Universal remotes work by learning the infrared codes your original remote sends, or by matching your device to a built-in code library

A universal remote is a single remote that can control multiple devices — your TV, soundbar, streaming box, or cable box — instead of juggling three or four different remotes. Most universal remotes work in one of two ways: they either learn the commands from your original remote, or they come pre-loaded with codes for thousands of device models. The connection process depends on which type you have and what device you're controlling.

The good news is that connecting a universal remote is usually straightforward and takes between five and fifteen minutes. You don't need to pair it like a Bluetooth device or create an account. You're either teaching the remote to recognize your device's infrared signals, or you're telling it which device model you own so it can use the right built-in codes.

Key Takeaways

  • Most universal remotes use either infrared learning (copying signals from your original remote) or a code library (matching your device model number to pre-loaded commands).
  • You'll need your device's brand name and model number, which you can find on the device itself, in the manual, or on the manufacturer's website.
  • The setup process usually involves entering a setup mode on the remote, entering a code or teaching it commands, and then testing basic buttons like power and volume.
  • If the remote doesn't work after setup, the most common fixes are checking that the batteries are fresh, making sure nothing is blocking the infrared sensor, and trying a different code from the library.

Find your device's brand and model number before you start

Before you touch the remote, locate the information you'll need. Look on the back or bottom of your TV, cable box, or soundbar for a label with the brand name and model number. The model number is usually a combination of letters and numbers — for example, Samsung UN55RU8000 or LG OLED55C1PUA.

If you can't find the label on the device itself, check the manual that came with it, or search the manufacturer's website. You can usually find manuals by typing the brand and model number into Google, or by visiting the manufacturer's support page directly. Write down the brand and model number for each device you plan to control, because you'll need this information during setup.

Determine whether your remote uses learning mode or a code library

Check the documentation that came with your universal remote, or look at the remote itself for a label or printed guide. The manual will tell you which method your remote uses. If you don't have the manual, search online for the remote's brand and model number plus "setup instructions" — most manufacturers post PDFs on their websites.

Learning-mode remotes (sometimes called "IR learning" remotes) have a button or sequence that puts them into learning mode, and they require your original remote nearby so they can copy its signals. Code-library remotes have a setup button and a numeric keypad, and they work by entering a code that corresponds to your device model. Some newer universal remotes use both methods, so check which one your remote supports.

Set up a code-library remote by entering your device's code

If your remote has a built-in code library, the setup process is usually this: press and hold the Setup button (sometimes labeled Mode or Code) until a light on the remote turns on or blinks. This puts the remote into code-entry mode. Then enter the code for your device using the number pad. The light will turn off when the code is accepted.

The code is a three- to five-digit number that corresponds to your device model. You'll find the code list in the remote's manual, or on the manufacturer's website. For example, if you're setting up a Roku device, you might enter code 0060. If you're setting up a Samsung TV, you might enter 0177. After you enter the code, test the power button and volume buttons to make sure they work. If they don't, try the next code listed for your device model — manufacturers sometimes assign multiple codes to the same model.

If none of the codes work, the device may be too old or too new for that remote's library. In that case, you can try the learning-mode method instead, or look for a different universal remote that supports your device.

Set up a learning-mode remote by copying signals from your original remote

If your remote uses learning mode, you'll need your original remote and a clear line of sight between the two remotes. Press and hold the Setup button on the universal remote until a light turns on. Then press the button on the universal remote that you want to teach — for example, the Power button. The light will blink or change color, indicating the remote is ready to learn.

Point your original remote at the universal remote and press the same button on the original remote. The universal remote will receive the infrared signal and store it. The light will turn off or change color again, indicating the signal was captured. Repeat this process for each button you want to teach: Power, Volume Up, Volume Down, Channel Up, Channel Down, and any other buttons you use regularly.

This process takes longer than code-library setup because you're teaching the remote one button at a time, but it works with almost any device that has an infrared remote, even very old ones or devices the manufacturer didn't anticipate.

Test the remote on each device to confirm it's working

After setup, point the remote at your device and press the Power button. The device should turn on or off. Then test Volume Up and Volume Down to make sure those buttons respond. If the buttons work, test a few more commands like Channel Up or Input to make sure the remote is fully functional.

If a button doesn't work, try pointing the remote more directly at the device's infrared receiver (usually a small dark window on the front of the device). If that doesn't help, the code may be incorrect, or the infrared sensor on the device may be blocked by dust or an object. Clean the sensor with a soft, dry cloth and try again.

Troubleshoot if the remote isn't responding

The most common reason a universal remote doesn't work is dead or low batteries. Replace the batteries with fresh ones and test again. Make sure you're using the correct battery type — most universal remotes use AA or AAA batteries, and the battery compartment will tell you which.

The second most common issue is that something is blocking the infrared signal. Make sure there's a clear line of sight between the remote and the device's infrared receiver. Don't point the remote through a glass cabinet or at an angle — point it directly at the device from a few feet away. If you're using a learning-mode remote, make sure the original remote's batteries are also fresh, because a weak original remote won't send a strong enough signal for the universal remote to learn.

If you're using a code-library remote and the buttons still don't work after trying multiple codes, your device may not be in the remote's library. Check the manufacturer's website to see if there's a firmware update for the remote that adds support for newer devices. If not, a learning-mode remote or a different universal remote model may be your best option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a universal remote with a smart TV that has voice control?

Yes, but the universal remote will only control the basic functions like power, volume, and input. Voice features and app navigation usually require the TV's original remote or a dedicated app. Many people keep both remotes nearby — the universal remote for basic control and the original remote for advanced features.

Do I need to set up the remote separately for each device?

Yes. Each device needs its own code or learning sequence. If you're controlling a TV and a soundbar, you'll enter the TV's code first, then enter the soundbar's code. Most universal remotes let you assign different devices to different buttons or modes so you can switch between them.

What if my device is too old and not in the code library?

Use the learning-mode method instead. Point your original remote at the universal remote and teach it the commands one button at a time. This works with almost any infrared remote, regardless of age or how obscure the device is.

Can I use a universal remote with devices that don't have infrared?

Standard universal remotes only work with infrared devices. If your device uses Bluetooth or WiFi instead, you'll need a smart remote or a dedicated app. Check your device's manual to see what type of remote it uses.

Why does the remote work sometimes but not other times?

The most likely cause is weak batteries in the remote or the original remote (if you're using learning mode). Replace the batteries and test again. If the problem continues, the infrared sensor on your device may need cleaning, or something may be partially blocking the signal path.