The Complete Samsung TV Channel Guide: Master Your Viewing Experience in 2026

Your Samsung TV channel guide is more than just a program listing - it's the command center for accessing hundreds of free channels, discovering personalized content recommendations, and managing your entire viewing experience. Yet most Samsung TV owners barely scratch the surface of what their channel guide can do.

After testing across multiple Samsung TV model years (from 2020 TU8000 series through 2025 Crystal UHD models), I've compiled everything you need to master Samsung's channel navigation system. Whether you're trying to access Samsung TV Plus's 700+ free channels, set up personalized favorites, or troubleshoot a guide that won't load, this guide has you covered.

Here's what sets the Samsung TV channel guide ecosystem apart from competitors: it combines three powerful components into one seamless experience. You get Samsung TV Plus (the free FAST streaming service), Universal Guide (AI-powered content discovery), and traditional EPG functionality for antenna and cable channels. Samsung TV Plus alone now reaches over 100 million monthly active users worldwide - a milestone the company announced in January 2026 - making it one of the most-used streaming apps on the planet.

The best part? Samsung TV Plus requires no subscription, no credit card, and no downloads. It comes pre-installed on every Samsung Smart TV manufactured since 2016. If you're ready to unlock the full potential of your Samsung TV setup, let's dive into everything you need to know.

Samsung TV Plus vs Universal Guide: Understanding the Difference

One of the biggest sources of confusion I encounter when helping people with their Samsung TVs is the distinction between Samsung TV Plus and Universal Guide. They're related but serve completely different purposes - and understanding this difference will dramatically improve how you navigate your TV.

Samsung TV Plus is Samsung's free ad-supported streaming TV service (known as a FAST service). Think of it as having cable TV without the monthly bill. It delivers over 700 live channels in the United States, streaming 24/7 content across categories like news, sports, movies, entertainment, and kids programming. The service requires only an internet connection - no account signup, no payment information, no commitment whatsoever.

When you turn on your Samsung TV and see channels numbered starting at 1000 or higher, that's Samsung TV Plus. The service launched back in 2015 and has grown exponentially. According to Samsung's January 2026 announcement, streaming hours increased 25% year-over-year, with an industry-leading 92% viewer retention rate after three months.

Universal Guide, on the other hand, is Samsung's AI-powered content discovery interface. First launched in 2017, it aggregates content from all your installed streaming apps - Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, and yes, Samsung TV Plus - into one searchable interface. Rather than switching between apps to find something to watch, Universal Guide pulls everything together and learns your preferences over time.

Here's the key insight: Universal Guide includes Samsung TV Plus channels within its interface, plus content from every other streaming service you've installed. When you're setting up new Samsung TV features, you'll want to configure both - Samsung TV Plus for instant free entertainment, and Universal Guide for personalized content discovery across all your services.

The visual difference is immediately noticeable when using each. Samsung TV Plus presents content like traditional cable TV with a channel-surfing experience. Universal Guide organizes content into tabs like "For You," "TV Shows," "Movies," "Sports," and "Music," with personalized recommendations that improve the more you watch.

How to Access the Channel Guide on Samsung TV (All Methods)

Getting to your channel guide should be simple, but Samsung has made some frustrating changes to their remote controls over the years. Some newer remotes replaced the dedicated "Guide" button with a Disney+ shortcut - a decision that's baffled many users, myself included.

Don't worry. There are multiple ways to access your channel guide regardless of which remote you have. Here's every method that works:

Method 1: Dedicated Guide Button

If your remote has a button labeled "Guide" or "CH List," press it once to access the channel guide directly. This is the fastest method but only works on certain remote models.

Remote models with Guide button: BN59-01315M, BN59-01315B, and most remotes manufactured before 2022.

Remote models WITHOUT Guide button: BN59-01315N (this has Disney+ instead). If you have this remote, you'll need to use one of the alternative methods below.

Method 2: Channel Button Press Technique

This method works on virtually all Samsung Smart Remotes:

1. Locate the channel up/down rocker button on your remote

2. Press and hold the channel button for 1-2 seconds

3. This brings up the Channel List

4. Now press the center of the same rocker button once

5. The full program guide (EPG) should appear

If you want to change channel without remote access methods, the SmartThings app on your phone can replicate this functionality.

Method 3: Home Screen Navigation

For 2020-2024 Samsung TV models:

1. Press the Home button on your remote

2. Press the Down arrow to navigate below the app row

3. Look for "Universal Guide" or "Live TV"

4. Select it to access the full channel guide

For 2025 Samsung TV models with the latest Tizen OS:

1. Press the ʌ/v buttons on your remote

2. This brings up the TV guide overlay directly

3. Navigate using arrow keys to browse channels and times

Method 4: Samsung TV Plus Button

Some newer remotes include a dedicated Samsung TV Plus button:

1. Press the Samsung TV Plus button

2. Once in the Samsung TV Plus interface, look for "Guide" option

3. Select it to view the full channel lineup

Method 5: Source Selection Method

If your Broadcasting menu appears grayed out, you likely need to change your source first:

1. Press and hold the up/down button to access the NOW ON menu

2. Select AIR or TV as your source

3. Now navigate to Settings → Broadcasting → Guide

The Broadcasting menu only becomes accessible when your TV source is set to TV mode rather than HDMI or another input. This trips up many users who've connected external devices.

If you're exploring ways to use Samsung TV remote voice control features, you can also say "Open Guide" or "Show channel guide" to access it hands-free. This requires Bixby to be enabled in your TV settings.

Understanding how to use Samsung TV remote buttons effectively makes navigation much smoother. The Smart Remote's minimalist design can be confusing at first, but these access methods cover every scenario.

Samsung TV Plus Channel List 2026: Complete Guide by Category

Samsung TV Plus has grown into a streaming powerhouse. The service now offers over 700 channels in the United States alone, with more than 4,300 channels available globally across 30 countries. This makes it competitive with - and in many cases larger than - other FAST services like Pluto TV and Tubi.

Channel numbers on Samsung TV Plus typically start at 1000 and go up from there. Fair warning: Samsung periodically reorganizes channel numbers, so the specific numbers listed below may shift slightly. The channels themselves remain available - just potentially at different positions.

News & Opinion Channels

Samsung TV Plus delivers comprehensive news coverage from major networks:

Entertainment Channels

The entertainment category features dozens of channels spanning reality TV, drama, and classic shows:

• Court TV (1210): Live trial coverage and legal programming

• TMZ (1240): Celebrity news and entertainment

• MTV Pluto TV (1245): Classic MTV programming

• Divorce Court (1290): Court show reruns

• The Walking Dead Universe (2770): Marathon programming from the franchise

Movies

Movie lovers have extensive options across genres:

Sports Channels

Sports coverage has expanded significantly, with over 50 sports channels now available:

Kids & Family

Family-friendly content is well-represented:

• Nick Jr. Club (1379): Preschool programming

• Moonbug Kids (5010): Cocomelon, Blippi content

• PBS Kids (1382): Educational children's programming

• Cartoon Network (5005): Animated entertainment

Music Channels

Music fans have several options:

• SMTOWN (4500): K-pop concerts including SMTOWN LIVE events

• Vevo Pop (6005): Music videos from top artists

• Billboard FAST (6010): Chart coverage and music news

New Channels Added in 2025-2026

Samsung continues expanding the lineup. Recent additions include:

• Mark Rober TV: Science and engineering content from the YouTube star

• The Martha Stewart Channel (2107): Lifestyle and cooking

• The Emeril Lagasse Channel (2109): Culinary programming

• Letterman TV: David Letterman library content (exclusive)

• Conan O'Brien TV: Conan's comedy library (exclusive)

If you want to access Samsung TV Plus on additional devices, check our guide on Samsung TV Plus on Roku or learn about getting Samsung TV Plus on older TV models. The service is also available on Galaxy smartphones, tablets, Smart Monitors, and even select Family Hub refrigerators.

How to Create and Manage Favorite Channels on Samsung TV

With over 700 channels available, finding your preferred content quickly becomes essential. Samsung allows you to create up to five separate Favorites lists - perfect for different family members or viewing contexts.

Creating Favorites on 2022-2024 Samsung TVs

1. Press and hold the Channel button for 1+ second to access the Channel List

2. Select Edit Channels from the menu

3. Press the left directional button to select your Favorites list (Favorites 1-5)

4. Press right to select Add Channels

5. Navigate through the channel list and select channels you want to add

6. Press Add to confirm

Channels added to favorites display a ♥ heart icon next to them in the guide. You can create themed lists - one for news, another for sports, a third for kids' content - and quickly switch between them.

Creating Favorites on 2025 Samsung TVs

The process is slightly streamlined on newer models:

1. Press ʌ/v on your remote to bring up the TV guide

2. Navigate to the channel you want to favorite

3. Hover over the channel and select it (press the center button)

4. An "Added to Favourites" confirmation appears

5. Access your Favorites list from the left column of the guide

Filtering the Guide to Show Only Favorites

Once you've created favorites, you can filter your entire guide view:

1. Open the Channel Guide

2. Look for a filter option (usually top-left of the guide)

3. Select Favorites or your specific favorites list

4. The guide now shows only your selected channels

This dramatically speeds up channel surfing when you know what you want to watch.

Managing Your Favorites Lists

To rename, reorder, or remove favorites:

1. Access Channel List → Edit Channels

2. Select your Favorites list

3. Choose Rename to give lists custom names (like "Dad's Sports" or "Kids Approved")

4. Use Delete to remove channels from the list

5. Reorder channels by selecting Change Order and moving channels up/down

For families wanting additional control over what children can access, Samsung TV parental controls can restrict channels by rating or lock specific channels entirely.

You can also set a favorite channel as your startup channel so your TV opens directly to preferred content. Learn how to change default channel Samsung TV settings for this functionality.

Samsung Universal Guide: AI-Powered Content Discovery Explained

Universal Guide represents Samsung's vision for unified content discovery. Rather than hunting through individual apps to find something to watch, Universal Guide brings everything together and learns what you like.

Interface Tabs and Navigation

When you open Universal Guide, you'll see several main tabs:

For You: Personalized recommendations based on your viewing history. The more you watch, the better these suggestions become.

TV Shows: Browse available shows across all your streaming services, organized by genre and popularity.

Movies: Similar to TV Shows, but focused on film content from your installed apps.

Sports: Live and upcoming sports events aggregated from services like ESPN+, Paramount+, and Samsung TV Plus sports channels.

Music: Music-related content including concerts, documentaries, and music video channels.

How AI Recommendations Work

Universal Guide uses machine learning to analyze your viewing patterns. It tracks:

• What content you watch and for how long

• Genres you prefer

• Times of day you typically watch

• Content you start but don't finish

Over time, the "For You" recommendations become increasingly accurate. The system cross-references your preferences with content available across all connected streaming services.

For optimal Samsung TV picture settings when enjoying Universal Guide content, make sure your viewing mode matches the content type. Sports content benefits from Motion Smoothing, while movies look better with Filmmaker Mode.

SmartThings App Integration

Universal Guide connects with the SmartThings app on your smartphone:

• Set reminders for upcoming shows (notifications sent to your phone)

• Control your TV remotely

• Start content from your phone and cast to TV

• Receive personalized recommendations even when away from your TV

To enable full functionality, you'll need a Samsung Account. Without one, Universal Guide still works but without personalized features or cross-device syncing.

Vision AI Companion (2025-2026 Models)

Samsung's latest TVs introduce Vision AI Companion technology, which takes Universal Guide functionality further. At CES 2026, Samsung demonstrated features including:

• Asking your TV "Who's gonna win today?" before sports events and receiving predictions based on recent stats and analyst picks

• Seeing food on screen and asking for the recipe - the AI identifies the dish and provides cooking instructions

• Voice commands like "mute the commentator" that removes commentary audio while keeping crowd sounds (Soccer Mode Pro)

These features require 2025 or newer Samsung TV models with Vision AI Companion support. When your TV is idle, the Samsung TV screensaver can display art or ambient content. For the best audio experience with AI features, configure your Samsung TV sound settings appropriately.

How to Scan for Antenna and Cable Channels on Samsung TV

If you're combining Samsung TV Plus with over-the-air antenna channels, you'll need to run a channel scan to find local broadcasts. This gives you the best of both worlds - free streaming content plus local ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS stations.

Before You Begin

Make sure your antenna is properly connected to the ANT IN port on your TV or One Connect Box. The Broadcasting menu will appear grayed out if no antenna connection is detected.

Important: Do NOT use Auto Program if your TV is connected to a cable or satellite box. The scan will delete your existing channel list and only save newly discovered channels.

Channel Scanning on 2025 Samsung TVs

1. Navigate to Settings → All Settings → General & Privacy

2. Select Broadcasting → Auto Program

3. Select Start and follow on-screen prompts

4. Choose your signal type:

   • Air for antenna (OTA broadcasts)

   • Cable for cable TV without a box

   • Both to scan for all available channels

5. Wait for the scan to complete (typically 3-10 minutes)

Channel Scanning on 2020-2024 Samsung TVs

1. Press the Home button on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings (gear icon)

3. Select Broadcasting (or Channels on some models)

4. Choose Auto Tuning or Auto Program

5. Select Air or Cable based on your setup

6. Begin the scan

Troubleshooting: Broadcasting Menu Grayed Out

If you can't access the Broadcasting menu:

1. Press and hold the up/down button to access source selection

2. Change the source to TV or AIR

3. The Broadcasting menu should now be accessible

4. Try the scan again

For detailed Samsung TV antenna setup instructions including optimal antenna placement and signal strength testing, check our dedicated guide.

If channels disappear after scanning or your Samsung TV channels not working properly, you may need to rescan or check your antenna connection quality.

When you experience Samsung TV no signal errors after scanning, the issue typically relates to antenna positioning or signal interference rather than TV settings.

Troubleshooting Samsung TV Channel Guide Problems (Complete Solutions)

Guide issues are among the most common problems Samsung TV owners face. After researching hundreds of Samsung Community forum posts and testing solutions myself, here's a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for every scenario.

Before diving into specific problems, if you're experiencing general Samsung TV troubleshooting issues beyond the channel guide, our broader guide covers additional scenarios.

Problem 1: Guide Shows "No Information"

This is the most common issue - channels work fine but the guide displays "No Information" for every program.

Quick Fix (Works 80% of the time):

1. Unplug your TV from the power outlet completely

2. Wait a full 2 minutes (this clears the cache)

3. Plug the TV back in and turn it on

4. Wait up to 30 minutes for guide data to repopulate

The guide data comes from the internet, so it needs time to download after a power reset.

If Quick Fix Doesn't Work:

1. Go to Settings → Network → Network Status

2. Verify you have an active internet connection

3. Check that your time and date settings are correct (Settings → General → System Manager → Time)

4. Ensure your region is correctly set (Settings → General → System Manager → Language)

Problem 2: Guide Not Loading or Showing

When the guide won't open at all or appears blank:

Solution 1: Manual DNS Assignment

1. Go to Settings → Network → Network Status → IP Settings

2. Set DNS to Manual

3. Enter 8.8.8.8 (Google's DNS)

4. Try accessing the guide again

Solution 2: Reset Smart Hub

1. Navigate to Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis

2. Select Reset Smart Hub

3. Enter your PIN (default is 0000)

4. Wait for the reset to complete

5. Reconfigure your apps and try the guide

If your remote doesn't work reliably, explore how to control Samsung TV without remote using the SmartThings app or other alternatives.

If your Samsung TV frozen during this process, perform a hard power reset by unplugging for 60 seconds.

Solution 3: Rescan Channels

1. Go to Settings → Broadcasting → Auto Program

2. Run a fresh channel scan

3. This often refreshes guide data connections

Problem 3: Channels Missing After Rescan

Channels that previously worked have disappeared:

Check If Accidentally Deleted:

1. Go to Channel List → Edit Channels

2. Look for channels marked as hidden

3. Select hidden channels and choose Restore

Verify Antenna Connection:

• Check that the coaxial cable is firmly connected

• Inspect the cable for damage

• Try a different antenna position (window placement works best)

For Samsung TV Plus Channels Missing:

• Ensure active internet connection

• Samsung TV Plus requires streaming - no internet means no channels

• Try disconnecting and reconnecting to your WiFi network

Problem 4: Guide Returns to Starting Position

After scrolling through the guide, it keeps jumping back to the beginning:

Root Cause: Usually caused by channels showing "No Information" that create navigation conflicts.

Solution:

1. Go to Edit Channels

2. Delete all channels displaying "No information"

3. Run a fresh channel scan

4. Check for Samsung TV firmware update availability - this bug has been patched in recent updates

Problem 5: Wrong Program Information Displayed

The guide shows incorrect show titles or outdated scheduling:

Step 1: Verify time/date settings are correct and set to automatic

Step 2: If the issue persists, a factory reset may be required:

1. Go to Settings → General → Reset

2. Enter your PIN

3. Follow prompts to reset

4. Reconfigure your TV

Step 3: For regional EPG issues, contact Samsung support - some problems require server-side fixes.

Problem 6: Guide Button Not Working

Your remote's Guide button does nothing:

Check Your Remote Model:

Look at the bottom left corner of your remote for the model number:

• BN59-01315M has the Guide button

• BN59-01315N has Disney+ instead of Guide

Alternative Access Methods:

• Press and hold Channel List button for 1-2 seconds

• Press the center of the channel up/down rocker button

• Use the SmartThings app as a virtual remote

• Consider purchasing the BN59-01315M remote (~$12 on Amazon)

If you want to sync universal remote to Samsung TV, most universal remotes have programmable Guide buttons.

Problem 7: Guide Freezing or Slow Response

If your guide loads but responds slowly or freezes:

Clear Cache:

You can clear cache on Samsung TV to improve performance:

1. Go to Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis

2. Select TV Device Manager

3. Choose Clean Now or Memory Boost

Check for Streaming Issues:

If the guide freezes specifically on Samsung TV Plus content, you may have Samsung TV buffering issues related to internet speed. Test your connection speed and consider a Samsung TV ethernet connection for more stable streaming.

Problem 8: TV Keeps Freezing When Using Guide

Repeated freezing indicates deeper issues:

If your Samsung TV keeps freezing specifically when accessing the guide:

1. Update Samsung TV system firmware to the latest version

2. Reset Smart Hub

3. If problems persist after updates, contact Samsung support - hardware issues are possible

For input-related guide problems, try to reset HDMI ports Samsung TV connections and verify your source settings.

If your Samsung TV stuck on setup screen and can't access the guide at all, you'll need to complete initial setup or perform a factory reset.

Occasional issues with your Samsung TV turns on by itself can interfere with guide data - disabling Anynet+ and automatic updates often resolves phantom power-on behavior.

Samsung TV Plus vs Pluto TV vs Tubi: Free Streaming Comparison

With so many free streaming options available, you might wonder how Samsung TV Plus compares to alternatives like Pluto TV and Tubi. I've used all three extensively, and each has distinct strengths.

Samsung TV Plus Advantages

Pre-installed convenience: No app to download - it's ready when you unbox your TV. For Samsung device owners, this seamless integration can't be beaten.

Exclusive content: Channels like Letterman TV and Conan O'Brien TV featuring library content from these legendary hosts exist nowhere else. The Mark Rober channel brings popular YouTube science content to the TV format.

Sports depth: With 50+ sports channels including NFL, MLB, NASCAR, and international soccer, sports fans get substantial free coverage.

Growing momentum: The 100 million MAU milestone and 25% year-over-year growth in streaming hours demonstrate Samsung's commitment to expanding the service.

Samsung TV Plus Limitations

Platform restriction: Available only on Samsung devices. If you have a Roku, Apple TV, or non-Samsung smart TV, you can't access it (with limited TCL TV exceptions).

Ad-supported: Like all FAST services, expect commercials. The ad load is moderate - less intrusive than Pluto TV but still present.

Channel number changes: Samsung periodically reorganizes channels, which can be frustrating if you've memorized your favorites.

When to Choose Each Service

Choose Samsung TV Plus if: You own a Samsung TV and want instant free entertainment with strong sports coverage and exclusive content. The seamless integration makes it the obvious default for Samsung households.

Choose Pluto TV if: You want the most traditional cable-like experience with extensive live channel options across multiple device types. Pluto's 250+ channels offer variety for channel surfers.

Choose Tubi if: You prefer on-demand viewing with the largest free movie and TV show library (50,000+ titles). Tubi excels for binge-watchers who know what they want to watch.

Best approach: Use all three. They're free, so there's no reason to choose just one. Samsung TV Plus on your TV, Tubi for on-demand movies, and Pluto TV when you want specific franchise content.

If you experience Samsung TV streaming issues or Samsung TV streaming lag with any FAST service, the problem typically lies with your internet connection rather than the service itself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Samsung TV Channel Guide

Is Samsung TV Plus really free?

Yes, Samsung TV Plus is 100% free with no subscription, credit card, or account required. The service is ad-supported, similar to traditional broadcast television. Simply turn on your Samsung Smart TV (2016 or newer) and start watching instantly. Samsung covers costs through advertising revenue, allowing viewers to access 700+ channels without any payment.

How many channels does Samsung TV Plus have?

Samsung TV Plus offers over 700 free channels in the United States as of 2026. Globally, the service provides more than 4,300 channels across 30 countries. Channel availability varies by region, with the US having the largest selection. Additionally, thousands of on-demand movies and shows are available beyond the live channel lineup.

Can I use Samsung TV Plus without internet?

No, Samsung TV Plus requires an internet connection because it streams content over the internet. Minimum recommended speed is 10 Mbps for standard quality and 25 Mbps for 4K content. For channels without internet, connect an antenna to your Samsung TV and run a channel scan to receive local broadcast channels. For the most stable streaming experience, consider using wired internet for Samsung TV through an ethernet connection.

Why did my Guide button become Disney+?

Some newer Samsung remotes (model BN59-01315N) replaced the Guide button with a Disney+ shortcut. To access the guide without a dedicated button, press the center of the channel up/down rocker button, or press and hold the Channel List button for 1-2 seconds. Alternatively, purchase the BN59-01315M remote (approximately $12 on Amazon) which retains the dedicated Guide button.

Does Samsung TV Plus have local channels?

Samsung TV Plus does not include local broadcast channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, or Fox affiliates. For local channels, connect an antenna to your Samsung TV and run a channel scan through Settings → Broadcasting → Auto Program. Samsung TV Plus focuses on cable-style streaming content, while local broadcasts require over-the-air reception.

Can I pause or record on Samsung TV Plus?

No, Samsung TV Plus does not offer DVR functionality or pause/rewind features for live content. All content streams live 24/7 like traditional television. For recording capabilities, you would need a separate DVR device or use antenna channels with USB recording features if your Samsung TV supports it. Learn more about how to record to USB Samsung Smart TV for antenna content recording options. Learn more about how to record to USB Samsung Smart TV for antenna content recording options.

What's the difference between Samsung TV Plus and Universal Guide?

Samsung TV Plus is the free streaming service with 700+ live channels. Universal Guide is the AI-powered content discovery interface that aggregates content from all your streaming apps - including Samsung TV Plus, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and others - into one searchable interface with personalized recommendations. Think of Samsung TV Plus as a source of content, while Universal Guide is a tool for finding content across all sources.

Conclusion: Maximizing Your Samsung TV Viewing Experience

The Samsung TV channel guide ecosystem offers remarkable value for anyone with a Samsung Smart TV. Between Samsung TV Plus's 700+ free channels, Universal Guide's AI-powered content discovery, and traditional antenna channel support, you have access to thousands of entertainment options without spending a dime on additional subscriptions.

Getting the most from your channel guide comes down to three key actions. First, take time to set up your Favorites lists - five customizable lists mean every family member can have their own curated channel selection. Second, explore Universal Guide's personalized recommendations, especially after connecting your Samsung Account for cross-device syncing. Third, bookmark the troubleshooting section of this guide, because guide issues are common but almost always fixable with the right approach.

Samsung's commitment to expanding Samsung TV Plus is evident in the 100 million monthly active user milestone and continuous addition of exclusive content. Features like Vision AI Companion on 2025-2026 models hint at an even more intelligent and interactive future for TV navigation.

For the complete Samsung TV setup experience, combine the channel guide mastery from this guide with optimal picture settings, sound configuration, and smart home integration through SmartThings. Your Samsung TV is capable of far more than most owners realize - and now you have the knowledge to unlock its full potential.

Have questions about your Samsung TV channel guide? Drop a comment below and I'll help troubleshoot your specific situation.