Only for TCL-Google-TV-Remote-Control Replacement,RC813 Compatible with TCL QM8/QM7/Q7/Q6/Q5/S5/S4/S3 4K UHD HDR LED QLED QD-Mini LED Full-HD Smart TVs(Pack of 2) Review

Lost your TCL Google TV remote? Sat on it? Maybe the dog got to it? Whatever happened, you're not alone — and the RC813 replacement 2-pack is one of the most practical buys you can make to get your living room back in order without paying TCL's inflated first-party prices.

What You're Actually Getting

This is a pack of two RC813 remotes designed specifically for TCL's Google TV lineup — including the QM8, QM7, Q7, Q6, Q5, S5, S4, and S3 series across 4K UHD, HDR, QLED, QD-Mini LED, and Full-HD models. That's a wide compatibility net, which is one of the biggest selling points here. If you've got multiple TCL sets in the house, or you just want a spare in the drawer, the 2-pack format makes a lot of sense.

The layout mirrors the original remote closely — Google Assistant button, dedicated streaming shortcut keys, and the standard navigation ring you're already used to. No re-learning required. Pop in some AAA batteries and you're watching TV within minutes.

The Case For Buying Two

Here's the real value argument: replacement remotes for smart TVs have a nasty habit of going missing or getting damaged again. Having a backup sitting in a drawer isn't paranoia — it's just practical. At the price point this 2-pack typically sells for, you're paying considerably less per unit than sourcing a single OEM replacement through TCL directly or hunting one down at a big-box retailer.

The button feel is functional — not mushy, not clicky-premium, just solidly average. The remote is lightweight, which some users appreciate for extended use and others find makes it feel a little cheap compared to the original. It's a fair criticism. This isn't a luxury accessory; it's a replacement part, and it feels like one.

Compatibility: Check Before You Buy

This is the most important section for purchase decisions. The RC813 is built for TCL Google TV models specifically. If your TCL runs Roku TV or Android TV (older TCL firmware), this remote is not for you — the Google Assistant shortcut and smart button mappings won't function correctly. Double-check your TV's model number and the operating system it runs before clicking add-to-cart. The listing covers QM8, QM7, Q7, Q6, Q5, S5, S4, and S3 series, which covers a wide swath of TCL's recent lineup, but it's not universal.

What Could Be Better

A few things worth knowing before you buy:

• No backlight. If you watch in the dark, you'll be feeling around for buttons like everyone else with a budget remote.
• Plastic build quality. It's perfectly durable for everyday use, but don't expect the same premium feel as the original TCL remote. The material is slightly lighter and less textured.
• Shortcut buttons are pre-mapped. The streaming service shortcuts (Netflix, YouTube, etc.) are fixed — you can't remap them to a different service, which may frustrate users whose streaming subscriptions don't match what's printed on the buttons.

These are minor complaints for most people, but worth knowing if any of them are deal-breakers for your household.

Verdict

The RC813 2-pack does exactly what it promises — it gets your TCL Google TV working again without the hassle or the markup. It's not glamorous, it doesn't have any features your original remote didn't have, and it won't win any design awards. But as a no-fuss, plug-and-play replacement at a reasonable price with the bonus of a spare? It's a solid buy for compatible TCL Google TV owners. Just confirm your model number first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the RC813 work with my TCL Roku TV?

A: No. The RC813 is designed exclusively for TCL Google TV models. Roku-based TCL televisions use a different remote platform and the button mapping, including the Google Assistant shortcut, will not function correctly.

Q: Does this remote require any programming or pairing setup?

A: For most compatible TCL Google TV models, the remote works out of the box after inserting AAA batteries — no pairing codes or programming required. Some models may require a brief Bluetooth pairing step through the TV's settings menu.

Q: Is the build quality comparable to the original TCL remote?

A: It's functional and durable for daily use, but the plastic feels slightly lighter and less premium than the original. For a replacement part at this price, it's entirely acceptable, but don't expect an exact match in feel.

Q: Why buy two remotes instead of one?

A: The 2-pack makes sense if you have multiple compatible TCL TVs in your home, or simply want a backup. Per-unit cost is lower in the pack, and replacement remotes have a way of going missing again — a spare in the drawer saves a future headache.

Q: Can I remap the streaming shortcut buttons on this remote?

A: No. The shortcut buttons for streaming services are pre-assigned and cannot be customized. If you don't use the services printed on the buttons, those keys will be effectively unused.

— Tech Lead Editor 3, CPrice