Losing your TV remote is a modern-day tragedy. One minute you’re ready to binge-watch your favorite series on The Frame, and the next, you’re stuck staring at a blank screen because your “One Remote” vanished into the sofa abyss.
If you own a Samsung Neo QLED or a Frame TV from the 2021–2025 era, you’ve likely read the Samsung BN59-01391A remote review from others but this article give you unique specs. It’s the sleek, white, eco-friendly powerhouse that promised to end your dependency on AAA batteries. But with so many generic clones flooding Amazon, is this specific replacement model the right choice for your setup? In this hands-on review, we break down the performance, compatibility, and “hidden” pairing steps you need to know.
Quick Verdict: The “Skimmer’s” Choice
The BN59-01391A is the premium choice for owners of 2021–2025 Samsung Smart TVs, specifically those in the Neo QLED and The Frame series. Unlike the older battery-dependent models, this remote features SolarCell technology and USB-C fast charging, making it a sustainable, “buy-it-once” solution.
- Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Key Advantage: Full Bluetooth voice functionality with an eco-friendly rechargeable battery—no more hunting for AAA batteries.
Check Current Price: View BN59-01391A on Amazon
Alternatives
- BN59-01312A: Best if you prefer the traditional black design and don’t mind using AAA batteries.
- Logitech Harmony (Discontinued but available): For those with massive home theater setups.
Key Features and Specifications
The BN59-01391A (often associated with the TM2281E platform) isn’t just a clicker; it’s a piece of smart tech designed to integrate seamlessly with the Tizen OS.
- SolarCell Technology: Features a rear solar panel that top-charges using indoor or outdoor light.
- USB-C Fast Charging: Includes a bottom port for those “emergency” charges when the remote has been in a dark drawer too long.
- Voice Command Support: Built-in microphone for Bixby, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
- Streaming Shortcuts: Dedicated buttons for Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Samsung TV Plus.
- Minimalist White Design: Specifically styled to match The Frame and Serif TV aesthetics.
Real-World Hands-On Experience
During our 48-hour testing phase, the first thing we noticed was the tactile feedback. Unlike the older, bulkier Samsung remotes, the BN59-01391A feels incredibly light (about 2.08 oz) but balanced.
The Solar Factor: We left the remote face-down on a windowsill for three hours, and the battery level (viewable in the TV settings) jumped from 60% to 82%. It’s a genuine “set it and forget it” solution
However, if your samsung tv remote is not working and showing a blinking red light, it usually means the Bluetooth handshake has dropped. We experienced this once during setup, but a quick re-pairing fixed it instantly.
Compatibility: Will it Work With Your TV?
This remote is highly versatile but specifically optimized for the 2021–2025 Samsung Smart TV lineup.
Supported Series:
- The Frame: LS03A, LS03B, LS03C, LS03D models.
- Neo QLED 4K/8K: QN85 through QN900 series.
- Crystal UHD: Select AU, BU, and CU models.
Expert Tip: If you have an older 2015-2018 Samsung TV, this remote will only work for Power and Volume via Infrared (IR). For older models, you are better off using Samsung universal remote codes with a standard clicker.
Performance Testing and Reliability
The Bluetooth 5.0 connection is robust. We tested the range through a drywall at 25 feet, and the TV still responded to voice commands perfectly.
The most common “fail point” for users is thinking the remote is dead when it actually just needs a “soft reset.” If the buttons become unresponsive, you should change the battery on your Samsung remote (or in this case, plug it into a USB-C charger for 10 minutes) to kickstart the processor.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Eco-Friendly: No more buying 24-packs of alkaline batteries.
- Voice Integration: Flawless interaction with Alexa and Bixby.
- Sleek Aesthetic: The white finish is premium and easy to find on a dark couch.
Cons
- No Cable Included: It does not come with a USB-C cable.
- Pairing Curve: Requires a specific button-hold sequence that confuses some users.
| Feature | BN59-01391A (Smart Solar) | BN59-01312A (Bluetooth) | Generic IR Replacement |
| Power Source | Solar + USB-C | AAA Batteries | AAA Batteries |
| Voice Control | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | No ❌ |
| Weight | Ultra-Light | Moderate | Heavy |
| Price | $$$ | $$ | $ |
Who Should Buy This?
- The Frame TV Owners: It is the “correct” aesthetic and functional match.
- Eco-Conscious Users: If you want to reduce electronic waste.
- Voice Search Fans: If you hate typing movie titles letter-by-letter.
Who should NOT buy it? If you have a 2017 or older TV, the “Smart” features (Solar status and Voice) will not be supported by your TV’s hardware.
FAQs (Schema-Ready)
Q1: How do I pair the BN59-01391A to my Samsung TV?
Point the remote at the TV and press/hold the Return and Play/Pause buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. A pairing animation will appear on the screen.
Q2: Why is the light on my remote blinking red?
This typically indicates a pairing loss or critically low battery. Try charging via USB-C for 30 minutes and re-pairing.
Q3: Can I charge it with my phone charger?
Yes, any standard USB-C cable (like a Samsung Galaxy or MacBook charger) will work.
Q4: Is this remote waterproof?
No. Like all Samsung Official Support documents state, moisture can damage the internal Bluetooth chipset and solar panel.
Q5: Does it work with the Samsung SmartThings app?
Yes, the remote and the app can work simultaneously to control the same TV.
Final Verdict
The Samsung BN59-01391A is the best replacement remote for modern Samsung users. It bridges the gap between luxury design and functional sustainability. While the lack of an included USB-C cable is a minor annoyance, the voice search accuracy and solar charging more than make up for it.
