How to Control Computer Monitor Audio with Remote Controller
Seriously, who invented the idea that your computer monitor’s speakers should be the primary audio output for everything? It’s a question that’s bugged me for years, leading down a rabbit hole of frustrating setups and unnecessary cables. The notion of how to control computer monitor audio with remote controller often pops up when you’re just trying to turn down the volume without leaning over or fumbling with tiny buttons.
My own journey started with a fancy-pants 4K display that sounded like it was broadcasting from the bottom of a tin can. I remember spending an embarrassing amount of time trying to find some obscure software utility, convinced it was just a few clicks away from solving my audio woes.
What I learned, often the hard way and with a few hundred bucks less in my wallet, is that sometimes the simplest solutions are hiding in plain sight, and other times, the marketing promises are just that – promises. Let’s cut through the noise.
The Frustrating Reality of Monitor Speakers
Most computer monitors, especially those not marketed as premium audio-visual beasts, have speakers that are, frankly, an afterthought. They exist to tick a box, to allow for basic system sounds, or to provide a sound source for a casual video conference. Expecting cinematic sound or even decent music playback from them is like expecting a bicycle to win the Tour de France. They’re often tinny, lack bass, and can distort at higher volumes. The physical controls on the monitor itself for volume are usually awkward, tucked away on the back or side, and require precise finger gymnastics to operate. This is where the idea of wanting a remote controller, or some form of external, easier control, really takes root.
Honestly, I spent around $150 on one monitor specifically because it advertised ‘enhanced audio.’ It had two tiny speakers. ‘Enhanced’ turned out to mean ‘less awful than the last one.’ After my fourth attempt to find a software solution that didn’t involve opening a command prompt, I just gave up and bought a cheap soundbar. It felt like a defeat, but a necessary one.
Why External Audio Isn’t Always the Answer (or Is It?)
Everyone says, ‘just buy external speakers.’ And yeah, that’s often the best advice. A decent set of desktop speakers, or even a compact soundbar, will blow monitor speakers out of the water. But what if you don’t have the desk space? What if you’re using your monitor as a TV sometimes, and you want to control the volume from the couch?
I disagree with the blanket statement that external speakers are *always* the go-to. There are scenarios where you’re trying to keep your setup as clean as possible, or maybe you’re using a display in a living room where a dedicated speaker system is overkill. The real problem isn’t the monitor speakers themselves, it’s the lack of convenient control over them when they *are* the only option, or when you’re trying to minimize clutter. (See Also: How To Put 144hz Monitor At 144hz )
Think of it like trying to tune an old car radio with a screwdriver versus a dedicated knob. The screwdriver *can* work, but it’s imprecise, fiddly, and frankly, a pain. You’re just looking for that one sweet spot in the static, and the process is infuriatingly slow.
The Software Route: Remote Control Apps
This is where most people, myself included, first look. Can I control my PC’s audio, and thus my monitor’s audio output, from my phone or a dedicated remote? Yes, and often for free. Many apps exist that mirror your PC’s functionality onto your smartphone. You can control mouse, keyboard, and yes, volume. Apps like Unified Remote or Remote Mouse are surprisingly capable. They connect via Wi-Fi, and once set up, you can adjust your computer monitor’s audio volume directly from your phone’s screen. It feels a bit like magic the first time it works, transforming your phone into a sophisticated control panel.
The setup process can sometimes be a little clunky. You’ll need to install software on your PC and the corresponding app on your phone. Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Some apps offer a dedicated volume slider, others might require you to simulate keyboard shortcuts for volume up/down. It’s not as simple as pointing a remote, but it’s certainly a step up from wrestling with monitor buttons.
A word of caution: free apps are great, but some have ads or limited features. For a truly seamless experience, you might consider a paid version, which usually removes ads and unlocks advanced controls. I tested about five different free apps before settling on one that felt reliable enough for daily use, and it cost me $4.99.
Hardware Solutions: The Dongle Life
If software feels too much like a hassle, or if you want something that feels more like a dedicated remote, hardware is an option. This is where things get a bit more specialized and, frankly, a bit more expensive. I’m talking about devices that act as USB audio receivers or Bluetooth audio transmitters. You plug a USB dongle into your PC, and it gets recognized as an audio device. Then, you have a small, dedicated remote that controls the volume for that USB audio device.
These devices are less common now because phone apps have gotten so good. However, for someone who absolutely detests using their phone as a remote for everything, or for a setup where a phone isn’t always handy (like a gaming rig that’s a bit of a distance away), these can be a lifesaver. Think of it like having a dedicated TV remote versus using your phone app – it’s just more immediate and sometimes more reliable. (See Also: How To Switch An Acer Monitor To Hdmi )
The USB Volume Control Dongle Option
| Product Type | Connection | Pros | Cons | My Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB Volume Control Dongle | USB | Simple, dedicated control; no software needed on PC after initial setup. Feels like a real remote. | Can be pricier than software; might only control the USB audio output, not system-wide if multiple devices are present. Limited availability. |
Good for dedicated setups where you want a physical button and don’t want to use your phone. I found one that felt surprisingly solid, like a premium clicker. |
| Bluetooth Audio Transmitter/Receiver | Bluetooth | Wireless convenience; can often transmit audio too. Some come with dedicated remotes. | Setup can be tricky; latency can be an issue for gaming or video. Needs pairing. |
Overkill if all you need is volume control. Better for streaming audio to speakers from your PC. I tried one and the audio lag made it useless for anything real-time. |
What About HDMI Arc or Optical?
If your monitor supports HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or has an optical audio out port, and you’re connecting it to a soundbar or AV receiver, then you’re in a slightly different boat. In this case, the remote for your soundbar or receiver will control the volume. This is the most common and often the most satisfying solution for home theater-style setups. It’s why these features exist – to simplify audio management. You won’t be controlling your monitor’s internal speakers this way, obviously, but you’ll be bypassing them entirely for a much better audio experience.
The Consumer Electronics Association recommends using dedicated audio outputs when possible for the best sound fidelity, especially for anything beyond basic system sounds. HDMI ARC is fantastic because it uses the same HDMI cable for both video and audio return, meaning your soundbar can send audio back to your display, and your display can then send audio back to the soundbar – all controlled by one remote. It’s elegant when it works.
The key here is that your monitor *must* support ARC for this to function, and you’ll need a soundbar or receiver that also supports it. Otherwise, you’re back to square one with controlling the monitor’s built-in speakers directly. (See Also: How To Monitor My Sleep With Apple Watch )
People Also Ask
Can I Use My Phone to Control My Monitor’s Volume?
Yes, absolutely. Using remote control apps on your smartphone is one of the most accessible ways to control your computer’s audio output, including your monitor’s volume. You’ll typically need to install companion software on your PC and the app on your phone, ensuring both are on the same Wi-Fi network. This allows you to adjust volume, and often other PC functions, directly from your phone screen.
Do Monitors Have Remote Controls?
Some higher-end or specialized monitors, especially those marketed for media consumption or gaming, might come with a dedicated remote control. However, for the vast majority of standard computer monitors, a remote is not included. Their audio capabilities are usually basic, and control is expected to be handled via physical buttons on the monitor itself or through software on the connected computer.
How Do I Get Remote Volume Control for My Pc?
You have a few options. The most common is using smartphone apps that mirror your PC’s controls, including volume. Hardware solutions like USB volume knobs or Bluetooth audio controllers are also available, offering a physical remote experience. If your monitor is connected to a soundbar or receiver via HDMI ARC or optical audio, the remote for that external audio device will control the volume.
Can I Control Monitor Speakers with a Universal Remote?
Generally, no. Universal remotes are designed to control devices that use infrared (IR) signals for commands like TV power, volume, and channel changes. Computer monitors typically do not have IR receivers for audio control, nor do they typically broadcast IR signals for volume adjustments. You would need a remote specifically designed for your PC or a software-based solution on your phone.
Conclusion
So, how to control computer monitor audio with remote controller? It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, and frankly, the direct remote control for monitor speakers is a rarity. Most often, you’re either leveraging your phone as a virtual remote or, ideally, bypassing those weak internal speakers for something better.
My advice? If your monitor’s sound is just for notification pings, a free phone app is probably your best bet for convenience without spending a dime. If you actually want to *listen* to things with decent quality, invest in a small soundbar or a pair of decent desktop speakers. It’s a small price to pay for not wanting to rip your hair out every time you need to adjust the volume.
Honestly, trying to get a truly satisfying audio experience directly from most monitor speakers, controlled by a dedicated remote, feels like trying to win a drag race in a golf cart. It’s possible you’ll find a niche product, but it’s likely not where you’ll get the best bang for your buck or the least frustration.
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