Why Choosing a Remote for Xiaomi TV Is Not As Easy as It Seems
Xiaomi TVs have gained popularity thanks to a combination of high technology and affordable prices. But even the most advanced models — Mi TV 4S, Mi TV Q1 or Redmi Smart TV — can be uncomfortable if the original remote is lost, broken or simply not satisfied with functionality. Unlike traditional brands like Samsung or LG, where universal remotes fit almost all models, Xiaomi has nuances: different control protocols, support for voice assistants, and even separate remotes for Chinese and global versions of TV.
In this article, we’ll break down all the types of remotes that are compatible with Xiaomi TVs, from original to smart alternatives, and give you step-by-step instructions on how to set up and how to avoid typical errors. If you’re looking for a replacement for a broken remote or want to upgrade to a more functional model, here’s the answer.
Let's warn you right away: not all universal remotes work with Xiaomi TV out of the box. Some require manual code tuning, and others do not support key features like voice control or fast access to streaming services. To avoid wasting money, read on.
Original Xiaomi remotes: models and their features
If you want guaranteed compatibility, Xiaomi's original remotes are the best choice, but even here, there are pitfalls: the models differ not only in design, but also in supported features.
- 📺 Standard IR panel (for example, for Mi) TV 4A/4S): It's infrared, supports basic functions (on, volume control, navigation), no voice control, no touchpad.
- 🎤 Remote with microphone (for Mi) TV Q1/Q2 New models: Adds Google Assistant or Xiao AI (It's often bundled with premium TVs.
- 🖱️ Air Mouse remote (such as Mi Remote Controller): equipped with a cursor gyroscope, like a computer mouse, and convenient for smart functions, but requires Bluetooth connectivity.
- 🔋 Solar panel (for some Redmi models) TV): Charged by light, but is rare and not always compatible with other series.
Important: Xiaomi’s original remotes are often tied to a particular series of TVs. For example, the remote from the Mi TV 4S 55 may not work with the Mi TV Q1 75, even if they look identical. Before buying, check the model of the TV (indicated on the sticker at the back) and check it for remote compatibility.
⚠️ Note: In Chinese versions of TVs (e.g., with a prefix) CN In the model) often uses a remote with the Xiao button AI, If you buy your TV in Russia or Europe, it's useless for voice control.
Universal remotes: what are suitable for Xiaomi TV
Universal remotes are a budget alternative to the original, but not all of them are compatible with Xiaomi, because the brand’s TVs often use custom IR codes that are not found in many universal devices, and we tested several popular models and compiled a compatibility table:
| Model remote control | Compatible with Xiaomi TV | Features | Price (exemplary) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi Remote Controller (RM-Pro) | ✅ Complete. | Universal remote from Xiaomi, supports IR + Bluetooth, controls TV, air conditioning, audio systems | 1 500 — 2 000 ₽ |
| One For All URC 7940 | ⚠️ Partial (you need to manually configure codes) | Supports 15 devices, but codes for Xiaomi may not work the first time | 1 200 — 1 800 ₽ |
| Logitech Harmony 650 | ✅ Complete (when configured through the software) | Requires a PC connection to program, but then works stably | 3 500 — 4 500 ₽ |
| BBK L156 | ❌ Unstable (only works with basic functions) | Budget option, but often does not recognize the Home or Settings buttons | 300 — 500 ₽ |
If you choose a universal remote, be prepared to manually configure. For example, One For All or BBK may require you to enter special codes. For Xiaomi TV, the most common codes are: 0171, 0180, 0225. If automatic search does not work, try them manually.
Tip: Before buying, check whether the remote supports Bluetooth (for models with Air Mouse) or only IR. For example, the Mi TV Q1 requires a Bluetooth remote for full cursor control, and the IR remote will work only with basic functions.
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If the universal remote doesn’t find the code for your Xiaomi TV, try using the Learning Mode. You’ll need the original remote control, which will “remember” the signals from it.
Smart remotes and alternative methods of control
If you don’t want to buy a separate remote, there are a few modern alternatives:
- 📱 Smartphone as a remote: through Mi Remote (official from Xiaomi) or Google TV. It works on Wi-Fi or IR (if there is an IR port in the phone).
- 🎮 Gaming controllers: Some models (such as Xbox Controller or DualShock) can be connected via Bluetooth for navigation.
- 🖱️ Wireless mouse/keyboard: suitable for smart functions, but will not replace the remote for basic operations (on, volume control).
- 🗣️ Voice assistants: Google Assistant or Alice (via Yandex Station) can turn on TV and switch channels by voice.
The most reliable option is the Mi Remote app, which automatically determines the model of the TV and offers ready-made control templates, but it requires that the phone and TV be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and if there is no network, you can use an IR port (if there is one in the smartphone).
How to set up Mi Remote:
- Download the Mi Remote app from Google Play or the App Store.
- Select the type of device – TV.
- In the brand list, find Xiaomi and select your TV model (or Universal if your model isn’t).
- Follow the instructions on the screen to test the buttons.
⚠️ Warning: When using a smartphone as a remote, the battery discharge is accelerated by 2-3 times. If you plan to control TV so constantly, keep your phone on charge or use energy saving mode.
☑️ Set up Mi Remote for Xiaomi TV
How to check the compatibility of the remote with your model Xiaomi TV
To avoid making the wrong choice, follow this algorithm:
- Check the TV model. It's on the back sticker (e.g. Mi TV 4S 55 T2 or Redmi Smart TV X50). You can also see the menu: Settings → About TV.
- Check the type of connection. IR remotes work with most models, but they don't support Air Mouse. Bluetooth remotes are for functions like voice control or cursor.
Check the official documentation.
Xiaomi
Test before buying.
A critical nuance: Xiaomi CN TVs (Chinese versions) often use a different IR protocol than global models, for example, the remote from the Mi TV 4S CN will not work for the Mi TV 4S Global, even if they are identical in appearance.
If you're not sure if you're compatible, look for the Learning Mode remotes, which can copy signals from the original remote, guaranteeing 100% performance, such as the BroadLink RM4 Pro or Xiaomi Mi Remote Controller.
How to know if your Xiaomi TV has an IR or Bluetooth remote?
Top.-5 remotes for Xiaomi TV: rating 2026 year-end
Based on user reviews and tests, we have compiled a rating of the best remotes for Xiaomi TVs:
- Xiaomi Mi Remote Controller (RM-Pro) Universal remote with IR + Bluetooth, controls not only TV, but also other equipment. Supports voice control through Google Assistant.
- Logitech Harmony Elite A premium smart remote with touchscreen and support for up to 15 devices.Ideal for a home theater, but requires customization via PC.
- One For All URC 7960 Budget Universal button-lit remote works with most Xiaomi models, but may require manual code entry.
- Xiaomi Mi TV Bluetooth Voice Remote Original remote with voice control and Air Mouse.Suitable for Mi TV Q1/Q2 and new models of Redmi Smart TV.
- BBK L156E The cheapest option (from 300) ₽), It only works with basic functions, and it's suitable for temporary replacements.
The cost of the original remotes: from 800 to 2,500 ₽ model-wise.