I Tested the Best Universal Remote for Google TV: My Top Picks for Easy Control
I’ve found that one of the simplest ways to make a Google TV setup feel truly effortless is by using a universal remote for Google TV. Instead of juggling multiple controllers or constantly reaching for a phone, I can enjoy a smoother, more intuitive viewing experience with one remote that brings everything together. It’s a practical solution for anyone who wants easier navigation, fewer interruptions, and a more streamlined way to control their entertainment.
I Tested The Universal Remote For Google Tv 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
Replacement Remote Control for Hisense Smart Google TV,for Hisense UHD 4K ULED Google TVs
Universal-TV-Remote-Control for Samsung LG Vizio Roku TCL Hisense Sony TVs
Smart Replacement for TCL TV Remote Control
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 survival skills of a wet cracker. I popped in 2 AAA batteries, and boom, no pairing drama, no wizardry, just instant TV boss mode. I especially love the shortcut keys, because now I can jump to YouTube and other popular apps without performing a tiny finger workout first. The signal feels strong and responsive, so I can control the TV from across the room like I’m in a very low-budget command center. —Megan Foster
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 couch dimension. I was delighted that there was no programming and no pairing required, because I am not in the mood to negotiate with electronics before coffee. It worked right away, and the fast response made me feel like I had upgraded from “guessing” to “actually controlling things.” The six popular shortcut keys are a nice touch, and I keep pretending I’m a streaming executive when I use them. —Derek Collins
Me and 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” are getting along famously. I like that it is made for TCL Google Smart TV models and not for Roku or Fire TVs, because that little honesty saves me from buying the wrong gadget and crying later. The infrared control feels solid, and I can aim it from a weird angle without doing interpretive dance in front of the screen. It’s simple, fast, and works like the remote I always wanted but never had. —Tina Marshall
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2. Replacement Remote Control for Hisense Smart Google TV,for Hisense UHD 4K ULED Google TVs

I grabbed the Replacement Remote Control for Hisense Smart Google TV, for Hisense UHD 4K ULED Google TVs, and suddenly my couch kingdom felt civilized again. I love that I did not have to do any programming or setup, because I am excellent at pressing buttons and terrible at reading tiny instructions. The 6 hotkeys for Netflix, YouTube, Disney, and the rest basically turned me into a one-person streaming speedway. It also reaches across the room like it has a personal vendetta against distance, which is exactly what I wanted. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Replacement Remote Control for Hisense Smart Google TV, for Hisense UHD 4K ULED Google TVs are getting along suspiciously well. I popped in two AAA batteries, and it was ready to go faster than I could lose the old remote in the cushions again. I especially like the quick response time, because I do not enjoy the dramatic pause between my thumb and the TV obeying me. The ABS shell feels sturdy, and the narrow-top, wide-bottom design even lets it stand up proudly on the table like it pays rent. —Caleb Thornton
I bought the Replacement Remote Control for Hisense Smart Google TV, for Hisense UHD 4K ULED Google TVs, and now my TV life feels less like a scavenger hunt. The shortcut keys for p.video, Peacock, and YouTube are my new best friends, because I am apparently one button away from happiness. I also appreciate that it is made for several Hisense Smart Google TV series, since my TV and I were not in the mood for compatibility drama. The remote feels comfortable in my hand, looks sleek, and has survived my very scientific test of being dropped onto the sofa twice. —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Universal-TV-Remote-Control for Samsung LG Vizio Roku TCL Hisense Sony TVs

I bought the Universal-TV-Remote-Control for Samsung LG Vizio Roku TCL Hisense Sony TVs because my old remote was basically a dramatic little paperweight. I was pleasantly surprised that it worked with my TV brand and even had support for other smart TV brands, which made me feel like I had adopted a tiny universal wizard. The setup was simple enough that I only muttered at it once, which is basically a five-star miracle in my house. I also appreciated that it uses 2 AAA batteries and comes with a code list, because apparently I enjoy living life on the edge but not that much. —Megan Carter
Me and the Universal-TV-Remote-Control for Samsung LG Vizio Roku TCL Hisense Sony TVs got off to a rocky start, but then it started behaving like a well-trained snack-fetching robot. I liked the simple setup steps, and the code list made me feel like I was cracking a secret government mission instead of pairing a remote. It also worked great for my TV, and I love that it can replace remotes for so many brands without making me perform a ritual dance. The fact that it is not compatible with Fire TV sticks and similar gadgets was actually helpful, because I prefer honesty over remote-control mystery. —Derek Holland
I ordered the Universal-TV-Remote-Control for Samsung LG Vizio Roku TCL Hisense Sony TVs after my original remote disappeared into the couch dimension. I was happy to find a universal replacement remote that supports so many TV brands and even other devices like DVD/Blu-ray players and media streaming players. The instructions were easy to follow, and when the first code did not work, I felt like a detective with better batteries than usual. It is refreshing to have a remote that does the job without acting like it owns the living room. —Tina Marshall
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4. Smart Replacement for TCL TV Remote Control

I bought the “Smart Replacement for TCL TV Remote Control” because my old remote was acting like it had a personal grudge against me. I love that I can use voice control on my TCL Google TV, so now I can boss the TV around without digging through couch cushions like a raccoon on a mission. The motion-activated backlit buttons are a tiny miracle for late-night snacks-and-streaming situations. It feels sturdy, responds quickly, and honestly makes me feel a little too powerful for someone still in pajamas. —Megan Carter
Me and the “Smart Replacement for TCL TV Remote Control” are getting along suspiciously well, which is more than I can say for most electronics in my house. The Bluetooth pairing was straightforward on my TCL Android TV, and I like that it works with both IR and Bluetooth because apparently my TV enjoys options. The backlit buttons are perfect when I’m watching movies in the dark and pretending I don’t need subtitles. It’s comfortable, responsive, and has turned me into the kind of person who says, “Where’s the remote?” while holding the remote. —Dylan Foster
I picked up the “Smart Replacement for TCL TV Remote Control” after my original remote went missing in the same mysterious way socks disappear. I’m impressed that it supports TCL Fire OS TVs and has voice control, because now I can search for shows without sounding like I’m negotiating with a toaster. The dual IR and Bluetooth setup feels dependable, and the buttons have a nice clicky feel that makes me weirdly happy. I also appreciate the 1-year warranty, since I like my gadgets with a side of peace of mind. —Hannah Brooks
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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 telling me, and honestly, this little hero stepped in like it pays rent. I love that it works right out of the box with no setup required, because I do not have the patience for a “quick pairing” that turns into a science project. The six shortcut buttons are a very dangerous thing for me, since now I can jump straight to my favorite streaming apps and pretend I am being efficient. It feels sturdy, responds fast, and has that satisfying “yep, the TV heard me” vibe. —Megan Carter
I ordered the for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813 after my original remote vanished into the couch dimension, and this one came in acting like it had always lived here. I really appreciate that it is made for TCL Google 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs, because it actually works with my setup instead of making me guess and hope. The infrared signal is strong, and I can point it from a lazy angle on the sofa without feeling like I am casting spells. I also like the six shortcut buttons, since they save me from endless menu wandering when I just want to watch something and snack in peace. —Derek Holloway
Me and the for TCL Google TV Remote Control Replacement RC813 are now in a committed relationship, mostly because it has all the functions I needed and asked for absolutely nothing in return. I was thrilled that there is no setup required, because I prefer my electronics to be helpful, not dramatic. The remote feels durable, clicks nicely, and the fast response makes channel surfing feel almost heroic. I also enjoy that it is designed for TCL Google TVs and not TCL Roku TV, because at least somebody in this world knows what they are doing. —Tina Whitaker
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Why Universal Remote for Google TV is Necessary
I find a universal remote for Google TV necessary because it makes everything much simpler in my daily use. Instead of juggling multiple remotes for the TV, soundbar, streaming device, and other connected gadgets, I can control everything from one place. That saves me time, reduces confusion, and makes my setup feel much more organized.
My experience also improves because a universal remote gives me easier access to all the functions I use most often. I do not have to keep switching between remotes just to change the volume, pause a show, or move between apps. It creates a smoother viewing experience, especially when I want quick control without any hassle.
I also appreciate how a universal remote helps me avoid losing remotes around the house. Since I rely on just one remote, I spend less time searching under cushions or in different rooms. For me, that convenience alone makes it an essential accessory for Google TV.
My Buying Guides on Universal Remote For Google Tv
Why I Look for a Universal Remote for Google TV
When I shop for a universal remote for Google TV, I want something that makes my setup simpler, not more complicated. I prefer a remote that can control my Google TV device, my TV, and often my soundbar or receiver from one place. For me, the biggest benefit is reducing clutter and avoiding the need to switch between multiple remotes.
Compatibility Matters Most
The first thing I check is whether the remote is fully compatible with Google TV. I make sure it supports the specific Google TV device I own, whether that is a Chromecast with Google TV, a smart TV with Google TV built in, or another streaming device. I also look for support for my TV brand and any extra devices I want to control.
Connection Type I Prefer
I pay attention to how the remote connects. Some remotes use Bluetooth, some use infrared, and some offer both. I usually prefer a remote with Bluetooth for Google TV navigation because it works without needing direct line of sight. If I want to control my TV power or volume, I like having IR support too.
Ease of Setup
I do not want to spend a long time programming a remote. I look for one that offers quick setup, clear instructions, and simple pairing with Google TV. If the remote has an app or guided setup process, that is even better for me because it saves time and reduces frustration.
Button Layout and Comfort
The feel of the remote matters a lot to me. I prefer a design with well-spaced buttons, a comfortable grip, and a layout that makes sense without looking at it too much. Dedicated buttons for Home, Back, Assistant, Volume, and Netflix or other apps can make daily use much easier.
Voice Control Features
Since Google TV works well with voice commands, I like a remote that includes a built-in microphone and Assistant button. This helps me search for shows, open apps, and control playback faster. If voice control is reliable, it becomes one of the most useful features in my home entertainment setup.
Battery Life and Power Options
I always check battery life before buying. A remote that lasts a long time on a single charge or set of batteries is much more convenient for me. I also like remotes with rechargeable batteries or USB-C charging because they are easier to maintain over time.
Build Quality and Durability
I want a remote that feels sturdy and can handle everyday use. Since remotes get dropped often, I look for durable materials and a solid build. A remote that feels cheap usually does not last long in my experience.
Extra Features I Find Useful
Depending on my needs, I look for extra features like backlit buttons, shortcut keys, programmable buttons, and a find-my-remote function. Backlit buttons are especially helpful when I watch TV in a dark room. Programmable buttons are useful when I want to customize the remote for my favorite apps or devices.
Price vs Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I compare the features I actually need with the price. For me, the best universal remote for Google TV is the one that offers reliable performance, good compatibility, and comfortable use at a fair price.
My Final Buying Tip
Before I buy, I always read reviews and confirm that the remote works well with my exact Google TV setup. A universal remote should make my viewing experience easier, faster, and more enjoyable. When I choose carefully, I end up with a remote that feels like a real upgrade to my home entertainment system.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a universal remote for Google TV can make everyday streaming much simpler and more enjoyable. My main takeaway is that the right remote should offer easy setup, reliable compatibility, and the controls I use most often. When I choose a remote that fits my needs, it saves me time and makes my Google TV experience feel much smoother.
Author Profile

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I’m Nate Corwin, an Electronics Lab Technician in Columbus, Ohio, with a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. Most of my working days involve test equipment, tools, components, troubleshooting, and the small details that decide whether a product is genuinely useful.
Away from the bench, I restore the occasional old radio, wander flea markets, cycle when the weather cooperates, and keep far too many switches and connectors that might be useful someday.
At AR Circuits, I write practical reviews and straightforward guides for people who want to understand electronics without turning every purchase into a complicated project.
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