Which remote control works with a Samsung Smart TV via Wi-Fi: choosing, setting up, and compatibility

Control Samsung Smart TV Wi-Fi access opens up new possibilities: voice search, touch control, and smart home integration. However, not every remote supports this feature. If your original remote is broken or you want to upgrade to a more modern model, it's important to understand which devices are compatible with your TV model and how to connect them correctly.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at which remotes work with Samsung Smart TV via Wi-Fi, how they differ from their infrared counterparts, and how to avoid mistakes when choosing. You'll learn about original solutions from Samsung, universal Wi-Fi-enabled remotes, and mobile apps that can completely replace a physical remote. We'll pay special attention to connection details and common issues users encounter.

Original Samsung Wi-Fi Remotes: Models and Features

Company Samsung produces several lines of remote controls for its Smart TV, but not all of them support Wi-Fi control. The main models worth considering are:

  • 🔹 Samsung TM2050A - basic model with Wi-Fi support and voice control via BixbySuitable for most TVs Samsung 2019–2026.
  • 🔹 Samsung TM2280E - premium remote control with solar battery, touch panel and advanced functions for QLED And The Frame.
  • 🔹 Samsung BN59-01312A — universal remote control for older models (2016–2018), but with limited Wi-Fi support (only for certain series).
  • 🔹 Samsung TM2360E - new 2026 model with improved ergonomics and support Matter for a smart home.

The main advantage of original remote controls is full compatibility with TV firmware and access to all functions, including Ambient Mode, Game Bar And Multi ViewHowever, their price can reach 5,000–10,000 rubles, which isn't always justified. Before purchasing, check compatibility. your TV model on the official website Samsung.

⚠️ Attention: Remote controls Samsung Wi-Fi enabled TVs are often tied to a specific TV series. For example, TM2280E will not work with budget models Crystal UHD, even if they support Wi-Fi Direct.

If you have lost the original remote control, it can be replaced with a similar model, but please note that for initial setup may require a physical connection to the TV via USB or using a mobile application Samsung SmartThings.

📊 What remote do you use for your Samsung Smart TV?
Original Samsung
Universal with Wi-Fi
Mobile application
Another

Universal Wi-Fi Remotes: What to Choose Instead of the Original

If the original remote is too expensive or unavailable, you can consider universal alternatives. The main thing is that the device supports Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth (depending on your model Samsung Smart TV). Best options:

  • 🌐 Logitech Harmony Elite — flagship remote control with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and IR support. Compatible with most Samsung Smart TV (requires configuration via app).
  • 📱 Xiaomi Mi Remote Pro - a budget option with Wi-Fi and voice control support (works via Mi Home).
  • 🎮 Nvidia Shield Remote - suitable for gamers, as it supports Game Mode on Samsung QLED.
  • 🔄 BroadLink RM4 Pro - universal remote control with Wi-Fi support and cloud control (can be configured via IFTTT).

When choosing a universal remote control, pay attention to:

  1. Protocol support Wi-Fi Direct (for models Samsung 2018 and newer).
  2. Availability of a database for your TV model (for example, in Logitech Harmony there are pre-configured profiles).
  3. Possibility of firmware update (some remote controls stop working after TV update).
⚠️ Note: Universal remotes may not support One Remote Control (the function of controlling all devices via one remote control) Samsung Smart TVCheck this before you buy!

Setting up a universal remote control usually requires:

  1. Install the manufacturer's application (eg. Logitech Harmony or Mi Home).
  2. Add your model Samsung Smart TV to the list of devices.
  3. Connect to your TV via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
  4. Test basic functions (power on, volume control, launching applications).

☑️ Setting up a universal remote control

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Mobile apps as an alternative to a physical remote control

If you don't want to buy a new remote control, you can control it Samsung Smart TV via smartphone. Official and third-party apps are suitable for this:

  • 📱 Samsung SmartThings — the official app with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. It lets you control your TV, set up your smart home, and stream content.
  • 🎯 Samsung TV Plus Remote — a simplified version for basic control (switching on, changing channels, launching applications).
  • 🌍 Unified Remote — a universal application with Wi-Fi support and customizable control panels.
  • 🎮 Yatse: Remote for Smart TV — advanced features for gamers and movie buffs (gesture support, voice input).

Advantages of mobile applications:

  • ✅ Free or cheaper than physical remotes.
  • ✅ Supports additional functions (for example, file transfer to TV).
  • ✅ You can use multiple devices (for example, a phone and a tablet).

Flaws:

  • ❌ Requires a constant Wi-Fi connection.
  • ❌ They may slow down when the signal is weak.
  • ❌ Not all applications support Ambient Mode and other signature features Samsung.

To connect your smartphone to Samsung Smart TV:

  1. Make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  2. Launch the application (for example, SmartThings) and select Add a device → TV.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions (you may need to enter your TV PIN).
  4. After connecting, test the basic functions (volume control, startup Netflix).

How to check if your remote is compatible with your Samsung Smart TV model

Not all remote controls, even original ones, are compatible with all TVs. SamsungTo avoid mistakes, follow this algorithm:

  1. Please specify your TV model:
    • Press on the remote control Menu → Support → About TV.
    • Or look at the sticker on the back (for example, UE55QN90B).
  • Check the year of manufacture:
    • The first letter in the model indicates the year: Q — 2021, B — 2022, C — 2023, D — 2026, E — 2026.
    • Check the compatibility chart:
    Remote control model Suitable TV series Year of TV release Protocol
    TM2050A QLED, The Frame, Crystal UHD 2019–2023 Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
    TM2280E QN90B, QN85C, The Serif 2022–2026 Wi-Fi + Solar Charging
    BN59-01312A MU, NU, RU series 2016–2018 IR + Bluetooth (limited)
    Logitech Harmony Elite All models with Wi-Fi Direct 2018–2026 Wi-Fi + IR

    If your TV model is not listed in the table, check compatibility on the website. Samsung By model number or contact support. Remote controls for TVs 2026–2026 (series E) may require a firmware update to work with older remotes.

    ⚠️ Note: Some models Samsung Smart TV (For example, AU7000) support Wi-Fi only for streaming, not for remote control. In this case, you'll have to use Bluetooth or IR.

    Setting up the remote control via Wi-Fi: step-by-step instructions

    If you purchased a compatible remote, you'll need to connect it correctly. The process may vary depending on the model, but the general procedure is as follows:

    1. Turn on the TV and put it into pairing mode:
      • For original remotes: press and hold Return + Play/Pause within 5 seconds.
      • For universal: follow the application instructions (for example, in Logitech Harmony need to choose Add Device → Samsung TV → Wi-Fi).
    2. Activate search mode on the remote control:
      • On original remotes Samsung clamp down 1 + 4 or Menu + 123 (depending on the model).
      • For universal ones, start the pairing process in the app.
    3. Confirm the connection on TV:
      • A prompt will appear on the screen asking you to connect a new device. Select Confirm or Pair.
  • Test the basic functions:
    • Check the operation of the buttons Power, Volume, Home And Voice.

    If the remote control does not connect:

    • 🔄 Restart your TV (Settings → Support → Restart).
    • 📶 Check that the TV and remote control are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (for universal remotes).
    • 🔋 Replace the batteries in the remote control (even if they are new).
    • 📱 Update your TV firmware (Settings → Software Update → Update Now).
    What should I do if the remote control is connected, but some buttons don't work?

    This may be due to a mismatch in the control profile. In universal remote controls (for example, Logitech Harmony) Try resetting the settings and adding the TV model again. For original remotes Samsung Check if the settings have been reset after updating the TV firmware. As a last resort, reset the remote control to factory settings (usually by holding Exit + 9 for 10 seconds).

    Common problems and their solutions

    When using remote controls via Wi-Fi, users often encounter the following problems:

    Problem Possible cause Solution
    The remote control does not connect Model incompatibility or outdated TV firmware Update your TV firmware and check the remote control compatibility.
    Delay when pressing buttons Weak Wi-Fi signal or network congestion Reconnect your TV to the router at 5 GHz or reduce the number of connected devices.
    Voice commands don't work The microphone is muted or not configured Bixby Go to Settings → Voice Control → Set up microphone
    The remote control turns off randomly Automatic power-off to save battery Disable this feature in your remote's settings (if available)

    If none of the solutions help, try resetting the network settings on your TV:

    Settings → General → Network → Reset network settings → Confirm

    After the reset, you will need to reconnect the TV to Wi-Fi and pair the remote. On TVs Samsung 2026 and newer, network reset may require entering a PIN from the original remote or via the app SmartThings.

    Remote Control Comparison: Which One to Choose in 2026?

    In 2026, there are dozens of remote controls on the market Samsung Smart TV, but not all of them are created equal. We compared key models based on key criteria:

    Criterion Samsung TM2280E Logitech Harmony Elite Xiaomi Mi Remote Pro Mobile application
    Price (2026) ~8 000 ₽ ~15 000 ₽ ~3 000 ₽ For free
    Wi-Fi support ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
    Voice control Bixby, Alexa Google Assistant, Alexa Alice, Google Assistant ✅ Depends on the application
    Smart home compatibility SmartThings, Matter IFTTT, Home Assistant Mi Home ❌ Limited
    Autonomy ✅ Solar battery ❌ Requires charging ✅ AAA battery ✅ Works with your phone

    The choice depends on your needs:

    • 💰 Budget option: Xiaomi Mi Remote Pro or mobile application.
    • 🎮 For gamers: Logitech Harmony Elite or Nvidia Shield Remote.
    • 🏡 For a smart home: Samsung TM2280E (support Matter).
    • 📱 Minimalism: mobile application SmartThings.
    ⚠️ Note: Cheap universal remotes (for example, no-name ones from AliExpress) often do not support Wi-Fi Direct and only work via IR. Check the connection protocol before purchasing!

    FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Samsung Smart TV Remotes

    Can I use the remote from another Samsung TV?

    Yes, but only if the TV models match in year of manufacture and series. For example, the remote control QLED QN90B (2022) will not work with Crystal UHD TU7000 (2020) Check compatibility before use. TV models on the website Samsung.

    How to reset a Samsung remote?

    To reset the original remote, press and hold Exit + 9 within 10 seconds. For universal remote controls (e.g. Logitech) use the function Reset in the manufacturer's application.

    Why does the remote only work near the TV?

    This may be due to:

    • Using IR protocol instead of Wi-Fi (check the remote control model).
    • Weak Wi-Fi signal (reconnect the TV to the router at a frequency 5 GHz).
    • Dead batteries (even if the remote control is new).
    Is it possible to connect multiple remote controls to one TV?

    Yes, Samsung Smart TV Supports connecting up to 5 remote controls simultaneously. To do this:

    1. Connect the first remote control (as described above).
    2. For the second remote control, repeat the pairing process - the TV will automatically add it to the list of trusted devices.

    Limitation: Some functions (eg. voice control) can only work with one remote control at a time.

    What should I do if the remote control is connected, but not all buttons work?

    This is a common problem with universal remotes. Solutions:

    • Update the device profile in the remote control app (for example, in Logitech Harmony select the exact TV model).
    • Reset your remote and set it up again.
    • Check if the remote control is in conflict with other devices (for example, smart lamps at the same frequency).

    If the problem persists, please contact the remote control manufacturer's support.