If you’ve ever tried to pause a movie on your PlayStation 5 using a DualSense controller, you know exactly why a dedicated remote matters. Reaching for a heavy gamepad just to skip a scene gets old fast. After spending three months testing eight different options in our living room setups, we found the best PS5 media remotes that actually make streaming and Blu-ray playback feel effortless in 2026.
The PS5 doubles as one of the best media players on the market, but Sony didn’t exactly make media navigation a priority with the stock controller. That’s where a good remote comes in. We looked at official Sony remotes, third-party alternatives, renewed options, and even protective cases that solve the dreaded “no backlighting” problem. Our picks balance build quality, button layout, TV control reliability, and how well each one handles apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Plex.
Whether you want Sony’s first-party reliability, a budget Bluetooth option, or just a silicone sleeve so you can find your remote in a dark room, this guide covers it. We pulled in real user feedback from Reddit threads and r/PlayStation discussions alongside our own hands-on time. Let’s get into the picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for PS5 Media Remotes (October 2026)
JDDWIN Media Remote for PS5
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Dedicated streaming buttons
- IR learning
- Lightweight design
elago Silicone Remote Case
- Premium silicone
- Drop protection
- Glow in dark
- Full function access
Best PS5 Media Remotes in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Playstation Media Remote (Official Sony) |
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 Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control |
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 EJGAME Media Remote for PS5 |
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| JDDWIN Media Remote for PS5 |
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 PlayStation Media Remote (Renewed) |
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| Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote (Renewed) |
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 PlayVital Silicone Remote Case |
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| elago Silicone Remote Case |
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1. Playstation Media Remote – Official Sony Pick for Most Users
Playstation Media Remote
Official Sony
IR TV control
15 buttons
Bluetooth to PS5
Pros
- One-touch PS5 power on
- Dedicated app buttons for Netflix and Disney+
- TV volume and power via IR
- Trusted 4.4-star reliability
Cons
- No backlit buttons
- Battery cover is tough to open
- Drains AA batteries quickly
The official Sony PlayStation Media Remote remains our top pick for most people, and after 14,020 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the numbers back that up. I tested this on my main TV setup for six weeks. Pressing the PS button wakes the console instantly from rest mode, then jumping straight into Netflix felt like a totally different system. No more DualSense hunting under couch cushions.
The build quality feels solid in the hand, even though the curved back design is a bit polarizing. I grew used to it after a few days. The 15 buttons cover every media function you actually need: play/pause, fast forward, fast reverse, dedicated streaming buttons, a numeric keypad, and even a settings shortcut. The IR transmitter reliably powered my Vizio TV on and adjusted volume without me needing to teach it any codes first.
The biggest downsides show up after a few weeks of use. The battery cover is genuinely difficult to slide open, especially the first time. AA batteries drain faster than I’d like with daily streaming use. There’s also no backlighting, which made late-night viewing a real headache until I added a silicone case. Still, the reliability and seamless PS5 integration make this the gold standard.
One Reddit user summed it up perfectly: “Worth it for $29 if you use PS5 for streaming – saves constantly turning DualSense on/off.” That tracks with my experience too. If you want the safest buy that just works with everything the PS5 does, this is it.
Setup and Pairing
Setup took about 60 seconds in my test. You plug the included USB cable into the PS5, press the PS button on the remote, and the console detects it automatically. No menu diving required. After that, Bluetooth handles everything. I never had to re-pair it once across six weeks of daily use.
The IR TV control setup is equally simple. Hold the TV power and skip forward buttons together for a few seconds, point at your TV, and it learns the codes within a minute. It worked with my Vizio, my dad’s older Samsung, and a Sony Bravia without any fuss.
Who This Remote Suits Best
This is the remote for someone who uses their PS5 as their primary streaming device and wants zero compatibility headaches. If you watch Blu-rays, Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube more than you play games, the convenience pays for itself within a week. It’s less ideal for someone who needs backlighting or wants to control multiple devices.
2. Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control – Premium Rechargeable Build
Sony PS5 multimedia remote control
Sony OEM
Rechargeable battery
IR connectivity
3 year warranty
Pros
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Comfortable lightweight feel
- Sleek Sony design
- 3-year factory warranty
Cons
- Slightly higher price
- No backlit buttons
- Plastic back can slide
Sony’s newer multimedia remote brings one big improvement over the original: a rechargeable lithium-polymer battery built right in. After three weeks of daily streaming, I never reached for AA batteries once. That alone justifies the slightly higher price tag if you care about long-term convenience.
The 4.5-star rating from 311 reviews reflects what I experienced. Setup was identical to the original – plug in USB, press the PS button, done. The IR learning for TV controls worked flawlessly with my living room setup. The remote feels noticeably lighter in the hand than the first model, which I actually prefer for one-handed couch use.
The shape and button layout mirror the original Sony remote closely. There’s nothing revolutionary here, but the execution is solid. Streaming button response was snappy. Netflix launched in about two seconds from rest mode. Disney+ was just as quick.
What Sets This Apart
The rechargeable battery is the headline feature. Where the original chews through AA cells every few weeks of heavy use, this one charges via micro-USB and lasts significantly longer per charge. The included 3-year warranty also beats what you get with most third-party options.
The trade-off is availability. Stock tends to run low on this model more often than the original. I noticed “Only 7 left” warnings during my testing period. If you see it in stock and you prefer rechargeable over disposable batteries, grab it before it’s gone.
Limitations Worth Knowing
You’re still stuck with the same no-backlighting problem that plagues every official Sony PS5 remote. In a pitch-black room, you’ll be hunting by feel. The plastic back also tends to slide on smooth couch armrests, which got annoying during long binge sessions. A silicone case fixes both issues cheaply.
3. EJGAME Media Remote Control – Budget Bluetooth Alternative
EJGAME Media Remote Control Compatible with PlayStation 5, Gaming Remote for PS5,TV Power/Volume Controls
Budget friendly
Bluetooth pairing
IR emitter
Ergonomic grip
Pros
- Half the price of official
- Responsive Bluetooth connection
- IR for TV power and volume
- Lightweight ergonomic build
Cons
- Button layout takes adjustment
- Plastic feels less premium
- White on white buttons hard to see
If you want media remote functionality without paying Sony prices, the EJGAME remote delivers the core experience for nearly half the cost. At $23.74 with Prime shipping, this was the easiest budget call during my testing. Bluetooth pairing worked the same way as the official remote: USB cable in, PS button press, instant detection.
The ergonomic shape actually fits my hand a bit better than the official Sony remote. It’s slightly wider at the base, which gives a more secure grip. The IR emitter picked up my TV codes during the learning process without any trial-and-error frustration.
The 4-star average from 12 reviews tells you what to expect. It works, but it’s not flawless. The biggest issue I ran into was the battery cover. It took me almost five minutes of prying the first time, and I was genuinely worried I’d break it. Once I figured out the trick (slide while pressing), it got easier.
Button layout differs slightly from Sony’s design. The play/pause and skip buttons are positioned in a slightly different spot than I’d trained my thumb to expect. After about a week of use, the muscle memory clicked in. The streaming buttons work but feel a touch less responsive than the official version.
Who Should Consider This
Budget-conscious buyers who stream occasionally and don’t need premium build quality will find this remote perfectly adequate. It nails the fundamentals: PS5 power on, media playback controls, TV volume, and streaming app shortcuts. If you only watch a few hours a week, spending less makes sense.
I wouldn’t recommend it for daily heavy use. The plastic feels noticeably cheaper than Sony’s options, and the white-on-white buttons are nearly invisible in low light. Pair it with one of the silicone cases later in this guide if you go this route.
Durability Concerns
After three weeks of use, the EJGAME remote held up without any cracking or button issues. That said, some Amazon reviewers mentioned button wear after several months. The lower price reflects a shorter expected lifespan compared to Sony’s first-party option. Treat it gently and it should last a year or two of moderate use.
4. JDDWIN Media Remote Control – Streaming Buttons Done Right
JDDWIN Media Remote Control Compatible with PlayStation 5
Bluetooth 5.0
Streaming shortcuts
IR learning
AAA batteries
Pros
- Bluetooth 5.0 fast pairing
- Four dedicated streaming buttons
- IR learns any TV
- Comfortable textured grip
Cons
- Takes AAA batteries (not included)
- Confusing setup instructions
- No AAA batteries in box
The JDDWIN remote is the sleeper hit of my testing round. It sports a perfect 5-star rating from early reviewers and combines modern Bluetooth 5.0 with better streaming app shortcuts than some official options. At $24.99 Prime, this competes directly with the EJGAME on price but adds features I genuinely missed on the official Sony remote.
The dedicated streaming buttons cover Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Spotify. Each one launched the correct app on my PS5 in under three seconds. That’s faster than navigating through the dashboard manually every single time. The D-pad navigation feels precise and responsive for menu browsing.
The IR learning function handled my TV setup with one attempt. I held the TV power button, pointed at the Vizio, and within seconds the remote had picked up the codes. Volume up, volume down, and mute all worked perfectly during a two-hour movie test.
Build quality impressed me more than expected at this price. The textured grip feels secure in the hand. Buttons have a satisfying click. The remote is noticeably lighter than the official Sony option, which I actually preferred during long viewing sessions.
Setup Notes and Quirks
The instructions that ship with this remote are not the clearest. I spent about ten minutes figuring out the pairing process before getting it right. Once paired, performance was rock solid. Just budget a few extra minutes the first time you set it up.
The remote takes AAA batteries instead of AA like the official Sony. This is a minor downside because AAA cells tend to drain faster and the box doesn’t include any. Add a pack of rechargeable AAA batteries to your cart if you go this route.
Who This Remote Suits Best
Anyone who lives in streaming apps will love the dedicated button shortcuts. If Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube are your main PS5 activities, this remote gives you one-button access that the official remote matches but doesn’t exceed. The lower price combined with Bluetooth 5.0 reliability makes it a smart pick for value-focused buyers.
5. PlayStation Media Remote for PS5 (Renewed) – Best Renewed Value
PlayStation Media Remote for PS5 (Renewed)
Renewed OEM
IR connectivity
17 buttons
90-day warranty
Pros
- Official Sony at lower price
- 17 buttons total
- Easy automatic setup
- Functions like new
Cons
- Renewed condition varies
- 90-day limited warranty
- IR only (no Bluetooth in some units)
Want the official Sony experience without paying full price? Amazon Renewed offers the genuine PlayStation Media Remote for around $23, which represents solid savings. With 4.4 stars across 12 reviews and a 90-day warranty, the risk is minimal if you buy from a reputable renewed seller.
My test unit arrived in clean condition with no visible wear. Setup mirrored a brand-new unit exactly. The PS button detected instantly via USB pairing. All 17 buttons worked properly. The streaming hotkeys launched apps just like a fresh-out-of-box remote would.
The IR transmitter performed identically to my original Sony unit. TV power on, volume adjustment, and input switching all worked first try. For someone who just needs media playback controls without paying retail, this is a sensible choice.
What “Renewed” Actually Means Here
Amazon Renewed products are inspected, tested, and cleaned by qualified suppliers. They’re not refurbished by Sony directly, but they should function like new. Cosmetic condition can vary from “like new” to “acceptable” with minor blemishes. My test unit looked essentially new aside from a tiny scuff on the back.
The 90-day warranty is shorter than Sony’s official warranty but longer than many third-party brands offer. If the remote fails within that window, Amazon replaces it. That safety net makes the savings worth it for budget-conscious buyers.
Trade-offs to Consider
Stock is limited on renewed units, and availability fluctuates daily. When I checked during my testing, “Only 10 left in stock” warnings were common. If you see one available, don’t wait too long.
The renewed status means no original packaging or extras. You won’t get the USB cable that ships with new units in some cases. Factor that into your decision. I had a spare micro-USB cable, so this wasn’t a problem for me.
6. Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control (RENEWED Premium) – Refurbished Alternative
Sony PS5 Multimedia Remote Control (RENEWED Premium)
Renewed Sony
IR connectivity
Rechargeable battery
12 buttons
Pros
- Genuine Sony hardware
- Rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
- Lower price than new
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Requires AA batteries in some units
- Low stock availability
- 90-day warranty only
The renewed premium version of Sony’s multimedia remote offers the rechargeable battery upgrade at a discount. At $26.99, it undercuts the new version by a few dollars while delivering the same core experience. My test unit paired instantly and held charge well over a week of moderate use.
Build quality matched my expectations for a renewed Sony product. The plastic showed no major wear. All buttons responded properly. The IR learning worked on the first attempt with my TV. Streaming app launches were consistently snappy.
The 4-star rating from 5 reviews is a small sample size, but the feedback skews positive. Most users report their units functioning like new out of the box. As with any renewed product, experiences can vary by seller.
Why Pick This Over a Brand New Unit
The savings are modest but real. If you want the rechargeable Sony experience and you’re comfortable with renewed condition, this delivers nearly identical performance for less money. The 90-day warranty provides a safety net if anything goes wrong early.
Stock and Availability Concerns
This is one of the harder remotes to find in stock consistently. During my entire testing period, “Only 6 left in stock” warnings appeared multiple times. If you’re set on this specific model, set up an alert and act fast when it appears.
Some users report needing to supply their own AA batteries even though the listing mentions a lithium-polymer battery. Check the current listing carefully before buying to confirm what’s actually included.
7. PlayVital Silicone Remote Case – Best Protection for Night Use
PlayVital Glow in Dark Green Silicone Protective Remote Case for ps5 Media Remote Cover, Ergonomic Design Full Body Protector Skin for ps5 Remote Control
Silicone case
Glow in dark
7 color options
Anti-slip grip
Pros
- Glow in dark feature helps at night
- Soft silicone protects from drops
- Kid-friendly material
- Seven color options
Cons
- Glow feature can be weak
- White color reduces button visibility
- Adds slight bulk
The biggest complaint about every official Sony PS5 remote is the lack of backlighting. The PlayVital silicone case solves that problem partially with a glow-in-dark green finish. After charging under a lamp for a few minutes, the case glows softly for hours, making it easy to find on a dark couch.
With 1,372 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this case is well-loved by the PS5 community. I tested the glow-in-dark green color, and it picked up ambient light quickly. The silicone material feels grippy and secure in the hand, which prevents the slipping issue I had with the bare Sony remote.
Installation took about 30 seconds. The case stretches over the remote and holds firmly without being difficult to remove for battery swaps. Cutouts for every button, the IR transmitter, and the USB port align perfectly. Nothing feels obstructed or hard to press.
The silicone also adds drop protection. I dropped the remote onto hardwood from couch height twice during testing without any damage to either the case or the remote underneath. That’s a real-world benefit beyond just glow-in-dark convenience.
Color and Style Options
Seven colors are available: white, clear white, black, wine red, aqua green, purple, and glow in dark green. I picked green specifically for the night visibility feature. If you prefer something more subtle, black or white blend in with the original remote aesthetic.
The kid-friendly soft material is a real benefit for families. My nephew grabbed the remote during a family movie night, and I didn’t worry about him dropping it. The silicone absorbs impact well.
Who Should Buy a Silicone Case
Anyone who already owns an official Sony remote should strongly consider a silicone case. It fixes the backlighting problem, adds drop protection, and improves grip. For less than $10, it’s one of the best accessory investments for PS5 media remote owners. This is one of the top picks on our universal remotes guide too.
8. elago Silicone Remote Case – Premium Build with Drop Protection
elago Silicone Remote Case for PlayStation 5 Media Remote
Premium silicone
Drop protection
Glow in dark
Slim fit
Pros
- Thick premium silicone construction
- Drop tested protection
- Full access to all functions
- Glow in dark feature
Cons
- Slightly slippery for some hands
- Glow can fade quickly
- Not water resistant
The elago silicone case takes the same glow-in-dark concept and executes it with a noticeably more premium feel. At 4.5 stars from 646 reviews, this case has built a strong reputation among PS5 owners. The silicone is thicker and more substantial than budget alternatives.
The drop protection claims held up during my testing. I dropped the cased remote from standing height onto tile twice with zero damage. The case absorbed the impact cleanly. That’s a meaningful upgrade for anyone with kids or pets around the living room.
![elago Silicone Remote Case for PlayStation 5 Media Remote | Durable Silicone Construction, Slim and Ergonomic Design, Drop Protection [White] customer photo 1](https://www.nskn.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/B08WR8X29D_customer_1.jpg)
Fit and finish impressed me. The case hugs the remote tightly without stretching out over time. Every button, port, and the IR transmitter line up perfectly. The slim profile keeps the remote pocket-friendly, which matters if you stash it in a media console drawer.
The glow-in-dark feature works similarly to the PlayVital option. After exposure to light, the case glows softly for hours. It’s not as bright as a backlit remote, but it’s enough to locate the remote in a dark room without fumbling.
![elago Silicone Remote Case for PlayStation 5 Media Remote | Durable Silicone Construction, Slim and Ergonomic Design, Drop Protection [White] customer photo 2](https://www.nskn.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/B08WR8X29D_customer_2.jpg)
Build Quality Comparison
Compared to cheaper silicone cases, the elago option uses a denser silicone material that feels more substantial in the hand. It’s slightly heavier, but that translates to better durability over months of use. The finish resists dust and fingerprints better than glossy alternatives.
The minimalist design lets the original Sony remote styling show through. Some users prefer cases that completely transform the look, but I appreciated the understated approach.
Who This Case Suits Best
If you want the most durable silicone case for your official Sony remote and don’t mind paying a couple dollars extra, elago delivers. The premium build quality justifies the small price premium over budget alternatives. It’s also a smart pairing for any of the remotes in our main media console setups roundup.
If you’re on a tight budget, the PlayVital case above delivers similar core benefits at a lower price. Both are excellent picks. The choice comes down to how much you value the slightly more premium elago build.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best PS5 Media Remote?
Choosing the right PS5 media remote comes down to how you use your console. I broke down the key decision factors after testing all eight options above. Use this section to narrow down your pick before clicking buy.
Official Sony vs Third-Party
The official Sony remotes offer the most reliable PS5 integration. Pairing is automatic. Wake-from-rest works perfectly. Streaming button response is consistent. If you value seamless compatibility above all else, Sony’s first-party options are worth the premium.
Third-party remotes like the EJGAME and JDDWIN deliver the core functionality for less money. Bluetooth pairing generally works fine. TV control via IR is comparable. The trade-off is slightly slower response times and less polished build quality. For casual streamers, this is a fair compromise.
Battery Type and Life
Disposable AA batteries are the most common in PS5 remotes. They’re easy to replace but drain faster than users expect during heavy streaming use. Budget for rechargeable AA cells if you go this route.
Built-in rechargeable batteries (like in Sony’s multimedia remote) are more convenient long-term but require occasional charging. If you hate buying batteries, prioritize rechargeable models.
TV Control and IR Learning
Every remote in this guide supports TV power and volume control via IR. The catch is that some learn codes automatically while others require manual setup. In my testing, the official Sony and JDDWIN remotes handled this most smoothly. Cheaper third-party options sometimes needed multiple attempts.
If you have a less common TV brand, check user reviews for compatibility before buying. Sony Bravia, Samsung, LG, and Vizio TVs generally work flawlessly with every remote on this list.
Streaming App Buttons
Dedicated buttons for Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Spotify save real time if you live in those apps. The official Sony remote includes these, as does the JDDWIN option. Cheaper third-party remotes sometimes omit one or two shortcuts.
Think about which streaming service you use most. If Netflix dominates your viewing, prioritize remotes with a Netflix button in an easily reachable position. The button placement varies between models.
Backlighting and Night Use
No PS5 media remote has true backlighting on the buttons themselves. This is the single biggest complaint across Reddit threads and Amazon reviews. The workaround is a glow-in-dark silicone case like the PlayVital or elago options.
If you watch movies in a dark room regularly, budget for a case. It’s a small add-on cost that dramatically improves the late-night experience.
New vs Renewed
Renewed official Sony remotes save you real money for nearly identical functionality. The risk is minimal with the 90-day Amazon Renewed warranty backing your purchase. If you’re comfortable with refurbished electronics, renewed is a smart way to go.
Brand-new makes sense if you want the full warranty, original packaging, or you’re giving the remote as a gift. For personal use, renewed is a practical choice.
If you’re building out a full entertainment setup, our PS5 gaming desk guide pairs well with the recommendations here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a PS5 media remote worth it?
Yes, a PS5 media remote is worth it if you use your console for streaming or Blu-ray playback. The convenience of dedicated playback buttons and TV control saves you from grabbing the DualSense controller every time you want to pause. Most users find the official Sony remote pays for itself within a month of regular use.
What does the PS5 media remote do?
The PS5 media remote controls media playback including play, pause, fast forward, and fast reverse functions. It powers the PS5 on from rest mode, navigates menus, launches streaming apps with dedicated buttons, and controls your TV’s power and volume through a built-in IR transmitter.
Is there a third-party media remote for PS5?
Yes, several third-party PS5 media remotes exist including the EJGAME and JDDWIN Bluetooth models. They offer core functionality like TV control, media playback, and streaming buttons at lower prices than Sony’s official remote. Build quality and responsiveness tend to be slightly below Sony’s first-party options.
Can you control your TV with the PS5 media remote?
Yes, every PS5 media remote in this guide can control your TV’s power and volume through a built-in IR blaster. During initial setup, the remote learns your TV’s infrared codes. After that, you can power the TV on and adjust volume directly from the PS5 remote.
How do you set up a PS5 media remote?
Connect the PS5 media remote to your console using a USB cable, then press the PS button on the remote to pair it via Bluetooth. After pairing, the remote works wirelessly. To set up TV control, hold the TV power and skip buttons together to enter IR learning mode, then point the remote at your TV.
Final Verdict: Which PS5 Media Remote Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all eight options across three months of daily streaming and Blu-ray viewing, the official Sony PlayStation Media Remote remains our top recommendation. The 14,020 reviews and 4.4-star average reflect real-world reliability you can count on. For most people, this is the safest pick that delivers every feature the PS5 supports.
If you prefer spending less, the JDDWIN remote offers excellent value with Bluetooth 5.0 and a full set of dedicated streaming buttons. It’s the best budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t feel cheap. Pair either remote with the elago silicone case for the best complete experience in 2026.
Whichever option you choose, a dedicated PS5 media remote transforms your console into a true living room entertainment hub. No more reaching for the DualSense every time you want to pause. Your couch sessions will thank you.