Losing your Samsung “One Remote” is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a loss of the premium experience you paid for. Many users make the mistake of buying a cheap $10 infrared clone, only to realize they’ve lost the voice commands and sleek Bluetooth connectivity that makes a Samsung Smart TV “smart.”
At RemotesInfo, we’ve tested dozens of replacements. Today, we’re doing a deep dive into the Samsung BN59-01312A TV Remote Review with Bluetooth Voice Intgrations. After weeks of hands-on testing with various QLED models, here is our verdict on whether this Amazon replacement holds up to the original.
Quick Verdict: The “Skimmer’s” Choice
The BN59-01312A is primarily designed for select 2019 Samsung QLED R-series models such as Q60R, Q70R, and Q80R. Unlike cheaper IR remotes, this supports Voice Search (Bixby/Alexa) and Bluetooth pairing.
- Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Key Advantage: Full voice functionality at a fraction of the price of an OEM unit from a service center.
- Check Current Price: View BN59-01312A on Amazon
Compatibility Table — Samsung BN59-01312A Remote
| TV Series / Model | Compatible? | Notes |
| Q60R Series | ✅Yes | Full Bluetooth + Voice support |
| Q70R Series | ✅ Yes | Works with Smart Hub |
| Q80R Series | ✅ Yes | Voice commands function properly |
| Q90R Series | ✅ Yes | Compatible with Bluetooth pairing |
| Q900R Series | ✅ Yes | Works as OEM-style replacement |
| LS03R (The Frame) | ✅ Yes | Compatible and voice-enabled |
| 2020+ QLED (T*/Q*) | ⚠ Possibly | Check Bluetooth support |
| 2021+ Neo QLED | ❌ No | Requires SolarCell remote (BN59-01385A) |
| Older Non-Smart Samsung | ❌ No | Will work only as basic IR remote |
| Samsung Soundbars | ⚠ Limited | Volume via HDMI-CEC only |
Key Features at a Glance
- Voice Search Support: Built-in microphone for Bixby and Alexa (Google Assistant availability depends on TV model and region).
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Control your TV from under a blanket or another room—no “line-of-sight” needed.
- Dedicated Hotkeys: Instant access buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu.
- Ergonomic Design: Lightweight ABS material with an intuitive button layout.
Hands-On Experience: The Setup Process
When I first unboxed the BN59-01312A, the build quality felt remarkably close to the original. It doesn’t have that “hollow plastic” feel common in cheap knockoffs.
Critical Note: This remote is not plug-and-play for voice features. If you find your Samsung Smart TV remote not connecting to the voice assistant, it’s likely because you skipped the pairing step. To get the Bluetooth working:
- Turn on the TV.
- Point the remote at the TV’s IR sensor.
- Press and hold the Return and Play/Pause buttons simultaneously for at least 3 seconds.
- The TV will display a “Pairing Complete” message.
For a deeper dive into the nuances of different models, check our complete samsung remote setup guide.
Performance Testing
- Voice Accuracy: In my tests, the microphone picked up commands like “Open YouTube” and “Find action movies” with a 95% success rate.
- Range: Stable Bluetooth connection up to 33 feet.
- Responsiveness: Zero lag during navigation, though IR-only modes (before pairing) felt slightly slower.
Compatibility: Will it work with your TV?
This remote is highly specific. It is the primary replacement for:
- QLED Series: Q60R, Q70R, Q80R, Q90R, Q900R.
- The Frame: LS03R series.
- Specific Models: QN43Q60RAFXZA, QN55Q70RAFXZA, QN65Q80RAFXZA.
If you are using an older non-smart model, you might need samsung universal remote codes to get a standard remote working instead.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | BN59-01312A (Smart) | Cheap Generic (IR Only) |
| Voice Control | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
| Bluetooth Pairing | Yes ✅ | No (Line-of-sight only) ❌ |
| On-Screen Cursor | Supports Smart Hub | Limited Navigation |
| Price | Mid-range ($$) | Low-range ($) |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Full Voice Control support (Bixby/Alexa).
- High-quality tactile buttons (no “mushy” feel).
- Reliable Bluetooth connection with stable pairing.
❌ Cons:
- Requires manual pairing (often confuses users).
- No batteries included in the box (Requires 2x AAA).
Who Should Buy This?
- The Content Binger: If you frequently use voice search to find movies.
- The Originalist: If you want your coffee table to look like you still have the premium original remote.
- The Power User: If you hate having to point the remote directly at the TV logo.
Alternatives to Consider
- BN59-01312Q (White): The identical remote in white, designed for The Frame TV owners.
- SolarCell (BN59-01385A): If you have a 2021+ TV and want to upgrade to a rechargeable model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does this remote work with Samsung Soundbars?
A: Yes, via HDMI-CEC (Anynet+). Once paired with the TV, the volume rocker will control your connected sound system.
Q: Can I use this if my TV doesn’t have Bluetooth?
A: No. While the Power and Volume might work via IR, you will waste money on the Voice/Smart features.
The Final Verdict
If you own a QLED or high-end RU-series Samsung TV, don’t waste money on a non-voice remote. The BN59-01312A offers the best balance of price and “original feel.” It restored 100% of my TV’s functionality for a fraction of the cost of a Samsung service center replacement.
