Android TV boxes have become very popular devices and make excellent low-cost media centers for any home.
If you have a lost or broken item remote supplied with an Android TV box, it can be easily replaced with many good units available.
This is good news for anyone who has lost a remote or just wants a nice upgrade.
Replacement remotes are inexpensive items that vary in functionality and construction.
If you're on a budget, an old wireless USB mouse or keyboard can be used to control a box and can work in a pinch when nothing else is available.
Types of remote controls for an Android TV box
Replacement remotes work either via Bluetooth or a dedicated USB dongle.
Most Android TV boxes will have Bluetooth built in, but if your box has Bluetooth issues, then getting a device with a USB dongle would be a better option.
Remotes that use a USB dongle do not require the case to have Bluetooth or any other built-in functionality other than a USB port.
Each unit will have its own configuration, depending on whether it is Bluetooth or has its own dedicated wireless dongle.
Units with a dedicated dongle are the easiest to install and use once the small USB dongle is plugged in.
Of course, a small USB dongle will take up a USB slot on a case and may not fit some setups, in which case a Bluetooth unit would be a better option.
Below are some of our favorite options for Android TV box replacement.
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Popular replacement remotes for Android TV boxes
- Fm4 2.4G universal remote control
- Rii I8 Mini
- ILEBYGO Mini
- See MX3
The Fm4 2.4G Universal Remote is a basic controller which is a very low cost remote control.
It has no major features and is a basic replacement for a lost or non-working remote.
It uses a USB dongle to communicate with the controller, making it a universal option and works great with Kodi and other apps.
If you need a basic replacement that works with almost any Android TV box, it's hard to go wrong with the Fm4 2.4G Universal Remote.
The Rii I8 Mini has been available for a while and is one of my favorite controllers for Android TV boxes.
It has a touchpad to control a cursor, move and click easily.
The keyboard also makes it easier to type when needed, which is a big improvement over the on-screen keyboard.
The only downside is that the built-in rechargeable battery life is lacking and needs to be recharged every 2-3 days.
For the price, it's a good unit and worth a look.
ILEBYGO makes this mini Bluetooth combo keyboard with a backlight.
It works with Android or Windows devices, making it highly compatible.
The ILEBYGO Mini is a good, low-cost device that works well with Android TV boxes, smartphones, and many other devices.
Air Mouse remotes are also a popular option.
Air Mouse remotes work by pressing a button and moving the remote following the cursor.
The MX3 is one of those units that moves the cursor by moving your hand.
One side has buttons and a standard interface while the back has a small keyboard for typing.
It uses a USB dongle and is compatible with many operating systems including Android.
Steps to Set Up a Non-Bluetooth Remote with an Android TV Box
- Charge the remote or add batteries.
- Plug in the USB dongle provided with the remote control.
- Test the controller which should now work.
Non-Bluetooth remote controls using a USB dongle are the easiest to configure.
Once the USB dongle is plugged in and the device is powered, it should work.
The remote and dongle are automatically paired with each other without requiring any setup.
Basically, these types of remotes simply plug in and are ready to start working.
Steps to Pair Bluetooth with an Android TV Box Remote
- Find the Setting icon and click on it.
- Below Wireless and networks will be Bluetooth click on it.
- The box will automatically search for any Bluetooth device in pair mode.
- Set the remote to be in Pair mode. (Look at the Pair button manual)
- Select the remote you want to pair with.
Pairing a Bluetooth remote to an Android TV box requires setting the box and controller to Pair mode.
Android TV boxes may differ in where the Bluetooth pair option is located, but it's usually found in the settings.
If you can't find a Bluetooth option, the case may not have built-in Bluetooth.
The remotes will have a button to press to put them in Bluetooth mode.
Summary
Buying a new remote control for an Android TV box is a simple and inexpensive thing to do.
There are many types available, from basic units to multi-function units.
Setting up a new controller is also simple, as most will have a USB dongle that simply plugs in and the controller is ready to go.
Bluetooth units will need to pair in settings that are also simple.
The main thing will be to find one that matches your configuration. As always, be sure to read reviews on Amazon or elsewhere to make sure a unit is right for you.