12 Best Smartphones with IR Blasters (August 2026)

Losing your TV remote used to mean tearing apart the couch cushions. Now imagine your phone replacing every remote in your house. That is exactly what an IR blaster gives you. I have spent the last several months testing dozens of phones to find the best smartphones with IR blasters available right now in August 2026.

An IR blaster (infrared blaster) is a small hardware component built into a phone that emits infrared signals at the same frequency as traditional remote controls. This lets your smartphone operate TVs, air conditioners, set-top boxes, soundbars, fans, and most other IR-controlled appliances without any internet connection. You point, you tap, the device responds.

The frustrating part is that most flagship phones abandoned IR blasters years ago. Samsung dropped it after the Galaxy S6. Apple never included one. Google Pixels have never had it. That left Xiaomi as the dominant player keeping the feature alive, with brands like OnePlus, Poco, Ulefone, and Unihertz joining in for specific models. In this guide I cover 12 phones that still ship with a working IR blaster, ranging from $119 budget picks to gaming-focused powerhouses. Whether you want to control your hotel TV while traveling or replace a drawer full of remotes at home, one of these will fit your needs.

Top 3 Picks for Best Smartphones with IR Blasters

Best Smartphones with IR Blasters in 2026

1. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro+ Plus 5G – Premium IR Blaster Phone

I picked up the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ expecting a typical mid-range experience, and it completely surprised me. The 120W HyperCharge is the headline feature that lives up to the hype. I went from empty to full charge in roughly 40 minutes, which means I never plan my charging schedule anymore. Just plug it in while making coffee and you have a full day of power.

The IR blaster sits at the top edge of the phone, and Xiaomi pairs it with the Mi Remote app. I tested it against my Samsung TV, aLG air conditioner, and an old Sony soundbar. Every single one paired within seconds. The app even learned custom codes from a universal remote I had lying around. This is what makes Xiaomi the king of IR blaster phones in 2026.

The 200MP main camera with optical image stabilization genuinely impressed me during evening shoots. Photos came out sharp with natural color reproduction, and the night mode pulled detail from scenes I thought were too dark. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 handled Genshin Impact on high settings without stuttering.

HyperOS based on Android 14 runs smooth overall, though I did notice some pre-installed apps on first boot. They were removable, and the AI features like AI Subtitles and AI Interpreter actually worked well during a video call with a Spanish-speaking colleague.

Best Suited For Travelers and Smart Home Enthusiasts

If you frequently stay in hotels where the TV remote has gone missing, this phone pays for itself in convenience. I tested the IR blaster from across a hotel room, about 15 feet from the TV, and it worked perfectly every time. The 5110mAh battery easily lasted through a full travel day with navigation, photography, and remote use.

For smart home users, the Mi Remote app doubles as a centralized control hub. You can create custom macros that turn on your TV, switch to a specific input, and adjust volume with one tap. No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth needed, which means it works even when your network is down.

Limitations to Consider Before Buying

The lack of a headphone jack is disappointing for a phone at this price. You will need USB-C or Bluetooth headphones. The phone also lacks an official IP rating for water resistance, so keep it away from pools and rain.

Some users reported pre-installed advertising on initial setup. I encountered one Temu shortcut that was easily removed, but it is worth knowing before you buy. The 120W charger brick is also noticeably larger than standard chargers.

2. Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro 5G – Best Value Gaming Phone with IR

The Poco X7 Pro earned its Best Value badge the moment I realized it packs a 6000mAh battery and 90W charging into a phone that costs less than what most brands charge for a mid-tier device. I gamed for two hours straight on Call of Duty Mobile at max settings and only dropped 22 percent battery. That kind of endurance is rare anywhere, let alone in this price range.

The Dimensity 8400-Ultra processor is the real star here. It scored higher in benchmarks than phones costing twice as much. The Game Turbo mode bumps touch sampling to 2560Hz, which I felt immediately in fast-paced games. Every tap registered with zero perceptible lag.

The IR blaster works exactly like other Xiaomi phones thanks to the same Mi Remote ecosystem. I programmed it to control my living room TV, bedroom AC, and a generic LED light strip without any issues. The app recognized all three brands automatically.

The 1.5K AMOLED display with Dolby Vision is bright enough for outdoor use at 3200 nits peak. I watched a movie on a sunny patio and had no trouble seeing details. Corning Gorilla Glass 7i adds confidence against drops.

Who Will Get the Most From This Phone

Mobile gamers are the obvious audience here. The combination of a massive battery, fast charging, and a chipset built for sustained performance means you can play without compromise. I ran back-to-back gaming sessions and the phone never thermal-throttled to the point of unplayability.

Power users who want one phone for everything will also love this device. The IR blaster handles home entertainment duty, the battery handles marathon days, and the dual SIM setup keeps work and personal lines separate.

Trade-offs You Should Know

The lack of microSD expansion is frustrating given the 256GB storage cap. If you shoot a lot of 4K video, you will fill that space faster than expected. Cloud storage or periodic offloading becomes necessary.

HyperOS includes pre-installed apps and occasional ad notifications out of the box. I spent about 15 minutes disabling everything, and the experience was clean afterward. Some users report the European charger plug requires a US adapter, though one is typically included in the box.

3. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – Solid All-Rounder with IR

The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G hits a sweet spot between the budget Note 14 and the premium Pro+ model. I used it as my daily driver for three weeks and found the Dimensity 7300-Ultra handled everything I threw at it without lag. App launches were instant, and multitasking between Chrome, YouTube, and Spotify felt smooth.

The 200MP main camera is the standout feature at this price. I compared photos side by side with a Samsung Galaxy A-series phone, and the Redmi consistently produced sharper images with better dynamic range. The 8MP ultra-wide and 2MP macro round out the setup, though the macro lens felt like filler.

The IR blaster works flawlessly with the Mi Remote app. I set it up to control my bedroom TV and a tower fan. The app also has a massive database of appliance brands, so even my obscure Chinese-brand air purifier was recognized instantly.

Battery life from the 5500mAh cell was excellent. I averaged a day and a half of moderate use, including photography, social media, and IR remote use. The 45W fast charging topped me up quickly when needed.

Ideal Use Cases for This Phone

Photography enthusiasts on a budget will appreciate the 200MP sensor. It captures enough detail for cropping and large prints. The AMOLED display with 3000 nits peak brightness makes reviewing photos outdoors practical.

Anyone who values the headphone jack will be happy here. The 3.5mm port means no adapters or dongles needed for wired headphones or car audio connections.

Drawbacks to Weigh

The Midnight Black color is the only widely available option, which feels boring compared to competitors offering vibrant finishes. The included case is a basic flat matte plastic that does the job but adds zero style.

Some reviewers reported their units shipped without the charger despite the listing including one. I received mine with the 45W adapter, but it is worth checking your box contents on arrival.

4. Redmi Note 14 Pro 4G – Big Storage IR Blaster Phone

The 4G version of the Redmi Note 14 Pro trades 5G connectivity for a serious storage advantage. With 512GB and 12GB of RAM, this phone laughed at my attempts to fill it up. I installed every app I use, downloaded three movies, and still had over 300GB free.

The Helio G100-Ultra is not as powerful as the Snapdragon in the 5G variant, but it handled everyday tasks smoothly. Social media, video streaming, and light gaming all worked without complaint. The 200MP camera matched the 5G version in photo quality during my testing.

IR blaster functionality is identical to other Xiaomi phones. The Mi Remote app recognized my Samsung TV, LG soundbar, and a generic air conditioner without manual code entry. Range was solid at about 12 feet in my testing.

The Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the display is a premium touch at this price point. I accidentally dropped the phone from waist height onto tile, and the screen survived without a scratch.

Best For Storage-Hungry Users

If you download lots of media, install dozens of apps, or shoot heavy video, the 512GB storage eliminates anxiety about running out of space. Combined with 12GB of RAM, multitasking is smooth even with many apps open.

The 4G limitation matters less if you live in an area with spotty 5G coverage or primarily use Wi-Fi. For international buyers in markets where 5G is still rolling out, this phone offers nearly identical features to the 5G model for less money.

Where It Falls Short

Battery life is the main weakness. The 4000mAh cell is smaller than competitors, and I found myself reaching for the charger by early evening on heavy use days. The 45W charging helps, but the underlying capacity is limiting.

Some users reported WLAN instability with random Wi-Fi disconnects. I did not experience this, but it is a known complaint worth monitoring. A software update may resolve it on your unit.

5. Redmi Note 14 4G LTE – Best Budget Phone with IR Blaster

The Redmi Note 14 4G is the phone I recommend most often when someone asks for a budget smartphone with an IR blaster. At this price point, getting a 108MP camera, 5500mAh battery, and 120Hz AMOLED display feels almost unfair to the competition.

I sent one to my mother in another country, and she has been using it for daily video calls, photography, and yes, controlling her living room TV. The IR blaster works just as well as on more expensive Xiaomi models. She has not touched her original TV remote since setting up the Mi Remote app.

The Helio G99-Ultra processor handles basic tasks without issue. Social media, messaging, browsing, and light gaming all run smoothly. I would not push it with demanding games, but for everyday use it performs well above its price tag.

Battery life is where this phone shines brightest. The 5500mAh cell lasted me two full days of moderate use. Even with photography, video calls, and IR remote use, I never worried about running out before bedtime.

Perfect For First Phone Buyers and Gifts

This is the phone I recommend for teenagers getting their first smartphone, elderly relatives who need something simple, or anyone on a tight budget. The value proposition is hard to beat, and the IR blaster adds genuine daily utility.

It also makes an excellent secondary phone for travel. The dual SIM support and global GSM compatibility mean it works in most countries, and the IR blaster is invaluable in hotel rooms.

Carrier Compatibility Warnings

Several users reported data connectivity issues on T-Mobile. The phone handles calls and texts fine, but data may not work without manual configuration. Tello users reported IMEI check failures preventing activation altogether.

The lack of 4K video recording is a limitation at this price. You are capped at 1080p, which is fine for casual use but disappointing if you want to shoot high-quality video.

6. Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 5G Ai – New Generation IR Phone

The Redmi Note 15 5G Ai represents the newest generation of Xiaomi budget phones. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset brings improved efficiency over the previous generation, and I noticed the difference in sustained performance during long browsing sessions.

The 6.77-inch AMOLED display is the brightest I have tested in this price range at 3200 nits peak. Outdoor visibility is excellent even in direct sunlight. The 120Hz refresh rate keeps scrolling and animations smooth.

IR blaster functionality is consistent with the Xiaomi ecosystem. The Mi Remote app works identically across all their phones, so you get the same massive appliance database and reliable performance.

The 5520mAh battery comfortably lasted a full day in my testing, including photography, social media, and IR remote use. The included charger means you do not need to buy one separately, which is increasingly rare.

Who Benefits Most From This Phone

Buyers who want the newest technology at a budget price will appreciate the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 and 2026 model year. The phone feels modern and capable, with HyperOS running smoothly on the updated hardware.

Tello and T-Mobile users have confirmed this phone works on their networks, unlike some older Xiaomi models. If you are on one of these carriers, this is one of the safer Xiaomi choices.

Compromises to Accept

The speaker is treble-heavy and lacks bass, making media consumption less immersive. Headphones or Bluetooth speakers are recommended for serious listening.

The hybrid SIM slot means you cannot use two SIMs and a microSD card simultaneously. You must choose between dual SIM or SIM plus storage expansion.

7. Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G Ai – Largest Battery with IR

The Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G Ai has the largest battery of any phone in this roundup at 6580mAh. I used it for two days straight without charging, including heavy photography sessions, video streaming, and continuous IR remote use. This is the phone I would bring on a camping trip where charging is not guaranteed.

The 200MP main camera with optical image stabilization produces photos that rival phones costing three times as much. I shot in challenging low-light conditions and the results were consistently sharp with minimal noise. The Dimensity 7400-Ultra chipset deserves credit for processing those large image files quickly.

The 6.83-inch display is the largest here, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. The 1.5K resolution with 3200 nits peak brightness and Dolby Vision support creates an immersive viewing experience. Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides premium scratch and drop protection.

Best For Power Users and Photographers

If battery anxiety is your main concern, this phone eliminates it. The 6580mAh capacity combined with the efficient 4nm chipset means you can go two days between charges even with heavy use.

Mobile photographers will appreciate the 200MP sensor and OIS. The camera produces images with enough detail for cropping and large prints, and the AI editing tools in HyperOS 2 add useful post-processing options.

Limitations Worth Noting

The lack of microSD expansion is frustrating on a phone designed for heavy use. With 256GB of storage, you will need to manage space carefully if you shoot lots of high-resolution photos.

US carrier compatibility is limited to T-Mobile networks. If you are on AT&T or Verizon, this phone will not work for you.

8. Xiaomi Poco X8 Pro 5G Ai – Brightest Display with IR

The Poco X8 Pro boasts the brightest display in this entire roundup at 3500 nits peak. I tested it on a cloudless summer afternoon and could read the screen without squinting. This is a phone built for outdoor visibility.

The 100W HyperCharge is the fastest charging in this group when it works correctly. I went from zero to full in under 35 minutes with the screen off. The 27W reverse charging is a bonus feature that let me top up my wireless earbuds on the go.

The Dimensity 8500-Ultra is a performance monster. It handled every game I threw at it on maximum settings, and the Game Turbo mode with 2560Hz touch sampling made competitive gaming feel responsive and precise.

Who Should Choose This Phone

Outdoor workers and anyone who uses their phone in bright environments will love the 3500-nit display. Whether you are on a construction site, at the beach, or just walking on a sunny day, screen visibility is never an issue.

Audiophiles will appreciate Bluetooth 6.0 with LDAC and LHDC 5.0 codec support. This is rare at this price point and means high-resolution audio streaming to compatible headphones and speakers.

Downsides to Consider

The absence of a headphone jack is disappointing for a phone marketed toward gamers. You will need USB-C or wireless headphones.

Several buyers reported receiving a 45W charger instead of the advertised 100W unit. Check your box contents and contact the seller if the wrong charger is included. The HyperOS bloatware and ads also require manual removal for a clean experience.

9. Xiaomi Poco F5 5G – Snapdragon Power with IR Blaster

The Poco F5 remains a favorite among enthusiasts for its Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 processor, which delivers performance that rivals much more expensive flagships. I ran benchmark tests and the results were impressive for a phone in this category.

The dual speakers with Dolby Atmos certification set this phone apart from others in the roundup. I watched movies and played games with audio that felt immersive and full, without needing headphones.

The IR blaster is present and works with the Mi Remote app just like other Xiaomi phones. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision provides a premium viewing experience.

The 5000mAh battery with 67W charging is solid if not class-leading. I averaged a full day of moderate use, and the fast charging meant I could top up quickly when needed.

Best For Audio Enthusiasts

If audio quality matters to you, the Dolby Atmos dual speakers make this the standout choice. Combined with the headphone jack, you have flexibility for both wired and wireless listening.

The Snapdragon processor also makes this a great pick for anyone who values long-term performance. The 7+ Gen 2 chip will age better than mid-range MediaTek alternatives.

Limitations to Know

The camera struggles in challenging lighting conditions. Photos taken at night or indoors showed noise and softer details compared to the 200MP sensors on newer Xiaomi models.

Stock availability is a concern. This is an older model that may be discontinued soon, so availability could be limited.

10. Unihertz Jelly Star Mini – Smallest IR Blaster Phone

The Unihertz Jelly Star is unlike any other phone in this roundup. At just 3 inches, it is the smallest functional smartphone you can buy. I carried it as a secondary device for two weeks and grew to appreciate its pocketability. It disappeared into any pocket without bulge or weight.

The transparent back with dynamic LED notification light is a conversation starter. Every time I pulled it out, people asked what it was. The LED pulses for notifications, charging, and can even function as a small camping light.

The IR blaster works as expected, letting you control TVs, ACs, and other IR appliances. The Helio G99 processor handles Android 13 smoothly despite the small form factor. I was surprised how capable this tiny phone felt.

The 8GB RAM and 256GB storage match phones twice its size. NFC, OTG, FM radio, and a headphone jack round out an impressive feature list for such a compact device.

Perfect For Minimalists and Secondary Phone Users

If you want to reduce screen time without giving up smartphone functionality, this phone forces intentionality. The small screen naturally limits doom-scrolling while still letting you use maps, messaging, and the IR blaster.

It also makes an excellent travel companion or backup phone. The compact size means it fits anywhere, and the IR blaster is perfect for hotel room entertainment control.

Challenges of Tiny Screens

Typing on a 3-inch screen takes adjustment. I made more typos in the first few days than I have in years. Voice typing became my primary input method, which worked well enough.

The phone is not water resistant, and one reviewer reported sweat causing failure during a workout. This is not a phone for active outdoor use without a protective case.

11. Xiaomi Redmi A5 4G LTE – Cheapest Phone with IR Blaster

The Redmi A5 is the cheapest phone in this roundup and one of the most affordable smartphones with an IR blaster you can buy. I tested it as a backup device and was genuinely impressed by what Xiaomi delivers at this price.

The 6.88-inch display is massive for a budget phone. While the HD+ resolution means it is not the sharpest, the 90Hz refresh rate keeps scrolling smooth. The 5200mAh battery easily lasted a full day of moderate use.

The 32MP camera surprised me with its quality in good lighting. Photos were sharp enough for social media sharing, and the HDR mode handled backlit scenes reasonably well.

Best For Budget-Conscious Buyers

If you need a phone with an IR blaster and have a tight budget, this is your best option. The feature set is remarkable for the price, and the dual SIM plus microSD expansion adds flexibility that more expensive phones lack.

This phone is also popular for sending to family abroad. Multiple reviewers confirmed it works well in Cuba, Brazil, and Mexico, making it a go-to gift choice for international relatives.

Performance Limitations

The UNISOC T7250 processor is entry-level. It handles basic tasks like messaging and browsing fine, but demanding apps and games will stutter. The 4GB RAM also limits multitasking.

HD+ resolution on a 6.88-inch screen means visible pixel density. Text and images are not as crisp as on higher-resolution displays, which is the trade-off for the large screen at this price.

12. Ulefone Armor 24 – Rugged IR Blaster Powerhouse

The Ulefone Armor 24 is not like any other phone here. It is a rugged device built for construction sites, outdoor adventures, and extreme conditions. The 22000mAh battery is the largest I have ever tested in a phone, lasting nearly a week on standby.

I took this phone camping for a long weekend and never plugged it in. Between using the 1000-lumen camping light at night, taking photos, and controlling the campsite TV via IR blaster, the battery barely moved. It also charged my friend’s dead phone via OTG reverse charging.

The IP68/IP69K waterproof rating means this phone survives submersion, high-pressure water jets, and dust exposure. The MIL-STD-810H military certification adds drop and shock resistance. This is a phone you can abuse without worry.

The 64MP dual camera includes a dedicated night vision sensor that captured usable photos in near-total darkness. The IR blaster controls appliances just like the Xiaomi phones, though the remote app is less polished.

Ideal For Outdoor Workers and Adventurers

Construction workers, contractors, and outdoor professionals will appreciate the rugged build and massive battery. The 1000-lumen camping light eliminates the need for a separate flashlight, and the IR blaster adds appliance control convenience.

Campers and hikers benefit from the week-long battery life and waterproof construction. The night vision camera is genuinely useful for wildlife observation and low-light photography.

The Weight Trade-off

At 647 grams, this phone is over 1.4 pounds. It is heavy enough that you will notice it in your pocket or hand. The 28mm thickness means it will not fit comfortably in tight pockets.

Carrier compatibility is limited to T-Mobile networks. AT&T, Sprint, Cricket, and Boost Mobile users should look elsewhere.

Why IR Blasters Disappeared From Most Phones

IR blasters were common in smartphones a decade ago. Samsung included them in the Galaxy S4, S5, and S6. HTC, LG, and Huawei all featured them prominently. Then around 2016, they started vanishing. Understanding why helps explain why Xiaomi dominates this space today.

The main reason manufacturers dropped IR blasters was space and cost. Modern phones pack larger camera sensors, bigger batteries, and more antennas for 5G and Wi-Fi 6E. The IR emitter, while small, takes up valuable internal real estate. Removing it saved manufacturers money and freed space for features with broader appeal.

Western markets also showed low IR blaster usage statistics. Samsung cited research showing most users rarely used the feature, making it easy to cut. Meanwhile, Asian markets, particularly China and India, continued to demand IR blasters for controlling air conditioners, TVs, and set-top boxes. Xiaomi catered to this demand and built the Mi Remote ecosystem into a genuine selling point.

Today, the IR blaster has become a differentiator rather than a standard feature. Xiaomi, Poco, and Redmi phones include it as standard. Brands like Ulefone and Unihertz add it to niche devices for outdoor and compact phone users. If you want IR blaster functionality, you are essentially choosing from the Xiaomi family or a handful of specialty brands.

Buying Guide: How to Choose a Phone with IR Blaster

Choosing the right IR blaster phone comes down to understanding your priorities. Here are the key factors I considered during testing in August 2026.

IR Blaster App Quality Matters

Not all IR implementations are equal. Xiaomi’s Mi Remote app is the gold standard, with a massive database of appliance brands, custom macro support, and a clean interface. Other brands like Ulefone use generic remote apps with smaller databases and less polish.

Before buying, check which remote app the phone uses. Xiaomi phones offer the best experience by a wide margin. If you have obscure appliances, the app database size determines whether the IR blaster will work without manual code entry.

Battery Life and Charging Speed

IR blaster use draws minimal power, so battery life depends on the phone’s overall capacity and efficiency. The phones in this roundup range from 2000mAh (Jelly Star) to 22000mAh (Ulefone Armor 24). Consider your usage pattern when choosing.

Fast charging is equally important. Phones like the Poco X8 Pro with 100W charging can refill in under 35 minutes, while budget options like the Redmi A5 take much longer with 15W charging. If you travel frequently, prioritize fast charging.

Carrier Compatibility

This is the biggest gotcha with IR blaster phones. Most are global unlocked models optimized for international markets. In the US, they typically work only on T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Tello. AT&T and Verizon compatibility is rare and often requires manual configuration.

Always check the supported LTE bands before buying. Even within T-Mobile, some models only support calls and texts without data. Read recent reviews to confirm current compatibility status.

Display Quality and Size

Display preferences are personal, but consider how you will use the phone. The 6.83-inch screen on the Redmi Note 15 Pro is great for media but may feel unwieldy for one-handed use. The 3-inch Jelly Star is ultra-portable but challenging for typing.

Look for AMOLED displays with at least 120Hz refresh rate and 1000+ nits brightness. The 3500-nit display on the Poco X8 Pro is the brightest here, while LCD panels on budget models are adequate but less vibrant.

Additional Features Beyond IR

The best IR blaster phones also deliver strong overall value. Look for features like NFC for payments, headphone jacks for audio flexibility, and IP ratings for durability. The Poco X7 Pro nails this with NFC, headphone jack, water resistance, and a massive battery alongside the IR blaster.

Camera quality varies widely. The 200MP sensors on Xiaomi Pro models deliver excellent results, while budget options like the Redmi A5 are adequate for casual photography. Match the camera capability to your needs.

Software and Update Longevity

Xiaomi’s HyperOS based on Android is generally smooth, but pre-installed apps and ads require manual removal. Check how many Android version updates the manufacturer promises. Xiaomi typically offers two to three years of OS updates on their mid-range phones.

For niche brands like Ulefone and Unihertz, update support is less certain. These phones may not receive major Android version updates, so buy one running the Android version you want long-term.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best smartphones with IR blasters in August 2026 means looking almost exclusively at the Xiaomi ecosystem, with a few niche alternatives for specific needs. The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G is my editor’s choice for its combination of 120W charging, 200MP camera, and flawless IR implementation. The Poco X7 Pro delivers the best overall value with a 6000mAh battery and gaming-grade performance. For budget buyers, the Redmi Note 14 4G LTE offers exceptional value with IR functionality at a fraction of the cost.

The IR blaster may be a niche feature, but for anyone who has used one, it becomes indispensable. Controlling every appliance from a single device in your pocket is convenience that no smart home hub can fully replicate. Pick the phone that matches your budget and priorities, and start retiring those old remotes.