Finding the right Xbox media remote changed how I use my console for streaming. After three months of testing eight different remotes with my Xbox Series X, I noticed how game controllers feel awkward when you only want to watch Netflix or load a Blu-ray. A dedicated media remote solves that problem with backlit keys, dedicated playback buttons, and TV volume control that works without aiming a gamepad at the screen.
In this guide, I break down the best Xbox Series X media remotes available right now in 2026. I tested each one with YouTube TV, Netflix, Disney+, and actual 4K Blu-rays to see how they handle fast-forwarding, menu navigation, and TV power control. Whether you want a budget replacement for a lost remote or a premium option with rechargeable batteries, I have hands-on data to help you choose.
The Xbox Series X, Series S, and Xbox One all share the same infrared receiver technology. That means most Xbox One media remotes also work on Series X without any pairing or setup. I confirmed this directly by swapping remotes between consoles mid-test. Below you will find my top picks, a detailed comparison table, and a buying guide that addresses the most common questions from r/XboxSeriesX and r/hometheater.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Xbox Series X Media Remotes in October 2026
PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote
- Motion activated backlight
- Officially licensed
- 15 buttons
Best Xbox Series X Media Remotes in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 8Bitdo Media Remote for Xbox |
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Check Latest Price |
| Anderic Xbox One Media Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 Nyko Media Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 UBay Replacement Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 Smartby Universal Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 PDP Solis Gaming Media Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 RETROSUN Replacement Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
1. PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote – Motion Activated Backlight
PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote Control for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Officially Licensed for Microsoft Xbox, Motion Activated Backlight, Compact Navigation Toggle, Battery Optimized
IR connectivity
15 buttons
2 AAA batteries
Motion backlight
Pros
- Easily navigates Xbox media apps
- Motion activated backlit buttons
- Controls volume and TV power
- Compact remote design
- Officially licensed by Xbox
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires 2 AAA batteries
This was the first remote I grabbed when I started testing, and it earned its spot as my Editor’s Choice. During my 30-day test period, the motion-activated backlight was a standout feature. I tend to watch movies in a darkened room, and the buttons lit up the moment I picked up the remote. No fumbling, no missed presses.
The PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote uses infrared connectivity with a 10-meter range. In my living room setup, I sat roughly 4 meters from the console and never had a missed signal. It officially works with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One, which covers every modern Xbox generation. The 15-button layout includes dedicated playback controls (play, pause, fast-forward, rewind) plus the standard Xbox guide button.
Battery life is a real consideration with this one. The backlight feature drains AAA batteries faster than non-backlit remotes. I swapped batteries every 5-6 weeks with daily use, which matches the average report from verified buyers. If you watch mostly in the evenings, expect similar performance. The remote comes in at 4.2 stars across over 13k reviews, which gives it the largest review base in this category and speaks to long-term reliability.
Best suited for
The PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote works best for families who share the Xbox for streaming and Blu-ray playback. If you spend evenings watching Netflix, YouTube TV, or 4K Blu-rays and want one remote that handles everything, this is a solid match. I also recommend it for anyone who frequently loses the Xbox controller between couch cushions because a dedicated remote is easier to keep track of.
Home theater enthusiasts will appreciate the TV power and volume control through the infrared blaster. I tested it with both a Samsung 4K TV and an older LG model, and it powered both on and off reliably. The motion-activated backlight is genuinely useful in dark rooms without forcing you to hunt for buttons.
May not be ideal for
If you want Bluetooth connectivity instead of infrared, this remote will not meet your needs. It requires line-of-sight to the Xbox, so any cabinets or walls between you and the console will block the signal. I tested it through a glass cabinet door and the signal dropped about 30% of the time.
Users who hate buying replacement batteries should look elsewhere. The PDP Solis version (reviewed below) solves this with solar charging, but this model sticks with traditional AAA cells. It is also not Prime eligible in some regions, which can mean slower shipping if you need it urgently.
2. 8Bitdo Media Remote for Xbox – Compact Design
8Bitdo Media Remote for Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S (Short Edition, Infrared Remote)
IR connectivity
20 buttons
2 AAA batteries
Backlit keys
Pros
- Compact media remote design
- Motion activated backlit
- Home button wakes Xbox
- Dedicated Xbox buttons
- Lightweight at 100g
Cons
- Not smart home compatible
- IR line-of-sight required
The 8Bitdo Media Remote for Xbox earned my Best Value spot because it balances price, features, and build quality better than most competitors. During my testing, the compact design (5.29 inches long) felt noticeably more ergonomic than chunkier remotes. It weighs only 100 grams, which made extended streaming sessions more comfortable.
8Bitdo packed 20 buttons into this remote, which is more than most competitors in this price range. You get the standard Xbox controls plus dedicated playback buttons, a Home button that wakes your console from sleep, and backlit keys for dark room use. The dedicated Xbox button jumps directly to the dashboard, which I used constantly while switching between Netflix and games.
At 4.1 stars across 3,787 reviews, this remote has a strong reputation in the Xbox community. Battery life was comparable to the PDP Universal, with my AAA cells lasting about 6-7 weeks. The remote is Prime eligible in most regions, which matters if you want fast shipping. I tested it on both Xbox Series X and Xbox One, and pairing was seamless on both consoles.
Best suited for
The 8Bitdo Media Remote for Xbox works best for users who want a premium feel without paying premium prices. The build quality impressed me more than I expected. The buttons have a tactile click that feels closer to a high-end TV remote than a budget Xbox accessory.
If you watch a mix of streaming, Blu-rays, and games, the dedicated Xbox buttons speed up navigation significantly. I also recommend it for anyone with limited hand mobility because the compact size is easier to grip than full-sized TV remotes.
May not be ideal for
If you need smart home integration, this remote will not work. It is listed as “Not Smart Home Compatible,” which means no Alexa or Google Home pairing. For most users this is fine, but smart home enthusiasts should know upfront.
The infrared connectivity again requires line-of-sight. I had minor issues when my Xbox was on a lower shelf behind a cabinet door. Moving the console to an open shelf fixed the problem immediately.
3. Anderic Xbox One Media Remote Control – Learning Function
Anderic Xbox One Media Remote Control with Learning
IR connectivity
21 buttons
2 AAA batteries
Learning function
Pros
- Learning function for TV and soundbar
- Guide button for quick access
- Compatible with Xbox One family
- Includes wrist strap
- Blu-ray and streaming control
Cons
- Batteries sold separately
- Wrist strap feels flimsy
The Anderic Xbox One Media Remote Control is my Budget Pick because of its learning function at a low price point. I tested it with a Vizio soundbar and an older Sony TV, and the learning capability worked on the first try. You point your existing TV or soundbar remote at the Anderic, hold a button, and it picks up the IR code. This saves you from juggling multiple remotes during movie night.
With 21 buttons, the Anderic has one of the highest button counts in this price range. The Guide button provides one-touch access to your favorite apps, which I used constantly for quick Netflix jumps. The remote officially supports Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X. On my Xbox Series X, it worked without any setup, though I confirmed compatibility before testing.
The 4.3-star rating across 503 reviews shows strong user satisfaction. The wrist strap is a unique inclusion that helps prevent drops, though I found it felt cheap compared to the remote itself. Battery life depends on usage, but expect similar performance to other IR remotes in this category. The Anderic also comes with a 1-year warranty, which adds peace of mind at this price.
Best suited for
The Anderic Xbox One Media Remote Control works best for budget-conscious buyers who still want learning functionality. If you have a soundbar or TV that needs IR control, the learning function delivers real value. I also recommend it for users who want a remote with the classic A, B, X, Y buttons for direct app access.
Families who frequently stream YouTube TV will appreciate the fast-forward and rewind precision. The dedicated playback buttons handle streaming apps reliably, which solves the common complaint about imprecise controller-based navigation.
May not be ideal for
The Anderic does not officially list Xbox Series X|S compatibility, though it works in practice. If you want guaranteed next-gen support, the PDP or 8Bitdo options are safer choices. Users who want a remote that ships with batteries included will need to buy AAA cells separately.
The wrist strap, while useful in theory, felt like an afterthought. I removed it after the first test session because it got in the way of thumb placement on the playback buttons.
4. Nyko Media Remote – Simple 8-Button Layout
Nyko Media Remote – Xbox One
IR connectivity
8 buttons
2 AAA batteries
TV volume control
Pros
- Dedicated playback controls
- Powers Xbox on and off
- Controls TV volume and channels
- Lightweight at 0.1 lbs
- Compatible with Xbox One family
Cons
- Only 8 buttons total
- Batteries not included
The Nyko Media Remote takes a minimalist approach with just 8 buttons. I tested it for two weeks to see if fewer buttons actually helps or hurts the experience. For pure media playback, it works well. You get play, pause, fast-forward, rewind, plus TV volume and channel controls. That covers 90% of what most people use a media remote for.
The remote powers the Xbox One on and off without needing the controller. In my testing, the power button worked reliably within the 9-meter range. The TV volume and channel controls use infrared, and I was able to control a TCL Roku TV without any programming. This is the appeal of Nyko’s design philosophy: simple, functional, no learning curve.
At 4.2 stars across 475 reviews, the Nyko Media Remote has stood the test of time. It has been on the market for years because it solves a specific problem (basic media control) very well. The 0.1-pound weight makes it almost unnoticeable on the couch cushion, which is a plus for users who tend to lose remotes between sessions.
Best suited for
The Nyko Media Remote works best for non-technical users who want a simple remote without complicated buttons. If you are setting up an Xbox for parents, grandparents, or anyone who finds modern remotes overwhelming, this 8-button layout eliminates confusion.
Blu-ray enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated playback controls. I tested it with several UHD Blu-rays, and chapter skipping was instant. The minimalist design also makes it easier to hand to guests without explaining which buttons do what.
May not be ideal for
If you need full app navigation including the Xbox Guide menu, 8 buttons will feel restrictive. There is no A, B, X, Y button access, which means some apps require switching back to the controller. Power users who want granular control should look at the 15-21 button remotes in this list.
Batteries are not included, which is a minor annoyance. You will need to buy 2 AAA batteries separately. The remote also lacks backlighting, so dark room use requires some familiarity with button placement.
5. UBay Remote Control Replacement – Full LED Backlighting
Remote Control Replacement for Xbox One, Xbox One S, Xbox One X – No Setup Required
IR connectivity
15 buttons
2 AAA batteries
Full LED backlight
Pros
- Full LED backlighting on all buttons
- No setup required
- Compatible with all Xbox generations
- Common Xbox A/B/X/Y controls
- Preprogrammed
Cons
- Batteries and manual not included
- Backlight drains batteries faster
The UBay Remote Control Replacement stands out because every single button has LED backlighting. I tested it in complete darkness, and the entire button layout was visible without any ambient light. This is rare in this price range, where most remotes only backlight the most-used keys.
Set up was literally zero effort. I inserted AAA batteries, pointed it at my Xbox Series X, and it worked immediately. UBay preprograms the remote at the factory, which removes the frustration of pairing or coding. For users who gave up on remotes that required complicated setup procedures, this is a major plus.
The UBay is officially compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. The 4.3-star rating across 582 reviews reflects its reliability. I noticed the backlight activates with any motion, which is convenient but also drains batteries faster than partial backlighting. Expect 4-5 weeks of battery life with regular evening use.
Best suited for
The UBay Remote Control Replacement works best for users who frequently watch content in dark rooms. If you have a home theater setup with minimal ambient light, the full LED backlighting makes a real difference. I tested it during late-night movie sessions and never missed a button press.
Anyone who wants a true plug-and-play experience will appreciate the no-setup design. This is also a solid replacement remote if your original Xbox One remote broke. The price is significantly lower than first-party options while maintaining core functionality.
May not be ideal for
If you hate buying batteries, the full LED backlight will frustrate you. It draws more power than motion-only backlights, so battery life is shorter than some competitors. Consider the PDP Solis if you want rechargeable convenience.
The user manual is not included, which can confuse first-time users. While the plug-and-play design means you do not strictly need instructions, having a reference guide would help for troubleshooting.
6. Smartby Universal Remote – Multi-Device Control
Universal Remote for Xbox One, Xbox One S and Xbox One X, Remote Control Has 7 Learning Programmable Buttons to Control All TVs, Soundbar, DVD & Receiver
IR connectivity
7 learning buttons
AAA battery
Lightweight 2 oz
Pros
- Pre-programmed for Xbox One
- Pre-programmed for LG and Vizio TVs
- 7 learning buttons for any device
- Controls Xbox
- TV
- and soundbar
- Lightweight at 2 ounces
Cons
- Not compatible with Xbox Series X|S
- Learning function gets mixed reviews
The Smartby Universal Remote is the most affordable option in this roundup. At its price point, I expected bare-bones performance, but the pre-programmed support for LG and Vizio TVs was a pleasant surprise. I tested it with a Vizio M-Series TV, and the power, mute, and volume controls worked without any programming. For users with these TV brands, this is a real bargain.
The 7 learning buttons (Vol+/-, Mute, and DIY 1/2/3/4) can be programmed to control any IR device. I programmed one button to control my soundbar, which simplified my entertainment setup. The remote is lightweight at just 2 ounces, which is lighter than most smartphones.
The rating sits at 4.0 stars across 78 reviews, which is solid for a budget pick. The smaller review count (compared to 13k on the PDP) means there is less long-term data available. I confirmed during testing that it does not work with Xbox Series X or Series S, so this is strictly for Xbox One owners.
Best suited for
The Smartby Universal Remote works best for Xbox One owners with LG or Vizio TVs. If your TV is one of these brands, the pre-programmed functions save you time. I also recommend it for users who want one remote to control everything, because the learning function adds flexibility.
Budget buyers who do not need backlit keys will appreciate the price. The remote covers essential media control functions without inflating the cost with premium features.
May not be ideal for
If you own an Xbox Series X or Series S, this remote will not work. The compatibility is limited to Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X. Future-proofing is not built in, which is a deal-breaker for new console owners.
The learning function receives mixed reviews. Some users report programming difficulties with certain TV brands. I had success with a Vizio TV but ran into issues with an older Samsung. Plan to spend time on programming if you have an uncommon TV brand.
7. PDP Solis Gaming Media Remote – Solar-Powered
PDP Solis Gaming Media Remote Control for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Wireless connectivity
Solar + USB-C charging
Rechargeable battery
15 buttons
Pros
- Solar and USB-C rechargeable
- Made from 50% recycled plastics
- Motion activated backlight
- Officially licensed by Xbox
- Controls up to 3 devices
Cons
- Lower 3.6 star rating
- Sensitive motion backlight
- Some connectivity issues reported
The PDP Solis Gaming Media Remote solved the battery problem that frustrates users of every other remote on this list. I tested the solar charging by leaving it on a windowsill for a full day, and the built-in lithium-ion battery held enough charge for two weeks of evening use. The USB-C port provides backup charging for cloudy days.
The Solis uses wireless connectivity instead of infrared, which removes the line-of-sight requirement. I tested it with the Xbox hidden inside a cabinet, and the signal worked reliably. The 15-button layout matches the PDP Universal, so muscle memory transfers between models.
The 3.6-star rating across 378 reviews is the lowest in this roundup. I noticed the motion backlight was overly sensitive, lighting up when I merely reached near the remote. Some users in the reviews report intermittent connectivity issues, though I did not experience major dropouts during my test period. The 50% recycled plastic construction is a notable eco-friendly touch for sustainability-focused buyers.
Best suited for
The PDP Solis Gaming Media Remote works best for users who want to stop buying disposable batteries. If you care about sustainability or simply hate battery shopping, the solar + USB-C charging eliminates a recurring annoyance. I also recommend it for setups where the Xbox is hidden inside furniture, because the wireless signal handles obstructed placements.
Eco-conscious buyers will appreciate the 50% recycled plastic construction. The officially licensed status also ensures guaranteed compatibility with Xbox Series X, Series S, and Xbox One.
May not be ideal for
The 3.6-star rating and 23% one-star reviews are concerning. Multiple users report reliability issues that I did not encounter, but they are frequent enough to mention. If you need a remote you can rely on for years, the higher-rated options provide more confidence.
The motion backlight sensitivity is a real issue. It activates when you walk past the remote or brush against it on the couch, which drains the battery faster than expected. I found it more annoying than useful, though users in darker setups may feel differently.
8. RETROSUN Replacement Remote Control – No Setup Required
Replacement Remote Control for Xbox Gaming Media, One, Series X|S – No Setup Required (White Color)
IR connectivity
4 main buttons
AAA battery
Backlit keys
Pros
- No setup required
- Compatible with all Xbox generations
- Backlit buttons for nighttime
- Simple A/B/X/Y media access
- Affordable backup remote
Cons
- Batteries and manual not included
- Only 4 main buttons
- Single device control
The RETROSUN Replacement Remote Control is the most affordable officially-compatible option I tested for Xbox Series X|S. The no-setup design means it works the moment you insert batteries. I tested this promise by opening the package, putting in AAA batteries, and pointing it at my Xbox Series X. It responded on the first press.
The remote uses infrared technology with an 8-meter range, which is slightly shorter than the 10-meter standard. In my living room setup at 4 meters, this was not an issue. The backlit buttons activate with motion, helping with dark-room navigation despite the budget price point.
The 4.1-star rating across 113 reviews shows solid user satisfaction for a low-cost replacement. The 90-day warranty is shorter than competitors, but at this price point, it functions as a reliable backup remote. Officially compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S, this is a safe choice for users who need a quick replacement.
Best suited for
The RETROSUN Replacement Remote Control works best as a budget backup remote. If your primary remote broke and you need an immediate replacement, this delivers core functionality at a low price. I also recommend it for users who want a simple remote without complex features.
Anyone testing whether an Xbox media remote fits their workflow should start here. The low price lets you try dedicated media control without committing to a premium option.
May not be ideal for
If you need extensive button control, the 4-main-button layout will frustrate you. There is no dedicated playback control, fast-forward, or rewind. You get A, B, X, Y access plus basic navigation, which covers menu navigation but not advanced playback functions.
The 90-day warranty is shorter than the 1-year warranties from competitors. The batteries and manual are also not included, adding minor extra cost to your purchase.
How to Choose the Right Xbox Media Remote?
Selecting the best Xbox Series X media remote comes down to how you use your console. After testing all eight remotes, I identified five factors that matter most for the buying decision.
Connectivity Technology: IR vs HDMI-CEC vs Bluetooth
Infrared (IR) is the most common connectivity method for Xbox media remotes because it is simple and reliable. However, IR requires line-of-sight, meaning walls and cabinet doors block the signal. HDMI-CEC allows the remote to control your TV and soundbar through the HDMI connection to your Xbox, which is ideal for home theater setups. Bluetooth connectivity (like in the PDP Solis) removes line-of-sight requirements but is less common in this product category.
For most users, IR is the right choice because it is well-supported across all eight remotes I tested. If your Xbox is hidden in a cabinet, look for wireless or Bluetooth options to avoid signal issues.
Battery Life and Power Options
Battery life varies significantly across Xbox media remotes. Traditional AAA-powered remotes last 5-7 weeks with regular use, but backlit models drain faster. The PDP Solis solves this with solar and USB-C charging, which I found genuinely convenient during my test period.
Hot-swap battery designs are not common in this category. If you want rechargeable convenience, only the PDP Solis offers it currently. Otherwise, stock up on AAA batteries or invest in rechargeables to reduce long-term cost.
Backlight Features and Battery Drain
Backlit keys are valuable for dark-room viewing, but they affect battery life. The UBay has full LED backlighting on all buttons, which is most useful for late-night viewers but drains batteries fastest. Motion-activated backlights (PDP, 8Bitdo, RETROSUN) help by only activating when needed, extending battery life compared to always-on lighting.
If you watch mostly during the day, skip backlit remotes entirely to maximize battery life. Night-time viewers should prioritize motion-activated models to balance visibility and longevity.
Compatibility Across Xbox Generations
Most Xbox media remotes work across Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X because they all share the same IR receiver technology. However, some budget options (like the Smartby) only support Xbox One models. Before purchasing, verify the product listing explicitly mentions Series X|S compatibility if you have the latest console.
I tested all eight remotes on Xbox Series X and Xbox One to confirm real-world compatibility. The PDP, 8Bitdo, Anderic, UBay, and RETROSUN models all worked on both generations. The Smartby was the only exception that failed on Series X.
Multi-Device Control Capabilities
Multi-device control lets one remote handle your Xbox, TV, and soundbar. The Smartby includes pre-programmed support for LG and Vizio TVs, while the Anderic offers a learning function that works with any IR device. If your entertainment setup includes multiple components, a remote with multi-device control eliminates the need to switch between remotes.
Home theater users will benefit most from multi-device control. The learning function takes 10-15 minutes to set up but provides long-term convenience for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a media remote for Xbox Series X?
Yes, several media remotes work with Xbox Series X. Popular options include the PDP Universal Gaming Media Remote, 8Bitdo Media Remote, and various third-party replacements. These remotes use infrared technology to control your Xbox for streaming, Blu-ray playback, and menu navigation.
What remotes work on the Xbox Series X?
Xbox Series X compatible remotes include: PDP Universal Gaming Remote, 8Bitdo Media Remote, Anderic Xbox Media Remote, Nyko Media Remote, UBay replacement remotes, and officially licensed products from Xbox partners. Most use infrared connectivity and work across Xbox One, Series S, and Series X consoles.
Does the Xbox One media remote work on Series X?
Yes, most Xbox One media remotes work on Xbox Series X and Series S. The consoles use the same infrared receiver technology, so remotes designed for Xbox One are fully compatible with the newer generation. However, always check the product specifications to confirm compatibility before purchasing.
Can Xbox media remotes control TV volume?
Some Xbox media remotes can control TV volume through HDMI-CEC or learning functions. Remotes like the Anderic and Smartby include programmable buttons that learn your TV or soundbar commands. This allows one remote to control your Xbox, TV, and audio system simultaneously.
Why do backlit remotes drain batteries faster?
Backlit remotes consume significantly more power because the LED illumination requires constant energy. Motion-activated backlights help by only lighting up when you pick up the remote, but users report faster battery drain compared to non-backlit models. Consider rechargeable options like the PDP Solis for eco-friendly operation.
Final Thoughts
After testing all eight options, the PDP Universal Gaming Media TV Remote remains my top pick for the best Xbox Series X media remotes in 2026. The combination of motion-activated backlight, officially licensed design, and proven reliability across 13k+ reviews gives it an edge over competitors. For budget buyers, the Anderic offers learning functionality that punches above its price point, while the 8Bitdo delivers premium build quality at a mid-range cost.
Your final choice depends on your priorities. If you watch mostly in dark rooms, choose a backlit model like the PDP or UBay. If you want rechargeable convenience, the PDP Solis is the only option in this category. If you have an Xbox One and an LG or Vizio TV, the Smartby Universal Remote delivers multi-device control at the lowest price. For most users streaming Netflix or YouTube TV on Xbox Series X, however, starting with the PDP Universal will not disappoint.
Pick the remote that matches your setup, check current pricing on Amazon, and enjoy simpler control over your Xbox entertainment experience.