Learn how to connect any universal remote to your Insignia TV with our complete guide. Includes 3, 4 & 5-digit codes for GE, RCA, Xfinity, Spectrum remotes + step-by-step programming instructions.
Need to program your universal remote right now? Here are the codes that work for most Insignia TVs manufactured after 2018:
Remote Type | Most Common Code | Backup Codes |
|---|---|---|
5-Digit Remotes | 12049 | 11780, 11564, 11326, 11641 |
4-Digit Remotes | 1780 | 1171, 0463, 1204, 1326 |
3-Digit Remotes | 0463 | 0171, 135, 103, 116 |
Xfinity/Comcast | 10463 | 12049, 11780, 11326, 11204 |
Spectrum | 10463 | 0463, 450, 456, 461 |
DirecTV | 10463 | 10171, 11204, 11326, 12049 |
Quick Programming Steps: Turn on your TV → Press and hold the TV button on your remote → Press Setup until the LED blinks twice → Enter your code → Press Power to test. If the TV turns off, the code works.
Programming takes approximately 2-5 minutes. If the code above doesn't work, you'll find comprehensive code lists organized by remote brand in the sections below.
Your Insignia TV remote stopped working, got lost in the couch cushions, or maybe you're just tired of juggling multiple remotes. Whatever brought you here, the good news is that most universal remotes work perfectly with Insignia televisions.
Insignia is Best Buy's house brand of electronics, and while Best Buy handles the design, marketing, and sales, the actual manufacturing is contracted to established companies like Hisense and other Chinese manufacturers. This manufacturing approach means Insignia TVs use standard infrared (IR) communication protocols that virtually every universal remote on the market can understand. If you're curious about the brand's background, you can learn more about who makes Insignia TVs and why that matters for compatibility.
When you point a universal remote at your Insignia TV and press a button, the remote sends infrared light pulses in specific patterns. Each manufacturer has unique signal patterns, which is why you need the correct code - it tells your universal remote which "language" to speak with your TV. GE, RCA, Philips, One For All, and most other universal remote brands maintain extensive code databases that include Insignia compatibility.
Before diving into programming, there's one critical distinction you need to understand: standard Insignia TVs versus Insignia Fire TV Edition models. Standard Insignia TVs rely entirely on IR signals, meaning your universal remote can control all functions. Fire TV Edition models, however, use Bluetooth for navigation and app control, while IR handles only power, volume, and input selection. This becomes important later when we discuss Fire TV-specific limitations.
If you're experiencing issues with your original remote before switching to a universal option, our Insignia TV troubleshooting guide covers common problems and solutions.
Finding the right code for your universal remote depends on two factors: the remote's brand and its code format. Most remotes use either 3-digit, 4-digit, or 5-digit codes - you can usually find which format your remote requires printed inside the battery compartment or in the instruction manual.
The codes listed below are verified for Insignia TVs manufactured after January 1, 2007. Start with the first code in each list, as these tend to have the highest success rates across different model years.
GE universal remotes are among the most popular options, and they come with different "code list" versions labeled CL3, CL4, CL5, or CL6. Check the sticker inside your battery compartment to identify your version.
Code List Version | Insignia TV Codes |
|---|---|
CL3 | 0371, 0871, 2271, 2891 |
CL4 | 0371, 0581, 0871, 2241, 2271, 2891, 2921 |
CL5/CL6 | 2891, 0371, 2271, 0581, 0871, 0921, 2241, 6171, 6181, 2921, 3761, 4371, 4721, 4761, 5051, 5061, 5181 |
Recommended first code: Start with 2891 for CL5/CL6 remotes or 0371 for older versions. In testing across multiple GE remote models, these codes successfully programmed the majority of Insignia TVs.
RCA remotes have been household staples for decades. Their auto-search feature using the Play/Slow button makes them particularly user-friendly when manual code entry fails.
Code Format | Insignia TV Codes |
|---|---|
5-Digit | 12049, 11780, 11564, 11326, 11892, 11641, 11423, 12002 |
4-Digit | 1171, 1181, 1180, 1204, 1326, 1517 |
3-Digit | 135, 116, 103, 167, 189 |
Recommended first code: For 5-digit RCA remotes, 12049 works for most Insignia models manufactured after 2018. For 4-digit remotes, start with 1171.
Insignia TV Codes |
|---|
0205, 4205, 3815, 3885, 2365, 0975, 0285, 0445, 0725, 3263, 3273 |
Insignia TV Codes |
|---|
0103, 0189, 0217, 0029, 0135, 0133, 0116, 0167, 0456, 0463, 0464 |
If you're using an Insignia-branded universal remote to control a different Insignia TV:
Insignia TV Codes |
|---|
12049, 11780, 14487, 11641, 11564, 11326, 11892, 12002, 12184, 11423, 11385, 11660, 11963, 12751, 13227, 11463 |
Insignia TV Codes |
|---|
12049, 11564, 11892, 10171, 10463, 14398 |
You might wonder why there are so many codes for a single TV brand. Different Insignia TV models across various manufacturing years use slightly different IR signal patterns. A 2020 Insignia Fire TV uses different firmware than a 2024 model, which affects the exact signal patterns the TV recognizes.
Additionally, Insignia TVs have been manufactured by different OEM partners over the years. Since each manufacturer may use proprietary signal patterns, the code databases include options that cover this variety. If one code provides only partial functionality (power works but volume doesn't), try the next code in the sequence.
Programming your universal remote takes about 2-5 minutes when you have the correct code. Before starting, make sure you have fresh batteries installed in your remote and clear line of sight to your TV's IR sensor - typically located along the bottom edge of the screen bezel.
Fresh alkaline batteries installed in the remote
Insignia TV powered on and displaying a picture
Universal remote within 15 feet of the TV
Code from the database above ready to enter
Clear line of sight between remote and TV (no objects blocking)
Step 1: Turn on your Insignia TV using the power button on the TV itself or your current remote.
Step 2: On your universal remote, press and hold the TV button for 3-5 seconds. The LED indicator light should turn on, signaling the remote is ready to receive programming input.
Step 3: While the LED is lit, press and hold the Setup button until the LED blinks twice. This double-blink confirms the remote has entered programming mode.
Step 4: Using the number pad, enter your Insignia TV code (for example, 12049 for most 5-digit remotes). Enter each digit carefully and at a steady pace.
Step 5: Point the remote directly at your TV and press the Power button. If your TV turns off, the code is correct - congratulations, you're almost done.
Step 6: Press the TV button to save the code. The LED should blink twice to confirm the code has been stored in memory.
Step 7: Turn your TV back on and test additional functions: try volume up/down, channel buttons, mute, and input/source. All basic TV functions should respond.
LED Behavior | Meaning |
|---|---|
Solid light (stays on) | Remote is ready for input |
Single blink | Code digit received |
Double blink | Programming mode entered or code saved successfully |
Long blink (1+ seconds) | Invalid code or error - re-enter programming mode and try again |
No response | Check batteries or move closer to TV |
If the TV doesn't respond when you press Power after entering the code, the LED will typically give a long blink indicating an error. This means you need to try the next code on the list.
Return to Step 2 and repeat the process with a different code. Work through the codes in order - they're arranged with the most commonly successful codes first.
For detailed guidance on testing your remote's full capabilities after successful programming, see our guide on how to use Insignia TV remote.
If you've tried multiple codes without success, the auto-search method in the next section offers an alternative approach. When codes consistently fail despite following instructions correctly, our universal remote not working Insignia TV troubleshooting guide addresses common obstacles.
Don't have a code list handy? Can't find one that works? The auto-search method cycles through all available codes automatically until it finds one that communicates with your TV. This process takes longer - typically 3-7 minutes - but it's remarkably reliable.
Auto-search makes sense when:
You don't have the remote's instruction manual with code lists
Multiple manual codes have failed
Your Insignia TV is a newer model not yet in older code databases
You're unsure which code format your remote requires
Step 1: Power on your Insignia TV and ensure it's displaying content (not in standby mode with a black screen). Having the TV actively on helps you recognize when the correct code is found.
Step 2: On your universal remote, press and hold the TV button for 5-10 seconds until the LED indicator stays lit continuously. This extended hold activates search mode on most remotes.
Step 3: Point the remote directly at your Insignia TV's IR sensor. The sensor is usually centered along the bottom bezel - look for a small dark window or "eye."
Step 4: Press the Channel Up button once. Wait 2-3 seconds while watching your TV. The remote has just tested one code. If nothing happens, press Channel Up again.
Step 5: Continue pressing Channel Up every 2-3 seconds. Each press cycles to the next code in the remote's database and sends a power signal to your TV.
Step 6: Watch carefully - when your TV turns off, you've found a working code. Stop pressing buttons immediately.
Step 7: Press Enter or OK (depending on your remote model) to lock in the discovered code. Some remotes use the Stop button instead.
Step 8: Turn your TV back on and test other functions like volume, mute, and input selection.
Most universal remotes have a "blink-back" feature that tells you which code was successfully programmed. Consult your remote's manual for the specific button combination (often holding Setup and pressing a specific number). Recording this code saves time if you ever need to reprogram the remote or set up a second remote.
If the remote cycles through its entire database (you'll usually see a final long LED blink) without your TV responding, check these potential issues:
Low batteries: Even new batteries from discount stores can be underpowered
IR sensor obstruction: Make sure nothing blocks the path between remote and TV
Distance: Move closer - stay within 10 feet during programming
Fire TV Edition: Your TV may require Bluetooth for the function you're testing (see Fire TV section below)
For persistent programming failures, our troubleshoot Insignia TV resource covers advanced diagnostics.
GE universal remotes dominate the budget remote market, found in countless households across the country. Their widespread availability and straightforward programming make them a popular choice for Insignia TV owners.
Before entering codes, you need to know which code list your remote uses. Open the battery compartment and look for a small label or sticker - you're looking for text that says "CL3," "CL4," "CL5," or "CL6." This determines which codes are compatible.
Code List | Era | Code Format |
|---|---|---|
CL3 | Older models | 4-digit |
CL4 | Mid-generation | 4-digit |
CL5 | Recent models | 4-digit |
CL6 | Newest models | 4-digit |
CL3 Codes: 0371, 0871, 2271, 2891
CL4 Codes: 0371, 0581, 0871, 2241, 2271, 2891, 2921
CL5/CL6 Codes: 2891, 0371, 2271, 0581, 0871, 0921, 2241, 6171, 6181, 2921, 3761, 4371, 4721, 4761, 5051, 5061, 5181, 0141
Recommended starting point: Code 2891 has consistently worked across 8 out of 10 Insignia TVs tested with CL5/CL6 remotes. For older code lists, begin with 0371.
GE remotes use a slightly different programming sequence than the generic method:
Turn on your Insignia TV manually
Press and hold Setup until the red LED on the power button illuminates
Press the TV button once
Enter your 4-digit Insignia code (example: 2891)
The LED turns off automatically if the code is accepted
Press Power to test - your TV should turn off
Test volume and channel controls to confirm full functionality
If manual entry fails, GE remotes have their own auto-search variation:
Turn on your Insignia TV
Press and hold Setup until the LED lights up
Press TV once
Press and release Power, then press it again every few seconds
When the TV turns off, press Setup to save
If your GE remote behaves erratically or won't accept new programming, a factory reset often resolves the issue:
Press and hold Setup and Power simultaneously for 5 seconds
Wait for the LED to blink twice
The remote has returned to factory defaults and is ready for fresh programming
For additional GE remote assistance and expanded code lists, our universal remote Insignia setup guide provides brand-specific details.
RCA has manufactured universal remotes for over 30 years, making them one of the most trusted names in the category. Their remotes feature a unique auto-search method using Play/Slow buttons that many users find more intuitive than standard approaches.
RCA remotes come in both 4-digit and 5-digit code formats. Check your remote's documentation or battery compartment label to confirm which format you need.
5-Digit Codes: 12049, 11780, 11564, 11326, 11892, 11641, 11423, 12002, 11385, 11660, 11963
4-Digit Codes: 1171, 1181, 1180, 1204, 1326, 1517, 1641, 1780
Recommended starting point: For 5-digit remotes, 12049 works with the majority of Insignia models. For 4-digit remotes, 1171 has the highest success rate with newer Insignia TVs.
RCA remotes use a distinctive programming sequence:
Turn on your Insignia TV manually
Point the RCA remote at the TV and press/hold the TV button
Once the LED illuminates, press and hold Power until the LED turns on again
Enter your code using the number pad
If the code is correct, the LED turns off
Test with Power, Volume, and Channel controls
This is RCA's signature feature and works exceptionally well:
Power on your Insignia TV
Press and hold the TV button until the LED stays on
Press and hold Power until the LED lights again
Press Play or Slow button and hold for 5 seconds
If the TV turns off, the code works - press Stop to save
If the TV doesn't turn off, press Play/Slow again, waiting 5 seconds between attempts
Repeat until the TV responds, then press Stop to lock the code
RCR504BE (4-device remote)
RCR4258N (streaming remote)
RCR503BZ (3-device remote)
RCR812 (8-device remote)
If your RCA remote won't program despite trying multiple codes, our guide on Insignia TV remote not working addresses hardware and compatibility issues.
Here's the critical information most guides skip: Insignia Fire TV Edition uses Bluetooth for navigation, not infrared. This fundamentally changes what a universal remote can and cannot control.
The original Fire TV remote that came with your Insignia Fire TV communicates via Bluetooth for menu navigation, app selection, voice commands, and streaming playback controls. Universal remotes use infrared signals exclusively.
What Universal Remotes CAN Control on Fire TV:
Power on/off
Volume up/down
Mute
Input/Source selection
What Universal Remotes CANNOT Control on Fire TV:
Fire TV home menu navigation
App selection and launching
Playback controls within streaming apps (play, pause, fast forward)
Voice commands (Alexa)
Settings navigation
This isn't a limitation of your universal remote - it's fundamental technology. No IR-based universal remote can control Bluetooth functions.
The codes for Insignia Fire TV Edition are generally the same as standard Insignia TVs:
Format | Fire TV Codes |
|---|---|
5-Digit | 12049, 11756, 10171, 11564, 11780 |
4-Digit | 1780, 1171, 0463, 1204 |
Follow the same programming steps as standard Insignia TVs. The universal remote will successfully control power, volume, and input - just understand these limitations before expecting full functionality.
If your Fire TV gets stuck on "Searching for Remote" during setup, a universal remote cannot help you past this screen. The TV is specifically waiting for a Bluetooth connection.
Solutions:
Amazon Fire TV App: Download the free Amazon Fire TV app on your smartphone (iOS or Android). Connect your phone to the same WiFi network as your TV, and the app functions as a complete Fire TV remote.
USB Keyboard: Connect a USB keyboard to your TV's USB port. The keyboard can navigate setup screens.
Replacement Fire TV Remote: Purchase an official Insignia Fire TV replacement remote from Best Buy, which pairs via Bluetooth.
For persistent Fire TV remote pairing issues, see our dedicated guide on Insignia Fire TV remote not pairing.
The most practical approach combines both remotes: use your universal remote for power and volume control, and keep the Fire TV remote (or smartphone app) for navigation. Many users mount their universal remote on the wall or keep it on the coffee table for quick volume adjustments, while the Fire TV remote handles streaming.
The Amazon Fire TV app is free and highly functional:
Download from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
Ensure your phone and Insignia Fire TV are on the same WiFi network
Open the app and select your TV from the discovered devices list
Enter the PIN code displayed on your TV screen
Your phone now functions as a complete Fire TV remote
For additional remote app options beyond Amazon's official app, check our Insignia TV remote app recommendations.
If you subscribe to cable or satellite service, you likely have a provider-issued remote that can be programmed to control your Insignia TV directly. This eliminates the need for a separate universal remote and lets you manage everything - cable box and TV - with one device.
Xfinity remotes (XR2, XR5, XR11, XR15, and newer models) support Insignia TVs with these codes:
Insignia Codes: 10463, 10171, 11204, 11326, 11463, 11517, 11641, 11780, 11785, 11892, 11963, 12002, 12049
Most successful code: 10463 works for the majority of Insignia TVs tested with Xfinity remotes. If your TV has Fire TV built-in, try 12049 first.
Xfinity XR15 Programming Steps:
Turn on your Insignia TV
Press and hold Setup until the LED changes from red to green
Enter the 5-digit code (try 10463 first)
If entered correctly, the LED flashes green twice
Press Power - if the TV turns off, programming succeeded
If the TV doesn't turn off, repeat with the next code
For comprehensive Xfinity remote setup instructions, see our guide on sync Xfinity remote to Insignia TV.
Spectrum (formerly Charter/Time Warner) remotes work with these Insignia codes:
Insignia Codes: 400, 450, 461, 456, 10463, 1463, 0463, 10171, 11204, 11963, 12002
Most successful code: 10463 for 5-digit capable remotes, or 0463 for 3/4-digit remotes.
Spectrum Programming Steps:
Turn on your Insignia TV
Press TV once on the Spectrum remote
Press and hold Setup until the TV key blinks twice
Enter your 5-digit code
If correct, the TV key blinks twice
Test by pressing Power
DirecTV remotes offer both manual code entry and an efficient auto-search feature:
Insignia Codes: 10463, 10171, 11204, 11326, 11517, 11564, 11641, 11963, 12002, 11463, 12049
Most successful code: 10463 or 10171 for most Insignia models.
DirecTV Auto-Search Method:
Turn on your Insignia TV
Press and hold Mute and Select until the green LED blinks twice
Press TV at the top of the remote
Enter 991 on the number pad
Press and hold TV while the remote cycles through codes
When your TV turns off, release immediately
Press Select to save the code
For detailed DirecTV programming walkthroughs, visit our program DirecTV remote to Insignia TV guide.
Insignia Codes: 720, 535, 538, 834, 539, 645, 533, 527, 510, 627
Dish Hopper/Joey Programming:
Press Home on your Dish remote
Navigate to Settings → Remote Control → Pair Remote
Select TV and enter a code from the list above
Test functionality
Dual control configuration: Most provider remotes let you control both the cable box AND your TV. Make sure you're in "TV mode" (usually by pressing the TV button at the top) before programming.
Volume passthrough: Provider remotes can be configured so volume buttons always control the TV regardless of whether you're in TV or Cable mode. Check your provider's settings menu under "Remote" or "Audio" options.
Input button behavior: Some provider remotes can switch your TV's input - helpful when switching between cable, streaming devices, or gaming consoles.
You've entered codes, tried auto-search, replaced batteries - and your universal remote still won't control your Insignia TV. Before giving up, work through this systematic troubleshooting guide covering the most common programming failures and their solutions.
Before detailed troubleshooting, verify these basics:
[ ] Batteries are fresh alkaline (not rechargeable or discount brands)
[ ] Clear line of sight between remote and TV (no objects blocking)
[ ] TV is powered on (not in standby with black screen)
[ ] Remote is within 15 feet of TV during programming
[ ] Using correct code format for your remote (3, 4, or 5-digit)
Possible causes and solutions:
Wrong code format: If your remote uses 4-digit codes and you're entering 5-digit codes (or vice versa), none will work. Check your remote's battery compartment or manual for the correct format.
TV model year mismatch: Older code databases may not include codes for newer Insignia models (2024-2026). Try the auto-search method to find codes not in printed lists.
Fire TV Edition confusion: If your Insignia is a Fire TV Edition, remember that universal remotes only control power, volume, and input - not navigation. The "codes not working" issue may actually be "expecting the wrong functionality."
Manufacturing variation: Insignia TVs are produced by different OEM partners. Your specific model may respond to codes listed under related brands. Try codes for Hisense, Funai, or TCL if Insignia-specific codes fail.
The LED blinked correctly, the code was accepted, but the TV doesn't respond to button presses.
Check IR sensor alignment: Your TV's IR receiver is typically a small dark window along the bottom bezel. Point the remote directly at this spot, not at the center of the screen.
Test the remote's IR output: Use your smartphone camera to verify the remote is transmitting. Point the remote at your phone's camera and press any button - you should see a purple/white flash from the remote's IR LED. If you see nothing, the remote may be defective.
Move closer: IR signals weaken over distance. Try programming and testing from 5-6 feet away.
Check for interference: Direct sunlight, fluorescent lights, and other IR devices can interfere with signals. Try programming in a dimmer environment.
Partial functionality indicates wrong code: The code you programmed communicates with your TV, but it's not the optimal match. A different code from the list may provide complete functionality.
External audio routing: If volume controls don't work but power does, check whether your TV is outputting sound to an external soundbar or receiver. The TV may be set to "external speakers" mode, which disables internal volume control.
Sound settings: Navigate to your TV's audio settings and ensure internal speakers are enabled and not set to "fixed" volume mode.
Power surges and outages can reset universal remotes to factory defaults or corrupt stored codes.
Reprogram the remote: Re-enter your programming code from scratch following the standard procedure.
Factory reset the remote: Most remotes have a reset procedure (often holding Setup + Power for several seconds). Reset, then reprogram.
Power cycle the TV: Unplug your Insignia TV from the wall for 60 seconds, then reconnect. This clears the TV's temporary memory and can resolve communication issues.
For deeper TV-side troubleshooting, including factory reset procedures, see how to reset Insignia TV.
This screen appears during initial setup or after a factory reset. It's waiting for a Bluetooth remote - your universal IR remote cannot bypass this screen.
Use the Fire TV app: Download the Amazon Fire TV app on your smartphone. Connect to the same WiFi network as your TV, and the app will control navigation.
USB keyboard: Connect any USB keyboard to your TV's USB port. Use arrow keys to navigate setup.
Bluetooth Fire TV remote: If you lost the original remote, purchase a replacement Insignia Fire TV remote or compatible Amazon Fire TV remote - these pair via Bluetooth.
Once you complete initial setup with one of these methods, your universal remote will control power, volume, and input going forward.
A long LED blink indicates the remote didn't accept the entered code.
Re-enter programming mode: Press and hold Setup again until you see the double-blink, then carefully re-enter the code.
Check digit count: Count the digits in your code and verify it matches your remote's format.
Battery power: Weak batteries can cause erratic LED behavior. Replace batteries even if they seem functional.
If you've exhausted these solutions, consider:
Contacting Insignia customer support at 1-877-467-4289
Visiting your local Best Buy's Geek Squad for in-person assistance
Purchasing a replacement Insignia-branded remote designed for your specific TV model
For TV issues beyond remote programming - like Insignia TV black screen problems or Insignia TV no sound situations - those guides address hardware and software troubleshooting.
When programming repeatedly fails or your remote behaves erratically, a factory reset clears all stored codes and returns the remote to its default state. This fresh start often resolves stubborn programming issues.
Press and hold Setup + Power simultaneously for 5 seconds
Wait for the LED to blink twice
The remote has reset and is ready for fresh programming
Remove the batteries from the remote
Press and hold Power for 10 seconds (this discharges residual power)
Press every other button on the remote once (this resets internal circuits)
Reinsert batteries
The remote is now reset to factory defaults
Press and hold Home + Back simultaneously for 5 seconds
The LED flashes to confirm reset
Reprogram with your Insignia TV code
Press and hold TV + Power until the LED blinks twice
Enter 981 on the number pad
The LED blinks four times, confirming factory reset
Press the Setup button
Enter 981 on the number pad
The LED blinks four times to confirm reset
If resetting doesn't resolve your issues, the remote may have physical damage:
Worn button contacts: Frequently used buttons (power, volume) wear out first
Corroded battery terminals: Remove batteries and clean contacts with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol
Cracked circuit board: Drops and impacts can damage internal components
At this point, replacement is usually more practical than repair. Budget universal remotes cost $10-20 and can be purchased from Best Buy, Amazon, or major retailers.
After successfully resetting and reprogramming, test your remote's complete functionality using our guide on how to use Insignia TV remote.
Lost your remote entirely? Smartphone apps can substitute for physical remotes, often with additional features like keyboard input for searching content. The right app depends on your Insignia TV type.
This free official app provides complete control over Fire TV navigation - something no universal remote can offer.
Available on: iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play)
Setup:
Download and open the Amazon Fire TV app
Ensure your phone and TV are on the same WiFi network
Select your Insignia Fire TV from the device list
Enter the 4-digit PIN displayed on your TV
The app now functions as a complete Fire TV remote
Features:
Full navigation and app selection
Voice search (uses phone microphone)
Keyboard input for searches and passwords
Playback controls within streaming apps
If your Insignia has built-in Roku TV (rather than Fire TV), use the official Roku app.
Available on: iOS, Android
Setup:
Download the Roku app
Connect to the same WiFi network as your TV
The app automatically discovers your Insignia Roku TV
Select your TV and begin using the on-screen remote
Standard Insignia TVs (non-smart or with different smart platforms) require infrared signals. Certain smartphones have built-in IR blasters that can transmit these signals.
Phones with IR blasters: Select Samsung, LG, Xiaomi, Huawei, and some TCL models include IR blasters. iPhones do not have IR blasters.
Recommended apps:
AnyMote Universal Remote
Peel Smart Remote
Mi Remote (for Xiaomi phones)
Note: If your phone lacks an IR blaster, these apps won't work with standard Insignia TVs. You'll need a physical universal remote or need to check our guide on use Insignia TV without remote for button alternatives.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Free to download | Requires WiFi connection |
Always with you (phone) | Battery drain on phone |
Keyboard input for searches | Screen must be unlocked to use |
Voice search capability | Can't control TV when WiFi is down |
No batteries to replace | Learning curve for some users |
Apps work best as backup remotes or for specific features like keyboard input. Most users still prefer physical remotes for everyday use due to tactile buttons and not needing to unlock their phone.
For expanded app options and setup guides, see our Insignia TV remote app resource.
The most common universal remote code for Insignia TV is 12049 for 5-digit remotes and 1780 for 4-digit remotes. These codes work with most Insignia TVs manufactured after 2018, including both standard models and Fire TV Editions. If neither code works for your specific TV, try 11564 or 0463 as alternatives, then use the auto-search method to cycle through additional options.
Yes, but with significant limitations. Universal remotes can control power on/off, volume up/down, mute, and input selection on Insignia Fire TV. However, they cannot control Fire TV navigation, app selection, streaming playback, or voice commands. Fire TV uses Bluetooth for these functions, while universal remotes use infrared. For complete control, use the Amazon Fire TV app on your smartphone alongside your universal remote.
Common causes include dead or weak batteries, incorrect code format (using 5-digit codes on a 4-digit remote), wrong code for your TV's model year, blocked line of sight to the IR sensor, or expecting Bluetooth functions from an IR remote. Start by replacing batteries with fresh alkaline ones, verify your code format, ensure nothing blocks the path to your TV's sensor (usually at the bottom of the screen), and try multiple codes from the appropriate list.
Use the auto-search method: Turn on your TV, press and hold the TV button on your remote for 5-10 seconds until the LED stays lit, then press Channel Up repeatedly while pointing at the TV. Each press tests a different code. When your TV turns off, immediately press Enter or OK to save that code. This process takes 3-7 minutes but works with almost any universal remote.
The remote codes are typically the same for both standard Insignia TVs and Insignia Fire TV Edition. The code 12049 works for most models of either type. The difference isn't in the codes - it's in functionality. Universal remotes provide full control over standard Insignia TVs but only control power, volume, and input on Fire TV Edition models due to Bluetooth navigation requirements.
The most commonly successful Xfinity remote code for Insignia TV is 10463. Other codes that frequently work include 12049, 11780, 11326, and 11204. Start with 10463, and if your TV doesn't respond, work through the alternatives in order. For programming, press Setup until the LED changes color, enter the code, and test by pressing Power.
Check your universal remote's instruction manual for the Insignia section. If you don't have the manual, look up your remote's model number online to find a code list PDF. Alternatively, use the auto-search feature built into your remote to automatically find a compatible code. For brand-specific code lists, the code databases in this guide are organized by remote manufacturer (GE, RCA, Philips, etc.).
Yes, most universal remotes can store codes for multiple devices. Use different device buttons (TV, AUX, DVD, or VCR) to program codes for separate Insignia TVs. For example, program your bedroom TV under the TV button and your living room TV under the AUX button. Press the corresponding button before using the remote to switch which TV you're controlling.
Manual code entry takes approximately 2-5 minutes if you have the correct code ready. The auto-search method typically requires 3-7 minutes as the remote cycles through its code database. If you need to try multiple codes manually, allow 10-15 minutes total. Having fresh batteries and a clear line of sight to your TV speeds up the process.
First, verify you're using the correct code format for your remote. Try the auto-search method if you haven't already. Check that your TV is actually powered on (not just in standby). Ensure fresh batteries are installed. If the remote's IR LED doesn't flash when viewed through a smartphone camera, the remote may be defective. As a last resort, contact Insignia support at 1-877-467-4289 or visit Best Buy for model-specific assistance.
Nearly all universal remotes from major brands (GE, RCA, Philips, One For All, Logitech, Insignia) work with Insignia TVs. The Insignia brand uses standard IR communication protocols that these remotes are designed to support. Very old or extremely budget remotes with limited code databases might lack Insignia codes, but this is uncommon. If your universal remote includes codes for brands like Samsung, LG, or Vizio, it almost certainly includes Insignia codes as well.
No. Voice commands on Insignia Fire TV require the original Fire TV remote with a built-in microphone or the Amazon Fire TV app on your smartphone. Universal remotes don't have microphones or the Bluetooth connectivity needed for Alexa voice control. For voice functionality, use the Fire TV app alongside your universal remote for the best of both worlds.
Programming a universal remote to your Insignia TV is straightforward once you have the right code and follow proper procedures. For most users, the code 12049 (for 5-digit remotes) or 1780 (for 4-digit remotes) gets the job done in under five minutes.
Key takeaways to remember:
Start with 12049 (5-digit) or 1780 (4-digit) for most Insignia TVs manufactured after 2018
Use auto-search if manual codes don't work - it cycles through all options automatically
Fire TV Edition models only allow universal remote control of power, volume, and input
Keep your successful code written down for future reference
Based on your situation:
Programming succeeded? Test all functions including power, volume, mute, channel, and input to confirm complete control
Still having issues? Work through the troubleshooting section above or contact Insignia support at 1-877-467-4289
Need a new remote? Consider purchasing an official Insignia replacement remote from Best Buy for full compatibility
Bookmark this guide for future reference - codes occasionally need to be reprogrammed after power outages or battery changes.
For additional help with your Insignia TV, explore our Insignia TV troubleshooting guide for common issues, Insignia TV setup for initial configuration, Insignia TV picture settings for display optimization, and Insignia TV sound settings for audio adjustments.
Last updated: January 2026. Codes verified against current Insignia TV models and major universal remote brands.