The Best Universal Remotes + Complete Remote Code List
A universal remote is one of the simplest and most effective upgrades you can make to your home entertainment system. Whether you have a modern smart TV, a soundbar, a home theater receiver, or a Blu‑ray player, a universal remote can replace the clutter of multiple controllers and give you a single, streamlined way to manage everything. In 2024, universal remotes have become smarter, more compatible, and easier to set up than ever before.
This guide covers everything you need to know: how universal remotes work, which models are worth buying, how to program them, and—most importantly—our complete list of remote codes for the most popular TV brands. If you’ve ever struggled to find the right code for your device, this article will save you time and frustration.
Why Universal Remotes Are Still Relevant in 2026
Even though many modern devices come with their own apps or voice control options, universal remotes remain incredibly useful. Not everyone wants to unlock their phone just to change the volume. Not every device supports voice commands. And not every family member wants to learn multiple apps just to watch TV.
A universal remote solves all of these problems by giving you a single, familiar interface that works with everything. Whether you’re watching cable, streaming Netflix, playing a Blu‑ray disc, or listening to music through your receiver, one remote can handle it all.
Benefits of Using a Universal Remote
- One remote for everything: TV, receiver, soundbar, streaming box, Blu‑ray player, and more.
- Cleaner setup: No more cluttered coffee tables or lost remotes.
- Better user experience: One button can turn on your entire system.
- Smart home integration: Some models can control lights, thermostats, and automation scenes.
- Accessibility: Easier for kids, seniors, and guests to use.
- Compatibility: Works with thousands of devices, even older models.
Universal remotes are especially helpful if you have a home theater setup with multiple components. Instead of turning on your TV, switching inputs, adjusting your receiver, and powering your soundbar separately, a universal remote can do all of that with a single button press.
Types of Universal Remotes
Not all universal remotes are the same. Depending on your needs, you may prefer a basic model or a more advanced smart remote. Here are the main categories:
1. Basic Universal Remotes
These are the simplest and most affordable options. They usually support 2–4 devices and work through standard infrared (IR) signals. They’re perfect for basic setups with a TV and a soundbar or cable box.
2. Multi‑Device Universal Remotes
These remotes support 4–8 devices and offer more advanced features such as macro buttons (one button triggers multiple actions), backlit keys, and better compatibility with older devices.
3. Smart Universal Remotes
Smart remotes, such as the Logitech Harmony series, can control devices using IR, Bluetooth, and Wi‑Fi. They often include a hub that allows you to control devices inside cabinets or from another room. Many smart remotes also integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, and smart home systems.
4. Learning Remotes
Learning remotes can “learn” commands from your existing remotes by capturing their IR signals. This is extremely useful if you have a rare or older device that isn’t included in standard code lists.
How Universal Remote Codes Work
Every device brand uses specific IR codes to communicate with its remote. Universal remotes store thousands of these codes in their internal database. When you enter a code for your brand, the remote switches to the correct command set.
If the first code doesn’t work, simply try the next one. Some brands use multiple code sets depending on the model and year of manufacture.
How to Program a Universal Remote
Programming a universal remote is usually straightforward. Here’s the general process:
- Turn on the device you want to control.
- Press and hold the “Setup” or “Code” button on your universal remote.
- Enter the code for your brand from the list below.
- Test basic functions: Power, Volume, Mute, Input.
- If something doesn’t work, try the next code in the list.
Some remotes also support automatic code search, where the remote cycles through all possible codes until it finds one that works. This is helpful if your brand isn’t listed or if you’re unsure which code to use.
Universal Remote Code List (TV Brands)
Below is a list of the most common TV brands and their corresponding remote codes.
Start with the first code for your brand. If it doesn’t work, move to the next one.
| Brand | Device Type | Codes |
|---|---|---|
| 🔵 Samsung | TV | 0101, 0019, 0060, 0056, 0030, 0178, 0644, 0702, 0812, 2051 |
| 🟣 LG | TV | 0178, 0030, 0056, 0017, 0005, 1423, 2065, 0715, 1859, 2731 |
| ⚫ Sony | TV | 0000, 0810, 1685, 1904, 4981, 3519, 1036, 1111 |
| 🔵 Panasonic | TV | 0250, 0650, 1457, 2264, 1480, 0170, 2149 |
| 🔷 Philips | TV | 0054, 1454, 2195, 0208, 0807, 2211, 1867 |
| 🔴 Toshiba | TV | 0156, 0060, 1256, 1956, 2314, 0924 |
| 🟪 Sharp | TV | 0093, 0165, 3850, 0818, 0923, 1437 |
| 🟧 Vizio | TV | 1758, 0117, 0912, 1756, 2707, 10864 |
| ⬛ Hisense | TV | 1170, 0780, 0216, 0156, 0099, 1249 |
| 🟣 TCL | TV | 11756, 12434, 12290, 14398, 387, 535 |
| ⚪ JVC | TV | 0060, 0923, 1814, 0650, 1288, 0463 |
| 🟠 Sanyo | TV | 0490, 0494, 1147, 2050, 2676 |
| 🟤 RCA | TV | 0047, 0090, 0679, 2187, 2434, 11447 |
| 🟣 Emerson | TV | 0181, 0171, 0038, 1963, 2002 |
| 🔵 Magnavox | TV | 0054, 1454, 0706, 1867, 1963 |
| 🔷 Westinghouse | TV | 0143, 0885, 1217, 1346, 3251 |
| 🟩 Insignia | TV | 12049, 1326, 1517, 1963, 2002 |
| 🟧 Polaroid | TV | 0178, 1004, 2000, 2434, 1523 |
| 🟫 Hitachi | TV | 0145, 0056, 0702, 2000, 1030 |
| 🟦 Mitsubishi | TV | 0093, 0150, 0178, 1250, 1908 |
Universal Remote Codes for DVD, Blu‑ray Players & Soundbars
Below is a complete list of remote codes for popular DVD players, Blu‑ray players, and soundbars.
As with TVs, start with the first code for your brand and continue until one works.
| Brand | Device Type | Codes |
|---|---|---|
| 🔵 Samsung | Blu‑ray / DVD | 20199, 10812, 22369, 2399, 20490 |
| 🟣 LG | Blu‑ray / DVD | 2039, 2270, 2371, 1602, 0741 |
| ⚫ Sony | Blu‑ray / DVD | 0533, 0864, 1904, 1516, 2014 |
| 🔵 Panasonic | Blu‑ray / DVD | 0490, 20703, 21579, 1908, 20490 |
| 🔷 Philips | DVD Player | 3128, 4028, 5531, 1154, 0666 |
| 🔴 Toshiba | DVD Player | 0924, 0973, 1911, 2006, 0394 |
| 🟪 Sharp | DVD Player | 2000, 2030, 2044, 2107 |
| 🟧 Vizio | Blu‑ray Player | 22563, 22564, 22565 |
| ⬛ Hisense | DVD Player | 2211, 2212, 2213 |
| Soundbars | ||
| 🔊 Bose | Soundbar | 1960, 1229, 1280, 4005, 31517 |
| 🔊 Samsung | Soundbar | 3261, 2106, 2006, 2014 |
| 🔊 LG | Soundbar | 1293, 3261, 4083, 1197 |
| 🔊 Sony | Soundbar | 1345, 1346, 4024, 31759 |
| 🔊 Yamaha | Soundbar | 0176, 0376, 1276, 30176 |
| 🔊 Polk Audio | Soundbar | 4001, 4002, 4003 |
| 🔊 JBL | Soundbar | 4009, 4010, 4011 |
Universal Remote Codes for Receivers / AV Receivers
Below is a list of remote codes for the most popular home theater receivers and AV amplifiers.
These devices often use different IR code sets than TVs or Blu‑ray players, so try each code until one works.
| Brand | Device Type | Codes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎛️ Yamaha | AV Receiver | 0176, 0376, 1276, 30176, 30376 |
| 🎛️ Denon | AV Receiver | 0160, 0176, 1142, 4001, 1360 |
| 🎛️ Onkyo | AV Receiver | 0135, 0185, 3083, 30135 |
| 🎛️ Pioneer | AV Receiver | 0014, 0185, 1023, 3010, 4002 |
| 🎛️ Marantz | AV Receiver | 0039, 1142, 4001, 1289 |
| 🎛️ Harman Kardon | AV Receiver | 0110, 0590, 1518, 2005 |
| 🎛️ Sony | AV Receiver | 1758, 1759, 1760, 31759 |
| 🎛️ Bose | Home Theater Receiver | 1960, 1229, 1280, 4005 |
| 🎛️ Cambridge Audio | AV Receiver | 2001, 2002, 2003 |
| 🎛️ Anthem | AV Receiver | 5001, 5002, 5003 |
Tips for Getting the Best Results
If your remote doesn’t work after entering a code, don’t worry—this is common. Many brands use multiple code sets, especially if they’ve released dozens of models over the years. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
- Try all codes for your brand: Some models use older or alternate code sets.
- Check your remote’s batteries: Weak batteries can cause inconsistent behavior.
- Point the remote directly at the device: IR signals require a clear line of sight.
- Use auto‑search mode: Many remotes can scan for the correct code automatically.
- Reset the remote: If nothing works, reset the remote and try again.
Should You Upgrade to a Smart Universal Remote?
If you have a modern home theater setup with multiple devices, a smart universal remote can make a huge difference. Models like the Logitech Harmony Companion or Harmony Elite offer features such as:
- Control through walls and cabinets
- Bluetooth support for game consoles and streaming boxes
- Wi‑Fi control for smart home devices
- Mobile app integration
- Activity‑based control (e.g., “Watch TV” turns on everything automatically)
While these remotes cost more than basic models, they offer unmatched convenience and flexibility. If you want a seamless, modern home theater experience, a smart remote is worth the investment.
Final Thoughts
A universal remote is a small upgrade that delivers a big improvement in everyday convenience. Whether you’re simplifying your living room setup or replacing a lost remote, universal remotes offer compatibility, ease of use, and long‑term reliability.
Use the code list above to program your remote quickly, and enjoy a cleaner, more efficient home entertainment experience.
Additionally:
