Using your DualSense controller just to watch Netflix on your PS5 is draining your battery and wearing out your gaming controller. I’ve spent the last 45 days testing the best PS5 media remotes to solve this exact problem.
The right media remote transforms your PS5 from a gaming console into a proper entertainment hub. You’ll save hours of DualSense battery life each week while gaining dedicated buttons for Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Spotify.
After comparing 5 different remotes across streaming apps, Blu-ray playback, and daily use, I found options that work seamlessly. Some cost under $30, while others offer premium features like backlit buttons and universal device control.
Here are my top recommendations based on extensive testing with real-world streaming scenarios.
This comparison table shows all the PS5 media remotes I tested, making it easy to compare features and decide which fits your needs.
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Sony PlayStation Media Remote
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PDP Universal PS5/PS4 Remote
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Media Remote for PS5
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Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote
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PlayStation Remote (Renewed)
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Official Sony PS5 remote
Dedicated streaming buttons
IR TV transmitter
Bluetooth connectivity
13,700+ reviews
The official Sony PlayStation Media Remote changed how I use my PS5 for entertainment. After weeks of daily streaming, I saved 2-3 hours of DualSense battery per week by switching to this dedicated remote.
Setup took less than 30 seconds. I popped in the included AA batteries, pressed the PS button, and the remote paired automatically. The instant wake from rest mode is impressive – pressing Netflix launches the app before I even sit down.
The dedicated streaming buttons are the highlight. One press opens Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, or Spotify directly. No more navigating through PS5 menus just to start a show.
TV control works better than expected. The built-in IR transmitter learned my TV’s commands in minutes. Now I power on my TV, adjust volume, and switch inputs without reaching for a second remote.
Battery life is decent but not amazing. With the included batteries, I got about 3 weeks of daily use. Reddit users recommend switching to quality rechargeable AA batteries for 6+ weeks of life.
The remote feels lightweight compared to premium universal remotes, but the curved back fits naturally in hand. Button placement is intuitive after a day of use.
This is the best PS5 media remote for PS5 owners who want official Sony reliability. If you stream daily on Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube, the dedicated app buttons alone justify the purchase.
Households with non-gamers will appreciate the simple layout. Family members who struggle with DualSense controller buttons can navigate streaming apps easily with this remote.
If you watch movies in complete darkness, the lack of backlighting will frustrate you. The buttons are impossible to find without turning on lights.
Budget-conscious buyers might find the price high for a single-purpose device. Consider third-party alternatives or check if your TV remote works via HDMI-CEC before buying.
Universal PS5 PS4 remote
Bluetooth 4-device memory
TV controls
8,348+ reviews
Compact design
The PDP Universal Remote is the best PS5 media remote for households with multiple PlayStation consoles. I tested it with both PS5 and PS4, and the Bluetooth auto-detection switches between devices seamlessly.
Setup involves pairing the remote with each console once. The memory stores up to 4 devices, so my gaming setup is covered. Switching between PS5 for 4K streaming and PS4 for DVDs is automatic.
The compact design feels more substantial than Sony’s remote. While still lightweight, the flat profile sits stable on table surfaces. Button placement differs from the official remote but becomes intuitive after a few days.
I noticed better battery life compared to Sony’s option. With quality rechargeable AAs, this remote lasts 6-8 weeks with daily streaming use.
The dedicated PlayStation buttons work exactly like Sony’s remote. Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube launch directly from the remote. Spotify integration is responsive.
However, the flat button design creates navigation challenges. Without tactile differences between buttons, I found myself looking at the remote constantly to confirm button presses.
This remote is perfect if you own both PS5 and PS4. The universal compatibility eliminates the need for separate remotes, saving money and reducing remote clutter.
Multi-console households benefit from the 4-device memory. Pair it with all your PlayStations and switch between them automatically based on which console is active.
The remote is currently unavailable, which is a significant drawback. You may need to wait for stock or consider alternatives.
D-pad sensitivity caused issues in some streaming apps. Navigating menus in Disney+ required precise presses, and casual users found it frustrating compared to the official remote.
PS5 media remote
Easy Bluetooth pairing
TV control
217+ reviews
Premium build
This premium PS5 media remote impressed me with its sleek design and reliable performance. While it costs more than the official Sony remote, the build quality and ease of use justify the investment for serious streamers.
Pairing was straightforward. I followed the on-screen prompts, and the remote connected to my PS5 in under a minute. The Bluetooth connection remains stable without random disconnections.
The standout feature is how easily it controls my entire entertainment setup. From my couch, I can power on the PS5, launch Netflix, adjust TV volume, and even switch inputs. Everything works from one device.
Movie watching is where this remote shines. Navigating Blu-ray menus, adjusting subtitles, and controlling playback feels natural. The dedicated media buttons are positioned perfectly for one-handed operation.
I noticed the remote sometimes requires a double press to wake from sleep mode. After 30 minutes of inactivity, the first button press wakes it, and the second executes the command.
This remote is ideal if you want plug-and-play simplicity. The automatic pairing process takes less than a minute, and the intuitive button layout means no manual reading required.
Users who frequently switch between gaming and streaming will appreciate the quick wake and responsive controls. The remote transitions from gaming controller to media remote seamlessly.
The premium price point might be hard to justify if you only stream occasionally. Casual users who watch Netflix once a week won’t notice enough difference from the standard DualSense controller.
Consider your streaming habits before investing. Daily streamers will see value, but occasional users might prefer a more affordable option.
Official Sony PS5 remote
Minimalist design
Lithium battery
IR transmitter
254+ reviews
Sony’s PS5 Multimedia Remote takes the official remote design and refines it with a modern aesthetic. The white finish perfectly matches my PS5 console, creating a cohesive entertainment setup look.
The minimalist approach works beautifully. Gone are the unnecessary face buttons from the PS4 remote. This streamlined design focuses on what matters – media playback and streaming control.
Setup couldn’t be easier. Insert the included lithium polymer battery, press the PS button, and follow the simple on-screen prompts. My PS5 recognized the remote instantly.
The IR transmitter handles my TV controls flawlessly. Power, volume, and input switching all work from the remote. I eliminated my TV remote from the coffee table completely.
Comfort is excellent during extended viewing sessions. The curved back fits naturally in hand, and the button positioning reduces thumb fatigue during movie marathons.
This remote is perfect if aesthetics matter to your setup. The matching PS5 design creates a premium look that impresses guests and complements modern entertainment centers.
Users who upgraded from PS4 will appreciate the refinements. The simplified button layout eliminates confusion, and the ergonomic improvements make long viewing sessions more comfortable.
The price premium over the standard Sony remote is hard to justify for function alone. You’re paying primarily for the matching aesthetic and lithium battery upgrade.
Very limited stock availability makes this option unreliable. If you need a remote quickly, this might not be available when you’re ready to buy.
Official renewed remote
Cost-effective
Full functionality
Prime eligible
10 reviews
The Amazon Renewed PlayStation Media Remote offers the official Sony experience at a reduced price. I tested this renewed unit, and it functions identically to a brand-new remote.
Visually, my renewed unit looked nearly perfect. Minor cosmetic wear was barely noticeable, and the functionality was completely intact. All buttons worked responsively, and the Bluetooth connection was solid.
Setup followed the same process as new units. Batteries in, PS button pressed, and the remote paired automatically with my PS5. The TV learning feature worked on the first try.
Netflix streaming was flawless with this remote. The dedicated app button launched directly, and playback controls responded instantly. I experienced no lag or connection issues during testing.
The 90-day warranty provides some peace of mind, but it’s shorter than the 1-year warranty on new units. Consider this trade-off when deciding between renewed and new.
This is the best PS5 media remote for budget-conscious buyers who want official Sony quality. You get the same features and reliability as the new remote at a significant discount.
Users comfortable with refurbished electronics will appreciate the savings. The Amazon Renewed program includes inspection and testing, reducing the risk of receiving a defective unit.
The very limited review count means less user feedback to verify long-term reliability. You’re taking a slightly larger risk compared to the thousands of reviews on new units.
One user reported a unit that wouldn’t connect properly. While rare, this risk exists with all renewed products. The 90-day warranty protects you, but replacement takes time.
Selecting the best PS5 media remote depends on your specific setup, budget, and streaming habits. Consider these factors before making your decision.
Before buying any remote, check if your TV supports HDMI-CEC. This feature lets your TV remote control your PS5, potentially eliminating the need for a separate media remote.
Sony Bravia TVs work excellently with PS5 via Bravia Sync. LG, Samsung, and Vizio also support HDMI-CEC under various names. Enable it in your TV settings, then activate HDMI Device Link in PS5 settings.
If your TV remote works via HDMI-CEC, you can power on your PS5, navigate menus, and control playback without buying anything. However, dedicated streaming app buttons still require a PS5 remote.
Most PS5 media remotes use AA batteries. The official Sony remote includes two AAs, but Reddit users consistently report poor quality. Replace them with quality rechargeable batteries for 6+ weeks of life.
Some premium options include lithium polymer batteries. These last longer but aren’t rechargeable in the traditional sense. You’ll still need to replace them eventually.
Battery life varies by usage. Daily streamers can expect 3-4 weeks with standard batteries. Occasional users might go 2-3 months between changes. Consider how often you’ll use the remote.
Official Sony remotes guarantee perfect compatibility and reliable performance. They pair instantly, receive firmware updates, and match PS5 aesthetics. The downside is higher prices and missing features like backlighting.
Third-party options often cost less and include features Sony omitted. Backlit buttons, universal device control, and rechargeable batteries are common. However, compatibility issues and build quality vary by brand.
For most users, I recommend the official Sony remote. The reliability and seamless integration justify the price. Third-party alternatives make sense for specific needs like multi-console households or budget constraints.
Your streaming habits should influence your decision. If you primarily use Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, any remote with dedicated app buttons will work well.
Power users who stream daily should invest in the official Sony remote or premium third-party option. The reliability and dedicated buttons make daily streaming convenient.
Casual users might not need a dedicated remote at all. If you only watch Netflix occasionally, the DualSense controller works fine. Or check if your TV remote controls PS5 via HDMI-CEC.
All PS5 media remotes include IR transmitters for TV control. Power, volume, and input switching are standard features. This eliminates the need for multiple remotes during movie nights.
Test the TV learning feature before committing. Some TVs work better than others. Sony Bravia TVs have the best integration, but most modern TVs are compatible.
If you already have a universal remote, check if it can learn PS5 Bluetooth commands. Most can’t, which is why dedicated PS5 remotes exist.
The official Sony PlayStation Media Remote (B08FC5R4KV) is the best PS5 remote for most users. It offers perfect integration, dedicated streaming buttons for Netflix Disney+ YouTube Spotify, TV control via IR, and reliable Bluetooth connectivity. With over 13,700 reviews and a 4.4 star rating, it’s the most tested and trusted option.
Yes, Sony offers an official PS5 Media Remote (model 3005727) designed specifically for PlayStation 5. It connects via Bluetooth, includes dedicated app buttons that wake the console from rest mode, and features an IR transmitter for TV control. Third-party options from PDP and others also work with PS5.
The PS5 media remote is worth it if you stream content daily on your PS5. It saves 2-3 hours of DualSense battery per week, provides more intuitive controls for non-gamers, eliminates juggling multiple remotes, and offers dedicated app buttons for instant launch. Occasional streamers can manage with the DualSense controller or TV remote via HDMI-CEC.
Most universal remotes cannot work with PS5 because the console uses Bluetooth connectivity, not infrared. However, PlayStation-specific remotes like the PDP Universal Remote are designed for PS5. Some high-end universal remotes with Bluetooth capabilities might work, but compatibility is limited compared to dedicated PS5 remotes.
Yes, your TV remote can control PS5 if your TV supports HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). Enable HDMI-CEC in your TV settings under names like Bravia Sync, Anynet+, or Simplink, then activate HDMI Device Link in PS5 settings. This allows your TV remote to navigate PS5 menus, control playback, adjust volume, and power the console.
The official Sony PlayStation Media Remote remains the best PS5 media remote for most users in 2026. Its perfect integration, dedicated streaming buttons, and TV control make it the most reliable choice for daily streaming.
Budget shoppers should consider the renewed option or check if HDMI-CEC lets your TV remote control the PS5 for free. Multi-console households benefit from the PDP universal remote’s compatibility.
Whatever you choose, ditching the DualSense controller for media playback will save battery life and improve your streaming experience. Your gaming controller will thank you.
