If you’re shopping for a Xiaomi TV, set-top box, or streaming stick, you’ll likely see two types of remotes offered: Bluetooth (wireless radio) remotes and IR (infrared) remotes. Both get the job done, but they work very differently and each has pros and cons depending on how you use your devices. Below I’ll explain the key differences in simple, trustworthy terms so you can pick the right remote for your setup.
Quick summary
- IR remotes use light — they need a direct line of sight and are simple, reliable, and battery-friendly.
- Bluetooth remotes use radio — they don’t need line of sight, can offer richer features (voice, pairing, multi-device control), and usually require pairing.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi IR Remote | Xiaomi Bluetooth Remote |
|---|---|---|
| Signal type | Infrared light (line-of-sight) | Radio (Bluetooth, no line-of-sight) |
| Line of sight | Required — must point at device | Not required — works through cabinets/walls |
| Pairing / setup | No pairing — just press buttons | Needs pairing with the device (one-time) |
| Range (typical) | Short — usually a few metres | Longer — typically up to 10 metres or more |
| Compatibility | Works with any device that has IR receiver | Needs Bluetooth-enabled device and compatible firmware |
| Features | Basic control (power, volume, navigation) | Advanced features: voice, media buttons, Bluetooth HID, firmware updates |
| Latency / responsiveness | Very low — near instantaneous | Usually low, but can vary with device and Bluetooth version |
| Battery life | Often longer (simple electronics) | Can be shorter (more electronics, sometimes rechargeable) |
| Use in multi-device setups | Easy for universal IR learning remotes | Better for paired smart remotes and smart home integration |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Often priced higher due to extra features |
(Notes: ranges, battery life, and latency are typical observations — exact numbers depend on the specific remote model and device firmware.)
How each technology actually works (simple)
- IR (Infrared): The remote blinks pulses of infrared light that the device’s IR receiver decodes into commands. Because it’s light, anything blocking the path (furniture, closed cabinet doors) will stop the signal.
- Bluetooth: The remote and the device exchange radio signals after a pairing step. That allows two-way communication, richer input (like voice or keyboard entry), and the ability to control the device even when it’s stored inside furniture.
Which one is better for you?
Choose an IR remote if:
- You want a cheaper, no-fuss remote that “just works.”
- Your device is in clear view and you don’t need advanced features.
- Long battery life is important.
Choose a Bluetooth remote if:
- Your device sits inside a cabinet or behind other objects.
- You want voice control, faster text entry, or the ability to pair multiple devices.
- You prefer a more modern remote with additional features (like rechargeable batteries, media shortcuts, or motion sensors).
Practical tips when buying
- Check device compatibility first. Some Xiaomi devices only support IR while many modern Xiaomi TVs and streaming boxes support Bluetooth remotes.
- Look at the features you’ll actually use. Voice search and a dedicated Netflix/YouTube button can be worth the extra cost if you stream often.
- Consider the placement. If your TV is inside a closed cabinet, Bluetooth is the better choice.
- Spare batteries vs. rechargeable: IR remotes frequently use replaceable AA/AAA cells; many Bluetooth remotes use internal rechargeable batteries.
- Universal control: If you need to control multiple IR-only devices (older set-top boxes, AV receivers), an IR remote or a universal IR blaster may be necessary.
Final thoughts: Both Xiaomi IR and Bluetooth remotes are reliable in their own ways. IR is classic, simple, and energy-efficient — perfect for straightforward setups. Bluetooth brings convenience, extra features, and flexibility for modern smart homes. If you want the best of both worlds, some Xiaomi devices support Bluetooth remotes while still retaining IR compatibility for legacy devices.
Buy: Xiaomi Remote
