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In this update, I’ll share my picks for the best universal remotes for Netflix, whether you watch on a smart TV, Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, game console, or another device.
Netflix Nerd Alert
I love me some Netflix. Lately, I’ve been watching Wednesday, Stranger Things, ONE PIECE, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Squid Game. Yeah, I’m still a bit of a sci-fi and fantasy nerd. Netflix has certainly given me no shortage of reasons to keep the remote nearby.
As an avid blogger about universal remotes, it hit me that I had somehow never written about the best remotes for the streaming service I watch the most: Netflix.
According to DemandSage, Netflix now has 325 million subscribers worldwide. So I’m hardly alone.
Let’s get into my list of the best universal remotes for Netflix.
Best Universal Remotes for Netflix Comparison Table
The following table highlights the key features of the best universal remotes for Netflix side by side for my top picks.
| Best Universal | Best Voice Control | Best for Apple TV | Budget LCD Universal | Premium Pick | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Image |
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| Model | SofaBaton X1S | Fire TV Cube | Function101 Button Remote | SofaBaton U3 | SofaBaton X2 |
| Rank | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| Best Fit | Best fitChoose the X1S for hub-based activities across compatible entertainment devices. | Best fitChoose the Cube when hands-free Alexa is central to your Netflix setup. | Best fitChoose Function101 for tactile Apple TV navigation without Siri controls. | Best fitChoose the U3 for direct control of compatible Netflix playback gear. | Best fitChoose the X2 for premium hub activities across compatible room devices. |
| Backlit Controls | |||||
| Control Path | IR, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hub | Alexa, IR, HDMI-CEC | Bluetooth and IR | IR, Bluetooth, learnable RF | IR, Bluetooth, RF, Wi-Fi hub |
| Dedicated Hub | |||||
| Power | USB rechargeable | Wall powered | Two AAA batteries | 1200mAh USB-C | Rechargeable with dock |
| Voice Support | |||||
| Display | OLED screen | No handheld display | No display | 2.4-inch LCD | Color touchscreen |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
SofaBaton X1S
Fire TV Cube
Function101 Button Remote
SofaBaton U3
SofaBaton X2
#1 – Best Universal: SofaBaton X1S
Best Fit
Choose the X1S for hub-based activities across compatible entertainment devices.
First of my list of the best universal remotes for Netflix is the Sofabaton X1S.
I’ve been testing the X1S for a few months now, and I can confidently say that it’s an outstanding universal remote for Netflix users and beyond. Its sleek design and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use daily. I appreciate how easy it was to set up with my various devices, thanks to its user-friendly smartphone app.
The customizable buttons and OLED screen have been a game-changer, allowing me to create shortcuts and easily navigate through my favorite streaming services. The slim profile (7.24 x 1.89 x 0.9 inches) and lightweight design (5.6 ounces) make it perfect for long binge-watching sessions. The bonus of both infrared (IR) and Bluetooth connections ensures that I can control a wide range of devices, making my home entertainment experience more enjoyable than ever.
Here is a YouTube video I did unboxing my Sofabaton X1 over on my YouTube channel:
Pros
- Wide compatibility with numerous devices
- Customizable buttons and macros
- OLED screen for easy navigation
- User-friendly smartphone app for setup
Cons
- May require occasional updates to maintain compatibility
- Price might be higher than some competitors
#2 – Best Voice Control: Fire TV Cube
Best Fit
Choose the Cube when hands-free Alexa is central to your Netflix setup.
As a proud owner of both the Sofabaton X1 and Fire TV Cube, I have found that the Fire TV Cube has become indispensable for voice control. While the Sofabaton X1 remains my primary remote, I love the convenience of using my voice to control Netflix with the Fire TV Cube.
The seamless integration with Netflix and other streaming services has truly transformed my entertainment experience. With built-in Alexa, browsing and playing content without lifting a finger has never been easier. The 4K Ultra HD and HDR support ensure a top-quality viewing experience, and the ability to control other compatible devices using voice commands is a fantastic bonus.
Apart from streaming, the Fire TV Cube has become a central hub for my smart home devices, allowing me to manage everything easily. It’s not just a remote; it’s a complete home entertainment and automation solution.
Here’s my unboxing of the Fire TV Cube also over at my YouTube channel:
Pros
- Hands-free Alexa control
- Strong Netflix and streaming integration
- 4K Ultra HD and HDR support
- Controls compatible TV and audio gear
Cons
- Not a traditional universal handheld remote
- Best value depends on Alexa use
#3 – Best for Apple TV: Function101 Button Remote
Best Fit
Choose Function101 for tactile Apple TV navigation without Siri controls.
The Function101 Button Remote is one of the best universal remotes for Netflix users who primarily stream using Apple TV.
The remote is specifically designed for Apple TV users, offering a simple layout and excellent compatibility with Apple TV devices. It’s an ideal choice for Netflix users who primarily use Apple TV. The Function101 Button Remote features a minimalist design with well-spaced buttons that make it easy to operate without looking, allowing quick access to essential controls.
Two AAA batteries power the remote and provide a reliable, lag-free experience when interacting with your Apple TV. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, making it a pleasure to use during binge-watching sessions.
Pros
- Designed specifically for Apple TV
- Simple and intuitive button layout
- Easy setup and pairing with Apple TV devices
- Affordable price
Cons
- Only works with Apple TV
- Lacks advanced features of universal remotes
Function101 is offering my readers special savings on this remote. Click Function101 below for the deal, or shop at Amazon if you prefer.
#4 – LCD Universal: SofaBaton U3
Best Fit
Choose the U3 for direct control of compatible Netflix playback gear.
SofaBaton U3 is the LCD-equipped universal remote I would put in this slot for a Netflix room now. It can control compatible TVs, streamers, soundbars, receivers, and other playback gear; it does not control the Netflix service itself.
Its 2.4-inch wake-on-lift LCD, backlit controls, 1200mAh rechargeable battery, and USB-C charging modernize this pick. The U3 supports direct IR, supported Bluetooth, learnable 433/315 MHz RF, and macros. Google voice and Air Mouse remain device-dependent, and hidden IR gear may need the optional R1 repeater.
Pros
- LCD keeps the active playback device visible
- USB-C rechargeable battery simplifies charging
- Backlit controls help during dark-room streaming
- IR, Bluetooth, and learnable RF support compatible gear
Cons
- Does not control the Netflix service itself
- No Wi-Fi or Harmony-style hub
- Voice and Air Mouse need compatible Bluetooth devices
#5 – Premium Pick: SofaBaton X2
Best Fit
Choose the X2 for premium hub activities across compatible room devices.
SofaBaton X2 replaces the discontinued Harmony Elite as the premium pick at the end of this list. Its touchscreen, physical controls, hub, and one-touch activities are built for compatible multi-device entertainment rooms.
For Netflix viewing, the X2 controls the compatible TV, streamer, soundbar, receiver, or other configured gear around the app rather than Netflix itself. Its hub supports IR, Bluetooth, RF, and Wi-Fi device integrations, while Alexa, Google Assistant, and Home Assistant support depends on the connected setup.
Pros
- Touchscreen simplifies activity and device switching
- Hub reaches compatible hidden entertainment gear
- One-touch activities consolidate common routines
- Charging dock supports daily use
Cons
- Premium price
- Initial setup takes careful device configuration
FAQs
Question: Do all universal remotes work with Netflix?
Answer: Not all universal remotes are compatible with Netflix, but many popular models, such as SofaBaton X1S, SofaBaton U3, Fire TV Cube, Function101 Remote, and SofaBaton X2 (all of the products in my list of best universal remotes for Netflix), do support the app. Check the remote’s specifications and compatibility list before purchasing to ensure it works with Netflix on your device.
Question: What is the most versatile universal remote?
Answer: The SofaBaton X1S is considered one of the most versatile universal remotes, as it supports various devices and features, including voice control. Its user-friendly app and customizable button layout make it easy to configure and control your entertainment system.
Question: How do you program a remote for Netflix?
Answer: Programming a universal remote for Netflix usually involves selecting the device (such as a smart TV or streaming box) that hosts the Netflix app and following the remote’s setup process. This may include entering a code, scanning for compatible devices, or customizing buttons to access the Netflix app directly. Some of the remotes here are configured via a smartphone app.
Question: Why won’t my remote work on Netflix?
Answer: If your remote isn’t working with Netflix, it could be due to compatibility issues, incorrect setup, or device-specific limitations. Ensure that your remote supports Netflix, and double-check the setup process for your specific device. If the problem persists, consult the remote’s user manual or contact customer support.
Question: Can I use my TV remote for Netflix?
Answer: Many modern smart TVs come with built-in Netflix support, allowing you to use your TV remote to access and navigate the app. However, this depends on your TV’s make and model, as well as the availability of the Netflix app on the TV’s operating system. Check your TV’s documentation for compatibility and app availability.
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Best Universal Remotes for Netflix: Verdict
The best universal remote for Netflix depends on the device running the app and how much of the room you want one controller to handle.
- Choose SofaBaton X1S for the best overall balance of hub control, activities, and broad device support.
- Choose Fire TV Cube when hands-free Alexa control is the priority.
- Choose Function101 Button Remote for straightforward Apple TV navigation.
For most Netflix rooms, I would start with the X1S and move to one of the platform-specific or premium picks only when that use case clearly fits better. Happy streaming!
Related Links
- 5 Best Remote Apps For Netflix
- 5 Magical Remotes for Disney+
- 7 Best Remotes for Prime Video
- Best Remotes for Fire TV Stick and Cube
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