Getting a replacement Samsung remote is straightforward — you order one online, match it to your TV model, and it arrives ready to use

Samsung remotes wear out or get lost, and you have three main ways to replace one: buy directly from Samsung, order through a retailer like Amazon or Best Buy, or use a universal remote that works with Samsung TVs. The fastest route is usually Amazon or Best Buy if you know your TV model number. If you want the exact remote that came with your TV, Samsung's website lets you search by model and order the original.

Before you order, you need your TV model number — it's on a sticker on the back or bottom of the TV, or in your TV's settings menu under Support or About This TV. Once you have that, finding the right remote takes five minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • Your TV model number is printed on the back of the TV or found in the settings menu, and you need it to order the correct remote.
  • Samsung's official website, Amazon, and Best Buy all carry Samsung remotes, and prices vary between $20 and $60 depending on the remote type.
  • Most Samsung remotes pair automatically when you point them at the TV and press a button, with no setup codes or pairing buttons required.
  • Universal remotes work with Samsung TVs but may not control every function, so check the product description before buying.
  • If your TV is older than ten years, the original remote model may no longer be sold, and a universal remote becomes your best option.

Finding your TV model number

The model number is a combination of letters and numbers that identifies exactly which Samsung TV you own. It's printed on a white or silver sticker on the back panel or bottom edge of the TV. Look for a label that starts with "Model:" or just "Model" followed by something like "UN55AU8000" or "QN65Q80A".

If you can't reach the back of the TV, go into the TV's menu instead. Press the Menu button on your current remote (or any remote), then navigate to Support or About This TV. The model number appears on that screen. Write it down or take a photo — you'll need it when you search for a replacement.

Ordering from Samsung directly

Samsung's official website (samsung.com) has a remote finder tool. Go to the Support section, search for your TV model, and scroll down to "Accessories" or "Remote Controls." You'll see the original remote that shipped with your TV, along with the exact price and shipping time.

Ordering from Samsung usually costs between $30 and $60 and takes five to ten business days to arrive. The advantage is that you get the exact remote designed for your TV, with all buttons and functions matching your model. The downside is the longer wait compared to Amazon or Best Buy.

Buying from Amazon or Best Buy

Both retailers stock Samsung remotes and often have faster shipping. Search for your TV model number plus "remote" on Amazon or Best Buy's website. Filter results to show only Samsung brand remotes, then check the product description to confirm it's compatible with your specific model.

Amazon often ships remotes within one or two days if you have Prime membership. Best Buy offers same-day pickup at many locations if the remote is in stock nearby. Prices are usually $25 to $50, sometimes lower than Samsung's official site. Before you buy, read the product description carefully — it should list the TV models it works with.

Understanding remote types and what they control

Samsung makes several remote types. The standard IR remote (infrared) is the most common — it has a directional pad, number buttons, and volume and channel controls. The Samsung Smart Remote (also called a voice remote) has a microphone for voice commands and a touchpad instead of traditional buttons. Newer Samsung TVs often come with the Smart Remote, while older models use the standard IR remote.

When you order a replacement, the product listing tells you which type it is. If your TV originally came with a Smart Remote and you want voice control, order the Smart Remote version. If you just want basic controls, the standard IR remote works fine and costs less. Both types pair automatically — no codes or setup required.

Pairing your new remote to the TV

Most Samsung remotes pair automatically. Point the new remote at the TV and press any button. The TV recognizes it and starts responding. You don't need to enter codes, press pairing buttons, or go into a menu.

If the remote doesn't work after pressing a button, try these steps: make sure the batteries are installed correctly (check the polarity markings inside the battery compartment), replace the batteries with fresh ones, and point the remote directly at the TV's sensor (usually a small dark circle on the front bezel). If it still doesn't work, the remote may be defective — contact the retailer or Samsung for a replacement.

Using a universal remote if the original is unavailable

If your TV model is very old and Samsung no longer sells the original remote, a universal remote is your option. Brands like Logitech Harmony, GE, and RCA make universal remotes that work with Samsung TVs. They cost $15 to $40 and control power, volume, channels, and input switching on most Samsung models.

The trade-off is that universal remotes may not have every button your original remote had — for example, some don't include Samsung-specific apps or smart TV features. Check the product description to see which functions it supports before you buy. Most universal remotes require you to enter a code for your TV model, which comes in the manual or on the manufacturer's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the exact remote model that came with my TV?

No. Any Samsung remote made for your TV model works fine. If your original remote was a standard IR remote, you can replace it with any standard IR remote for that model. If you want the exact same remote, Samsung's website shows which one it is, but a compatible alternative usually costs less.

What if I lost the batteries that came with the remote?

Samsung remotes use standard AA or AAA batteries. Buy any brand of AA or AAA batteries at a grocery store or pharmacy — they all work the same. Install them with the + and − ends facing the correct direction, shown inside the battery compartment.

Can I use a universal remote instead of buying a Samsung remote?

Yes. Universal remotes work with Samsung TVs and cost less, but they may not control every function. Check the product description to see if it supports the features you use most — like apps, picture settings, or voice commands. For basic power, volume, and channel control, a universal remote is fine.

How long does a Samsung remote usually last?

Most remotes last five to ten years with normal use. Buttons wear out from repeated pressing, or the infrared sensor stops working. Dropping or spilling liquid on a remote shortens its life. If your remote is still under warranty (usually one year), contact Samsung or the retailer about a replacement.

Will a remote from an older Samsung TV work on my new one?

Sometimes, but not always. Older IR remotes may work on newer TVs if the button layout is similar, but newer Smart Remotes won't work on older TVs that don't support them. To be safe, order a remote made for your specific TV model rather than trying an old one.