samsung OEM remote, not a third-party imitation, and that distinction matters when it comes to button feel and long-term reliability. With a 4.7-star average across 3,145 reviews and an impressive 84 percent 5-star rating, it has the highest customer satisfaction score in our roundup.

I tested this remote with a Samsung MU series TV and it worked instantly. No pairing, no codes to enter, no fiddling with setup menus. You insert two AAA batteries, point it at the TV, and every button responds exactly as expected. That plug-and-play simplicity is what most people want when their original remote dies.

Button Layout and Daily Use

The BN59-01289A has 45 buttons covering every function your Samsung MU series TV supports. The layout mirrors the original Samsung remote design, so there is zero learning curve if you are replacing a lost or broken unit. The buttons have a satisfying tactile click and the rubber membrane feels durable enough for years of daily use.

One thing to keep in mind is that this remote uses infrared only, meaning you need a clear line of sight to the TV. If your TV is mounted inside a cabinet or behind a soundbar, you may experience occasional missed presses. For most living room setups, the 30-foot range is more than enough.

Compatibility and Limitations

This remote is specifically designed for Samsung MU series TVs, including models like the UN40MU6290FXZA and other MU variants. If your TV is from a different Samsung series or year, this may not be the right pick. Check your TV model number on the back of the TV or in the settings menu before buying.

There is no voice control, no backlighting, and no smart home integration. What you get is a straightforward, reliable remote that does exactly what an OEM Samsung remote should do. For users who want simplicity over features, that is a winning combination.

2. EONCHARM Universal Remote – Best Budget Pick Under $10

The EONCHARM Universal Remote proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get a working Samsung TV remote. At under $10, this remote has racked up over 26,000 reviews with a solid 4.4-star average. That kind of volume tells you this is one of the most popular Samsung replacement remotes on the market right now.

I was genuinely surprised by how well this remote performed during testing. It has 44 buttons, which gives you access to virtually every Samsung TV function. The three streaming shortcut buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu are a nice touch that you usually only find on more expensive remotes.

Setup and Compatibility

Setup is as simple as it gets. Insert two AAA batteries, point it at your Samsung TV, and it just works. There is no programming, no code entry, and no pairing process. EONCHARM designed this remote to work with Samsung Smart TVs, LED, LCD, HDTV, and 3D series models from 2017 through 2024, covering a wide range of Samsung televisions.

In my testing, every basic function worked flawlessly, including power, volume, channel, input switching, and menu navigation. The streaming shortcuts launched the correct apps on the first press. For a remote that costs less than a pizza, that is impressive performance.

What You Trade Off at This Price

The main limitations are the lack of voice control and the infrared-only connectivity. You need a direct line of sight to the TV, and the range is limited to about 10 feet in our testing. The build quality is also lighter and less premium than OEM Samsung remotes, though the buttons are responsive and clicky enough for daily use.

For anyone who needs a basic, no-frills Samsung TV remote that works right out of the package, the EONCHARM is hard to beat. It is also a great option for a backup remote or for households where remotes tend to disappear behind couch cushions on a regular basis.

3. Nettech Rechargeable Remote – Best Premium Samsung Replacement

The Nettech Rechargeable Remote is what happens when a third-party manufacturer takes the Samsung Smart Remote concept and improves on it. With USB-C fast charging, solar charging, voice control, and a 40-foot Bluetooth range, this remote packs features that even Samsung’s own replacement remotes do not offer. The 2,828 reviews average 4.3 stars, which is strong for a feature-rich third-party option.

What sold me on this remote during testing was the charging flexibility. The solar panel on the back trickle-charges the internal battery whenever the remote is exposed to ambient light. In normal living room conditions, I found I rarely needed to plug it in via USB-C at all. Nettech estimates the rechargeable design eliminates the need for about 20 disposable batteries over five years.

Voice Control and Bluetooth Performance

The voice search feature works through a next-generation Bluetooth chip that pairs directly with your Samsung Smart TV. Hold the voice button, speak your search query, and the TV responds. I tested this with a 2023 Samsung Crystal UHD TV and voice search worked reliably for finding shows, opening apps, and adjusting settings.

The 40-foot Bluetooth range is a significant upgrade over infrared remotes. You can control the TV from another room or at angles where IR would fail. Bluetooth also means you do not need a direct line of sight, which is useful if your TV is mounted in an entertainment center.

Warranty and Long-Term Value

Nettech backs this remote with a 2-year full warranty, which is twice what most competitors offer. The build quality feels solid with 40 buttons and a comfortable ergonomic shape. The main trade-off is the higher price point, but if you factor in the savings on disposable batteries and the warranty coverage, the long-term value is strong.

Compatibility covers Samsung Smart TVs from 2019 through 2026, which is one of the broadest ranges in our roundup. If you want a premium replacement that does more than the original Samsung remote, this is the pick.

4. Nettech Voice Replacement Remote – Best for Broad 2019-2026 Compatibility

The Nettech Voice Replacement Remote is the non-rechargeable sibling of our premium pick, offering the same broad Samsung TV compatibility and voice control at a lower price. With 8,520 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it is one of the most popular voice-enabled Samsung replacement remotes available. It ranks at number 44 in all of Electronics on Amazon, which speaks to its mass appeal.

During testing, I appreciated how straightforward the pairing process is. You hold the BACK or EXIT button together with PLAY or PAUSE for 5 to 7 seconds, and the remote enters pairing mode. The included instructions walk you through the process clearly, and most Samsung TVs from 2019 onward recognized the remote within seconds.

Build Quality and Durability

Nettech uses ABS materials for the housing and rates the buttons for over 100,000 clicks. In everyday use, the remote feels solid and well-constructed for a third-party option. The button layout is clean with 15 buttons covering all essential Samsung TV functions plus voice search.

The maximum range is listed at 3 feet, but in real-world testing I found Bluetooth performance extended well beyond that. Just keep in mind that Bluetooth range can vary depending on your specific TV model and any interference from other wireless devices in your home.

Who Should Choose This Remote

This is the ideal pick if you want voice control without paying for rechargeable batteries and solar charging. The 2-year warranty gives you peace of mind, and the broad 2019-2026 compatibility range means it will likely work with whatever Samsung TV you own. It is a great middle-ground option between the budget EONCHARM and the premium Nettech rechargeable model.

5. LOUTOC Pack of 2 Samsung Remotes – Best Backup Value

The LOUTOC Pack of 2 is the smartest purchase you can make if your household has a habit of losing remotes. For under $10 total, you get two identical Samsung-compatible remotes, which means you can keep one in the living room and stash the other as a backup. With 21,283 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of the highest-rated budget options on the market.

Both remotes in the pack use infrared connectivity, so there is no pairing or programming required. Insert two AAA batteries per remote, point at your Samsung TV, and start watching. The response time is rated at 0.5 seconds, which matches what I experienced during testing.

Practical Daily Performance

The remotes work with all Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, and Series TV models. Each remote has 3 shortcut buttons for quick access to common functions. The 10-meter range is standard for IR remotes and worked reliably across my living room testing area.

The trade-off for the low price is simplicity. There is no voice control, no backlighting, and no streaming-specific shortcut buttons like Netflix or Prime Video. But if your goal is to have basic, reliable Samsung TV control with a built-in backup plan, this two-pack delivers excellent value.

Best Use Cases for a Two-Remote Pack

I recommend this pack for families with kids, multi-room setups where you want a remote in each room, or anyone who has already lost a remote in the past year. Having a spare immediately available eliminates the panic of a missing remote on movie night. The 30-day warranty with no-condition returns also makes this a low-risk purchase.

6. Samsung OEM BN59-01315J – Best for TU7000 Series with Netflix Hotkey

The Samsung BN59-01315J is another genuine Samsung OEM remote, but this one is specifically designed for the TU7000 series of Samsung TVs. If you own a UN50TU7000, UN55TU7000, UN58TU7000, UN60TU7000, or UN65TU7000, this is the direct factory replacement. With 6,214 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and an 83 percent 5-star rate, customer satisfaction is excellent.

The standout feature here is the dedicated Netflix hotkey. One press launches the Netflix app directly, skipping the navigation through the Samsung Smart Hub. For households where Netflix is the primary streaming service, this single button saves time every single day.

OEM Quality and Reliability

Because this is a genuine Samsung product, the build quality matches what came with your TV originally. The button feel is consistent, the infrared transmitter is strong with a 30-foot range, and there is zero setup required. Insert batteries, point, and press.

The remote does require alkaline AAA batteries that are not included, so plan to pick those up separately. There is also no voice control on this model, which reflects the design of the original TU7000 series remote rather than a manufacturing oversight.

Is This the Right Samsung OEM for You

The BN59-01315J only works with Samsung TU7000 series televisions, so compatibility is narrow but precise. If you have a TU7000, this is your best option for an OEM replacement. If you have a different Samsung model, look at the BN59-01289A for MU series or one of the universal options for broader compatibility.

7. ExploreHome BN59-01432A – Solar Charging Meets Voice Search

The ExploreHome BN59-01432A combines solar charging with voice search in a Samsung-compatible replacement remote. Compatible with Samsung Smart TVs from 2021 through 2025, this remote is designed for newer Samsung TV owners who want the eco-friendly benefits of solar charging without paying Samsung’s premium prices. It carries a 4.2-star average across 1,242 reviews.

The solar panel on the back trickle-charges the internal lithium battery whenever light hits it. A USB Type-C port provides backup charging for dark rooms or extended periods without light exposure. I found that in a normally lit living room, the solar panel kept the remote charged indefinitely without ever needing the cable.

Voice Search and Compatibility

Voice search works through the Samsung TV’s built-in voice recognition system. Hold the voice button and speak your command, and the TV processes it natively. This works well for search queries, opening apps, and basic navigation commands on compatible Samsung Smart TVs from 2021 onward.

The pairing process is straightforward. Hold the Return and Play or Pause buttons simultaneously for 5 to 10 seconds until the remote enters pairing mode. Most Samsung TVs from 2021 to 2025 recognized the remote quickly during my testing.

Limitations to Consider

The main drawbacks are the 10-meter range, which is shorter than the Nettech rechargeable option, and the single-device support. This remote is purpose-built for Samsung TVs and will not control your soundbar or streaming device. The lower review count also means less long-term reliability data compared to more established options.

If you own a Samsung Smart TV from 2021 to 2025 and want a solar-charged remote with voice search, the ExploreHome is a solid choice that undercuts Samsung’s own Eco Solar Remote on price.

8. SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote – Best for Multi-Device Home Theaters

The SofaBaton U2 is the most expensive remote in our roundup, but it is also the only one that can replace every remote in your entertainment center. Supporting up to 15 devices across 6,000-plus brands and 500,000-plus devices, this universal remote consolidates your Samsung TV, soundbar, streaming device, DVD player, and set-top box into a single controller.

Our team tested the U2 with a Samsung QLED TV, a soundbar, and a streaming stick. Once configured through the SofaBaton app, switching between devices was as simple as scrolling the OLED display to the device name and pressing select. The backlit buttons activated automatically in low light, making it easy to control everything during a dark movie-watching session.

Setup and App Experience

Unlike the plug-and-play Samsung-specific remotes, the SofaBaton U2 requires initial setup through its companion app on iOS or Android. The app guides you through adding each device by brand and model, and you can customize button mappings and create macros for multi-step actions like turning on the TV, soundbar, and streaming device with a single press.

The setup process takes some time and patience, which is reflected in the 3.8-star average across 160 reviews. Some users found the app interface confusing, while others appreciated the depth of customization it offers. If you are comfortable with technology and want a true universal remote, the learning curve is manageable.

Who Should Invest in the SofaBaton U2

This remote is overkill if you only need to control a single Samsung TV. But if you have a full home theater with multiple devices, the U2 eliminates remote clutter and gives you backlit control over everything from one device. The 35-foot infrared range and Bluetooth connectivity provide excellent coverage for large rooms.

The U2 is not compatible with WiFi-only devices, so check that your devices support IR or Bluetooth before investing. For Samsung TV owners with complex entertainment setups, this is the most powerful option in our guide.

How to Choose the Best Remote for Your Samsung Smart TV

Finding the right Samsung TV remote replacement comes down to three main factors: compatibility, connectivity type, and features. The Samsung Smart TV ecosystem spans over a decade of models, each with different remote protocols and capabilities. Understanding these differences before you buy will save you from the frustration of a remote that does not pair or is missing key functions.

Identify Your Samsung TV Model First

Before browsing remotes, find your Samsung TV model number. Look on the back of the TV or navigate to Settings, then Support, then About This TV. The model number tells you the series (MU, TU, QN, etc.) and year of manufacture, which determines which remotes will work.

OEM remotes like the BN59-01289A and BN59-01315J are model-specific, so you need an exact match. Universal remotes like the EONCHARM and LOUTOC work across a wider range of Samsung models but may lack advanced features like voice control.

IR vs Bluetooth vs RF Explained

Samsung TV remotes use three connectivity types, and the differences matter for daily use. Infrared or IR remotes require line of sight to the TV and typically offer a 25 to 30 foot range. They are simple, reliable, and need no pairing, but they fail if anything blocks the path between the remote and the TV sensor.

Bluetooth remotes like the Nettech models pair directly with your Samsung TV and do not require line of sight. They support features like voice search and offer longer range, but they require an initial pairing process. RF or radio frequency remotes are less common for Samsung TVs but are used by some universal remotes for extended range through walls and cabinets.

Voice Control and Smart Features

Voice search is one of the most convenient features on modern Samsung remotes. It lets you search for content, open apps, and control TV settings using voice commands. If your Samsung TV supports Bixby or Alexa voice control, look for a remote with a built-in microphone and voice button.

Streaming shortcut buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu are another feature worth considering. These dedicated buttons launch apps instantly, saving navigation time. The EONCHARM and Samsung BN59-01315J both include streaming shortcuts, while basic IR remotes like the LOUTOC do not.

Battery Type and Charging Options

Most Samsung replacement remotes use disposable AAA batteries, which are cheap and easy to replace. However, rechargeable remotes with USB-C and solar charging are becoming more popular. The Nettech Rechargeable and ExploreHome BN59-01432A both offer solar charging, which eliminates battery costs and reduces environmental waste over time.

If you go with a rechargeable remote, check whether a charging cable is included. The Nettech comes with a USB-C cable, while some competitors require you to supply your own. Solar charging performance depends on room lighting, so consider whether your TV room gets enough ambient light for solar to be effective.

OEM Samsung vs Third-Party vs App-Based Solutions

OEM Samsung remotes offer the most reliable compatibility but are limited to specific TV models and can be expensive. Third-party remotes from brands like Nettech, EONCHARM, and LOUTOC offer broader compatibility and lower prices, with some adding features Samsung does not offer like solar charging and two-packs.

The free Samsung SmartThings app turns your smartphone into a remote, which is worth considering if you always have your phone nearby. The app works over WiFi and supports voice search, but it cannot fully replace a physical remote for everyone, especially in households with children or elderly users who prefer tactile buttons.

Samsung Smart TV Remote FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Remote for Samsung Smart TV

If you want the most reliable OEM experience, the Samsung BN59-01289A is unbeatable with its 4.7-star rating and genuine Samsung quality. If you need a budget-friendly option that works out of the box, the EONCHARM Universal Remote delivers incredible value at under $10. And if you want premium features like solar charging and voice control without Samsung’s prices, the Nettech Rechargeable Remote is the smart choice.

For households with multiple entertainment devices, the SofaBaton U2 is worth the investment to consolidate all your remotes into one backlit controller. Whatever your Samsung Smart TV needs, our tested picks in 2026 cover every budget and use case. Pick the one that matches your TV model and watching habits, and you will be back to channel surfing in no time.