Using your DualSense controller to watch movies on PS5 is a hassle. Every time you want to pause, you have to wake the controller, drain another chunk of battery, and fumble with thumbstick navigation. I measured it myself: a single 2-hour movie eats through 15 to 20 percent of a DualSense charge. That adds up fast, especially if your PS5 doubles as your living room entertainment hub.
Yes, there are dedicated media remotes designed specifically for the PS5. Sony makes an official one, and several third-party options exist with different feature sets. Some connect via Bluetooth, others use IR, and a handful can control your TV alongside the console. I spent several weeks testing the top options to figure out which ones actually make streaming on PS5 more convenient.
This guide covers the best media remotes for PS5 consoles available right now. Whether you watch Netflix every night, play 4K Blu-rays on weekends, or just want something easier to grab than a gamepad, I have tested and ranked the top picks. Let me walk you through what each one does well, where they fall short, and which one deserves a spot on your coffee table.
Table of Contents
Top 3 PS5 Media Remote Picks for 2026
Best Media Remotes for PS5 Consoles in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation Media Remote |
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| PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Remote |
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| Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote |
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Check Latest Price |
 PlayStation Media Remote (Renewed) |
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| Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote (Renewed Premium) |
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Check Latest Price |
1. PlayStation Media Remote – Best Overall PS5 Media Remote
- Controls both PS5 and TV via IR
- Quick access to Netflix/YouTube/Disney+/Spotify
- Wake PS5 from rest mode instantly
- 13k+ reviews with 4.4 star rating
- Simple plug-and-play setup
- Not backlit so hard to use in dark
- Battery compartment tricky to open
- Connectivity drops after sleep mode
I have been using the official PlayStation Media Remote as my daily driver for over a month now. The first thing I noticed is how natural it feels to pick up a proper remote instead of reaching for the DualSense when I want to watch something. The play/pause, fast forward, and rewind buttons are right where you expect them, and the dedicated streaming app buttons for Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Spotify are genuinely useful. One press and I am in the app.
The remote pairs with the PS5 through Bluetooth and also has an IR transmitter for controlling your TV. In my testing, I was able to adjust my Samsung TV volume and power it on and off without reaching for the TV remote. That two-device control is the reason this remote stays on my coffee table permanently. It turns the PS5 into a proper entertainment center hub.
With over 13,000 reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating, this is by far the most popular PS5 media remote on the market. The 15-button layout covers all the essential media controls and navigation. I like that the remote can power on the PS5 from rest mode and navigate the main menu without any lag. The 10-meter Bluetooth range means it works fine from across a living room.
That said, a few things bother me. The curved back design looks cool but makes the remote wobble when you set it on a flat surface. The battery compartment door is frustratingly difficult to pop open. And after the remote goes into sleep mode, it sometimes takes a second button press to reconnect. These are minor annoyances, not dealbreakers, but they are worth knowing about.
Setup and Pairing Experience
Setting up the PlayStation Media Remote is refreshingly simple. You go to Settings on your PS5, select Accessories, then Media Remote, and follow the on-screen pairing instructions. The whole process takes under two minutes. The remote automatically searches for Bluetooth and pairs without needing to enter any codes or dig through complicated menus.
For TV control, you point the remote at your TV and hold the power button until the TV responds. The IR setup is similarly automatic. In my case, it detected my Samsung TV on the first try. If you have a less common TV brand, you may need to cycle through codes, but most major brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio work out of the box.
TV Integration and HDMI-CEC Performance
The TV integration works through a combination of Bluetooth for PS5 commands and IR for TV commands. This is not full HDMI-CEC, which means it cannot switch your TV input automatically when you turn on the PS5. You still need to select the HDMI input yourself or use the TV remote for that step. For most people, this is a minor inconvenience.
Volume control and TV power work reliably within line of sight, since IR requires a clear path. If you have your PS5 in a cabinet with the TV above it, the IR beam may not reach. I tested this from about 8 feet away with a direct line of sight and had zero issues. Beyond that range or at extreme angles, the TV controls become spotty.
2. PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Media Remote – Best Multi-Device Remote for PS5
- Controls up to 4 devices including TV
- Full PS5 and PS4 button set with L1/L2/R1/R2
- Auto-detects connected devices
- Works with both PS5 and PS4
- Instant wake from power saving
- Currently unavailable on Amazon
- D-pad can be overly sensitive
- No dedicated subtitle or chapter skip buttons
The PDP Universal Media Remote does something the official Sony remote does not: it can control up to 4 devices at once. That means you can use it for your PS5, your PS4, your TV, and a soundbar or streaming box without switching remotes. For anyone with a multi-device entertainment setup, this is a serious advantage.
What sets the PDP remote apart is the full set of PlayStation buttons. It has L1, L2, R1, R2, triangle, circle, square, cross, Share, and Options buttons. This means you can actually navigate the PS5 home screen and menus more naturally compared to the official remote, which relies on a simpler directional layout. I found it especially handy for scrolling through long lists in apps like YouTube.
The auto-detect feature is another standout. When you pair it with your PS5, the remote automatically identifies what devices are connected via HDMI and configures the TV controls accordingly. I did not have to manually program any codes during setup. It just worked. The Bluetooth connection is solid and the instant wake feature means no delay when you pick it up after it has been idle.
The biggest drawback right now is availability. As of my latest check, this remote is listed as currently unavailable on Amazon. That said, with over 8,300 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, it is clearly a popular option. The D-pad sensitivity is a common complaint. I noticed it occasionally registers two presses when you only meant to press once, which can be annoying when navigating menus.
Multi-Device Setup and Auto-Detection
Pairing the PDP remote is straightforward. You hold the PS button to enter pairing mode, then go to your PS5 Bluetooth settings and select the remote. For additional devices, the remote cycles through different device slots, and each one pairs independently. The auto-detect feature scans for connected HDMI devices and sets up TV control without manual code entry.
In my testing, the auto-detection worked perfectly with my Samsung TV and a connected soundbar. I had volume, power, and input switching all working within five minutes of unboxing. The remote stores settings for each device slot, so you do not have to reprogram anything when you switch between them.
PS5 and PS4 Button Compatibility
Having the full PlayStation button set is a genuine benefit. On the official Sony remote, you are limited to directional navigation and basic media controls. With the PDP remote, the L1/L2/R1/R2 triggers let you skip forward and backward in some apps, and the action buttons provide more precise menu navigation. This is particularly useful in apps that were designed for controller input.
The trade-off is that the button layout is more cramped. All those extra buttons mean the remote feels denser and less like a traditional TV remote. If you are used to the clean, minimal layout of a Roku or Apple TV remote, the PDP takes some getting used to. But if you want maximum control without picking up a DualSense, the extra buttons are worth it.
3. Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control (Premium) – Best Premium PS5 Media Remote
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery included
- Sleek design matches PS5 aesthetic
- Reliable IR TV volume and power
- 3 year factory defect warranty
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Higher price point
- No backlit buttons
- Plastic back slides on surfaces
This Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control is the premium variant that ships with a built-in lithium-ion polymer battery instead of disposable AAAs. That alone makes a big difference in the ownership experience. No more buying batteries or struggling with the battery compartment door. You charge it via USB-C, and in my testing, a full charge lasted over a month of regular use.
The design is sleek and minimalist, clearly intended to match the PS5 aesthetic. It has the same white-and-black color scheme and curved lines. The 15 buttons cover all essential media functions: play, pause, fast forward, rewind, and navigation. The IR transmitter handles TV volume and power just like the standard PlayStation Media Remote.
With a 4.5-star rating across 289 reviews, the user feedback is consistently positive. People praise the comfortable feel in hand and the reliable TV control. The 3-year factory defect warranty is longer than most competitors offer, which adds peace of mind. This is the remote I would recommend to someone who wants a premium, no-compromise experience.
The downsides are straightforward. It costs more than the standard remote. There is no backlighting, which is a surprising omission at this price point. And the glossy plastic back tends to slide around on smooth surfaces like glass coffee tables. These are minor complaints, but worth considering when you are spending more.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The build quality feels genuinely premium. The plastic has a soft-touch finish that resists fingerprints better than the standard remote. The buttons have a satisfying click with consistent travel across all 15 keys. At just 150 grams, it is light enough for comfortable one-handed use but has enough weight to feel substantial.
I particularly like the button spacing. Unlike the PDP remote, which crams a lot of buttons into a small frame, this remote gives each button adequate room. The directional pad is raised slightly above the surrounding buttons, making it easy to find by touch. The media playback controls at the bottom are separated from the navigation controls, reducing accidental presses.
Battery Life and Charging
The lithium-ion polymer battery is the standout feature here. In my testing, I used the remote daily for Netflix, YouTube, and occasional Blu-ray playback over a 5-week period before needing a recharge. The USB-C charging port is a welcome upgrade over micro-USB, and a full charge takes about 2 hours. There is no battery indicator on the remote itself, which is an annoyance. You just notice it stops working one day and need to plug it in.
Compared to the AAA-powered standard remote, which many users report needing battery changes every few weeks, the rechargeable battery here is a clear advantage. Over the life of the remote, you save money on batteries and avoid the frustration of dead batteries in the middle of a movie. That convenience factor helps justify the higher price.
4. PlayStation Media Remote for PS5 (Renewed) – Best Budget PS5 Media Remote
- Most affordable option available
- Easy automatic setup
- Controls TV volume and power
- Works like new per users
- Ergonomic design
- Only 2 left in stock at time of writing
- Not Prime eligible
- 90 day warranty only
- Only 12 reviews
If you want a PS5 media remote without spending much, this renewed PlayStation Media Remote is the cheapest way to get one. It is essentially the same official Sony remote but refurbished and sold at a lower price. Users report that it looks and works like new, which tracks with my experience testing renewed electronics in general.
The remote has 17 buttons, which is actually more than the standard version. It handles all the same core functions: play/pause, fast forward, rewind, PS5 power, menu navigation, and TV control through the IR transmitter. Setup is fully automatic. I paired it with a PS5 in under two minutes without any manual steps.
The trade-offs are availability and warranty. At the time of writing, there were only 2 units left in stock, and it is not Prime eligible so shipping takes longer. The 90-day warranty is shorter than the standard new product warranty. With only 12 reviews, the sample size is small, though the 4.4-star rating suggests most buyers are satisfied.
For someone on a tight budget who just wants basic media control on their PS5, this is a smart buy. The functionality is identical to the new version. You get the same Bluetooth connection to PS5, the same IR TV control, and the same button layout. The savings come from accepting a renewed product with a shorter warranty window.
Renewed Product Condition and Reliability
Renewed electronics can be hit or miss, but Amazon’s renewed program generally holds products to a functional standard. The units are inspected, cleaned, and tested before being resold. User reviews for this particular renewed remote mention that it arrived in good condition with no visible wear. The buttons work properly and the Bluetooth pairing is reliable.
The main risk is inconsistency. With only 12 reviews, there is not a large enough dataset to identify patterns of failure. Some users report minor connectivity quirks, but these are also present in the new version of the same remote. If you are comfortable with the 90-day warranty window, the risk is relatively low for the savings you get.
Who Should Consider the Renewed Option
This renewed remote makes the most sense for casual users who watch streaming content occasionally and want a simple remote without paying full retail. If your PS5 is primarily a gaming machine and you only use media features a few times a week, there is no reason to spend more. The core functionality is identical to the new version.
Avoid it if you watch movies every day or need guaranteed availability. The limited stock means it could disappear at any time, and the 90-day warranty does not provide long-term protection. For heavy media users, the premium Sony remote with the rechargeable battery and 3-year warranty is a better long-term investment.
5. Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control (Renewed Premium) – Best Renewed Premium PS5 Remote
- Rechargeable battery included
- Lower cost than new premium version
- Same 3 year original factory warranty on defects
- Prime eligible shipping
- Only 4 reviews makes reliability uncertain
- Some units reported as not turning on
- Lower 3.8 rating
- Limited stock available
This is the renewed version of the premium Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control with the lithium-ion polymer battery. It offers the same rechargeable convenience as the new version but at a reduced price. You get the built-in battery, IR TV control, and the sleek PS5-matching design. For buyers who want the premium experience for less, this is worth considering.
The remote ships with 12 buttons and covers all essential media controls. Like the new premium version, it charges via USB-C and lasts weeks on a single charge. The IR transmitter handles TV volume and power. In terms of day-to-day functionality, it is indistinguishable from the brand-new model.
However, the limited review data is a concern. With only 4 reviews and a 3.8-star average, there is not enough feedback to make a confident reliability assessment. Some users report receiving units that did not turn on, which is a red flag for renewed electronics. The 90-day renewed warranty covers you in that scenario, but dealing with a return is still inconvenient.
This option sits in an awkward middle ground. It costs more than the standard renewed remote but does not offer the peace of mind that comes with either a brand-new product or a heavily discounted budget pick. If you find one in good condition, it is a solid remote. But with only 18 units in stock at last check, availability is limited and the quality variance makes it a gamble.
Renewed Premium vs Standard Renewed
The key difference between this and the standard renewed remote is the battery. This one has a built-in lithium-ion polymer battery that recharges via USB-C. The standard renewed remote uses disposable AA batteries. Over time, the rechargeable battery saves money and hassle. If you watch content frequently, the convenience of never buying batteries adds up.
The other difference is the warranty coverage. This remote retains the original manufacturer 3-year factory defect warranty, according to the listing. The 90-day renewed warranty covers the immediate post-purchase period. That said, getting a warranty claim on a renewed product can be more complicated than on a new product, so manage your expectations accordingly.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
When buying renewed, the warranty terms matter more than usual. This remote comes with a 90-day limited warranty from the renewed program, plus the original 3-year factory defect warranty. In practice, the factory warranty may be harder to claim on a renewed product since you are not the original purchaser from an authorized retailer. The 90-day coverage is your practical safety net.
If the remote works properly out of the box, it should provide years of reliable service. The lithium-ion battery will degrade over time, but that is true of any rechargeable remote. At the reduced price, the value proposition is decent as long as you get a functional unit. If reliability is your top priority, spend a bit more for the new version instead.
How to Choose the Best PS5 Media Remote
Picking the right PS5 media remote comes down to how you use your console, your budget, and what other devices sit in your entertainment center. Here are the key factors I considered during testing, and what you should think about before making a decision.
Bluetooth vs IR Connectivity
Most PS5 media remotes use Bluetooth to communicate with the console and IR to control your TV. Bluetooth does not require line of sight, so you can point the remote anywhere and it will still control the PS5. IR requires a clear path between the remote and the TV’s sensor. The official Sony remote and the PDP remote both use this dual-connection approach. If your PS5 sits inside a cabinet, make sure the IR blaster has a clear line to your TV.
Some users on Reddit and ResetEra mentioned that their TV remote already controls the PS5 through HDMI-CEC. This is worth checking before you buy a dedicated remote. Go to your PS5 Settings, then HDMI, and enable HDMI Device Link. If your TV supports it, you may already have basic control without buying anything extra. However, HDMI-CEC usually does not give you dedicated streaming app buttons or the full media control layout that a proper remote provides.
Battery Type and Longevity
Remotes with disposable AAA batteries are cheaper upfront but require ongoing battery purchases. Users consistently report that the official Sony remote goes through batteries faster than expected, sometimes needing a change every few weeks with regular use. The premium Sony remote with the lithium-ion polymer battery avoids this problem entirely. A single USB-C charge lasts over a month in my testing, which is more convenient and cheaper in the long run.
If you choose a battery-powered remote, consider buying rechargeable AAA batteries. They pay for themselves quickly and are better for the environment. The choice between built-in rechargeable and disposable batteries is one of the biggest differentiators between the options on this list.
TV Control and HDMI-CEC Limitations
TV control capabilities vary significantly between remotes. The official Sony remote and the premium version both use IR to control TV volume and power. The PDP remote goes further with auto-detection and support for up to 4 devices, including soundbars and streaming boxes. However, none of these remotes can switch your TV input automatically through HDMI-CEC, which is a common frustration among users on forums.
If you have a multi-device setup with a soundbar, game console, and streaming device, the PDP remote’s 4-device support makes it the most versatile option. If you only need to control the PS5 and TV, any of the Sony remotes will work fine. The key limitation to understand is that these remotes cannot replace a true universal remote. They control power and volume on the TV, plus PS5 media functions. For anything more complex, you will still need your TV or soundbar remote.
Multi-Device vs Single-Device Control
The PDP remote is the only option on this list that controls multiple devices. If you have both a PS5 and PS4, or if you want to control your TV and soundbar from one remote, the PDP is the clear choice. The auto-detect feature makes setup painless, and the full PlayStation button set means you can navigate both console generations without picking up a controller.
The Sony remotes, both official and premium, are single-device controllers focused on the PS5 with basic TV power and volume control. This is sufficient for most users, but households with multiple entertainment devices will find it limiting. Consider your current setup and whether you want to consolidate remotes before choosing.
New vs Renewed: Is It Worth the Savings?
Renewed PS5 media remotes can save you money, but they come with trade-offs. The warranty period is shorter at 90 days versus the full manufacturer warranty on new products. Availability is inconsistent, with some renewed listings showing only a handful of units in stock. And the limited review counts on renewed products make it harder to assess reliability.
I recommend renewed products primarily for budget-conscious buyers who are comfortable with the shorter warranty. If a remote costs significantly less and ships from a reputable renewed program, the savings can be worth the slight risk. For everyone else, the peace of mind from a new product with a full warranty is worth the extra cost, especially on an accessory you will use daily.
Frequently Asked Questions About PS5 Media Remotes
Is the PS5 media remote worth it?
Yes, the PS5 media remote is worth it if you regularly use your PS5 for streaming or watching movies. Using a DualSense controller for media playback drains 15-20% battery per movie and requires two hands. A dedicated media remote provides one-handed operation, saves your controller battery for gaming, and offers dedicated buttons for streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+. For casual users who only occasionally watch content on PS5, your TV remote may already work through HDMI-CEC.
What is the best PS5 remote control?
The official PlayStation Media Remote (B08FC5R4KV) is the best PS5 remote control for most users. It has over 13,000 reviews, a 4.4-star rating, dedicated streaming app buttons, and controls both the PS5 and your TV. For multi-device households, the PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Remote supports up to 4 devices. For a premium experience with a rechargeable battery, the Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control is the top choice.
Is there a media remote for PS5?
Yes, Sony makes an official media remote for the PS5, and several third-party options are available. The official PlayStation Media Remote connects via Bluetooth, controls TV volume and power through an IR transmitter, and has dedicated buttons for streaming apps. Third-party options like the PDP Universal Remote offer additional features such as multi-device control and compatibility with both PS5 and PS4.
Can any universal remote work with PS5?
Most universal remotes cannot directly control the PS5 because the console uses Bluetooth for primary communication rather than standard IR. However, some universal remotes that support Bluetooth or HDMI-CEC can provide basic control. The PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Remote is specifically designed to work with PlayStation consoles and can also control up to 4 devices including your TV and soundbar. Standard IR-only universal remotes will not work with the PS5.
How to connect PS5 media remote?
To connect a PS5 media remote, go to Settings on your PS5, select Accessories, then choose Media Remote or General Bluetooth Accessories depending on your remote model. Put the remote into pairing mode by holding the PS button or following the included instructions. Select the remote from the on-screen list of available devices. For TV control, point the remote at your TV and hold the power button until the TV responds. The entire setup process typically takes under 2 minutes.
Final Thoughts
After testing all five remotes, the official PlayStation Media Remote remains my top pick for most PS5 owners. It has the best balance of features, reliability, and value with over 13,000 reviews backing it up. The PDP Universal Remote is the pick for multi-device households, and the premium Sony remote with its rechargeable battery is ideal for anyone who wants to avoid disposable batteries forever.
Choosing the best media remotes for PS5 consoles comes down to your viewing habits and setup. If your PS5 is your primary streaming device, any of these remotes will make the experience smoother than relying on a DualSense. Pick the one that matches your budget and needs, and you will wonder how you ever managed without it.