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A Vizio universal remote is a smart remote that works with all TVs and allows users to navigate easily through their TV with smart buttons. Universal remotes have codes that users must understand in order to use the remote.

Vizio universal remotes require different codes to connect them to all of your devices. In most cases, the code you need can be located in the battery compartment or on the back of your device. If those don't work, start making your way down the list of codes for your device until one works.

Using this programming guide, you can best understand what a universal remote is, understand the remote codes, how to program, and how to use the remote for the best viewing experience. 

What is a Universal Remote?

Vizio Universal TV Remote

In the age of modern technology, most individuals have several remotes on their coffee table to access all of their devices. There are, however, single remotes that can be programmed to use a variety of devices and these are known as universal remotes.

Users can use universal remotes to modify particular features like volume control, channel selection, and playback features on several different devices. Some high-tech universal remote controls have extra capabilities like voice control, illuminated buttons, and touchscreens that make controlling multiple devices even easier. 

And be sure to make yourself aware of our other universal remote guides, on using RCA, Onn, Spectrum, and Phillips universal remotes, or on using universal remotes with TCL, Sharp, or Hisense TVs respectively.

Vizio Universal Remote

A Vizio universal remote, like this one (on Amazon), needs to be programmed correctly to get the best user experience. Real quick, just take a look at your remote and make sure it's a Vizio model.

Phillips and RCA also make universal remotes that are very common, and they all converge on a similar look. If you have an RCA remote, check out our guide for RCA codes and pairing, and if you happen to have a Phillips remote you can see this guide. Otherwise, let's turn our attention back to your Vizio remote.

There are different types of Vizio remotes to be aware of. The newer remotes offer various smart buttons that allow you to be taken to an app at the click of a button. These feature entertainment switches so that you can be presented with Netflix or YouTube in one click for an enhanced viewing experience. 

The biggest benefit of using a Vizio universal remote over standard remotes is that they can work with any TV. You won’t need to worry about the order or spending your money on something that will not work as they guarantee to work with all TV devices.  

Finding Vizio Universal Remote Codes

Between your remote control and your particular gadget, Vizio universal remote codes act as a communication link. 

The codes are basically collections of numbers that are entered into the remote control to operate an appliance using the remote. You can operate the device with the remote once the proper code has been input, changing channels, adjusting the volume, and carrying out other operations.

The four-digit codes for Vizio TVs on a universal remote can change depending on the model. The codes may vary between your Vizio TV models if you possess more than one. This is due to the fact that each of the three code lists included with universal remotes uses a distinct set of codes for the remote control. 

You should first check the sticker inside your remote's battery compartment to identify which code list should be utilized. The code list that is displayed on this sticker will aid you in selecting the appropriate code list to use.

Another way to find the correct Vizio universal remote code on newer remotes, you must hold the code search button on the remote.

Using The Remote Codes

Start by determining the model of your Vizio TV to prevent confusion. Once you find this, you may look up the TV-specific code in the table. Simply try the next code if the first one doesn't work until you discover the one that works with your Vizio TV.

  • Vizio CL3 TV: 5561, 5571, 5581, 5591, 5601, 5611, 5621, 5631, 5641, 5651, 5661, 5671, 5681, 5691, 5701, 5711, 2901, 1471, 1741, 2021, 3651, 3741, 3851, 4081.
  • Vizio CL4 TV: 5631, 5561, 6121, 6131, 5611, 6111, 5651, 5621, 5711.
  • Vizio CL5 TV: 5631, 5611, 5561, 6471, 6511, 6121, 6131, 6111, 5651, 5621, 5711.

Also, have a look at our dedicated guides for programming different TV brands:

Programming Your Vizio Universal Remote

With the remote and code in hand, you can begin to promote your Vizio Universal Remote by following these steps:

  1. Switch on your TV and check that the remote is functioning.
  2. Obtain the correct code from the aforementioned list.
  3. When the red light appears, hold down the setup button on your remote.
  4. Push the Vizio remote button. Once it blinks, the red light should remain illuminated.
  5. Type the code from the list that corresponds to your device.
  6. Your remote is now set up for your Vizio TV if the code works.
  7. To make sure it's functioning properly, test it by turning on and off the TV and using other keys.

Troubleshooting Tips

There are a few things you should try if you're having difficulties getting your universal remote to operate with your Vizio TV.

First, try a different code. We recommend working your way down the list starting with the top codes until you discover one that works.

Next, try swapping the batteries in your remote for new ones.  It may just be that your battery is low or dead and this limits the connectivity of your universal remote.

If everything else fails, you can restore the factory settings on your universal remote. If you're having problems and are stuck, we recommend contacting customer support.

And remember, we're talking remote here. If you're trying to go sans-remote, see our article on how to start by finding the power button on your Vizio TV!

Other Universal Remote Options

TV Remote

There are other brands that manufacture universal remotes. This includes the GE Backlit Universal Remote, SofaBaton U1 Universal Remote, and Yosun XRT136 Remote. These brands that offer extensive features, fast transmission, and easy-to-program capabilities. 

Some things to look out for when purchasing a universal remote, including:

  • Number of Controls. A control with a long list of functions will offer the best user experience and allow you to connect with as many devices as possible.
  • Infrared Capabilities. If the remote has smart Bluetooth and wireless options for connectivity, it will be easier to program and use.
  • Ease of Programming. It is easier to program newer remotes due to their faster wireless connectivity capabilities. 

Although these are great options, it is best to use a Vizio remote with a Vizio TV and other entertainment devices as it offers fast wireless connectivity and smart technology for the best viewing experience. 

Conclusion

Anyone wishing to simplify their entertainment system should choose the Vizio universal remote. It remains a popular option for customers due to its reasonable pricing and simple functionality. You can get away with using a smartphone as a TV remote, especially in a case where your Vizio TV has no remote at all (which we've looked into before). But for the user experience, we highly recommend a universal remote option.

To program your remote, you will need to look for the codes for your specific device. If you can't find it in the battery compartment, try working your way through the list above. If that doesn't work, change the batteries in your remote or consider resetting it and trying again!