Replacing a lost or confusing remote does not have to mean buying an expensive smart-home controller. The best universal remote controls under $100 can simplify everyday TV and entertainment setup while covering popular brands and device types.
This roundup compares straightforward replacements, multi-device remotes, two-packs, and app-assisted options so you can choose the right balance of compatibility, convenience, and control.
Best 10 Universal Remote Controls Under 100 Picks for 2026
Best Multi-Brand Coverage
- Supports numerous major TV brands
- Controls up to three infrared devices
- Includes code list and one-year warranty
Best For: Multi-brand TV households needing basic device consolidation
Best Compact Design
- Palm-sized and comfortable to hold
- Offers three code-search methods
- Controls up to three devices
Best For: Simple entertainment setups and users who prefer a compact remote
Best Samsung Replacement Pack
LOUTOC Two-Pack Samsung Remote
- Includes two Samsung TV remotes
- Requires no pairing or programming
- Rated for operation up to 32 feet
Best For: Samsung TV owners wanting a replacement and a spare
Best Simple TV Replacement
- Supports a broad selection of TV brands
- Offers code and brand-search setup
- Designed for one television with infrared control
Best For: Replacing a basic TV remote without multi-device features
Best Feature-Rich Option
One For All URC7880 Smart Remote
- Controls up to eight devices from 7,000+ brands
- Uses a setup app and learning feature
- Includes streaming shortcut keys and 10m+ range
Best For: Complex infrared home entertainment systems
Best Universal TV Replacement
- Supports many major TV brands
- Simple brand-button setup
- Fluorescent buttons for dark rooms
Best For: Replacing a single TV remote across different brands
Best Samsung-Specific Pick
- Designed for Samsung TV models
- No programming required
- Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu buttons
Best For: Samsung TV owners wanting quick replacement setup
Best Two-Pack Option
Long-Range Multi-Brand Coverage
- Includes two replacement remotes
- Supports many major TV brands
- Up to 40 feet of stated range
Best For: Homes needing a spare or second compatible TV remote
Best Multi-Brand Coverage – Broad TV Universal Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls under 100, this Acoyer model stands out for its broad TV-brand compatibility and support for up to three devices. It uses infrared control, includes a code list and manual, and offers both code-based setup and automatic code search.
Best For: Households with TVs from different brands that also need basic control of a DVD/Blu-ray player or media device.
Pros:
- Supports many major TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, TCL, Hisense, Roku TVs, and more.
- Controls up to three devices with a stated range of up to 30 feet.
- Includes setup instructions, a code list, and a one-year warranty.
Cons:
- Requires two AAA batteries, which are not included.
- Does not support Fire TV devices, Apple TV, Google Chromecast TV, Roku sticks, or several soundbars.
- Setup may require testing multiple codes.
This is a practical choice when broad infrared TV compatibility matters most, but buyers should verify their exact device type before ordering, especially for streaming sticks and soundbars.
Best Compact Design – RCA 3-Device Universal Remote
This RCA model is a straightforward option among universal remote controls under 100, with a palm-sized design and control for up to three devices. It is designed for TVs, DVD or VCR players, and satellite, cable, or digital TV equipment.
Best For: Users who want a familiar, compact remote for a simple three-device entertainment setup.
Pros:
- Palm-sized design is intended to be comfortable and easy to hold.
- Supports automatic, manual, and direct code-search setup methods.
- Uses a multi-colored keypad with dedicated device keys.
Cons:
- Only supports up to three devices.
- Two AAA batteries are required and sold separately.
- The listed maximum range is 10 feet.
The RCR503BE focuses on uncomplicated operation rather than advanced coverage. Its multiple setup methods make it flexible, while the shorter listed range may be less suitable for larger rooms.
Best 4-in-1 Value – MYHGRC 4-in-1 Universal Remote
If you need broader component coverage, this MYHGRC model is a useful contender among universal remote controls under 100. Its four-in-one layout is designed for TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, streaming media players, soundbars, and cable boxes, with direct code entry as the recommended setup method.
Best For: Buyers who want one lightweight infrared remote for several common home-theater components.
Pros:
- Supports up to four devices.
- Designed for TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, streaming media players, soundbars, and cable boxes.
- Lightweight ergonomic design and claimed 0.2-second transmission response.
Cons:
- Two AAA batteries are required and not included.
- The listed maximum range is 10 meters.
- Compatibility still depends on successful code matching for the specific equipment.
This remote offers the broadest device-count coverage in the group and keeps setup relatively simple with direct code entry. Confirm the exact model compatibility if your system includes less-common equipment.
Best Samsung Replacement Pack – LOUTOC Two-Pack Samsung Remote
For Samsung owners comparing universal remote controls under 100, this LOUTOC two-pack is a convenient replacement option. The infrared remotes are designed for Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, and series models, with no pairing or programming required.
Best For: Samsung TV owners who want a ready-to-use replacement and a spare remote for backup.
Pros:
- Pack includes two replacement remotes.
- Works with Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, and series TVs.
- No pairing or programming is required; stated operating range is up to 32 feet.
Cons:
- Designed for one device type and does not consolidate multiple brands or components.
- AAA batteries and a manual are not included.
- Compatibility is limited to Samsung TVs.
This is less of a true multi-device universal remote and more of a Samsung-focused replacement pair. It makes sense when backup coverage and immediate infrared operation matter more than controlling an entire entertainment system.
Best Multi-Device Value – MYHGRC 4-in-1 Universal Remote
If you need one affordable controller for several home-entertainment components, this MYHGRC model is a practical choice among universal remote controls under 100. It supports TVs, DVD and Blu-ray players, VCRs, combo units, cable devices, audio equipment, and streaming media players, with setup available through direct code entry or auto code search.
Best For: Households replacing multiple lost or damaged remotes across different device types.
Pros:
- Supports major brands and up to 18 devices.
- Offers both direct code entry and automatic code search.
- Lightweight design and a stated 0.2-second response time.
Cons:
- Requires setup before use.
- Uses infrared connectivity, so it requires line of sight.
This is a strong budget-oriented pick when broad device compatibility matters more than advanced smart-home features. Its included instructions and two-year warranty add useful reassurance, though buyers should confirm their equipment’s compatibility before ordering.
Best Simple TV Replacement – Meliya Universal TV Remote
For shoppers comparing universal remote controls under 100 and wanting a straightforward TV replacement, this Meliya remote keeps the focus on essential television control. It is designed for a wide range of brands, including Samsung, LG, TCL, Sony, Vizio, Hisense, and others, with code-based and brand-search setup methods.
Best For: Users who need a basic infrared remote for one compatible television.
Pros:
- Compatible with many major TV brands.
- Includes code setup and brand-search options.
- Ergonomic design with a one-year warranty.
Cons:
- Controls one device rather than multiple components.
- Two AA batteries are required and are not included.
- Its listed range is approximately 5 meters.
The plug-and-play positioning makes this a sensible option for replacing a missing or damaged TV remote, especially if your brand is supported by its default settings. It is less suitable for users who want to control sound bars, disc players, or several devices from one handset.
Best Feature-Rich Option – One For All URC7880 Smart Remote
If you want more control than a basic replacement handset, the One For All URC7880 is a feature-rich option among universal remote controls under 100. It can operate up to eight devices, supports more than 7,000 brands, and uses a smartphone setup app plus infrared learning to customize functions from an original remote.
Best For: Home entertainment setups that combine a TV, streaming device, sound bar, disc player, console, or other infrared equipment.
Pros:
- Controls up to eight compatible devices.
- Free smartphone setup app and learning function simplify customization.
- Includes three shortcut keys for streaming services and a range of more than 10 meters.
Cons:
- Batteries are not included.
- Setup requires a smartphone app for the most convenient configuration.
- Game-console support is infrared-only.
This is the most capable choice of the three for a mixed entertainment system. The app, learning feature, organized buttons, and streaming shortcuts add convenience, while buyers should remember that it remains an infrared remote and may require separate setup for each device.
Best Universal TV Replacement – Broad Brand Compatibility
If you need one of the most broadly compatible universal remote controls under 100 for a single TV, this lightweight replacement covers many major brands, including Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, Hisense, Vizio, and Panasonic. Its straightforward brand-button setup makes it practical for replacing a lost or damaged remote.
Best For: Households replacing a basic TV remote across a wide range of supported brands.
Pros:
- Supports numerous TV brands and one television device.
- Simple setup using the corresponding brand button and included instructions.
- Compact ABS design with soft buttons and a listed range of up to 10 meters.
- Fluorescent buttons improve visibility in dark rooms.
Cons:
- Designed for TVs only, rather than multiple device types.
- Requires brand-specific setup before use.
This is a sensible pick when broad TV-brand coverage and easy nighttime visibility matter more than advanced multi-device control.
Best Samsung-Specific Pick – No-Setup Streaming Shortcuts
For Samsung owners comparing universal remote controls under 100, the EONCHARM is a focused replacement designed for Samsung LCD, LED, HDTV, 3D, and Smart TV models. It requires no programming or setup and adds shortcut buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu.
Best For: Samsung TV owners who want a compact replacement with familiar functions and streaming shortcuts.
Pros:
- Works with Samsung Smart TV and multiple Samsung series, including listed recent model years.
- No programming or setup is required.
- Includes dedicated Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu shortcut buttons.
- Compact design, stable infrared performance, and coverage of original remote functions.
Cons:
- Focused on Samsung televisions rather than multiple TV brands.
- Maximum range is listed as 10 feet.
- Requires two AAA batteries, which are not stated as included.
If your television is Samsung, this model is more convenient than a broad generic remote because it emphasizes direct compatibility and no-programming operation.
Best Two-Pack Option – Long-Range Multi-Brand Coverage
This two-pack is a practical choice among universal remote controls under 100 when you need a spare or replacement for multiple compatible TVs. It supports many brands, offers two pairing methods, and lists a transmission range of up to 40 feet.
Best For: Families, guest rooms, or households that want two remotes for compatible TVs.
Pros:
- Two replacement remotes support brands including TCL, Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, Hisense, and more.
- Offers brand-button pairing and a three-digit code-setting method.
- Lists a 40-foot control range and a 0.25-second response time.
- Durable ABS construction and comfortable buttons.
Cons:
- Batteries are not included in the package.
- Not compatible with Roku streaming sticks, several soundbars, or Google Chromecast TV.
- Each remote is intended to control one TV device.
The two-pack provides useful backup value and longer stated range, but check the compatibility exclusions carefully if your setup includes streaming accessories or soundbars.
How We Picked the Best Universal Remote Controls Under 100
We focused on remotes that offer practical value for common home entertainment setups. Selection criteria included stated brand and device compatibility, the number of devices supported, setup method, button layout, infrared range, replacement convenience, and suitability for everyday use.
The list includes simple TV replacements, multi-device models for DVD players and cable boxes, two-packs for multiple rooms, and a more advanced option with app-assisted setup. Because compatibility can vary by exact model, always check the manufacturer’s device list before ordering.
Quick Comparison
| Remote type | Best for | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Single-TV replacement | Basic channel and volume control | TV brand and exact model compatibility |
| Multi-device remote | TV, player, soundbar, or cable box setups | Supported device count and programming method |
| Two-pack | Spare rooms or backup use | Whether both remotes support the same devices |
| Smart universal remote | Several devices and guided setup | App requirements, batteries, and infrared placement |
Key Buying Factors for Universal Remote Controls Under $100
Compatibility
Start with the device you use most. A remote advertised for “all TVs” may support major functions but not every smart-TV shortcut, input command, or menu feature. Confirm support for your brand and model family, especially with older equipment.
Device Capacity
A basic replacement is usually enough for one television. Choose a multi-device remote if you want to combine control of a TV, streaming player, Blu-ray or DVD player, soundbar, cable box, or audio system. More device capacity can reduce remote clutter, but it may also make setup and button switching more complex.
Setup and Programming
Look for clear code lists, automatic code search, learning functions, or a setup app. App-assisted models may be easier for larger systems, while simple code-based remotes can be quicker for a single TV. Check whether the remote requires a phone, USB connection, or separate instructions.
Layout and Everyday Usability
Large, well-spaced buttons help users who want simple operation. Dedicated volume, channel, input, playback, and home controls are more useful than a crowded layout. A palm-sized design may be comfortable, but smaller remotes can be easier to misplace.
Range, Power, and Extras
Most options use infrared, so the remote generally needs a reasonably clear path to the device. Check the stated range, battery type, backlighting, macro features, and whether batteries are included. A two-pack can be a better value when you need coverage in more than one room.
Who Should Buy Which Universal Remote Controls Under 100?
- Buy a simple TV replacement if you only need power, volume, channels, input, and menu controls for one television.
- Choose a multi-device model if several remotes are cluttering your coffee table or you regularly switch between a TV, player, soundbar, and cable box.
- Choose a two-pack for separate rooms, a spare remote, or households where remotes frequently disappear.
- Choose an app-assisted smart remote if you have a more complicated setup and prefer guided configuration over entering codes manually.
For most shoppers, the best choice is the least complicated remote that supports every device you actually use. Confirm compatibility first, then prioritize comfortable buttons and a setup process you are willing to complete.