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Best Remote Control for Raspberry Pi: Top Picks for 2026

Are you ready to take your Raspberry Pi projects to the next level? Whether you're building a media center, automation system, or simply looking to control your Pi from a distance, a good remote control is a must-have tool.

The best remote control for Raspberry Pi can save you time and hassle, offering easy navigation and enhanced functionality. If you've ever struggled with cables or struggled to set up complicated configurations, you'll know how vital it is to have an intuitive and reliable remote. In this guide, we’ll show you the best remote controls available for Raspberry Pi in 2026.

We’ll cover everything from basic infrared models to more advanced Bluetooth options, ensuring you find the right fit for your setup. Get ready to improve your Raspberry Pi experience with these top picks, all designed to give you the control you need with minimal effort

The Reiie (Backlit Version) H9+ Mini Keyboard is a sleek, multifunctional device that serves as a fantastic all-in-one tool for controlling various devices, including Raspberry Pi setups. Whether you’re looking to enhance your media center experience, play games, or simply control your smart TV, this device promises convenience and versatility. Let’s dive into its features, benefits, and what makes it a top choice for users seeking a compact yet powerful solution.

Wireless Convenience with 2.4GHz Connectivity

The standout feature of the Reiie H9+ is its 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. This allows for seamless communication with a variety of devices, including PCs, Raspberry Pi, Android TV boxes, and even smart TVs. The USB receiver makes the connection process quick and easy, ensuring that your setup is hassle-free. Say goodbye to the clutter of cables and enjoy a sleek, wireless experience without any compromises.

3-in-1 Functionality: Keyboard, Touchpad, and Backlit Design

One of the most impressive aspects of this mini keyboard is its 3-in-1 functionality. It combines a QWERTY keyboard, a touchpad, and an LED backlit design into a compact package. The full-function QWERTY keyboard provides familiar typing comfort, making it easy to navigate through documents, emails, and even websites on your Raspberry Pi or smart TV. The touchpad offers intuitive control, with single and double finger clicks mimicking left and right mouse functions. Plus, the two-finger drag feature for scrolling provides effortless navigation, enhancing your overall user experience.

Backlit Keys for Nighttime Use

No need to worry about using the keyboard in low-light environments. The Reiie H9+ comes equipped with a white soft backlight that ensures the keys are clearly visible, even in complete darkness. This thoughtful design makes it a perfect choice for late-night movie marathons or when you’re working in a dimly lit room. Just activate the backlight, and you’re good to go, no matter the lighting conditions.

Portable and User-Friendly Design

The compact, portable design of the Reiie H9+ makes it incredibly convenient to use in a variety of settings. Whether you’re lounging on the couch controlling your Raspberry Pi or adjusting settings on your smart TV, the lightweight and handheld nature of this device makes it easy to maneuver. The slim profile fits comfortably in your hands, and the device’s ergonomic design ensures it remains comfortable even after extended use.

Quick Recharge and Long Battery Life

Recharging the device is simple and convenient. Although the battery may arrive nearly empty for safety reasons during shipping, a quick 1-hour charge is all it takes to get this device fully operational. The 2.4GHz connection remains stable, ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted experience. The long-lasting battery ensures that you won’t have to recharge frequently, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying your media or working on your Raspberry Pi projects.

Versatile Use Across Devices

This mini keyboard is more than just a controller for Raspberry Pi. Its universal compatibility allows it to work flawlessly with PCs, smart TVs, Android TV boxes, and even HTPC/IPTV systems. The layout and function are designed with versatility in mind, so whether you’re navigating through media or controlling a home automation system, this keyboard handles it all with ease. The plug-and-play feature means you can connect it to your devices without any complicated software installation, making it ideal for both beginners and tech enthusiasts alike.

Multi-Finger Touchpad for Seamless Control

The touchpad is a game-changer for users who need precision control without relying on a separate mouse. With multi-finger functionality, the touchpad allows for smooth scrolling, left-click, right-click, and even drag-and-drop actions. It’s the perfect companion for navigating through menus, web pages, and apps, all with a simple swipe of your fingers. This feature adds a level of convenience that elevates the overall experience of using your Raspberry Pi or other connected devices.

What’s in the Box?

The Reiie H9+ Mini Keyboard comes with everything you need to get started. The package includes the wireless keyboard itself, a wireless receiver for quick connection, a USB charging cable for easy recharging, and a user manual to guide you through the setup process. This makes it a plug-and-play device that’s ready to enhance your user experience right out of the box.

In conclusion, the Reiie (Backlit Version) H9+ Mini Keyboard is a top-tier choice for those seeking a compact, versatile, and user-friendly remote control for their Raspberry Pi, smart TV, or other connected devices. With its 3-in-1 functionality, wireless convenience, backlit keys, and intuitive touchpad, it offers everything you need to enhance your control experience. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech-savvy enthusiast, the Reiie H9+ is sure to exceed your expectations, making it an indispensable tool for your digital setup.

The SAFFUN 2 Pack 2.4 GHz Wireless USB Controller brings the classic feel of retro gaming right into the modern world. Designed for a range of platforms like Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Raspberry Pi, this controller is a versatile and efficient option for retro gaming enthusiasts looking to relive the golden era of SNES titles. With its straightforward setup and reliable performance, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their gaming setup with minimal fuss.

Seamless Connectivity with 2.4 GHz Wireless Technology

The standout feature of the SAFFUN wireless controller is its advanced 2.4 GHz wireless RF technology, providing an impressive range of up to 10 meters. Whether you're lounging on the couch or sitting at your desk, this controller offers the flexibility to game comfortably without worrying about cables. The wireless connection ensures stable and uninterrupted gameplay, so you can immerse yourself in your favorite retro games without any technical disruptions.

Plug-and-Play Simplicity

Setting up this controller is as easy as it gets. There’s no need to fiddle with complicated settings or install additional drivers—simply plug in the USB receiver, and you’re ready to go. This plug-and-play functionality makes it an ideal choice for gamers who want to dive into their games without wasting time on setup. The controller is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, Raspberry Pi, Mac OS, and Linux-based systems, making it a flexible option for all your gaming needs.

Responsive Controls for Precision Gaming

For those who appreciate the nostalgic feel of retro gaming, the SAFFUN controller delivers with its super-sensitive buttons that offer precise control. Whether you're making sharp turns in a racing game or executing complex moves in a platformer, you’ll find that every button press is accurate and responsive. The buttons are perfectly tuned to offer a satisfying tactile feedback, enhancing your overall gaming experience and making it easier to conquer challenging levels.

Long-Lasting Battery Life

This wireless controller is designed for longevity. With an impressive battery life of up to three years, you can expect to spend more time gaming and less time worrying about charging. The 240mAh battery provides up to 3 hours of continuous play after a quick 1-hour charging session, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite retro games without constant interruptions for recharging. The built-in battery level indicator keeps you informed about the charge, so you’ll never be caught off guard mid-game.

Universal Compatibility Across Devices and Operating Systems

The SAFFUN controller works with a wide range of devices and operating systems, ensuring that you can enjoy retro gaming on almost any platform. It supports Windows (98 through 10), Linux (including Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Android Linux via USB OTG cable), Mac OS X, and various retrogaming operating systems like RetroPie, Recalbox, Happi Game Center, Lakka, and Piplay. This wide compatibility makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their gaming setup, whether you’re using a PC, Raspberry Pi, or even an Android smartphone with an OTG cable.

Perfect for Emulators and Retro Games

If you're a fan of retro gaming, the SAFFUN controller is a must-have accessory. It works seamlessly with popular game emulators like NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and even handheld GBA emulators. Whether you're revisiting classics like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, or Sonic the Hedgehog, this controller brings the nostalgic experience right to your fingertips. It’s also compatible with RetroArch, one of the most popular emulator platforms for Android, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite titles on multiple devices without hassle.

Notable Limitations

Despite its wide compatibility, the SAFFUN controller does have a few limitations to consider. While it works perfectly with most gaming setups, it’s not compatible with Android TV boxes, so users looking to game on that platform will need to look elsewhere. Additionally, this is a third-party controller, not an original SNES or NES controller, so it may not capture the exact feel of the classic controllers for purists. However, for most users, the responsive buttons and wireless convenience will more than make up for these minor drawbacks.

Why Choose the SAFFUN Wireless Controller?

The SAFFUN 2 Pack 2.4 GHz Wireless USB Controller stands out in the crowded market of retro gaming controllers due to its excellent performance, ease of use, and long battery life. Whether you're using it for your Raspberry Pi, PC, or Mac, it delivers a smooth, responsive experience that enhances any retro gaming setup. Its wireless functionality and simple plug-and-play setup make it accessible to users of all technical levels, while its compatibility with a wide range of operating systems ensures that it can be integrated into virtually any gaming system.

For those looking for an affordable, easy-to-use, and versatile wireless controller for their retro gaming adventures, the SAFFUN 2 Pack 2.4 GHz Wireless USB Controller is a solid choice that won't disappoint.

The Bluetooth + 2.4GHz RF Wireless Mini Keyboard Remote Control offers a versatile, compact solution for controlling a variety of devices like Android TV boxes, Smart TVs, Raspberry Pi setups, PCs, and more. This hybrid remote combines a QWERTY keyboard with a touchpad and mouse functionalities, making it a great tool for navigating your media, gaming, or working on your computer or home theater PC. Whether you're streaming movies or playing games, this mini keyboard offers everything you need in one portable package.

Dual-Mode Wireless Connectivity

This mini keyboard is equipped with dual-mode wireless transmission, supporting both Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz RF connections. The Bluetooth 5.0 support makes it faster and more stable, offering seamless connectivity with Bluetooth-enabled devices. Switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz RF modes is easy—just press FN+F3 to switch to Bluetooth mode, or use the default 2.4GHz RF connection by plugging the USB dongle into your device. This flexibility makes it ideal for a range of devices, from smart TVs and gaming consoles to PCs and Raspberry Pi systems.

Convenient and Compact Design

The keyboard is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for travel and use on the go. Its portable design ensures that you can easily pack it in your bag or even carry it in your pocket. Despite its small size, it combines all the features you need, including a QWERTY keyboard and a touchpad with mouse functionality. Whether you're browsing, searching, or streaming, this mini keyboard offers a comfortable, efficient way to control your device without the need for a separate mouse or screen interaction.

Backlit Keyboard for Low-Light Environments

One of the standout features of this remote control is the 7-color adjustable backlit keyboard. This feature ensures you can operate the keyboard in dark environments without straining your eyes, making it a perfect companion for watching movies late at night or using your device in low-light settings. The ability to adjust the backlight adds a personal touch and increases visibility, providing a user-friendly experience no matter the lighting.

Touchpad and Mouse for Enhanced Navigation

Not only does this device function as a keyboard, but it also includes a touchpad and mouse buttons. The touchpad is large enough to navigate the cursor easily with your thumb, and the built-in mouse buttons allow you to perform left and right clicks. This makes it perfect for browsing the web, searching through apps, or controlling your media player. The multi-finger touch support also allows for more advanced gestures, like scrolling and zooming, giving you more control over your device.

Rechargeable Battery with Long Life

The built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery is a huge plus for convenience. With an auto-sleep function, the battery lasts a long time between charges, making it ideal for extended use. It can work for several hours on a full charge, and recharging is simple with a USB cable. This long battery life means you can enjoy uninterrupted use without having to worry about constantly charging the device.

Wide Compatibility with Multiple Devices

This mini keyboard is highly compatible with a variety of devices. It's designed to work with Android TV boxes, Smart TVs, Raspberry Pi, PCs, and even gaming consoles like Xbox 360 and PS3. It's also compatible with Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, Lite, and Cube in Bluetooth mode, although an OTG adapter is required in 2.4GHz mode. Before purchasing, it's important to check the compatibility list in the product description to ensure that the keyboard will work with your specific device.

Pros:

  • Dual-mode wireless connectivity: Supports both Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz RF for versatile use with a wide range of devices.
     
  • Compact and portable design: The mini size is perfect for travel and easy to carry around.
     
  • Backlit keyboard: The 7-color adjustable backlight makes it usable in low-light environments.
     
  • Touchpad and mouse functionality: Combines the ease of a touchpad with the precision of a mouse, allowing for easy navigation and control.
     
  • Rechargeable battery: Long-lasting battery life with a quick recharge time.

Cons:

  • Limited compatibility with some devices: Not all devices support touchpad and mouse functions, so it's important to check compatibility before purchasing.
     
  • OTG adapter required for 2.4GHz mode with some devices: Some devices, like the Fire TV Stick, require an additional OTG adapter for 2.4GHz RF mode.
     
  • Not all apps support full functionality: Certain apps may not be compatible with all the features of this keyboard, so users should refer to the product description for more details

In conclusion, this mini keyboard offers a unique combination of features and versatility that makes it a solid choice for those looking for a remote control solution for various devices, from smart TVs to Raspberry Pi. Its dual wireless modes, compact design, and backlit keyboard make it both functional and user-friendly, ensuring a smooth experience whether you’re browsing, gaming, or controlling your home theater system.

The Upvivi Backlit Mini Keyboard is a wireless wonder for those who seek a compact, versatile solution for controlling a variety of devices. Whether you're using it with your Raspberry Pi, Smart TV, PC, or Android TV box, this mini keyboard provides seamless control with its built-in touchpad and mouse features. The combination of keyboard, mouse, and touchpad makes it ideal for browsing, gaming, or managing media. If you're looking for a compact tool to handle it all, this is one to consider.

Simple and Hassle-Free Connectivity

Getting started with the Upvivi Mini Keyboard is a breeze. With a plug-and-play USB receiver, all you need to do is connect the receiver to your device, turn it on, and you're good to go. No complex setup, no installing software—just quick, straightforward usability. The wireless range extends up to 10 meters, giving you freedom to control your devices from a distance without worrying about the limitations of cable lengths. This simple connectivity setup makes it especially user-friendly, ideal for anyone who wants a no-fuss device.

Wireless Backlit Functionality

This mini keyboard stands out with its multi-color backlit design. The backlight allows you to operate the keyboard in low-light conditions, which is perfect for late-night sessions or using the keyboard in dimly lit rooms. You can choose from various colors to match your environment or personal preferences. Plus, the backlight doesn't just add flair—it ensures that the keys are clearly visible, enhancing usability and comfort when using the device in dark spaces. It’s an incredibly thoughtful touch for those who need to use their keyboard at all hours of the day or night.

Rechargeable Battery for Long Usage

The Upvivi Mini Keyboard comes equipped with a rechargeable Li-ion battery, offering long-lasting performance. With the added auto-sleep and wake-up functions, this keyboard conserves battery life when not in use, making it ideal for extended sessions without needing frequent recharges. The battery life is solid, providing you with enough juice to get through long gaming or movie-watching marathons without interruptions. When the battery finally does need a charge, it’s quick and easy, ensuring you’re not left waiting around.

Versatile Compatibility

One of the best aspects of this mini keyboard is its wide compatibility. It works seamlessly with Android TV boxes, Smart TVs, PCs, Raspberry Pi, PS3, Xbox, and even HTPC/IPTV setups. If your device doesn’t have a USB port, don’t worry—simply use an OTG cable to connect it, ensuring that you're still able to take full advantage of this keyboard's features. The broad compatibility ensures that you're not limited to just one type of device, offering flexibility for a range of home setups. Whether you're controlling your media center or gaming on a console, this keyboard does it all.

Touchpad and Hotkey Features

The Upvivi Mini Keyboard comes with a built-in touchpad, adding another layer of convenience. The touchpad allows for precise mouse control, giving you the ability to navigate easily without needing a separate mouse. Additionally, the keyboard includes 8 hotkeys, which streamline tasks like copying and pasting, volume control, or media management. The combination of the touchpad and hotkeys enhances the overall user experience, providing fast and accurate operation with fewer steps, making browsing and gaming smoother.

Compact and Portable Design

Another highlight is the keyboard's compact and portable design. It fits comfortably in your hand and takes up very little space in your bag, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. This is perfect for anyone who travels often, uses multiple devices in different locations, or just wants to minimize clutter. The small size doesn’t mean sacrificing functionality—this keyboard packs a lot of features into a sleek, handheld device that you can take anywhere with ease.

Pros:

  • Simple Plug-and-Play Connectivity: The USB receiver ensures quick setup without any complicated installation.
     
  • Backlit Functionality: Multi-color backlighting allows for use in low-light conditions, adding style and enhancing visibility.
     
  • Long Battery Life: Rechargeable Li-ion battery with an auto-sleep function helps conserve power and ensures long usage times.
     
  • Touchpad + Hotkeys: Built-in touchpad and hotkeys for easy navigation and faster control, making it great for web browsing and gaming.
     
  • Wide Compatibility: Works with Android TV boxes, Smart TVs, Raspberry Pi, PCs, and more, offering versatile use across devices.
     
  • Portable and Compact: Lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for people on the go.

Cons:

  • Not All Apps Support Touchpad Functionality: Some apps may not fully support the touchpad and mouse functionality, depending on the device.
     
  • Limited Range with USB OTG Setup: While it works seamlessly with a USB dongle, using an OTG cable can limit the wireless range, making it less effective for long-distance use.
     
  • May Not Be Ideal for Heavy Typing: While it works perfectly for browsing and gaming, extended typing sessions might feel cramped due to the mini keyboard size.

This mini keyboard strikes a solid balance between usability, portability, and functionality. Whether you’re navigating your media center, playing retro games on a Raspberry Pi, or controlling a smart TV, the Upvivi Backlit Mini Keyboard delivers a smooth and efficient experience, with enough versatility to make it a key player in your home setup.

The MX3 Pro Mini Keyboard Backlight Fly Remote Mouse is a multifunctional device that combines a 2.4G wireless keyboard with a 6-axis somatosensory function and infrared remote control. Designed for a range of devices like Android TV boxes, HTPCs, projectors, Raspberry Pi, and networked set-top boxes, this remote is the ultimate tool for controlling your tech setup with ease. Whether you're streaming movies, browsing the web, or gaming, the MX3 Pro provides everything you need for a seamless experience.

Easy Plug-and-Play Setup

One of the key benefits of the MX3 Pro remote is its simple plug-and-play setup. Getting it ready for use is quick and straightforward—just insert the USB dongle into the device’s USB port, and the remote will automatically pair without needing additional drivers or complex configurations. The red LED indicator will flash quickly during pairing, and once it stops, you know the connection is established. For added convenience, the device includes a 3-Gyro + 3-Gsensor feature, which allows for smooth control both horizontally and vertically, making it ideal for everything from gaming to typing.

Wireless Convenience with Backlit Buttons

The remote features wireless functionality, making it easy to control your device without the constraints of wires. Its LED backlit buttons are especially handy for using the remote in low-light or dark environments, allowing you to navigate and control your device without fumbling around in the dark. This feature is a lifesaver for late-night movie sessions or gaming in dimly lit rooms. With its intuitive design, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to operate the remote even when you don’t have perfect visibility.

Advanced Somatosensory Control

With the 6-axis somatosensory feature, the MX3 Pro goes beyond the usual remote control functions, offering a more interactive experience. This allows you to move the remote like a mouse, enabling more precise cursor control. It’s an excellent feature for those who want to browse the web, control media, or play games with ease. Whether you’re aiming at icons or navigating through menus, the motion-sensing technology provides a high level of responsiveness. However, it’s important to note that not all devices may fully support these advanced features, so checking compatibility beforehand is key.

Supports Multiple Devices

The MX3 Pro is compatible with a wide range of devices, making it a versatile addition to any home tech setup. From Android TV boxes and Smart TVs to Raspberry Pi, HTPCs, Xbox, and Mini PCs, this remote works across multiple platforms. This broad compatibility is a significant advantage, as it allows you to control several devices with one remote, minimizing the number of controllers you need to manage. If your device doesn’t have a USB port, you’ll need an OTG adapter for Android-based devices, so be sure to have one handy if required.

Customizable Remote Functions

Another impressive feature is the ability to program up to five keys from your TV remote. This makes the MX3 Pro even more versatile, as you can use it to control both your TV and Android TV Box with a single remote. This function helps simplify your entertainment system setup and provides a more streamlined user experience. However, it’s worth mentioning that because of varying manufacturer codes, some keys might not work perfectly with all devices, but this is a minor inconvenience considering the remote’s broad compatibility.

Rechargeable and Easy to Maintain

The MX3 Pro is powered by two AAA batteries (not included), which are easy to replace when needed. The remote also features an auto-sleep function to conserve battery life when not in use, ensuring it lasts longer between charges. While it’s not rechargeable out of the box, the low power consumption of the device ensures that you won’t be constantly swapping batteries, giving you extended usage time without the hassle of frequent replacements.

Pros:

  • Plug-and-play setup: Simple and quick, with no need for complex configurations.
     
  • Wireless functionality: Provides the freedom to control your devices without being tethered to them.
     
  • Backlit buttons: Perfect for use in dark environments, allowing for easy control without the need for extra lighting.
     
  • 6-axis somatosensory control: Offers enhanced control for gaming and web navigation, adding a layer of interactivity.
     
  • Wide compatibility: Works with a variety of devices, including Android TV boxes, Raspberry Pi, Smart TVs, and more.
     
  • Customizable remote features: Up to five programmable keys, making it easier to control both your TV and Android TV Box with a single device.

Cons:

  • Not compatible with all devices: Some Samsung and Sony smart TVs may not fully support the remote, and not all apps on Android devices may work with the advanced motion-sensing features.
     
  • Requires AAA batteries: While the remote is not rechargeable, it uses standard AAA batteries, which may need frequent replacement.
     
  • Limited infrared support: Some infrared functions may not work with all devices, particularly those outside the supported list, requiring users to check compatibility in advance.

In conclusion, the MX3 Pro Mini Keyboard Backlight Fly Remote Mouse is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a multifunctional remote that combines ease of use, versatile control options, and wide device compatibility. Its wireless design, backlit buttons, and advanced motion-sensing capabilities make it a standout in the world of home entertainment. Whether you're controlling your TV, gaming console, or Raspberry Pi, this remote is ready to enhance your experience with minimal effort and maximum convenience.

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Erica Rice
WRITTEN BY
Erica Rice
I'm an expert on smart garden and home technology, and I've been writing more than 5,000 articles for ten-plus years. I unbox, set up, test, and review a wide range of consumer tech products from my home in Texas. I have a degree in journalism. I spent eight years reporting on consumer tech news.