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In this blog post, I cover the five best remotes for Apple TV that you can get right now, all of which are available at Amazon. They are:
- #1 – Best Siri Remote Alternative: Function101
- #2 – Apple Official: Apple TV Siri Remote
- #3 – Premium Universal: Sofabaton X1
- #4 – Budget Universal: Sofabaton U2
- #5 – Best Hub & App: BroadLink RM4 Pro
I Love My Apple TV!
Apple TV is one of the best streaming devices, but its remote has long frustrated users. The 1st-gen Siri Remote’s weird glass trackpad left many wanting more tactile control, while the 2nd-gen improved with a circular clickpad, volume buttons, and a distinct Siri button.
The current 3rd-gen offers enhanced precision and USB-C charging, yet many still craved better control, ergonomics, and functionality.
After testing five remotes—and using four myself—I’ve narrowed down the best remotes for Apple TV available right now.
According to Parks Associates, 89% of U.S. households now use streaming media players, making smooth navigation essential. Let’s dive into my top five picks for the best remotes for Apple TV you can buy this year.
Comparison Table: Best Remotes for Apple TV
Below is a side-by-side comparison of the best remotes for Apple TV, showcasing key features before diving into full reviews.
Last update on 02/20/2025 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#1. Best Siri Remote Alternative: Function101
Key Features
- Device Control: Apple TV only
- Technology: Infrared technology
- Voice Assistant: None
- Battery Type: Uses AAA batteries
- Smart Features: Dedicated buttons for menu, volume control, and mute button
The Function101 Button Remote is one of the best remotes for Apple TV users who dislike the touchpad navigation on the new Siri Remote. Designed to mimic a traditional remote, it has physical buttons, dedicated playback controls, and no unnecessary touch gestures.
Unlike Bluetooth remotes, it uses infrared technology, meaning line of sight is required. However, the simple button layout makes navigating Apple TV more intuitive.
MacRumors has a nice review of the Function101 remote out on YouTube. I’ll embed it below.
Pros
- No learning curve-just point and press
- Eliminates touchpad frustration
- Dedicated volume buttons and mute button
- Affordable and works instantly
Cons
- No Siri voice commands or remote app integration
- Requires line of sight to Apple TV
The Function101 Bluetooth Button Remote for Apple TV/Apple TV 4K is a reliable IR/BLE replacement remote that comes with two AAA batteries, though it does not support voice commands.
#2. Apple Official: Apple TV Siri Remote
Key Features
- Device Control: Apple TV only
- Technology: Bluetooth & IR
- Voice Assistant: Siri button for voice recognition
- Battery Type: Rechargeable via USB-C
- Smart Features: Touchpad navigation, control center access, and volume control
Next on my list of best remotes for Apple TV is Apple’s own improved remote from its first and 2nd generation offerings. The new 3rd-Gen Siri Remote is now Apple’s official remote replacement for Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K. It features a better design, physical buttons, and a more intuitive clickpad compared to the previous model.
The new Siri button is located on the right side for easier access, and the outer ring of the touchpad allows for fast scrubbing through videos. It pairs automatically with Apple TV, making setup effortless.
Pros
- Significant improvement over the previous versions
- Siri voice commands improve accessibility
- Rechargeable battery eliminates disposable batteries
- Physical buttons make navigation easier
Cons
- Still lacks universal remote control features
- Premium price for minor design changes
The 3rd generation Apple TV Siri Remote offers precise control with a touch-enabled clickpad and USB-C charging for Apple TV 4K and HD.
#3. Premium Universal: Sofabaton X1
Key Features
- Device Control: Up to 60 devices
- Technology: IR, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Voice Assistant: Alexa & Google Assistant
- Smart Features: Macro programming, control center access, dedicated buttons
The Sofabaton X1 is one of the best remotes for Apple TV users with multiple devices. It can control up to 60 devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, Smart TVs, and game consoles.
This smart remote has infrared, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing seamless switching between streaming devices, set-top boxes, and home theater systems. The dedicated buttons and customizable controls make it ideal for power users. It also has a learning feature so you can use it to control additional devices like air conditioners, fans, and fireplaces and rely on an IR remote.
Here is the unboxing video that I did for my X1 remote over at my @TecTimmy YouTube channel. Please subscribe!
Pros
- Perfect for media players, video games, and smart TVs
- OLED screen for device selection
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Customizable remote app controls
Cons
- Expensive compared to basic remotes
- App setup has a bit of learning curve
The SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote includes a hub and app for advanced multi-device control, offering a seamless replacement for Apple TV and other home entertainment systems.
#4. Best Budget Universal: Sofabaton U2
Key Features
- Device Control: Up to 15 devices
- Technology: IR & Bluetooth
- Voice Assistant: None
- Smart Features: Custom button mapping
Coming in at number 4 on my list of best remotes for Apple TV is Sofabaton’s latest U2 remote.
The Sofabaton U2 is Sofabaton’s budget-friendly universal remote that controls up to 15 devices. It’s a great option for users who want physical buttons, volume control, and infrared technology without the more expensive price of the X2 remote.
The company constantly innovates and updates its remote line and I work with them regularly as a partner.
Pros
- Affordable universal remote control
- Works with Apple TV, smart TVs, and game consoles
- New model has a backlight and more tactile buttons!
Cons
- No voice recognition or Siri support
- No touch screen
- Same tricky setup process
The SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote features a backlit design and supports multiple devices, offering a versatile replacement for Apple TV and other home entertainment systems.
#5. Best Hub & App: BroadLink RM4 Pro
Key Features
- Device Control: Works with Apple TV, Smart TVs, Game Consoles, and Home Automation Devices.
- Technology: IR & RF (radio frequency) for wide compatibility.
- Voice Assistant: Alexa & Google Assistant integration.
- Battery Type: N/A – operates via app & Wi-Fi.
- Smart Features: Remote app control, automation, voice commands, scheduled routines.
The BroadLink RM4 Pro is a smart hub-based universal remote designed for users who prefer app-based controls instead of a traditional physical remote. Unlike standard Apple TV remote replacements, this device is one of the best remotes for Apple TV that doesn’t include a physical remote. Instead, it turns your smartphone into a remote with support for voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
It works with Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, and even AV receivers, providing infrared and RF control to eliminate multiple remotes. If you’re deep into home automation, this remote hub can integrate with scene automation, scheduled routines, and remote access via the BroadLink app.
Pros
- Great option for smart home enthusiasts and automation setups
- Works with a wide array of products, including streaming boxes and smart TVs
- Voice commands supported via Alexa & Google Assistant
- Can replace multiple remotes for AV receivers and home theater systems
Cons
- No physical remote-requires smartphone or voice assistant to function
- Setup can be complicated for non-tech-savvy users
The BroadLink RM4 Pro S Smart Remote and Sensor Cable Set is a universal IR/RF remote control hub with a built-in temperature and humidity monitor, compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT.
How I Scored the Remotes
After personally testing all five remotes, I ranked them based on six key factors to determine which models offer the best Apple TV experience.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Ease of Setup – Did the remote pair instantly, or did it require app setup?
- Navigation & Button Layout – Were the buttons well-placed and responsive?
- Build Quality – Was the remote durable and ergonomic?
- Multi-Device Control – Could the remote easily switch between streaming devices?
- Smart Features – Did it support voice assistants, app integrations, or automation?
- Value for Money – Was it worth the price compared to the competition?
Testing Environment:
I tested these remotes in my living room setup with Apple TV 4K, a smart TV, a Roku streaming box, and an AV receiver to ensure they worked across multiple devices.
Results:
FAQ – Best Remotes for Apple TV
Q1: What are the best remotes for Apple TV?
A: The best remotes for Apple TV include the Siri Remote for seamless Apple integration, the Function101 Remote for traditional buttons, the Sofabaton X1 for universal control, and the BroadLink RM4 Pro for smart home automation. Each remote offers unique features to enhance your Apple TV experience based on personal preferences.
Q2: Can I use a universal remote for Apple TV?
A: Yes! Universal remotes like the Sofabaton X1 and BroadLink RM4 Pro work with Apple TV, game consoles, and streaming devices. The Function101 Remote provides a button-based alternative. These options ensure reliable control of Apple TV while eliminating the frustrations of the touch-sensitive Siri Remote.
Q3: What is the best remote for Apple TV with voice control?
A: The Siri Remote remains the best for Apple TV voice commands, but the BroadLink RM4 Pro and Sofabaton X1 add Alexa and Google Assistant support. These remotes provide hands-free navigation, making them great for users who want voice control beyond Apple’s built-in Siri functionality.
Q4: Can I use my iPhone as an Apple TV remote?
A: Yes! The Apple TV Remote app on iPhone provides full navigation, volume adjustments, and playback controls. However, physical remotes like the Function101, Siri Remote, and Sofabaton X1 offer tactile buttons and quick access to essential features, making them a better choice for everyday Apple TV control.
Q5: Which Apple TV remote is best for home automation?
A: The BroadLink RM4 Pro and Sofabaton X1 are the best remotes for Apple TV users wanting smart home integration. These remotes control Apple TV, AV receivers, and smart devices, making them perfect for seamless home automation while ensuring a smooth and unified entertainment experience.
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Conclusion – Best Remotes for Apple TV
Selecting one of the best remotes for Apple TV depends on how you like to navigate your device. If you want a simple, button-based remote, the Function101 Remote is a great option. If you prefer Apple’s ecosystem, the Siri Remote (2nd Gen) is the best choice.
For multi-device setups, the Sofabaton X1 is the best universal remote, while the Sofabaton U2 is a budget-friendly alternative. If you prioritize smart home automation, the BroadLink RM4 Pro is the best pick.
I personally own four of these five remotes, and each one excels in different situations. Whether you’re watching video games, controlling an AV receiver, or managing multiple streaming devices, the right remote makes all the difference.
Which Apple TV remote do you use? Let me know in the comments!
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Tim Brennan, a tech blogger and host of the @TecTimmy YouTube channel, writes about smart homes at oneSmartcrib, home theaters at UniversalRemoteReviews, and AI in writing at Writeinteractive. He holds a Journalism degree from Northeastern University and has covered technology for three decades. He lives on the ocean in Nahant, Massachusetts.
Please subscribe to my YouTube channel for a fun take on all things tech.