best universal remotes for ps5

5 Best Universal Remotes for PS5 Streaming in 2024

In Remotes: Streaming by Tim Brennan

Affiliate Disclosure

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this article, I’ll break down the five best universal remotes for PS5 streaming that you can get right now. They are all fully compatible with PS5 and available to buy at Amazon.

Here are my picks for the five best media remotes for PlayStation 5:


Score a PS5? Lucky.

best universal remotes for ps5Finally got your hands on a PS5? You’re one of the fortunate ones. It’s been a few years since the notorious PS5 shortage dominated headlines. Thankfully this year, the PS5 isn’t as elusive, and whispers of a new console are circulating.

Isn’t it amazing how time flies?

If you’re here, you likely snagged a PS5. I, a devoted bargain hunter, waited until the hype cooled. I remember a conversation with my friend Steve who dropped $1000 on his PS5. Despite the outrageous price, he claimed it was worth every dime, except for one caveat: streaming media.

The PS5 offers many streaming apps, but using the DualSense controller can be a chore. Steve often forgot which buttons performed which functions. When I suggested a universal remote, he seemed surprised, confessing, “I didn’t think they would work with PS5.”

Thus, a new blog post was born! Steve, this one’s for you.[


Best PS5 Universal Remotes: Quick Comparison

The following table compares pricing and basic of the best PS5 universal remotes, organized by type:

Image
Playstation Certified
Playstation Media Remote
SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote with Customizable APP, All-in-one Smart Remote Control, Compatible with TV/Soundbar/Streaming Players and More
Premium Pick
SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote Control with Hub & APP, Smart Remote with One-Touch Activities, Compatible with Alexa for Voice Control, Control up to 60 Entertainment IR/Bluetooth Devices
PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Media Remote Control, Playstation Gaming Remote Compatible with Sony Playstation 5 and Playstation 4, Bluetooth Detection for up to 4 Devices, TV Power/Input/Volume Controls
Broadlink RM4 pro Smart IR/RF Remote Control Hub with Sensor Cable-WiFi IR/RF Blaster for Smart Home Automation, TV, Curtain, Shades Remote, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT (RM4 pro S)
Product Name
Playstation Media Remote
SofaBaton U2 Universal
SofaBaton X1 Universal
PDP Universal PS4/PS5 Media Remote Control
Broadlink RM4 pro Smart IR/RF Remote Control
Device Control Limit
PS5 and Smart TV only
8
15
8
8
Controls PS5
Natively
With PDP Gaming Receiver (sold separately)
With PDP Gaming Receiver (sold separately)
Yes
With PDP Gaming Receiver (sold separately)
Controls Home Theater Devices
Controls Smart Home
Price
$29.99
$59.99
$189.99
$46.33
$49.99
Prime Status
Playstation Certified
Image
Playstation Media Remote
Product Name
Playstation Media Remote
Device Control Limit
PS5 and Smart TV only
Controls PS5
Natively
Controls Home Theater Devices
Controls Smart Home
Price
$29.99
Prime Status
Image
SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote with Customizable APP, All-in-one Smart Remote Control, Compatible with TV/Soundbar/Streaming Players and More
Product Name
SofaBaton U2 Universal
Device Control Limit
8
Controls PS5
With PDP Gaming Receiver (sold separately)
Controls Home Theater Devices
Controls Smart Home
Price
$59.99
Prime Status
Premium Pick
Image
SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote Control with Hub & APP, Smart Remote with One-Touch Activities, Compatible with Alexa for Voice Control, Control up to 60 Entertainment IR/Bluetooth Devices
Product Name
SofaBaton X1 Universal
Device Control Limit
15
Controls PS5
With PDP Gaming Receiver (sold separately)
Controls Home Theater Devices
Controls Smart Home
Price
$189.99
Prime Status
Image
PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Media Remote Control, Playstation Gaming Remote Compatible with Sony Playstation 5 and Playstation 4, Bluetooth Detection for up to 4 Devices, TV Power/Input/Volume Controls
Product Name
PDP Universal PS4/PS5 Media Remote Control
Device Control Limit
8
Controls PS5
Yes
Controls Home Theater Devices
Controls Smart Home
Price
$46.33
Prime Status
Image
Broadlink RM4 pro Smart IR/RF Remote Control Hub with Sensor Cable-WiFi IR/RF Blaster for Smart Home Automation, TV, Curtain, Shades Remote, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT (RM4 pro S)
Product Name
Broadlink RM4 pro Smart IR/RF Remote Control
Device Control Limit
8
Controls PS5
With PDP Gaming Receiver (sold separately)
Controls Home Theater Devices
Controls Smart Home
Price
$49.99
Prime Status

Last update on 02/17/2024 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Note: Prices are pulled in from the Amazon API and are current as of the date and time at the bottom of this table. Click the button in the table to see the latest price, more details, or the latest customer reviews.

#1 – PS5 Certified: Media Remote

First and foremost, this is Sony’s official media remote for PS5. It does one thing and it does it well. That is, it controls PS5 media playback seamlessly and easily. Convenient buttons are provided to access two of the most popular streaming services out there: Netflix and Disney+. Plus, you get dedicated buttons for Spotify and YouTube as well.

This remote won’t control other devices in your media cabinet or let you consolidate multiple remotes to one. Check out some of my other picks here if this is important to you. If all you want to do is control streaming and apps on your PS5, the PlayStation Media Remote is a great choice.

Pros

  • Sony’s official remote for controlling streaming on PS5.
  • Feels good in the hand.
  • Dedicated remote buttons for Disney+, Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube.
  • Navigation, Play, Pause, Remind, Fast Forward, and of course, Power on/off the console and up/down volume controls.
  • Super easy to pair.
  • Offers intuitive media controls for quick access to playback functions.
  • Allows for easy system software updates.

Cons

  • It will only control your PS5 console and some Smart TVs (other AV equipment is not supported).
  • Won’t control smart devices such as lights.
  • Takes regular batteries (not rechargeable).
  • Buttons aren’t backlit, which makes them hard to use in the dark.

Where To Get It

Playstation Media Remote
$29.99
  • Media playback controls - Quickly navigate media with built-in play/pause, fast forward and fast reverse buttons.
  • Seamless console compatibility - Power on your PS5 console and navigate its menus directly with the remote for ultimate convenience.
Check Price
02/10/2024 10:00 am GMT

Video Review

TK Bay has a nice review video of the PS5 Media remote out on YouTube. I will embed it below.


#2 – Best Budget Pick: Sofabaton U2

The Sofabaton U2 is a fantastic universal remote that offers excellent value for its price. This user-friendly remote can control various devices, including Blu-ray players and compatible TVs with power settings. It provides an intuitive layout and easy-to-use interface for seamless remote control functionality.

In terms of programming, the U2 stands out with its simplicity. It offers different options, including infrared mode and manual learning mode, to easily program and set up the remote for your specific devices. It also supports fast reverse buttons for quick navigation.

This budget-friendly remote features a sleek design and ergonomic buttons for comfortable use. With its wide compatibility, the Sofabaton U2 is a versatile choice for controlling your media devices, including your Sony PS5.

📚 Related: Sofabaton U1 VS U2

Pros

  • Offers great value for the money.
  • Controls various devices, including Blu-ray players and compatible TVs.
  • Supports power settings of PS5 and compatible TVs.
  • Intuitive layout for easy navigation.
  • Compatible with Sony PS5 and other video game consoles.

Cons

  • No smart device control.
  • Setup and take a bit of time.
  • No voice assistant support.

Where To Get It

Best Budget Universal
SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote
$59.99

The improved Sofabaton U2 remote features a better design, more responsive buttons, enhanced infrared performance, and easier battery replacement, making it a worthy upgrade from its U1 predecessor.

Buy at Amazon Full Review
02/16/2024 10:00 am GMT

Video Review

Hatoraid Cowboy Cinema provides a detailed review of the Sofabaton U2 on YouTube.


#3 – Premium Choice: Sofabaton X1

The Sofabaton X1 is a premium universal remote with advanced features and controls. With the ability to control up to 60 components, including your PS5 and other devices like Blu-ray players and smart TVs, the X1 provides ultimate convenience and consolidation of your entertainment system.

This remote offers a customizable layout and responsive buttons for easy navigation and control. Its built-in IR transmitter ensures seamless compatibility with a wide range of devices, and the included charging dock keeps the remote powered and ready for use.

The Sofabaton X1 also features a built-in microphone button for voice control and supports HDMI-CEC settings for simplified operation. Its intuitive interface and dedicated shortcut buttons make it a top choice for controlling your media devices, including your PS5.

📚 Related: My Full Sofabaton X1 Review

Pros

  • Controls up to 60 components, including PS5, Blu-ray players, and smart TVs.
  • Customizable layout and responsive buttons.
  • Built-in IR transmitter for seamless compatibility.
  • Rechargeable battery with exceptional battery life.
  • Supports voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Compatible with HDMI-CEC settings for streamlined operation.

Cons

  • Higher price point compared to other options.
  • Initial setup and configuration may require some time and effort.
  • Limited support for smart home devices.

Where To Get It

Editor's Choice
SofaBaton X1 – 10% Discount Applied at Checkout!
$189.99

Sofabaton X1 will let you control up to 60 devices from top brands. It features backlit buttons, one-click actions for multiple devices, a long-lasting rechargeable battery, and a cool LCD screen. This is the best universal remote out there right now.

Buy at Amazon
02/17/2024 10:00 am GMT
sofabaton x1 review box contents

My Sofabaton X1 Remote, Hub, App, & IR Extenders

Video Review

Here is an unboxing that I did of the X1 over at my YouTube channel.


#4 – Another Budget Pick: PDP Media Remote

Based on my research in the forums, the PDP media remote designed for PS4 also works just fine out of the box with PS5. Dear PDP marketing, you may want to call Amazon to clue them in as the information on your product page is wrong. LOL.

This is somewhat similar to the Sony remote sans the dedicated buttons for your favorite media apps. Oh, and it is about half the price! You can easily program the remote to work with your favorite PS5 apps, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more.

Pros

  • Inexpensive.
  • It lets you control Blu-ray players, video game consoles, and compatible TVs.
  • Simple design.
  • Connects via Bluetooth.
  • Simple to set up.
  • Supports control of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Cons

  • Not rechargeable, and requires batteries.
  • No dedicated buttons for your favorite apps out of the box.
  • Limited compatibility with different manufacturers and models.

Where To Get It

PDP Universal Gaming Media Remote: Playstation 4
$46.79
  • EASY SETUP - Simplify your set-up and effortlessly control your entertainment with the ultimate universal remote for PS5 or PS4 system. The Cloud Remote uses Bluetooth wireless technology to manage...
  • HASSLE-FREE - Programming the remote is straightforward using Bluetooth technology to auto-detect devices connected to the PS5 & PS4 system for hassle-free remote programming.
Check Price
02/10/2024 09:00 am GMT

Video Review

Cord Cutters has a nice overview of the remote out on YouTube.


Regarding the best universal remotes for PS5, the Broadlink RM4 Pro is a top contender. This device offers a comprehensive solution for controlling a variety of home appliances, including your PS5 and other entertainment devices.

While there is no physical remote per se, the Broadlink RM4 Pro provides a remote control app that allows you to control your PS5 with your smartphone. With its user-friendly interface and compatibility with various platforms, the app offers an intuitive way to manage your media playback and control your PS5.

The Broadlink RM4 Pro features extensive compatibility with different devices and components. It allows you to control an impressive range of components and supports voice control integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for added convenience.

Pros

  • Extensive compatibility with various devices.
  • Ability to control an impressive range of components.
  • User-friendly app with customization options.
  • Simple connection process.
  • Built-in voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Compatible with PS5 and other entertainment devices.

Cons

  • No physical remote.
  • Requires line of sight to function effectively.
  • Can’t control Bluetooth devices.
  • Best PS5 Universal Remotes: Mic Drop.

Where To Get It


Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to enhancing your PS5 streaming experience, selecting the best universal remote is key. With features like seamless console compatibility, intuitive media controls, and compatibility with different devices, these remotes provide ultimate convenience and control.

From the official PS5 Certified: Media Remote to budget-friendly options like the PDP Universal Remote, each remote offers unique advantages such as quick access to media playback controls and support for HDMI-CEC settings. Whether you prefer the premium features of the Sofabaton X1 or the convenience of the Broadlink RM4 Pro remote app, there’s a remote to suit your needs.

Don’t settle for struggling with the DualSense controller or juggling multiple remotes. Take charge of your entertainment setup with a dedicated universal remote. Control your Blu-ray player, streaming devices, and smart TV more easily, thanks to features like power settings, rest mode control, and TV controls with a home button, volume control, power button, etc.

Say goodbye to confusion and hello to seamless control over your PS5. Whether you have a Sony TV, different manufacturers’ devices, or even a white console, these remotes offer the best way to navigate menus, adjust volume, and explore streaming platforms.

With the push of a button, you’ll have the power to enjoy your favorite games and streaming content on the next-gen console. So, grab your PS5, choose the best PS5 universal remote, and take your entertainment experience to new heights. It’s time to drop the mic and take control of your media with confidence.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tim Brennan

Tim Brennan is a technology blogger and hosts the @TecTimmy YouTube channel. He writes about smart homes at oneSmartcrib, home theaters at UniversalRemoteReviews, and AI in writing at Writeinteractive. A graduate of Northeastern University School of Journalism, he has written about technology for 30 years. Tim lives on the ocean in Nahant, Massachusetts.


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