Xiaomi’s MI remote is not just another remote control, but a multifunctional device that turns a regular TV or multimedia center into part of the Xiaomi ecosystem. If you’ve ever wondered how to control all smart devices in a house from one remote control, without switching between several key fobs, this gadget is designed for you.
Unlike classic remotes that only work with a single TV or console, MI Remote (the official name of the series) supports thousands of models from different brands, from Samsung and LG to Gree air conditioners and Yamaha audio systems, while integrating with the Mi Home app, allowing you to control devices even from a smartphone. But how does this work in practice? Let's get into the details.
What is Xiaomi MI remote and how it differs from a conventional remote control
At first glance, the MI remote looks like a standard TV remote: compact, with volume control buttons, channel switching and a navigation joystick, but its key difference is the built-in IR transmitter with a codebase for more than 50,000 devices from 2,000+ brands, which means that one remote can replace several at once:
- 📺 Televisions (Samsung, LG, Sony, Philips, etc.)
- 🎮 Xiaomi Mi Box, Apple TV, Nvidia Shield
- ❄️ Air conditioning (Gree, Midea, Daikin)
- 🔊 Audio systems and soundbars (Yamaha, Bose, JBL)
- 💡 Smart lamps and outlets (if IR-controlled)
Another big advantage is that it's two-way with the Xiaomi ecosystem, so if you have a Yeelight smart lamp, you can turn it on right off the remote without taking out your smartphone, and if you have a remote control connected to the Mi Box, it automatically syncs the list of apps to the TV.
But there are limitations, for example, MI does not work with technology that is controlled only over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (for example, some models of smart speakers), and it does not support devices with proprietary protocols, like Bang & Olufsen or Bose SoundTouch.
Xiaomi MI remotes: which to choose in 2026
Over the years, Xiaomi has introduced several versions of remotes that differ in design, functionality and compatibility.
| Model | Year of release | Features | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Remote (1st generation) | 2015 | Basic version, only IR control, no backlighting | TVs, consoles, air conditioners |
| Mi Remote 2 | 2017 | Added button highlighting, improved design | + audio systems, support for Mi Home |
| Mi Remote Pro | 2019 | Touchbar, voice assistant Xiao AI, Bluetooth | Compatibility with the Xiaomi ecosystem |
| Mi TV Master Remote | 2021 | Metal case, NFC for quick setup, accelerometer | Optimized for Mi TV and Redmi TV |
If you want a remote control for a TV, the base model of Mi Remote 2 is enough. To manage a smart home, you should choose Mi Remote Pro – it supports voice commands and works with Mi Home. And Xiaomi TV owners should take a closer look at Mi TV Master Remote: it automatically adapts to the TV model and offers advanced features, for example, fast launch of Netflix or YouTube with a single button.
⚠️ Warning: Mi Remote Pro and Mi TV Master Remote remotes require the proprietary Mi Remote app (not to be confused with Mi Home) to be customized.
How to connect Xiaomi MI remote to a TV or other appliance
The MI remote takes no more than 5 minutes to set up, but there are nuances depending on the model of the device.
- Install batteries (usually included) and turn on the remote.
- Press and hold the TV + OK buttons for 3 seconds until the indicator flashes.
- Enter your model code (the list of codes is in the manual or in the Mi Remote app).
- Point the remote to the TV and press Power – if the TV is turned off, the setup was successful.
For smart devices (such as Gree air conditioning), the algorithm is different:
Download the Mi Remote app|Select the category “Air conditioning"|Specify brand and model|Check the operation of temperature buttons and modes|Save settings in profile-->
If your device is not automatically recognized, try:
- 🔍 Use the database search in the Mi Remote app ("Add Device").
- 📱 Update the remote firmware via Mi Home (if the model supports OTA- updates).
- 📧 Write in support of Xiaomi with the model of the equipment — sometimes they add new codes on request.
⚠️ Warning: Some TVs (e.g., LG OLED 2022+) use encrypted IR signals, in which case the MI remote can only control basic functions (on/off, volume), and the rest will require an original remote.
Hidden functions of the MI remote: what is silent instruction
Even experienced Xiaomi users are often unaware of the hidden capabilities of the MI remote.
- 🎮 Game Mode: Press Menu+ OK at the same time to activate the mode with minimal signal delay (useful for games on the console).
- 🔋 Battery savings: If the remote is not in use for a long time, it automatically goes to sleep. To output it, press any button twice.
- 🔄 Quick profile switching: Press the TV button and dial 9999, and the saved device selection menu will open.
- 📱 Smartphone control: In some models (such as the Mi Remote Pro), you can use the remote as a pointer for presentations (works via Bluetooth).
Another little-known thing is the macro setting, for example, you can program a single button into a sequence of actions.
- Turn on the TV.
- Switch the Mi Box to Netflix.
- Set the volume to 50%.
To do this, you need to use the Mi Remote application (section "Macroses").
How to reset the MI remote to factory settings?
Xiaomi’s MI remote and how to solve them
Despite being reliable, MI remotes sometimes fail, and here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Remote is not responding to pressing | Batteries are discharged or the internal battery has sat down (in models with a battery) | Replace batteries or recharge via USB-C (if supported) |
| Does not switch channels/does not adjust volume | Incorrectly selected device code | Reprogram the remote with the Mi Remote app |
| It only works from close range. | Contaminated IR transmitter or low charge | Wipe the transmitter glass with alcohol, replace the batteries |
| Not synchronized with Mi Home | Outdated firmware of the remote or application | Update the software through Mi Home → Device Profile → Update |
If the remote stopped working after a fall, check the integrity of the case and battery contacts. In Bluetooth models (for example, Mi Remote Pro) pairing can be lost, in which case you need to reconnect it to the phone via Bluetooth settings.
💡
If the remote does not respond to some buttons, try to “retrain” them: in the Mi Remote application, select your device → “Tune buttons” → assign the desired function to any key.
MI Remote vs. Universal Remotes (Logitech, One For All): Which is Better
There are many universal remotes on the market, for example, Logitech Harmony or One For All. How is the MI remote better or worse than the competition?
- ✅ Pros MI remote: 💰 Cheaper 2-3 times 1 500 ₽ vs. 5 000 + ₽ for Harmony. 📱 Close integration with the Xiaomi ecosystem (smart home, voice assistant). 🔋 Long-term (up to 12 months on a single battery set).
- ❌ Cons MI remote: 🛠 Limited codebase for rare brands (like Loewe or Pioneer Elite). 📶 No support for RF (radio frequency control), only IR + Bluetooth in top-end models. 📱 Mi Remote app sometimes works unstable on iOS.
If you only have popular brands (Samsung, LG, Xiaomi) at home and use smart devices, the MI remote will be the best choice. For complex systems (for example, a home theater with a Denon receiver and an Epson projector), it is better to consider Logitech Harmony - it supports command sequences and RF- control.
💡
Xiaomi MI remote is the best option for owners of Xiaomi equipment and those who want a simple and inexpensive universal remote.
Where to buy Xiaomi MI remote and how much it costs in 2026
Xiaomi’s official remotes are sold in several places:
- 🛒 Official Mi Store - the original warranty, but the price is higher than the market (from 2,500 ₽).
- 🏬 M-Video, Citilink, Ozone – there are often stocks (e.g. Mi Remote Pro can be found for 1,800 ₽).
The cost depends on the model:
- Mi Remote (base) – 1000–1 500 ₽
- Mi Remote 2 — 1 500–2 000 ₽
- Mi Remote Pro — 2 000–3 000 ₽
- Mi TV Master Remote — 2 500–4 000 ₽
When buying, pay attention to:
- 📦 Set – the box must have batteries and instructions in Russian.
- 🔍 Serial number – the original remotes have a sticker with code that can be checked on the Xiaomi website.
- 📱 Compatibility – check if the model supports your equipment (the list is available on the manufacturer’s website).
⚠️ Attention: AliExpress often sells fakes under the guise of Mi Remote Pro. They can be distinguished by the quality of plastic (original - matte, without gaps) and the operation of buttons (in fakes they often stick).