A universal remote can make TV time easier when a standard remote has too many small buttons or confusing menus. For an older parent, the best choice depends on more than button size: check which devices it can control, how it pairs, and whether its layout is simple enough for everyday use. These three options focus on larger buttons and easier operation, but they differ in device capacity and setup.
Quick Comparison
| Remote | Best for | Device capacity | Standout feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSCFGBTH Big Button Learning Remote | Parents who need large controls and learning setup | TV and compatible equipment | Extra-large Enter button and tactile feedback |
| GE Big Button Universal Remote | Basic setups with up to two devices | Up to two devices | Automatic code search and direct code entry |
| GE BigEZ OneTouch Big Button Remote | Parents who benefit from illuminated buttons | One TV plus one other device | Backlit buttons with color-coded volume and channel controls |
Our Picks: Best Universal Remotes For Elderly Parents reviews
1. TSCFGBTH Big Button Learning Remote: Best for Large, Tactile Controls
This learning remote is designed for people who find small controls difficult to see or press. Its extra-large Enter button and tactile feedback are intended to make navigation easier, especially for someone who relies on touch as well as sight.
The remote is described as compatible with many TV brands and with equipment such as DVD players, streaming devices, and cable boxes. Its learning setup is an important detail: the supplied instructions explain configuration, but the product information says the original remote must be available. That could be a drawback if the old remote is already lost or broken.
Compared with the GE options below, this model puts more emphasis on learning and tactile controls. It may suit a parent who uses more than one kind of entertainment device, provided the original remote is on hand for setup. Before choosing it, confirm that the devices in the home can be configured as needed.
Pros:
- Extra-large Enter button and tactile feedback
- Designed with vision and dexterity needs in mind
- Listed as compatible with TVs and several types of equipment
- Includes instructions and a stated 365-day warranty
Cons:
- Learning setup requires the original remote, according to the product information
- May take more configuration than a remote with preset TV-brand buttons
Verdict: Choose this remote if tactile controls are a priority and you still have the original remotes needed for setup.
2. GE Big Button Universal Remote: Best for a Simple Two-Device Setup
GE’s big-button remote is aimed at people who want a straightforward controller for a modest entertainment setup. Its simplified keyboard and ergonomic design make it a practical option when the main goal is to replace a cluttered collection of remotes with one control.
It can operate up to two compatible devices, such as a TV and a cable box or soundbar. The remote is preprogrammed for Samsung TVs and also offers automatic code search and direct code entry. It uses two AA batteries, which are not included, and has master volume control so the volume can be adjusted regardless of which device is being used.
Its two-device limit is worth considering before buying. A parent with a TV, cable box, and separate soundbar may need to decide which two devices matter most or look at another option. Unlike the GE BigEZ, this model does not list fully backlit buttons, so it may be less suitable for dim rooms.
Pros:
- Large, simplified buttons designed for easier navigation
- Controls up to two compatible devices
- Offers automatic code search and direct code entry
- Includes master volume control and access to U.S.-based technical support
Cons:
- Two-device limit may not suit a more complex setup
- Two AA batteries are not included
Verdict: This is a sensible pick for a parent who uses one TV and one other device and prefers a simple, large-button layout.
3. GE BigEZ OneTouch Remote: Best for Backlit, Color-Coded Buttons
The GE BigEZ is a large, white remote with fully backlit buttons, a blue volume button, and an orange channel button. Those visual cues may help a parent find common controls, particularly when the room is dim or when similar-looking buttons are hard to distinguish.
It has preset TV buttons for Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, and Roku TVs, plus an AUX button for one additional device. The listed setup is simple: add two AA batteries, press the TV button for the brand, then press Power. The AUX button is preset for Roku boxes but can be programmed for a different device.
This model is more guided than the GE two-device remote, but it still has a clear limit: it controls a TV and one other device. It may be a good fit for someone who wants an easy starting setup and visible controls, but not for a home that requires one remote to manage several separate devices.
Pros:
- Fully backlit buttons for easier viewing in low light
- Color-coded volume and channel buttons
- Preset TV buttons for five listed brands
- Simple brand-based setup and support resources
Cons:
- Controls one TV and one additional device
- Two AA batteries are not included
Verdict: Pick the BigEZ if your parent would benefit from illuminated, color-coded controls and the setup uses no more than two devices.
How to Choose a Universal Remote for an Older Parent
Match the remote to the devices in the room
Start by listing the equipment your parent uses: the TV, cable or satellite box, streaming device, DVD player, or soundbar. Then check how many devices the remote can control. The two GE options listed here support a TV plus one additional device, while the learning remote is described as working with TVs and other equipment. Compatibility can vary by device, so check the product details and setup instructions for the exact equipment at home.
Look for controls your parent can see and feel
Large buttons can be easier to read and press, but layout matters too. Consider whether the main controls are easy to find and whether the person will benefit from tactile feedback, backlighting, or color-coded buttons. The TSCFGBTH emphasizes tactile feedback and a larger Enter button; the GE BigEZ adds backlighting and distinct colors for volume and channel controls.
Consider setup before you buy
A remote that is simple to use after setup may still take some work to program. The TSCFGBTH learning remote requires the original remote for its stated setup method. The GE Big Button model offers automatic code search and direct code entry, while the BigEZ uses preset TV-brand buttons and a step-by-step basic setup. Choose a method you or your parent can complete comfortably.
Keep the daily routine simple
Think about which buttons your parent uses most often. A remote with a large number of controls may still feel confusing if important functions are hard to locate. If your parent mainly watches TV through one box, a simpler two-device remote may be enough. If they switch among several devices, check that the remote can operate the necessary equipment before purchasing.
Check practical details such as batteries and support
Both GE remotes listed here require two AA batteries, which are not included. The TSCFGBTH product information lists a 365-day warranty and round-the-clock online support; GE lists U.S.-based technical support and online setup resources for its remotes. Reviewing these details can help you plan for setup and future questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I check first when choosing a remote for an older parent?
Check the remote’s button size and visibility, the number of devices it can control, and how it is programmed. A remote that matches the home setup and the user’s needs is more useful than one with extra features that are hard to operate.
Can these remotes control a TV and a cable box?
The GE Big Button and GE BigEZ models are each described as controlling a TV plus one additional device. The TSCFGBTH is described as compatible with TVs and equipment such as cable boxes, but its learning setup requires the original remote, according to the product information.
Does the TSCFGBTH learning remote work if the original remote is lost?
The supplied product details say its setup is valid only if the original remote is not lost. If the original remote is unavailable, consider one of the GE models with listed code-based or preset setup methods instead.
Which option has backlit buttons?
The GE BigEZ OneTouch is described as having fully backlit buttons. The supplied details for the other two options do not specify backlighting.
Do the GE remotes include batteries?
No. The product details say both GE models use two AA batteries, which are not included.
Will one of these remotes work with every TV brand?
Compatibility depends on the model and device. The TSCFGBTH lists several TV brands and other equipment; the GE BigEZ lists preset TV buttons for Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, and Roku TVs. Check the product listing and setup information for your parent’s exact devices before buying.
Final Recommendation
For a parent who needs larger controls and tactile feedback, the TSCFGBTH is worth considering if the original remote is available for setup. For a simple TV-and-one-device arrangement, the GE Big Button remote offers code-search options and a straightforward layout. If seeing buttons in a dim room is a priority, the GE BigEZ stands out for its backlighting and color-coded controls. Choose based on your parent’s devices, vision needs, and comfort with setup.