7 Best Remotes for Apple TV in 2022

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In the post, I am pleased to share my picks for the seven best remotes for Apple TV you can get right now.

Following are my top recommendations for Apple TV remotes (Siri and Universal):

#1 – Most On-Point: Apple Siri Remote
#2 – Most Versatile: Sofabaton X1
#3 – Premium Pick: Logitech Harmony
#4 – App and Hub: Broadlink RM4 Pro
#5 – Budget Sofabaton: Sofabaton U1
#6 – Gaming Controller: SteelSeries Nimbus+
#7 – Best Siri Remote Add-On: Sideclick

You can click on any link in the list above to jump down to see the specs, pros, and cons of that remote. Or continue on to see a side-by-side comparison of my top three picks for controlling your Apple devices.

Best ATV Remotes: My Top 3 Picks

The following table compares my top three picks of the best remotes for Apple TV side by side. Pricing is updated dynamically via integration with Amazon’s API.

Top Pick

Best Overall: Apple Siri Remote

Best Universal: Sofabaton X1

Premium Pick: Logitech Harmony

SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote Control with Hub & APP, Smart Remote with One-Touch Activities, Compatible with Alexa for Voice Control, Control up to 50 Entertainment IR/Bluetooth Devices

Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App, Compatible with Alexa (Renewed)

See It At Amazon

While the earlier generation of the Apple TV Siri remote was lacking, the new remote has become a fan favorite. ATV owners have overwhelmingly positive things to say about it. It won't control anything other than ATV, however.

The latest offering from the engineers over at Sofabaton is the answer to Harmony putting the kabosh on making new remotes. With support for xxx from xx brands, this remote will control ATV, your home theater, your smarthome and everything in between. Elegantly.

While Logitech has said it will no longer manufacture new Harmony remotes, it will continue to support them "for as long as customers use them." If you want to go with Harmony move fast to snatch up the remaining inventory. When they're gone, they're gone.

Controls ATV

Number of Devices

Apple TV Only

Controls Home Theater

Controls Smart Home

Voice Control

Siri

Alexa with Google coming soon

Alexa and Google Assistant

Prime Eligible

Price

$54.98

$189.99

$680.14

Top Pick

Best Overall: Apple Siri Remote

See It At Amazon

Controls ATV

Number of Devices

Apple TV Only

Controls Home Theater

Controls Smart Home

Voice Control

Siri

Prime Eligible

Price

$54.98

Best Universal: Sofabaton X1

See It At Amazon

Controls ATV

Number of Devices

Controls Home Theater

Controls Smart Home

Voice Control

Alexa with Google coming soon

Prime Eligible

Price

$189.99

Premium Pick: Logitech Harmony

See It At Amazon

Controls ATV

Number of Devices

Controls Home Theater

Controls Smart Home

Voice Control

Alexa and Google Assistant

Prime Eligible

Price

$680.14

Last update on 09/28/2022 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#1 – Most On-Point: Apple Siri Remote

The first-generation Apple TV Siri remote deservedly had some serious haters. But Apple quickly turned those frowns upside down with the 2^nd gen remote that now one of the best options actually ships with your Apple TV.

MacRumors hailed the remote as a HUGE Upgrade over at YouTube when it was released last year.

And Forbes magazine and others have said the Apple TV remote goes from very bad to the very best.

This is good news for Apple TV since market research firm Statistica predicts the streaming platform will grow from 38.7 million users today to 47.7 million by 2026.

Apple TV Fun Fact: Statistica predicts the streaming platform will grow from 38.7 million users today to 47.7 million by 2026. Click to Tweet

The elegant streamlined remote not only looks cool and feels good in the hand, but it has just the right mix of buttons with perfect placement for navigating your Apple TV. Sorry about that Amazon Fire TV remote. Oh, and if you feel like giving your fingers a rest, you can just ask Siri to do it. Hands down, this is the best Apple TV remote replacement. It won’t control your other entertainment or smart home devices, though. It also won’t work with the original Apple TV.

📚 Related: How to Watch Football on Apple TV

Specs

Size: ‎1.04 x 6.93 x 2.62 inches;
Weight: 6 ounces
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Battery Life: 4-6 months (rechargeable)
Voice Assistants: Siri
No of Devices: 1 (Apple TV)

Pros

Excellent design (lightweight but solid with excellent button placement).
Feels good in the hand.
Amazing battery life (4-6 months on a charge).
Just press the Siri button to find shows to watch.

Cons

Only controls Apple TV

SEE IT AT AMAZON

#2 – Most Versatile: Sofabaton X1

I’ve been blogging about universal remotes for the better part of three years, but I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited about a remote than I am with the new Sofabaton X1. First, this little remote has the potential to be even better than Harmony which certainly had its flaws.

Second, compatibility with over 500,000 devices AND learning capability means it is practically guaranteed to work with all of your stuff. This includes your smart TV, ATV, other streaming devices, game console, audio setup, and more.

Third, the company just seems to get it: they were quick to fix bugs found in the initial release version, they proactively reach out to new customers with a checklist of things to set yourself up for success, and they are serious about tech support.

Kpaceguy gives the updated X1 remote a major thumbs up in his early YouTube review.

While I haven’t had the chance to fully test this yet myself, the latest reviews are encouraging. Honestly, I think this is going to be an over better experience and the best way you can control your Apple TV right now.

Here’s my X1 new in the box. I plan to unbox it this week over on my YouTube channel.

Pro Tip: Make sure you update the firmware before doing anything else after you buy this remote.

Specs

Size: 9.06 x 5.51 x 2.76 inches
Weight: 41 pounds
Connectivity: IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
Battery Life: 30-60 days
Voice Assistants: Alexa with Google Assistant support coming
No of Devices: Up to 15

Pros

Simple set up and can learn from existing remotes.
Works with 500,000 devices from 6,000 brands.
Activities can be programmed to do things like turn on your TV, switch to you Apple TV, and dim your smart lights, and turn on your soundbar.
Companion app can be used an additional remote.
Can easily re-map buttons for activities, favorites using the app.
Outstanding battery life.

Cons

Can take a bit of tinkering to figure out Activities.
Screen is OLED only, not a touch screen.

SEE IT AT AMAZON

#3 – Premium Pick: Logitech Harmony Elite

My Harmony Elite

Next on my list of the best remotes for Apple TV is the Logitech Harmony Elite.

I have the Harmony Elite and have been using it for years. However, adding new routines and devices has always been a bit of a hassle with the Harmony software, so I haven’t really added my new devices to it over the past year or so. The ease of setup with the Sofabaton X1 remote has got me thinking this is going to unseat my Elite.

Still, this is a stellar and highly sophisticated remote that deserves its own place on my list. Like the X1, Logitech devices database numbers in the hundreds of thousands, it will let you control up to 15 home theater devices and potentially an unlimited number of smart devices via Wi-Fi.

Here’s a heads up though, with the dwindling inventory of Harmony remotes, the prices for Harmony remotes have literally gone through the roof. Still, if you want the Elite and can afford it, snatch one up fast! Elite remains the best option for controlling your media center.

📚Related: 11 Best Logitech Harmony Alternatives

Specs

Size: 10.1 x 9.4 x 3.3 inches
Weight: 1.72 pounds
Connectivity: IR, Bluetooth & Wi-Fi
Battery Life: About 2 days on a full charge
Voice Assistants: Alexa and Google
No of Devices: Up to 15

Pros

The Cadillac of remotes has benefitted from years of development
Large color touch screen with solid button placement
Control up to 15 devices
Control Apple TV, home theater, and smart home
Google and Alexa for voice control

Cons

Super expensive, even more so now that inventory is low
Poor battery life, though docking cradle helps to keep it charged
Touch screen interface takes some getting used to navigating
Steep learning curve for non-Harmony users; first time set up can be exhausting

SEE IT AT AMAZON

#4 – App and Hub: Broadlink RM4 Pro

The Broadlink RM4 Pro is a worthy Apple TV device but it does so much more. It lets you control all your remote-controlled devices through your phone via the Broadlink app or with Alexa or Google Assistant. This makes your home smarter with a low upfront cost. Control TV On/Off and volume control. Change channel by number or name, and switch inputs for your devices all with your voice or a few taps of your phone. You can also control media playback using the Play, Fast Forward, Rewind, Pause, Stop, Previous functions and much more.

Works with Alexa and Google Assistant to control of your IR appliances by just saying “Alexa turn on the TV” or “Alexa volume down on TV.” This is one of the best universal remote apps you can get today. The hub also features temperature and humidity detection so that you can integrate and automate your home heating and cooling systems. This is something that wasn’t available on the Harmony Hub.

Specs

Size: 3.3 x 3.3 x 1.2 inches
Weight: 3.35 ounces
Connectivity: IR/RF/Wi-Fi
Battery Life: N/A
Voice Assistants: Alexa and Google Assistant
No of Devices: 15

Pros

Affordable home automation option.
Solid voice control using Alexa or Google Assistant.
Can be used to automate older RF/IR devices.
Two IR blaster provided for closed cabinet control.

Cons

Setup can be time consuming, especially if not tech savvy.
Needs line of sight to devices or IR blasters.
Requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.

SEE IT AT AMAZON

#5 – Budget Sofabaton: Sofabaton U1

Sofabaton U1 is a universal remote controller that replaces up to 15 remotes you are using today. Whether you choose Sofabaton’s new X1 remote or the U1, the company’s vast device database supports 500,000+ devices from 6000+ brands. This means it will almost certainly work with the devices you are using today.

With U1, you’ll have just one remote for your TV, DVD/Blu-ray player, soundbar, and streaming media players like Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and many others. The bright color OLED screen directly displays the current status and is convenient for switching different devices.

Here’s an unboxing and an intro to the U1 app from OSReviews. Nice job with the demo man.

With one macro button push, you can automate multiple commands such as “Watch Netflix” can be set to turn on the TV and soundbar, switch to Apple TV, and open Netflix.

The U1 is limited to control of IR and Bluetooth devices, so if you want to add Wi-fi device control check out the X1.

Specs

Size: 7.7 x 1.9 x 1.2 inches
Weight: 9.9 ounces
Connectivity: IR and Bluetooth
Battery Life: About a month (2AA batteries)
Voice Assistants: None
No of Devices: 15

Pros

Works great to control Apple TV, plus your other favorite streamers.
Great value for control of up to 15 devices.
LED screen lets you visually check status.
Relatively easy to set up using the app.

Cons

Larger bulkier design than the X1
No Alexa or Google Home integration.
Can’t control wireless devices.
Battery life is poor (need to regularly swap up AA batteries).

SEE IT AT AMAZON

#6 – Best for Gamers: SteelSeries Nimbus+

SteelSeries Nimbus+ is designed specifically for Apple Gaming, bringing a console-quality gaming experience to the iPhone, iPad, iPod, and Apple TV. With an ergonomic design, responsive triggers and buttons, and a built-in rechargeable battery, you can enjoy hours of play on a single charge.

“Plus,” with four free months of Apple Arcade and compatibility with thousands of titles, you’ll have plenty of games to keep you busy Official Apple-licensed Wireless Connectivity ensures compatibility with all Apple products.

Here’s a nice review of the Nimbus+ from AppleInsider:

Specs

Size: ‎4.33 x 2.49 x 5.9 inches
Weight: ‎8.5 ounces
Connectivity: Wireless (proprietary), Bluetooth
Battery Life: 40 hours (rechargeable)
Voice Assistants: N/A
No of Devices: iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, iPhone 5S, iPad Mini 4, iPad Mini 3, iPad Mini 2, iPad (4th Generation), iPad Air 2, iPod Touch (6th Generation) and Apple TV (4th Generation)

Pros

Controller has heft to it and feels solid in the hand.
Generous four-months of Apple Arcade with thousands of titles.
Arrow buttons have tactile feedback.
Clickable L3/R3 buttons allow for more input options across a variety of games.

Cons

Designed for gaming, controller can be awkward to control Apple TV for other things

SEE IT AT AMAZON

#7 – Best Siri Remote Add-On: Sideclick Universal Attachment

Next on my list of best remotes for Apple TV is not a remote at all. Rather, it is an attachment that clicks on to the side of your existing Apple TV remote (latest generations silver or black touchpad).

Here’s a look at the Sideclick Universal Attachment for Apple TV from EndofLineTech. Nice job with the video, dude 😊.

You can use it to control the basic functions of your TV, receiver, sound bar, Blu-Ray, and Apple TV all-in-one convenient device. The Sideclick is super easy to program; however, you must have your original device remote to program the Sideclick Remote’s eight buttons to your most-used devices. If you decide to change your streaming device, you can use the same Sideclick Remote and just get the adapter for that device. The company also makes attachments for Fire TV, Roku, NVIDIA Shield, and Chromecast.

Specs

Size: ‎5.67 x 5.59 x 1.73 inches
Weight: 4.3 ounces
Connectivity: IR
Battery: 2 AAA batteries required
Voice Assistants: Siri (Apple TV remote)
No of Devices: Apple TV only

Pros

Apple TV fans can consolidate other remotes down to just one.
Mix and match multiple streaming devices. For example, you can program the side buttons to control a Roku player and your soundbar.
Simple to program by “pairing” it with your existing remotes.

Cons

Case feels a little clunky in the hand.
Controls RF/IR devices only.
Not compatible with some earlier Apple TV remotes.

SEE IT AT AMAZON

FAQs

What is the best remote control for Apple TV?

The best remote control for Apple TV is hands now the latest generation of the Apple Siri remote that ships with the ATV console. The main drawback to this remote is that it is not a universal remote—meaning you can only control Apple TV with it. If you want a universal remote that can control Apple TV and your other devices for major brands and not-so-major ones, check out the Sofabaton X1.

Will the new Apple TV remote work with any Apple TV?

The new Apple TV remote is backward compatible with all Apple TVs that run Apple tvOS.

Do the Sofabaton remotes work with Apple TV?

Yes, both the X1 and U1 remotes from Sofabaton work with Apple TV. Additionally, the company says that it can control up to 15 devices, including your TV, cable box, Blu-ray player, DVD, DVR, satellite, audio, sound bars, and streaming media players like Fire TV, Roku, and Apple TV.

Best Remotes for Apple TV: Your Turn

I hope you found my round-up of the best remotes for Apple TV helpful. Please leave me a comment below and let me know.

While Apple has made great strides in improving the Siri remote, it still doesn’t solve the same dilemma caused by all of these streaming devices in my view. That is, the addition of one more remote being added to the collection on your coffee table.

While new prospects from innovative companies like Sofabaton and Broadlink aren’t perfect yet, I am super encouraged by their latest offerings.

My new Sofabaton X1 remote just arrived in the box from Amazon. I will be blogging about that more here and also creating some videos over on my YouTube channel. Please consider bookmarking this site and subscribing to my YouTube channel if you are interested in learning more about universal remotes!

Featured Photo by Omar Rodriguez on Unsplash