TCL TV Remote Controls

The Ultimate Guide to TCL TV Remote Controls: Roku, Google TV, and More

Choosing the right remote for your TCL TV is unique because it's directly tied to the smart TV platform it runs—primarily Roku TV or Google TV. This guide breaks down the types of TCL remotes, their compatibility, and how to find the perfect replacement for your model.

TCL TV Remote Types: What’s the Difference?

Your TCL remote's features depend on whether your TV uses the Roku or Google TV operating system.

1. Standard Infrared (IR) Remote
The basic remote included with entry-level TCL TVs.

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

  • Key Features: Power, volume, channel controls, navigation buttons, and shortcut keys for popular apps like Netflix and Hulu.

  • Compatibility: Works with most TCL Roku TV models. Simpler and fewer buttons than the voice remote.

  • Best For: Basic control, simple replacements, or bedrooms.

2. Voice Remote (Enhanced / Roku Voice Remote)
The premium remote for hands-free control, included with most mid-range and high-end TCL TVs.

  • Connection: Bluetooth for voice search and typing, and IR for power and volume control.

  • Key Features: Built-in microphone for voice search, dedicated app shortcut buttons (Netflix, Disney+, etc.), private listening via headphone jack (on some models), and TV power/volume controls.

  • Compatibility: Specifically designed for TCL Roku TV models. Not compatible with TCL Google TV models.

  • Best For: Getting the full, hands-free Roku experience.

3. Google TV Voice Remote
The standard remote for TCL TVs running the Google TV platform.

  • Connection: Bluetooth.

  • Key Features: Google Assistant voice button, a dedicated YouTube button, and quick access to Google's personalized content feed.

  • Compatibility: Exclusively for TCL TVs running Google TV (models from 2021 onwards with the Google TV interface).

  • Best For: Users invested in the Google ecosystem who prefer its recommendations and Assistant.

TCL Roku TV Remote Compatibility & Model Guide

For TCL Roku TVs, the remote model number is your key to compatibility. These remotes are often interchangeable within the Roku TV ecosystem.

Latest Roku Voice Remote Pro (Model: RC-RB / Often sold separately)**

  • Features: Rechargeable battery, hands-free "Hey Roku" voice commands, lost remote finder, private listening via headphone jack, and customizable shortcut buttons.

  • Compatibility: Works with most TCL Roku TVs that support a voice remote (typically models from 2019 and newer). Requires TV software update 10.0 or higher.

Roku Voice Remote with TV Controls (Model: RC-RB / RC-RB** )**

  • Features: Standard voice remote with power, volume, and mute buttons programmed to control the TV directly. Includes headphone jack for private listening on some models.

  • Compatible TVs: This is the most common remote for recent TCL Roku TVs (Series 4, 5, 6, etc., from approx. 2019-2023).

Standard Roku IR Remote (Model: RC-RB )**

  • Features: Basic IR control with shortcut buttons. No voice control or headphone jack.

  • Compatible TVs: Entry-level TCL Roku TV models (e.g., Series 3, some older Series 4 models).

Important Note: A major benefit of the Roku ecosystem is that most Roku Voice Remotes are cross-compatible. A newer voice remote can often be paired with an older TCL Roku TV (from 2017 onwards) to add voice functionality, as long as the TV's software is updated.

TCL Google TV Remote Compatibility

TCL Google TV models use a different, dedicated remote that is not compatible with Roku TVs.

  • Remote Model: Typically models like RC802 or similar.

  • Features: Google Assistant button, YouTube button, Netflix button, and a customizable "Google TV" button.

  • Compatible TVs: TCL TVs running Google TV, such as:

    • 2023 Models: QM8, Q7, S4, S3

    • 2022 Models: S5, S4

    • 2021 Models: (The first year TCL introduced Google TV models)

Universal & Standard IR Remote Compatibility

Universal remotes (e.g., from brands like GE, RCA) can be programmed to work with TCL TVs for basic functions. When shopping for one, look for "TCL Roku TV" or use the TCL code provided in the manual. These are a good budget option if you only need power, volume, and input control.

4 Essential Tips Before Buying a Replacement TCL Remote

  1. Identify Your TV's Platform First: This is the most important step. Is it a Roku TV or a Google TV? You can find this info on the home screen or on the model sticker on the back of the TV. You cannot use a Roku remote on a Google TV, or vice versa.

  2. Find Your TV's Model Number: Locate the white sticker on the back of the TV. The full model number (e.g., 55S455) is crucial for finding a perfectly compatible remote.

  3. Want Voice Control? Get a Voice Remote: If your TCL TV is a Roku model from 2017 or newer, you can likely upgrade it with a Roku Voice Remote to add voice search functionality, even if it didn't come with one.

  4. Pairing a New Remote: For Bluetooth voice remotes (Roku or Google TV), you must pair it with your TV. For Roku, go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Set up a new device. For Google TV, the process is similar in the Settings menu.

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