Choosing a remote control for a TV is a challenge many Xiaomi owners face, especially if a regular accessory has been lost, broken or stopped responding correctly to commands. Unlike many other manufacturers who use proprietary communication protocols, Xiaomi often adheres to open standards, which greatly expands the range of compatible devices. However, not all universal controllers work equally effectively with the PatchWall shell or standard Android TV installed on the brand’s TVs.
Modern TV models such as the Xiaomi Mi TV P1 series, Xiaomi Mi TV 4A or the newer Xiaomi Mi TV Stick may require not only infrared signal, but also Bluetooth support for voice control and menu navigation. That is why you need to clearly understand what type of communication your TV model uses before buying a new device. A mistake in choosing can lead to a device that only switches channels, but does not allow you to control the volume or launch applications.
In this article, we will discuss in detail what remotes are suitable for Xiaomi TVs, how to distinguish the original from a quality counterpart, and whether you can do without a physical device using a smartphone. We will look at the technical nuances of infrared ports and Bluetooth modules, and give recommendations on pairing new controllers. The key factor of compatibility is not only the brand of the TV, but also the version of the operating system installed on a particular model. Understanding these details will save you time and money when buying accessories.
Connection Types: Infrared and Bluetooth remotes
The first thing that you need to decide on is the type of signal that the TV receives. Most Xiaomi models, especially in the budget and mid-range segments, have a classic infrared (IR) receiver, which means that you just have to point the remote control towards the bottom of the TV body, and these devices don't require complicated pairing procedures: you just insert the batteries and start using it.
However, more advanced models such as the Xiaomi Mi TV Q1 or the latest Android TV versions are often equipped with Bluetooth remotes. The main advantage of this solution is the ability to control without direct vision. You can switch channels or adjust the volume even if the remote is in your pocket or behind the couch.
Importantly, there are hybrid remote models that use IR for basic functions (on, volume, channels) and Bluetooth for voice-only search. If you're looking for a replacement, make sure your TV supports a Bluetooth-HID profile if you plan to use smart features. Otherwise, even the original remote from another model may not work well.
- 📡 Infrared (IR): They work on the principle of line of sight, are compatible with 95% of models, do not require mating, cheap to replace.
- 🔵 Bluetooth: Operate at a distance of up to 10 meters without line of sight, support voice input, require initial configuration.
- ⚡ Hybrid: Combines both types of communication, providing basic functionality via IR and enhanced via Bluetooth.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a universal remote, always check the list of supported codes. Even if the package says "Xiaomi", this may only apply to the brand's smartphones, not to the TV.
The cost difference between IR and Bluetooth can be double, so there is no point in overpaying for technologies that your TV does not support. Check the type of connection of the regular remote by looking at the presence of the label "Bluetooth" on the case or trying to control the TV, pointing the remote control sideways (if it works - most likely it is Bluetooth).
Compatibility of original and universal remotes
Xiaomi TV owners often wonder if they can use a remote from another model of the same brand TV? In most cases, the answer is yes, especially if we are talking about devices released in the last 3-4 years. The logic of how code tables work in Xiaomi is quite unified. For example, the remote from the Xiaomi Mi TV 4S model will likely fit with the 4A or 4X model.
But there are nuances associated with extra buttons: On the remotes from top models, there may be Netflix, Prime Video, which are not in the firmware of simpler TVs, in which case these buttons simply will not perform any actions, but the basic functionality will remain. The reverse situation, when a simple remote tries to emulate the functions of a complex one, is less common, but also possible.
Universal third-party remotes such as Perfeo, BBK or DEXP often have codes for Xiaomi in their database. The setup procedure usually involves typing digital code or auto-brushing. The build quality of such devices may be inferior to the originals, but they often perform 100% functionally. The main thing is to make sure that the remote supports Smart TV functions if necessary.
It is also worth mentioning the remotes-pointers (Air Mouse), which are popular among owners. TV-And they're great for Xiaomi TVs, and they're great for making control computer-like, and it's especially convenient for surfing in a browser or using a TV as a monitor. USB-Adapter and not dependent on the Bluetooth version of the TV.
Comparative table of characteristics of remotes
To make it easier to choose, let's compare the main types of devices available on the market by key parameters, which will help you understand whether the sheepskin is worth making, or rather limit yourself to a budget solution.
| Characteristics | Original IR | The original Bluetooth | Universal IR | Air Mouse (USB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type of communication | Infrared | Bluetooth 4.0+ | Infrared | Radio channel 2.4 GHz |
| Radio of action | 7 meters | 10 meters | 5 meters | 10 meters |
| Voice input | No. | Yes. | Rarely. | Depends on the model. |
| Direct visibility. | Required. | Not required | Required. | Not required |
| Average price | $$ | $$$ | $ | $$ |
The table shows that universal IR remotes win in price but lose in usability. Bluetooth solutions provide a better user experience but require higher costs. Air Mouse is a niche product for those who actively use the TV for work or complex navigation tasks.
Some modern Xiaomi remotes are switching to batteries, but most still run on AAA or AAAA batteries. Universal models are often more “gluttonous”, so having quality batteries or the ability to use rechargeable batteries will be a plus.
Configuring and pairing a new remote
If you buy a new remote, you have to set it up correctly. In infrared models, the process is trivial: insert the batteries and check the work. If there is no reaction, you may need to activate the training mode or enter the code. This is usually done by pressing a certain combination of buttons (often OK + Back or a special Setup button), after which the LED flashes, signaling readiness for code entry.
Bluetooth remotes are more complicated, you need access to the TV menu, and if the standard remote is lost, you can use the control buttons on the TV body itself (usually located at the bottom or back) or connect a regular computer computer. USB-Go to the settings. → Remote and accessories → Add accessory. After that, press the button combination on the new remote (usually Home) + Back or Voice + Menu) before the pulsation of the LED.
☑️ Preparation for pairing Bluetooth remote
In some cases, especially when using non-original Bluetooth remotes, you may need to manually enter a pairing code or use a special application to flash the remote over a PC, although this is rare for Xiaomi.
⚠️ Note: When pairing a Bluetooth remote, make sure that the TV is no longer connected 2-3 other Bluetooth devices (earphones, gamepads) as this may cause address conflict or delays in signal transmission.
Controlling Xiaomi TV from a smartphone
If you can't buy a new remote right now and the old one is lost, a smart phone is a great temporary solution. Virtually all modern Android and iOS phones can turn into a full-fledged remote control, and there are two main ways to do this: using an integrated IR port or connecting via Wi-Fi.
If your smartphone has an infrared port (such equipment is often found in Xiaomi, Redmi, Huawei phones), you can use the standard Mi Remote app or third-party counterparts like ZaZa Remote. In the application, you need to choose the manufacturer of Xiaomi and the model of the TV (or use auto-coding), this method works even without the Internet and does not require setting up the TV, because it emulates the signal of the conventional remote.
The second is Wi-Fi, and the TV and smartphone must be connected to the same local network, so you can use the official Mi Remote app (for global versions) or Mi Home, and Google's standard Android TV Remote Control works just fine, and the advantage of this method is that you can type text to search in YouTube or the browser directly from the phone's keyboard, which is much more convenient than poking buttons on the remote.
What if your phone can’t see TV on Wi-Fi?
It is worth noting that control over Wi-Fi will not allow you to turn on the TV turned off (if it is completely de-energized by the button on the case), since the TV module must be active to receive a Wi-Fi signal.
Where to buy and how to distinguish a fake
Xiaomi's original remotes can be purchased from authorized service centers, large electronics networks, or on the brand's official marketplace pages. However, the market is flooded with copies that are almost indistinguishable from the original. The main difference is the quality of plastic and buttons. The original remote has soft, pleasant to the touch plastic and buttons with a clear, quiet stroke. Counterfeits often creak, have backlash buttons and can catch after a few months of use.
Pay attention to the labeling. On the back of the original remote, there is always a sticker with the model (e.g., XMWTBL02YM), a barcode and manufacturer information. The font on the sticker must be clear, without lubrication. Also, the originals often have the Mi or Xiaomi logo stamped on plastic, rather than painted with paint that is erased over time.
💡
When you buy a remote on a marketplace, read reviews with photos. Often users post photos of the inside of the battery compartment - the originals have quality marking of contacts, fakes - just plastic or a stamping curve.
If you order a remote from China, look carefully at the description. Phrases like "For Xiaomi TV" often mean a universal clone. The phrase "Original Xiaomi Remote" with the appropriate quality certificate gives more guarantees. However, even a quality clone for 300-500 rubles can last longer than the original if you handle it carefully.
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A high-quality universal remote with IR support is the best budget solution if you do not need voice input. For complete comfort, look for Bluetooth models with gyroscope support.