Sony TV Remote Controls

The Ultimate Guide to Sony TV Remote Controls: Compatibility, Types, and Models

Sony's commitment to picture and sound quality extends to its remote controls, which are designed for seamless integration with their Android TV/Google TV ecosystem. Navigating the model numbers and compatibility can be tricky. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Sony TV remotes, from basic models to advanced voice controllers.

Sony TV Remote Types: What’s the Difference?

Sony remotes can be categorized by their connectivity and features, which are tied to the TV's smart platform.

1. Standard Infrared (IR) Remote
The classic universal remote for basic control.

• Connection: Infrared (IR). Requires a direct line of sight to the TV's sensor.

• Key Features: Power, volume, channel controls, input selection, and basic menu navigation. Often includes a number pad.

• Compatibility: Very broad. Works with most Sony TVs from the last 15+ years.

• Best For: Simple, reliable replacement for older or basic Sony Bravia TVs.

2. Voice Remote Control (Bluetooth & IR)
Sony's premium remote for its Android TV and Google TV sets.

• Connection: Bluetooth for primary navigation and voice search, and IR for powering on/off and controlling volume on connected audio systems.

• Key Features: Built-in microphone for Google Assistant voice search, dedicated shortcut buttons (Google Play, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+), and a minimalist button layout.

• Compatibility: Specific to TVs running Android TV (2015+) or Google TV (2021+). Not universally compatible across all years.

• Best For: Anyone with a modern Sony Smart TV who wants to use voice commands and quick app access.

Sony Voice Remote Compatibility & Model Guide

Sony uses specific model numbers (often starting with RMF-TX or RMF-TX) for its voice remotes. Compatibility is determined by the TV's year and series.

2021 - Present (Google TV Era)

• Remote Model: RMF-TX611U (Common for many 2021-2023 models)

  • Features: The current standard. Includes Google Assistant, dedicated Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video buttons, and a handy mute button.

  • Compatible TVs: Works with most Sony Google TV models and many older Android TV models.

  • 2023 Models: A95L, X93L, X90L, X85L, X80L, X77L, W95L, W90L

  • 2022 Models: A95K, A90K, A80K, X95K, X90K, X85K, X80K, X75K

  • 2021 Models: A90J, A80J, X95J, X90J, X85J, X80J, X75J

2018 - 2020 (Android TV Era)

• Remote Model: RMF-TX500U (Predecessor to the TX611U)

  • Features: Similar design but may have different button layouts (e.g., a Google Play button instead of a dedicated Disney+ button).

  • Compatible TVs: Mid-to-high-end Android TV models from this period.

  • 2020 Models: X950H, X900H, X800H, A8H

  • 2019 Models: A9G, A8G, X950G, X850G, X800G

  • 2018 Models: A9F, A8F, X900F, X850F

2015 - 2017 (Early Android TV Era)

• Remote Models: Various, including models like RMF-SR201, RMF-SR501

  • Features: Earlier designs, sometimes with more buttons and a less streamlined look. Still offered basic voice search functionality.

  • Compatible TVs: Early Sony Android TV models.

  • 2017 Models: X930E, X900E, A1E

  • 2016 Models: X930D, X850D, Z9D

  • 2015 Models: X850C, X900C, X930C, X940C

Backlit & Premium Remotes (e.g., RMF-TX810U)

Some high-end Sony models, like Master Series Z9J or A90J, occasionally come with an upgraded backlit remote. These offer the same functionality as the standard voice remote but with illuminated buttons for easier use in dark home theater environments.

Universal & Standard IR Remote Compatibility

Standard Sony remotes (e.g., models like RMF-SR201, RMF-SR201, or RP-UH101) are widely compatible. They are a safe, simple choice for basic control of almost any Sony Bravia TV from the past decade. Key features to look for include:

• TV Type: Ensure it's listed for "Sony Bravia" TVs.

• Number Pad: Useful for older cable/satellite boxes.

• Input Button: Crucial for switching between HDMI devices.

4 Essential Tips Before Buying a Replacement Sony Remote

1. Find Your TV's Exact Model Number: This is the most critical step. Locate the white sticker on the back of the TV or find it in the menu: Settings > Device Preferences > About > Model.

2. Identify Your Original Remote Model: The remote's model number is printed on the back, often inside the battery compartment. Searching for this number (e.g., RMF-TX611U) is the surest way to get a perfect match.

3. "Voice Remote" vs. "Standard IR": If you want voice search and app shortcuts, you must get a Bluetooth voice remote. A standard IR remote cannot add these features to a TV that didn't come with one.

4. Pairing a New Voice Remote: If you buy a new Bluetooth voice remote, you will need to pair it with your TV. Go to Settings > Remotes & Accessories > Pair remote and follow the on-screen instructions.