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The best remotes for Apple TV range from Apple’s own Siri Remote to full universal hubs that can run an entire home theater and more.
Apple TV. You Complete Me.
I‘m a big Apple TV guy. Chances are, if you arrived here, you’re a fan as well.
Say what you want about the Siri Remote, but the latest generation is way better than the prior ones. The lack of buttons takes getting used to, but if you prefer buttons, you now have options too.
I own Universal Remote Reviews, and I’ve personally owned, tried, and tested every remote on this list of the best remotes for Apple TV.
Apple TV’s audience is past 38 million in the U.S., per Statista, so I think we’re in good company.
Key Takeaways
🔸 Top pick: the Function101 for real buttons, with the Apple Siri Remote as the clean OEM alternative.
🔸 Best universal: the SofaBaton X2 for a premium touchscreen hub, or the X1S for less.
🔸 Also great: BroadLink RM4 Pro for app control, the SofaBaton U2 on a budget, and Sideclick to upgrade your Siri Remote.
Apple TV Remote Comparison Table
Here is how my top five picks for the best remotes for Apple TV stack up at a glance.
| Top Recommendation | OEM Replacement | Premium Hub | App Hub | Budget Universal | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Product | Function101 | Apple Siri Remote | SofaBaton X2 | BroadLink RM4 Pro | SofaBaton U2 |
| Rank | #1 Best Overall | #2 OEM Replacement | #3 Premium Hub | #4 | #5 |
| Best For | Real-button Apple TV control | Apple TV purists | Full home theater | App-first control | Budget universal control |
| Devices Controlled | Apple TV plus CEC TV/soundbar | Apple TV only | Home theater plus smart home | IR/RF devices by app | Up to 15 devices |
| Connectivity | IR or Bluetooth/IR | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | IR, Bluetooth, RF, Wi-Fi | IR, RF, Wi-Fi | IR and Bluetooth |
| Voice Control | None | Siri | Alexa, Google, Home Assistant | Alexa and Google | None |
| Smart Home | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ |
| Battery | 2 AAA, up to 6 months | Rechargeable, 4-6 months | Rechargeable with dock | Plug-in hub | 2 AA, about a month |
| Screen / Display | None | None | Color touchscreen | App only | OLED display |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
#1 – Function101: Best Overall
Specs
- Size: 171 x 44 x 19 mm (6.75 x 1.75 x 0.75 in)
- Weight: 42 g (1.48 oz)
- Connectivity: Options for IR only or Bluetooth / IR
- Battery Life: Up to 6 months (depending on usage)
- Voice Assistants: Not applicable
- No of Devices: Apple TV, plus HDMI-CEC compatible TVs and Soundbars
Overview
The Function101 is my number one recommendation here because it solves the Apple TV problem most people actually complain about: the Siri Remote is sleek, but plenty of families still want real buttons. That is why it earns the top slot among the best remotes for Apple TV. I should disclose that the owner is a friend and partner, but that is not why I recommend it. These remotes sell like crazy because they feel familiar the second someone picks one up.
It works with current Apple TV models and has a simple matte-black design, a D-pad, playback keys, and volume and mute. Setup is quick, with Bluetooth or IR options depending on the model you choose. Battery life runs up to six months on two AAA batteries, and it can control power, volume, and mute on your TV, soundbar, or receiver. If the Siri Remote feels too small, too slippery, or too easy to lose, start here.
Pros
- Real tactile buttons instead of a touch surface
- Familiar layout that guests use without help
- Long battery life on two AAA batteries
- Affordable, easy setup in just a few minutes
Cons
- Limited support for the oldest Apple TV models
- No Siri voice button on the remote
Function101 is offering my readers special savings on this remote. Click Functtion101 below for the deal, or shop at Amazon if you prefer.
Video Review
Here is a closer look at the Function101 from MacRumors.
#2 – Apple Siri Remote: OEM Replacement
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)
Overview
The first-generation Apple Siri Remote deservedly had some haters, but Apple turned those frowns upside down. The current model that ships with your Apple TV is genuinely good, and it belongs among the best remotes for Apple TV as the OEM replacement to buy when you want Apple’s own clicker without changing how the system works. Forbes even called it a leap from very bad to very best.
It looks clean, feels good in the hand, and puts the right buttons in the right places for navigating Apple TV. If your fingers need a rest, the Siri button handles search by voice. The catch is the same one Apple TV owners already know: it is mostly an Apple TV remote, not a home-theater command center. It will not work with the original Apple TV either.
Pros
- Lightweight build with excellent button placement and feel
- Outstanding battery life, four to six months per charge
- Siri button finds shows with a quick press
- Ships in the box with current Apple TV
Cons
- Only controls Apple TV, nothing else in room
- Minimal buttons frustrate users who want more
The updated Siri Remote has a touch clickpad, voice control, and USB-C.
Video Review
Here is MacRumors on why the redesign is such a big upgrade.
#3 – SofaBaton X2: Premium Universal Hub
Specs
- Size: Handheld remote plus charging dock
- Connectivity: IR, Bluetooth, RF, and Wi-Fi
- Battery Life: Rechargeable with dock
- Voice Assistants: Alexa, Google Assistant, Home Assistant
- Screen: Color touchscreen
- No of Devices: Huge device database
Overview
SofaBaton sent me the SofaBaton X2 to test, and it has quickly become the most exciting remote in the house. It is the universal hub I would put ahead of the X1S if you want the newest premium setup, with a touchscreen, dock, and enough control to make a TV, Apple TV, soundbar, and smart-home gear behave like one system.
The charging dock is not just a nice extra; it keeps the remote from vanishing between couch cushions, and the touchscreen feels more polished than the X1S. If you want the most capable of the best remotes for Apple TV and do not mind paying for it, this is the full home-theater hub to watch.
Pros
- Touchscreen makes activities and devices feel premium
- Charging dock ends the lost-remote and battery hassle
- Wide device support across IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
- Runs the whole home theater as one system
Cons
- Premium price sits above the X1S
- Initial setup still takes some patience
- Newer model, so long-term track record is short
SofaBaton X2 lets you command your entire home entertainment system with an intuitive touchscreen remote.
Video Review
Here is my SofaBaton X2 unboxing over on my TecTimmy channel.
#4 – BroadLink RM4 Pro: Best App
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
Overview
The BroadLink RM4 Pro is a capable Apple TV companion that does much more. It controls all your IR devices through your phone or with Alexa and Google Assistant, turning an ordinary setup into a smarter one for a low upfront cost. You can handle power, volume, inputs, channels, and full playback by voice or a few taps.
That flexibility is why it earns a spot among the best remotes for Apple TV for app-first rooms. It also reads temperature and humidity, so you can fold heating and cooling into your routines, something the old Harmony Hub never did. It is the pick for a tinkerer who wants a flexible hub without premium-remote money.
Pros
- Affordable way to automate IR and RF gear
- Solid voice control with Alexa or Google
- Controls older RF and IR devices remotely
- Two IR blasters reach inside closed cabinets
Cons
- Setup takes time if you’re not techy
- Needs line of sight or IR blasters
- Requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network connection
The Broadlink RM4 Pro controls 50,000+ IR and Wi-Fi devices via app scenes—but no Bluetooth support.
#5 – SofaBaton U2: IR-Only Universal
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
Overview
The SofaBaton U2 is a strong upgrade over the U1, pairing a better design with reliable performance. This all-in-one remote replaces up to 15 infrared and Bluetooth device remotes, which simplifies a cluttered home-entertainment setup and is why it is one of the best remotes for Apple TV on a budget.
It has extended IR range, a programmable macro button (press Watch Netflix to turn on the TV and soundbar, switch to Apple TV, and open the app), plus a scroll wheel and OLED display. It will not touch Wi-Fi devices, though, so if you need those, step up to the X2 or X1S.
Pros
- Controls Apple TV plus up to 15 devices
- Extended infrared range beats the older U1
- Backlit screen lets you check status easily
- Relatively easy to set up using the app
Cons
- Bulkier design than the slimmer X1S
- No Alexa or Google Home integration
- Infrared only, and AA batteries need swapping
The SofaBaton U2 adds a backlight, better IR, and a better design over the U1.
Video Review
Here is an unboxing and intro to the U2 from Kpaceguy.
#6 – SofaBaton X1S: Value Universal Hub
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
Overview
I have been writing about universal remotes for years, and the SofaBaton X1S still belongs among the best remotes for Apple TV when you want hub-based control but do not need the X2’s touchscreen and charging dock. It supports over 500,000 devices, learns from existing remotes, and can run your smart TV, Apple TV, streamers, consoles, and audio from one activity-based setup.
The company clearly gets it: they fixed early bugs fast, reach out to new owners with a setup checklist, and take support seriously. Setup was a little tricky at first, and the OLED screen is more utilitarian than premium. Still, if you want the SofaBaton hub idea for less money than the X2, the X1S is the value play.
Here is my X1S in the box.
Pro Tip: Update the firmware before you do anything else after unboxing this remote.
Pros
- Simple setup and learns from your existing remotes
- Works with 500,000 devices from 6,000 brands
- Activities switch TV, soundbar, and lights together
- Companion app doubles as a second remote
- Remap buttons and favorites easily in the app
- Outstanding battery life lasts weeks between charges
Cons
- Activities take some tinkering to set up
- OLED screen only, not a touchscreen display
SofaBaton X1S offers similar core functionality to the X2, minus the touchscreen, at a lower price.
Video Review
Here is my own unboxing of the SofaBaton X1 over on my YouTube channel.
#7 – Sideclick: Siri Remote Add-On
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
Overview
Rounding out my list of the best remotes for Apple TV is not a remote at all; it is an attachment that clips onto the side of your existing Sideclick Siri Remote (the latest silver or black touchpad models). It adds the buttons Apple left off.
With it you can control the basics on your TV, receiver, soundbar, Blu-ray, and Apple TV from one piece. It is easy to program, since you just pair it with your original remotes, and if you switch streamers later you keep the Sideclick and grab a new adapter. The company also makes versions for Fire TV, Roku, Shield, and Chromecast.
Pros
- Consolidates several remotes into your Apple TV remote
- Mix and match buttons for player and soundbar
- Simple to program by pairing existing remotes
Cons
- Case feels a little clunky in hand
- Controls IR devices only, not newer remotes
The Sideclick adds basic universal controls to your Apple TV remote in a slim attachment.
Video Review
Here is a look at the Sideclick attachment from EndOfLineTech.
FAQs
Here are the questions I hear most about the best remotes for Apple TV.
1. What is the best remote control for Apple TV?
My top pick among the best remotes for Apple TV is Function101, because it gives Apple TV owners real buttons without making the setup complicated. The Apple Siri Remote is the OEM replacement if you want Apple’s own remote, and the SofaBaton X2 makes sense when one clicker needs to run your whole home theater.
2. What should I look for in an Apple TV remote?
Start with how you actually watch. Decide whether you only need slick Apple TV navigation or full control of a soundbar, receiver, and TV from a single clicker. Then weigh button layout, voice search, battery type, and how easily guests or family members can pick it up without needing a long tutorial or your help.
3. Will the new Siri Remote work with any Apple TV?
The current Siri Remote pairs with every Apple TV model running a modern tvOS version, so it stays one of the best remotes for Apple TV across recent generations. It will not operate the very first Apple TV, and it only controls Apple TV itself, not any of your other entertainment or wider smart-home gear.
4. Do the SofaBaton remotes work with Apple TV?
Yes. The SofaBaton X2, X1S, and U2 control Apple TV and are useful picks for full-room control. They fold your TV, soundbar, receiver, and streamer into one remote, with activities that switch everything at once. X2 and X1S add Wi-Fi and voice support; U2 skips Wi-Fi and smart-home voice control and works for simple rooms.
5. How does the Function101 remote improve the Apple TV experience?
Function101 brings a traditional button layout to Apple TV, which is why it is my number one recommendation among the best remotes for Apple TV. Instead of a touch surface, you get a directional pad, dedicated playback keys, and volume control. Guests navigate without accidental swipes, and it runs on AAA batteries for many months.
Best Remotes for Apple TV: Verdict
The best remotes for Apple TV come down to whether you want the easiest Apple TV button remote, Apple’s own OEM clicker, or a full home-theater hub.
- Choose the Function101 if you want my number one recommendation: a familiar, real-button remote that makes Apple TV easier for guests and family.
- Choose the Apple Siri Remote if you mostly watch Apple TV and want the cleanest OEM replacement with Siri built in.
- Choose the SofaBaton X2 if you want a premium hub with a touchscreen that runs your whole home theater; step down to the X1S if you want hub control for less.
And if one streamer is not the whole story in your living room, my roundup of the best universal remotes this year digs into the full field.
Featured Photo by Omar Rodriguez on Unsplash
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