I Tested the Best Universal Remote for TCL TVs: My Easy Setup Guide and Top Picks
I know how frustrating it can be when a TV remote goes missing, stops working, or simply becomes too cluttered with buttons you never use. That’s why the idea of a Universal Remote For Tcl is so appealing—it offers a simpler, more convenient way to control your TCL TV without the hassle of juggling multiple remotes or dealing with complicated setup. Whether you’re looking to replace a lost remote or streamline your entertainment setup, this topic is all about making everyday viewing easier, smoother, and more enjoyable.
I Tested The Universal Remote For Tcl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Replacement Only for TCL Google TV Remote Control,RC813 Compatible with TCL QM8/QM7/S5/S4/S3/Q7/Q6/Q5 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs
Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung/LG/Vizio/TCL/Hisense/Sony/Philips/Onn/Sharp/Element/Westinghouse/Sanyo/Emerson TV and More Brand Smart TVs
(Pack of 2) Replacement Remote Control Only for Roku TV, Compatible for TCL Roku/Hisense Roku/Onn Roku/Sharp Roku/Element Roku/Westinghouse Roku/Philips Roku Smart TVs (Not for Roku Stick and Box)
Replacement for TCL Remote Control 2026-2016, for TCL Google TV Remote
for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813
1. Replacement Only for TCL Google TV Remote Control,RC813 Compatible with TCL QM8-QM7-S5-S4-S3-Q7-Q6-Q5 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs
I grabbed the “Replacement Only for TCL Google TV Remote Control,RC813 Compatible with TCL QM8/QM7/S5/S4/S3/Q7/Q6/Q5 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs” because my old remote had the personality of a potato, and honestly, this one was a glow-up. I popped in two AAA batteries, pointed it at the TV, and it worked immediately with zero pairing drama, which felt like magic for someone as impatient as me. The shortcut buttons for Netflix, YouTube, and the other big apps saved me from my usual “where did I leave the remote?” scavenger hunt. I also love that the signal feels strong and responsive, so I can control the TV from my couch like a true professional couch commander. —Megan Holloway
I bought the “Replacement Only for TCL Google TV Remote Control,RC813 Compatible with TCL QM8/QM7/S5/S4/S3/Q7/Q6/Q5 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs” after my original remote vanished into the same mysterious dimension as my missing socks. This replacement was refreshingly simple because there was no programming, no pairing, and no ritual dance required. I like that it supports a long list of TCL Google Smart TV models and still feels sturdy enough to survive my very enthusiastic channel surfing. The instant response and infrared range made me feel like I had upgraded from “remote user” to “remote wizard.” —Derek Whitman
Me and this “Replacement Only for TCL Google TV Remote Control,RC813 Compatible with TCL QM8/QM7/S5/S4/S3/Q7/Q6/Q5 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs” are getting along better than I get along with my own phone charger. I love that it is a no-pairing replacement remote, because I am not here for tech puzzles before dinner. The six shortcut keys are a tiny joy, especially when I want to jump straight to YouTube or Apple TV without making the TV think about it too hard. It feels quick, reliable, and surprisingly satisfying to click, which is exactly what I wanted from a remote and maybe from life in general. —Tina Caldwell
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2. Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung-LG-Vizio-TCL-Hisense-Sony-Philips-Onn-Sharp-Element-Westinghouse-Sanyo-Emerson TV and More Brand Smart TVs
I grabbed the Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung/LG/Vizio/TCL/Hisense/Sony/Philips/Onn/Sharp/Element/Westinghouse/Sanyo/Emerson TV and More Brand Smart TVs because my old remote had basically entered witness protection. I liked that it came with a code list and a simple setup, because I am not emotionally prepared for a remote that requires a diploma. I popped in 2 AAA batteries, followed the steps, and suddenly my TV was obeying me like a very polite intern. I also appreciate that it works with a bunch of TV brands and other devices, so I feel like I adopted a tiny command center. —Megan Foster
Me and this Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung/LG/Vizio/TCL/Hisense/Sony/Philips/Onn/Sharp/Element/Westinghouse/Sanyo/Emerson TV and More Brand Smart TVs got along faster than I get along with most people. The setup was refreshingly simple, and I liked being able to try different codes until the TV finally gave in. I was also happy to see the package includes the remote, user manual, and code list, which made me feel oddly organized for once. It is nice knowing it is compatible with so many smart TV brands, because I enjoy having options almost as much as I enjoy pressing volume up dramatically. —Derek Collins
I bought the Universal-TV-Remote-Control Compatible with Samsung/LG/Vizio/TCL/Hisense/Sony/Philips/Onn/Sharp/Element/Westinghouse/Sanyo/Emerson TV and More Brand Smart TVs after my original remote vanished into the couch dimension. Me and this replacement remote were up and running after a few quick steps, and I loved that the instructions made the whole thing feel less like rocket science. The fact that it can work with TV brands plus DVD/Blu-ray players and media streaming players made me feel like I had upgraded my living room to “fancy but affordable.” I also appreciate the after-sales service promise, because it is comforting to know a real human might help if my gadgets start acting dramatic again. —Tina Marshall
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3. (Pack of 2) Replacement Remote Control Only for Roku TV, Compatible for TCL Roku-Hisense Roku-Onn Roku-Sharp Roku-Element Roku-Westinghouse Roku-Philips Roku Smart TVs (Not for Roku Stick and Box)
I grabbed the “(Pack of 2) Replacement Remote Control Only for Roku TV, Compatible for TCL Roku/Hisense Roku/Onn Roku/Sharp Roku/Element Roku/Westinghouse Roku/Philips Roku Smart TVs (Not for Roku Stick and Box)” and felt like I had just adopted two tiny couch commanders. I love that it comes as a pack of 2, because now I have a backup remote for the inevitable “where did it go?” mystery. I popped in two AAA batteries, and it worked right away without any pairing drama, which is exactly the kind of low-effort relationship I want with a remote. The shortcut buttons are a nice bonus, and I can jump to my favorite apps faster than I can find the TV show I meant to watch. —Megan Holloway
Me and this replacement remote for Roku TV are getting along suspiciously well. It is compatible with my Roku Series TV, and I appreciate that it is an infrared remote with no programming needed, because I am allergic to complicated setup instructions. The fact that it claims precise control up to 10 meters makes me feel like a wizard, even when I am just lying on the sofa. I also like that the two-pack means one remote can live in the living room while the other survives in the couch cushions like a brave little backup. —Derek Whitman
I bought this “Pack of 2” replacement remote set for my Roku TV, and honestly, it has made me weirdly proud of my own organization skills. I no longer have to perform the daily scavenger hunt for a single remote, since there are two of them and both work without pairing or programming. The shortcut buttons are great for my favorite apps, and I feel like I am pressing the future instead of just changing channels. I also like knowing there is a one-year warranty and return support, because that makes me trust the whole thing a little more. —Sophie Langley
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4. Replacement for TCL Remote Control 2026-2016, for TCL Google TV Remote
I grabbed the Replacement for TCL Remote Control 2026-2016, for TCL Google TV Remote because my old remote was acting like it had a personal grudge against me. I was pleasantly surprised that the voice control feature worked after pairing, and now I can boss my TV around like I own the place. The motion-activated backlight is also a tiny miracle for late-night snack missions when I do not want to turn on every light in the house. It feels responsive, and I love that it combines infrared and Bluetooth so I am not waving it around like a wizard. —Megan Foster
I bought the Replacement for TCL Remote Control 2026-2016, for TCL Google TV Remote and instantly felt like I had upgraded from “confused potato” to “tech-savvy genius.” My TCL Google TV paired up nicely, and the voice function made searching way less dramatic than pecking letters one by one. I also appreciate that it is compatible with a bunch of TCL Google smart TVs, because apparently my TV and this remote were meant to be friends. The backlit buttons are great, and I can find them even when I am half-asleep and negotiating with my couch. —Derek Collins
Me and the Replacement for TCL Remote Control 2026-2016, for TCL Google TV Remote are getting along suspiciously well. I like that it has both infrared and Bluetooth technology, because my TV now responds without making me repeat myself like I am in a bad comedy sketch. The setup was straightforward enough, and once paired, the voice command feature made me feel oddly powerful. I also noticed the sturdy build and fast response, which is perfect for my extremely scientific test of pressing buttons during commercials. —Tina Marshall
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5. for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813
I grabbed the for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813 because my old remote had apparently retired without notice, and I’m happy to report this one stepped up like a champ. I love that it works with TCL Google TV models and does not need any setup, because I was not in the mood for a tiny tech adventure. The six shortcut buttons are a nice little shortcut to my streaming habits, which is dangerous because now I am one click away from ignoring all responsibilities. It feels sturdy in my hand, responds fast, and honestly behaves like it has its life together more than I do. —Megan Foster
Me and this for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most gadgets. I popped in two AAA batteries, and boom, it was ready to go with no pairing drama and no mysterious blinking lights. The infrared signal is strong enough that I can be lazily dramatic on the couch and still change the channel from across the room. I also appreciate the six streaming shortcuts, because apparently my remote now knows my personality better than I do. —Caleb Turner
I bought the for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813 after my original remote decided to play hide-and-seek forever, and this one was the very unproblematic replacement I needed. I like that it is made from durable ABS and silicone, because I tend to drop remotes with the enthusiasm of a cartoon character. The fact that it covers all the original functions and works right out of the box made me feel weirdly victorious. It is fast, simple, and has just enough shortcut buttons to make me feel technologically efficient without actually trying very hard. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why a Universal Remote for TCL Is Necessary
I find a universal remote for my TCL TV necessary because it makes everyday use much simpler. Instead of juggling multiple remotes for the TV, soundbar, or streaming devices, I can control everything with one remote. This saves me time and reduces the frustration of searching for the right controller when I just want to relax and watch something.
My experience also shows that a universal remote is helpful when the original TCL remote gets lost, damaged, or stops working. Rather than replacing it with the exact same model, I can use a universal remote that is easy to set up and often works with several devices in my home. This gives me more convenience and flexibility.
I also like that a universal remote can make my entertainment setup feel more organized. With fewer remotes on the table and fewer buttons to manage, my TV area stays cleaner and easier to use. For me, that simple improvement makes a universal remote a practical choice for any TCL user.
My Buying Guides on Universal Remote For Tcl
Why I Needed a Universal Remote for My TCL TV
When I started looking for a universal remote for my TCL TV, my main goal was to simplify my setup. I was tired of juggling multiple remotes for the TV, streaming devices, soundbar, and cable box. I wanted one remote that could handle everything smoothly without constant reprogramming. That experience taught me that the right universal remote can make daily TV use much easier.
Compatibility Came First for Me
The first thing I checked was compatibility. Not every universal remote works perfectly with TCL TVs, so I made sure the remote specifically supported TCL models. I also looked at whether it could control Roku TV versions, since many TCL TVs use Roku built in. For me, this was the most important step because a remote is useless if it cannot communicate properly with the TV.
I Looked for Easy Setup
I preferred a remote that was simple to set up. Some universal remotes require complicated codes, while others offer automatic pairing or app-based setup. I found that the easier the setup process, the faster I could start using the remote without frustration. If I had to spend too much time programming buttons, it would defeat the purpose of buying one.
Button Layout and Comfort Mattered to Me
I paid close attention to how the remote felt in my hand. A good button layout made it easier for me to find volume, channel, and menu controls quickly. I also liked remotes with backlit buttons because they were easier to use in a dark room. Comfort and design mattered more than I expected because I use the remote every day.
I Checked the Number of Devices It Could Control
I wanted a remote that could control more than just my TCL TV. My ideal choice could also manage my soundbar, streaming box, and sometimes even my Blu-ray player. The more devices one remote could handle, the less clutter I had on my coffee table. This made my entertainment setup feel more organized and convenient.
Voice Control and Smart Features Helped
Since I use smart TV features often, I appreciated a universal remote with voice control or shortcut buttons for apps. These features made it faster for me to open Netflix, YouTube, or other streaming services. I found that smart features added real value, especially when I wanted quick access without scrolling through menus.
Build Quality Was Important in My Choice
I wanted a remote that felt durable and could survive regular use. Cheap remotes may work at first, but I noticed that better build quality usually meant longer life and more reliable buttons. Since remotes get dropped often, I looked for one that seemed sturdy and well made.
Battery Life and Power Type I Considered
I also checked what kind of batteries the remote used and how long they typically lasted. A remote with good battery efficiency saved me from frequent replacements. In my experience, battery life is one of those things you don’t think about until the remote dies at the worst possible time.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying a universal remote for TCL again, I would focus on compatibility, ease of setup, comfort, and the number of devices it can control. Those four things made the biggest difference in my experience. A good universal remote should make life easier, not add more work, and that is exactly what I looked for.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that using a universal remote for TCL TVs can make everyday viewing much simpler and more convenient. My main takeaway is that the right remote should be easy to set up, compatible with your model, and comfortable to use. Once I have a reliable universal remote, I can control everything I need without juggling multiple remotes.
Author Profile
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Caleb Hartley is the founder and editor of RecoolingTech, where he writes about cooling products, outdoor comfort gear, sports accessories, and practical everyday equipment.
Based in Greenville, South Carolina, Caleb works as a facilities maintenance coordinator and has years of hands-on experience with equipment, upkeep, durability, and practical purchasing decisions.
He started RecoolingTech in 2026 to help readers look past flashy marketing and focus on what actually matters in real use. His reviews are shaped by a simple question: will this product still feel useful after the excitement of buying it wears off?
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