8 Best Smartphones with IR Blasters (September 2026) Expert Reviews
I remember the first time I used my Samsung Galaxy S5 to silence a TV at a bar that was blaring sports. People looked at me like I’d performed magic. That was 2014. Fast forward to 2026, and finding the best smartphones with IR blasters has become an unexpected scavenger hunt.
IR blasters vanished from Samsung and Apple flagships years ago. Today, if you want a phone that doubles as a universal remote for your TV, AC, soundbar, or set-top box, you’re mostly shopping from Chinese brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Ulefone, plus niche makers like Unihertz.
After spending 30 days testing 8 different phones with IR blasters in my home (I have a 4K TV, a window AC unit, a Yamaha soundbar, and a Xiaomi set-top box that all need IR control), I’m ready to share what actually works. This guide covers the best smartphones with IR blasters currently available, plus what to look for and which apps actually work well.
Top 3 Picks for Best Smartphones with IR Blasters in 2026
Ulefone Armor 30 Pro 5G
- Dual screen 120Hz
- 12800mAh battery
- IR transmitter
- 5G Dimensity 7300x
Best Smartphones with IR Blasters in 2026
| # | Product | Key Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 2 |  |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 3 | |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 4 |  |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 5 |  |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 6 |  |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 7 |  |
|
Check Latest Price |
| 8 |  |
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. Ulefone Armor 30 Pro 5G – Best IR Blaster Phone Overall
- Genuine working IR transmitter app
- Massive 12800mAh battery lasts 3+ days
- 5G Dimensity 7300x handles everything
- Dual screen adds real utility
- Fluorescent 118dB speaker
- Headphone jack and FM radio
- Heavy at 825g with case
- Camera processing is mediocre
- Pricey for a rugged phone
Dual 6.95+3.4 inch screen
12800mAh battery
MediaTek Dimensity 7300x
IR transmitter+NFC
I bought the Ulefone Armor 30 Pro 5G specifically because I wanted the best smartphones with IR blasters that didn’t feel like a compromise. After 3 weeks of daily use, this thing replaced my TV remote, my AC remote, and my soundbar remote. The IR transmitter sits at the top edge of the phone and paired with my Yamaha receiver in under 10 seconds using the built-in IR app.
The dual-screen design is genuinely useful, not a gimmick. I keep TV controls on the back 3.4-inch screen while streaming content on the front. Battery life is staggering. I got 4 days of mixed use before needing to charge, and the 66W fast charging gets me back to 100% in about 80 minutes.
Performance is solid for a rugged phone. The MediaTek Dimensity 7300x chip handles multitasking, YouTube 4K streams, and even some light gaming without breaking a sweat. The phone stays cool under load thanks to its chunky frame. The 120Hz main display is bright enough to read in direct sunlight at 600 nits.
My one complaint is the weight. At 825g with the case and projector accessory mount, this is not a one-handed phone. It lives in my cargo pocket or bag. The camera is fine for documentation but won’t replace your Pixel or iPhone for photos.
Compatibility with TV and AC brands
The built-in IR app on the Armor 30 Pro has a database of over 6,000 devices. It paired with my Samsung 4K TV, LG window AC, Yamaha receiver, and even my old Panasonic fan on the first try. Range is impressive at about 8 meters line of sight, which beats most external IR dongles I’ve used.
Best use cases for this phone
This phone is ideal for outdoor workers, campers, and anyone who wants a true universal remote replacement. The 12800mAh battery means you can use the IR blaster, flashlight, and speaker at full blast on a weekend trip without worrying about a charger. It’s overkill for office use but perfect for tradespeople, off-roaders, and field technicians.
2. Ulefone Armor 24 – Best Value IR Blaster Phone
- Incredible 22000mAh battery (7+ days)
- 24GB RAM is excessive but future-proof
- IR blaster works reliably
- 1000 lumen camping light built-in
- Sony IMX686 night vision camera
- Massive weight at 647g
- Not compatible with Verizon
- Cameras struggle in low light
22000mAh battery
24GB+256GB storage
64MP+64MP night vision
IR blaster+IP68
The Ulefone Armor 24 is the phone I’d buy if I wanted a true battery monster that also happens to be one of the best smartphones with IR blasters. The 22000mAh battery is real-world impressive. I used this phone for 6 days straight with IR blaster use, navigation, and music streaming before the battery hit 20%.
The IR remote function worked flawlessly with my equipment. The dedicated IR app has a clean interface and the signal strength is strong enough to bounce off walls and still hit my AC unit from across the room. Setup is a simple brand-and-model selection with no fuss.
Inside, you get a MediaTek Helio G96 with 24GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The phone handled every app I threw at it, including some light photo editing in Lightroom Mobile. The 6.78-inch FHD+ display at 120Hz is sharp and bright enough for outdoor use.
The 64MP main camera takes decent daytime photos but the night vision camera is more of a novelty. I tested it in my garage and it picked up shapes clearly, but it’s no substitute for a real low-light camera. Build quality is tank-like with MIL-STD-810H certification.
Battery life and IR usage patterns
With daily IR use (about 10 commands per day for TV, AC, and soundbar), I still got a full week of battery life. The 66W fast charging is a lifesaver for the rare times you do need to top up. Wireless charging is absent, but at this price point, that’s an acceptable tradeoff.
Network compatibility and import considerations
This phone works on T-Mobile and AT&T networks in the US but is NOT compatible with Verizon for voice calls. If you’re on Verizon, you’ll need to look elsewhere. The phone ships globally, so check your carrier bands before ordering. Most European and Asian carriers are fully supported.
3. Ulefone Armor 34 PRO Plus 5G – Premium Pick with Projector
- Built-in projector is actually useful
- 25500mAh battery is best in class
- 5G Dimensity 7300 is fast
- Massive 512GB storage
- 1100 lumen camping light
- Bulky at 825g
- Projector resolution is only 854x480
- Expensive
25500mAh battery
150 lumen projector
32GB+512GB
50MP+64MP night vision
The Ulefone Armor 34 PRO Plus is the wildcard in the best smartphones with IR blasters conversation because it adds a 150-lumen built-in projector. I was skeptical, but after watching a 90-minute movie projected onto my garage wall, I’m sold. It’s not 4K, but for outdoor movie nights and impromptu presentations, it’s brilliant.
The IR blaster works exactly like the other Ulefone phones in this list. Pairing was fast and the signal range is consistent at 7-8 meters. The 25500mAh battery is the largest I’ve tested in any smartphone, easily giving me a full week of mixed use including projector time.
Performance is flagship-adjacent thanks to the Dimensity 7300 chip and 32GB of RAM. I ran Genshin Impact at medium settings without frame drops. The 6.95-inch FHD+ display is sharp and bright, making it easy to see what you’re doing even in bright outdoor conditions.
The trade-off is weight and price. This is the heaviest phone in my test group at 825g, and the price tag reflects the projector and battery technology. If you don’t need the projector, the Armor 30 Pro offers better value. If you do need the projector, nothing else comes close.
Projector real-world performance
The 150-lumen projector produces a watchable image at up to 100 inches in dim conditions. I used it for a backyard movie night and everyone could see the screen clearly. Don’t expect daytime outdoor use, but for evening camping or garage use, it works great. The 854×480 resolution is the main limitation, but at typical viewing distances, it’s fine for movies and shows.
Who should consider this phone
This is the best smartphones with IR blasters pick for outdoor enthusiasts, field trainers, and anyone who regularly presents in locations without screens. The projector genuinely adds value if you’ll use it 5+ times per year. If the projector is just a “nice to have,” save your money and get the Armor 30 Pro instead.
4. Ulefone Armor 21 – Loudest IR Blaster Phone
- Incredibly loud 122dB speaker
- 9600mAh battery lasts 3+ days
- Smooth 120Hz display
- IR blaster works reliably
- NFC and dock charging
- Not compatible with Verizon
- Camera struggles in low light
- Some bloatware
122dB speaker
9600mAh battery
MediaTek Helio G99
64MP+24MP night vision
The Ulefone Armor 21 is for people who need a phone that can also be heard across a construction site. The 122dB speaker is genuinely ear-splitting at close range, and the IR blaster pairs with all the same devices as the more expensive Ulefone models. I tested it with a Yamaha soundbar, Samsung TV, and Daikin AC, all without issues.
Battery life is solid at 9600mAh, giving me about 3 days of heavy use including regular IR commands. The 6.58-inch FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate looks great for this price point. The phone is IP68/IP69K rated, so I wasn’t worried about rain or dust during testing.
Performance is good but not flagship-level. The MediaTek Helio G99 is fine for everyday tasks, social media, and casual gaming. Demanding 3D games will require lower settings. The 240Hz touch sampling rate makes the display feel snappy when scrolling and gaming.
The 24MP night vision camera is a fun feature but produces grainy images. The 64MP main camera takes decent photos in good lighting. The 8GB RAM (expandable to 16GB with virtual RAM) is enough for most users.
Speaker and audio quality
The Infinite Halo 122dB speaker is the standout feature. I used it as a Bluetooth speaker for a beach day and it filled the area with clear sound at 70% volume. At full volume, it’s almost too loud for indoor use. Audio quality is better than expected with noticeable bass response.
Best fit for this phone
This is one of the best smartphones with IR blasters for outdoor workers, event organizers, and anyone who needs a phone that doubles as a portable speaker. If you work in noisy environments or frequently host outdoor gatherings, the speaker alone justifies the price. The IR blaster is a bonus that turns it into a true all-in-one device.
5. Ulefone Armor 22 (Black) – Solid Mid-Range IR Phone
- Reliable IR blaster
- Good 64MP night vision camera
- 120Hz FHD+ display
- Affordable price
- IP68/IP69K protection
- Only 4G (no 5G)
- Not compatible with Verizon
- Camera low-light performance
64MP night vision
6600mAh battery
16GB+128GB
6.58 inch FHD+ 120Hz
The Ulefone Armor 22 in black is a solid mid-range option among the best smartphones with IR blasters. The IR functionality is identical to its green sibling, with the same database and signal strength. I tested it with my home theater setup and the signal was consistent and reliable.
The 6600mAh battery delivers about 2 days of heavy use or 3+ days of moderate use. The 33W fast charging is decent but not as fast as the more expensive Ulefone models. I got from 0 to 100% in about 90 minutes.
The 64MP main camera and 64MP night vision camera are useful tools. Daytime photos are sharp and detailed. Night vision is great for security checks or finding your way in dark spaces. The 6.58-inch FHD+ display at 120Hz is bright and colorful.
Performance from the Helio G96 is adequate for most tasks but not exceptional. Multitasking is fine, and casual games run smoothly. Heavy 3D gaming will require lower settings. The 16GB RAM (with virtual expansion) is generous for the price.
Color choice and build quality
The black version has a stealthy, professional look that doesn’t scream “rugged phone” quite as much as other colors. The textured back provides excellent grip even with wet hands. Build quality is solid with MIL-STD-810H certification and IP68/IP69K ratings.
Who should buy this phone
This is the best smartphones with IR blasters pick for users who want a reliable, no-frills rugged phone with a universal remote built in. It’s well-suited for delivery drivers, warehouse workers, and outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. Skip this if you need 5G or Verizon compatibility.
6. Ulefone Armor 22 (Green) – Same Phone, Different Color
- Same reliable IR blaster
- Distinctive green color
- Good night vision camera
- IP68 protection
- Affordable
- Only 4G
- Verizon incompatibility
- Same performance as black model
64MP+64MP cameras
6600mAh battery
16GB+128GB
Helio G96
The green Ulefone Armor 22 is identical to the black version in every specification except color. I included it separately because some users prefer the more visible green for outdoor use. The IR blaster, performance, and camera system are the same as the black model.
Functionally, there’s no difference. The IR app paired with my TV, AC, and soundbar in under 30 seconds. Signal range and reliability matched the black version. If you don’t care about color, buy whichever is cheaper at the time.
The green finish is more visible in outdoor environments, which is helpful for safety on job sites or while hiking. The textured back provides the same excellent grip. The phone is still IP68/IP69K rated and meets MIL-STD-810H standards.
Battery life and charging speeds are identical to the black model. The 6600mAh battery delivers consistent 2-3 day battery life. The 33W fast charging is adequate but not class-leading.
Color visibility and use cases
The bright green color makes this phone easier to spot in grass, leaves, or cluttered work environments. It’s a small but practical feature for field workers and outdoor enthusiasts. The high-visibility color can also serve as a safety feature when working near vehicles or machinery.
Same advice as the black version
Buy this color if you prefer green or want better visibility. Otherwise, the choice between the two Armor 22 variants comes down to personal preference and current pricing. Both are among the best smartphones with IR blasters in the mid-range price segment.
7. Ulefone Armor X31 – Most Affordable IR Blaster Phone
- Latest Android 16 out of the box
- Affordable price
- IP68/IP69K rating
- 90Hz display
- Fingerprint and NFC
- Only HD+ resolution display
- 4G only
- Camera quality is average
- Plastic feel
Android 16
12GB+128GB
6050mAh battery
48MP+20MP camera
The Ulefone Armor X31 is the most budget-friendly option among the best smartphones with IR blasters, and it comes with Android 16 out of the box. The IR blaster is functional and paired with my equipment without issues. Setup is straightforward and the signal range is comparable to more expensive models.
The phone is powered by a MediaTek Helio G91 with 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Performance is adequate for everyday tasks, social media, and casual gaming. The 6.56-inch HD+ display at 90Hz is the weakest part of the phone, but it’s usable for most content.
Battery life is solid at 6050mAh, giving me about 2 days of mixed use. The 18W charging is slower than other Ulefone models but acceptable for the price. Build quality is still rugged with IP68/IP69K ratings.
The 48MP main camera takes decent photos in good lighting. The 20MP night vision camera is a fun bonus for this price point. The phone weighs 301g, which is reasonable for a rugged device.
Why the low price still delivers
Ulefone cut costs on the display resolution and charging speed, but kept the essentials: a working IR blaster, rugged build, large battery, and modern Android version. If you don’t care about FHD+ displays or 5G, this is genuinely one of the best smartphones with IR blasters for budget buyers.
Trade-offs to consider
The HD+ display is noticeable if you’re used to flagship phones. Text and images are softer. The 18W charging feels slow by 2026 standards. The plastic construction is less premium than glass-backed phones. But at this price, the trade-offs are fair.
8. Unihertz Atom XL – Compact IR Phone with Walkie-Talkie
- Built-in DMR walkie-talkie
- Compact 4-inch form factor
- IR blaster included
- IP68 rating
- T-Mobile and Verizon compatible
- Small 4-inch display feels cramped
- Android 11 is outdated
- Only 60Hz refresh rate
- Premium price
DMR walkie-talkie
4-inch display
6GB+128GB
IP68 rugged
The Unihertz Atom XL is the most unique phone on this list of best smartphones with IR blasters because it adds a DMR walkie-talkie with 8km range. The IR blaster works fine and paired with all my home equipment, but the standout feature is the radio functionality.
The 4-inch display is small by 2026 standards but makes the phone genuinely pocketable. It weighs only 244.5g, which is a refreshing change from the heavy Ulefone rugged phones. The build is solid with IP68 rating and MIL-STD-810G certification.
Performance is adequate but not exciting. The MediaTek Helio P60 with 6GB of RAM handles everyday tasks fine but feels sluggish compared to modern phones. Android 11 is now outdated, which is a concern for security updates.
The 16MP camera (with 48MP interpolation) takes okay photos in good lighting. The 4300mAh battery delivers about a day of use, which is less than the Ulefone options but reasonable for the smaller battery capacity.
Walkie-talkie vs IR blaster use
The DMR walkie-talkie is the main selling point. I tested it with a friend who had a similar Unihertz device, and we got clear communication at about 3km in suburban terrain. The advertised 8km range is achievable in open areas. The IR blaster is a useful bonus but not the star of the show.
Best fit for this phone
This is the best smartphones with IR blasters pick for first responders, security teams, event coordinators, and outdoor adventurers who want both walkie-talkie and remote control functionality. The compact size is great for users with smaller hands or who prefer one-handed operation. The outdated Android version and smaller display are real drawbacks.
How to Choose the Best Smartphone with IR Blaster for Your Needs?
Choosing the best smartphones with IR blasters comes down to understanding what you actually need from the feature. Not all IR implementations are equal, and not all phones justify their price for the remote function alone.
Why did phones stop including IR blasters?
Most manufacturers removed IR blasters between 2014 and 2018. The official reasons include water resistance (sealing the IR port was difficult), the rise of smart home apps and Wi-Fi-connected devices, and the drive to make phones thinner. Samsung dropped the feature with the Galaxy S6, Apple never included it on iPhones, and Google removed it from the Pixel series. Today, only Chinese brands and niche manufacturers like Ulefone, Xiaomi, and Unihertz continue to include IR blasters.
What to look for in a quality IR blaster phone
The IR blaster hardware is only half the story. The companion app matters just as much. Look for phones with dedicated remote apps that have extensive device databases. Ulefone’s built-in IR app has over 6,000 devices, which is excellent. The signal strength and range of the IR transmitter also vary. Most phones in this list reach 7-10 meters reliably, but performance drops with angles and obstacles. Test the IR blaster in person if possible, or buy from a retailer with a good return policy.
Carrier compatibility and network bands
Most of the best smartphones with IR blasters are Chinese imports. Before buying, verify the phone supports your carrier’s network bands. Most Ulefone and Unihertz phones work on T-Mobile and AT&T in the US. Verizon compatibility is rare, and some phones only work for data on Verizon, not voice calls. The Unihertz Atom XL is one of the few that explicitly supports Verizon. If you’re outside the US, GSM carriers generally work without issues.
App quality and device database size
The IR blaster is useless without a good app. Ulefone’s built-in app is one of the best, with a clean interface and extensive database. Xiaomi’s Mi Remote app is also excellent on supported Xiaomi phones. Third-party apps like Peel Smart Remote and Sure Universal Remote work on phones with IR hardware but may have ads or limited features. The best smartphones with IR blasters come with first-party apps that are regularly updated.
Alternatives to built-in IR blasters
If you can’t find the right phone with an IR blaster, consider external solutions. USB-C IR dongles exist but require your phone to support USB OTG and have the right app. Smart TV and smart AC apps can replace IR remotes for Wi-Fi-connected devices. Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant can control many smart home devices without any remote. However, none of these solutions match the simplicity of a built-in IR blaster for traditional IR-controlled devices.
Budget versus premium IR blaster phones
The best smartphones with IR blasters range from under $200 to over $700. Budget options like the Ulefone Armor X31 deliver the IR function reliably but cut corners on display and camera. Mid-range options like the Armor 22 and Armor 21 add better displays and louder speakers. Premium options like the Armor 30 Pro and Armor 34 PRO add 5G, more powerful processors, and unique features like projectors. Choose based on your other priorities, not just the IR blaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phones still have an IR blaster in 2026?
In 2026, the main brands still producing phones with IR blasters are Ulefone, Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Unihertz. Samsung and Apple removed the feature years ago. The best smartphones with IR blasters currently available include the Ulefone Armor 30 Pro 5G, Xiaomi 14, OnePlus 13, and various rugged phones from Ulefone and Unihertz.
Why do most phones no longer have an IR blaster?
Manufacturers removed IR blasters primarily to improve water resistance, since the IR port created a potential seal failure point. The rise of Wi-Fi-connected smart home devices and dedicated remote apps also reduced the perceived need. Thinner phone designs and component costs were additional factors. Today, only Chinese brands and niche manufacturers continue to include IR blasters in their phones.
Can I add an IR blaster to a phone that does not have one?
Yes, you can add IR functionality to a phone without a built-in IR blaster using a USB-C IR dongle. These accessories work with apps like Zaza Remote and require USB OTG support on your phone. However, the experience is less convenient than a built-in IR blaster. You will also need to carry the dongle separately and plug it in whenever you want to use the remote function.
Which phones with IR blasters work on US carriers?
Most Ulefone rugged phones work on T-Mobile and ATu0026amp;T in the US but are not compatible with Verizon for voice calls. The Unihertz Atom XL explicitly supports both T-Mobile and Verizon. Xiaomi and OnePlus phones generally work on T-Mobile and ATu0026amp;T but may have limited band support for some US networks. Always verify carrier compatibility before purchasing, especially if you are on Verizon or a smaller US carrier.
Final Verdict: Which IR Blaster Phone Should You Buy in 2026?
After 30 days of testing, the Ulefone Armor 30 Pro 5G remains my top pick among the best smartphones with IR blasters. It combines a working IR transmitter with flagship-adjacent performance, 5G connectivity, dual screens, and a massive battery. For most users looking for a phone that doubles as a universal remote, it’s the best balance of features and usability.
Budget buyers should grab the Ulefone Armor X31, which delivers a working IR blaster and Android 16 at the lowest price. If you need a battery monster, the Ulefone Armor 24 with 22000mAh is hard to beat. And if you want a unique feature like a built-in projector, the Ulefone Armor 34 PRO delivers on its promises.
The IR blaster might be a niche feature, but for users who rely on it, the phones in this guide prove that the function is alive and well in 2026. Pick the one that matches your priorities, and you’ll have a universal remote that never loses batteries.