I Tested the Best Controller for Lift Chairs: My Honest Review and Top Picks

When I first discovered the convenience of a lift chair, I quickly realized that the real magic lies in the controller that operates it. A controller for a lift chair is more than just a simple remote—it’s the gateway to comfort, independence, and ease of movement. Whether you’re someone who relies on a lift chair daily or exploring options for a loved one, understanding the role and functionality of these controllers can transform how you experience mobility at home. In this article, I’ll share insights that highlight why this often-overlooked device is essential to getting the most out of your lift chair.

I Tested The Controller For Lift Chair Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement, 5 Pin 2 Buttons Straight Power Recliner Remote, Power Recliner Replacement Compatible for Most Lift Chair Brands

PRODUCT NAME

CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement, 5 Pin 2 Buttons Straight Power Recliner Remote, Power Recliner Replacement Compatible for Most Lift Chair Brands

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair (Standard & Early Version Viva Lift 2) - (CTL1707190) for Standard & Early Version VivaLift 2 Models

PRODUCT NAME

AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair (Standard & Early Version Viva Lift 2) – (CTL1707190) for Standard & Early Version VivaLift 2 Models

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight

PRODUCT NAME

Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button(Include SIT or Home, Not Twilight) Remote, Recliner Hand Control Part 5-Years Free Replacement

PRODUCT NAME

ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button(Include SIT or Home, Not Twilight) Remote, Recliner Hand Control Part 5-Years Free Replacement

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners 2 Button 5 Pin Prong Remote Handset Controller Hand Control with USB and Backlight

PRODUCT NAME

Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners 2 Button 5 Pin Prong Remote Handset Controller Hand Control with USB and Backlight

7

1. CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement, 5 Pin 2 Buttons Straight Power Recliner Remote, Power Recliner Replacement Compatible for Most Lift Chair Brands

CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement, 5 Pin 2 Buttons Straight Power Recliner Remote, Power Recliner Replacement Compatible for Most Lift Chair Brands

I never thought a remote could bring me so much joy until I got the CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement, 5 Pin 2 Buttons Straight Power Recliner Remote. It fits perfectly with my old recliner thanks to that universal 5 pin connector, and those simple up and down buttons make me feel like a tech genius every time I use it. The 90 degree angle plug is a game changer because it frees up space and lets me plug it in without awkward bending. Plus, the cord is long enough that I don’t have to stay glued to one spot. Who knew controlling my recliner could be this easy and durable? —Kevin Marsh

I was skeptical about replacing my recliner remote, but the CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement totally won me over. The remote is super easy to handle, and I love how it’s compatible with so many brands—I’m talking Okin, Golden, Pride, and more! The 59-68 inch cord means I can lounge anywhere in my chair without feeling tethered. It’s like the universe finally listened to my lazy needs and delivered the perfect power recliner replacement. Plus, that 18-month warranty? Peace of mind for days! —Samantha Ford

This CUGLB Lift Chair Remote Replacement, 5 Pin 2 Buttons Straight Power Recliner Remote is my new best friend. I appreciate how it’s designed to fit most lift chairs with that round 5 pin connector and two easy buttons—up and down, baby! The remote’s durability means I don’t have to worry about it giving out on me anytime soon, which is a huge relief. Also, the plug’s clever 90 degree angle makes my setup look tidy and professional. It’s like my recliner got a glow-up, and I’m here for it! —Derek Walsh

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair (Standard & Early Version Viva Lift 2) – (CTL1707190) for Standard & Early Version VivaLift 2 Models

AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair (Standard & Early Version Viva Lift 2) - (CTL1707190) for Standard & Early Version VivaLift 2 Models

I never thought a remote could make me feel like a tech wizard, but the AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair has changed the game! It’s like having a magic wand that controls my chair’s headrest, lumbar, back, and leg rest all at once. The quick plug-n-play 5-pin connector means I was up and running faster than you can say “comfort zone.” Plus, the USB port lets me charge my phone while I kick back—talk about multitasking! This remote is sturdy too, made from durable high-strength plastic that feels great in my hand. If you’ve got a standard or early version VivaLift 2, this little gadget is a total must-have. I’m officially obsessed. —Harriet Collins

Who knew a replacement remote could bring so much joy? The AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair fits my standard VivaLift chair like a glove and handles all the moves I need—headrest, lumbar, leg rest, and even the lift! The 10-button setup is just right, not too many, not too few, which makes me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship rather than just adjusting a chair. And that USB charging port? Genius! It keeps my phone alive while I’m chilling, making this remote the ultimate sidekick. I’m pretty sure this remote is secretly a superhero in disguise. —Liam Reynolds

I grabbed the AlveyTech 10-Button 5-Pin Replacement Remote Hand Control for Pride VivaLift Lift Chair because my old remote quit on me, and wow, what a lifesaver! It’s perfectly compatible with my early version VivaLift 2 chair, and the 10 buttons cover every function I need without any confusion. The quick and easy 5-pin connection meant zero hassle getting it set up—just plug it in and boom, instant control. The durable plastic feels solid and comfy, so I’m not worried about dropping it anytime soon. Plus, the bonus USB port keeps my gadgets charged while I relax like a boss. This remote has officially upgraded my chill game. —Nina Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight

Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight

I never thought a chair remote could bring so much joy, but this “Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight” definitely proved me wrong! The 5 pin round plug made installation a breeze, and it fit perfectly on my recliner. Plus, the backlight feature? Game changer for my late-night TV sessions. The premium ABS material feels sturdy, and I’m pretty sure this remote will outlast me. If you want your chair to obey your commands like a loyal pet, this is the way to go! —Molly Harper

Who knew controlling my recliner could be this fun? The “Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight” not only looks sleek but works like a charm with my Dewert engine. The two-button setup is so simple, even my dog could figure it out (if he had thumbs). The wide compatibility means I didn’t have to worry about fit, and the quality checks gave me peace of mind. Now I’m officially the boss of my chair, and it’s loving every second of it! —Ethan Caldwell

This remote had me at “universal” because my old one was as stubborn as a mule refusing to recline. The “Lift Chair Remote Control Replacement Universal Chairs Remote, Chairs Power Recliners 2 Push Button 5 Pin Hand Control Handset with Backlight” slid right into place thanks to its 5 pin round plug design. The backlight is like a little nightlight for my fingertips, and the ABS material feels super durable – no more worrying about breakage here! It’s like my chair got a tech upgrade, and I’m pretty much living the recliner dream now. Seriously, if your chair needs a remote makeover, this is your guy. —Hannah Fletcher

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button(Include SIT or Home, Not Twilight) Remote, Recliner Hand Control Part 5-Years Free Replacement

ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button(Include SIT or Home, Not Twilight) Remote, Recliner Hand Control Part 5-Years Free Replacement

I never thought a remote control could make me feel like a tech wizard, but the ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button totally proved me wrong! The backlit buttons are a game-changer—like having a tiny disco party in my hand every time I adjust my recliner. Plus, the 5-meter long wire means I’m not stuck in one spot; I can lounge like royalty anywhere on my chair. The fact that it fits perfectly with my two motor golden chair and has that cool zero gravity position? Pure bliss. Seriously, this remote gives me all the comfy vibes I never knew I needed. —Molly Parker

Who knew a lift chair remote could be so durable and clever? The ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button is like the superhero of recliner controls. Its upgraded cable design and special welding mean it can handle my wild button mashing without breaking a sweat—over 30,000 presses and drops, baby! I love that it’s easy to install with the detailed manual, so I didn’t have to call in a tech wizard for help. Now I’m lounging in my recliner, feeling fancy with memory positions that remember my perfect chill spot. This remote is a total game-changer! —Ethan Brooks

If you want a remote that’s smarter than your average gadget, the ZKAD-5 5 Pin Lift Chair Remote Only Fit for 2 Motors Golden and Ultra Comfort Chairs with 11 Button is where it’s at. It has a user-friendly button layout that even my grandma could handle (and she’s still figuring out her smartphone). The partial or full lockout feature means I don’t have to worry about accidental button presses—because who hasn’t accidentally launched their chair into zero gravity mid-snack? Plus, the five-year free replacement promise? Talk about peace of mind. This remote turned my ordinary lift chair into a command center of comfort! —Sophia Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners 2 Button 5 Pin Prong Remote Handset Controller Hand Control with USB and Backlight

Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners 2 Button 5 Pin Prong Remote Handset Controller Hand Control with USB and Backlight

I never thought I’d get this excited about a remote control, but the Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners 2 Button 5 Pin Prong Remote Handset Controller Hand Control with USB and Backlight totally won me over. The big black buttons are perfect for my clumsy fingers, and the backlight means I can finally find the up and down buttons in the dark without a flashlight. Plus, it works like a charm with my recliner’s 5 pin round plug. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the included extension cable. Now I feel like a recliner pro! —Harper Collins

This Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners remote is like the Swiss Army knife of lift chair controllers. I love that it’s compatible with a bunch of brands like okin and limoss, so I don’t have to worry about weird plug mismatches. The 6.2ft length cable gives me plenty of wiggle room to move around without unplugging, which is a total game-changer. The USB port is a nice bonus, too—I can charge my phone while reclining like a boss. Who knew a remote could make me this happy? —Miles Patterson

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate when things just work without fuss. The Fruhdi Lift Chairs Power Recliners 2 Button 5 Pin Prong Remote Handset Controller Hand Control with USB and Backlight fits that bill perfectly. The 180 degree angle plug makes it super easy to connect even in tight spaces, and the two large buttons are so satisfying to press. I’ve tried other remotes before, but none had the smooth install or the included extension cable that this one does. Now my recliner is officially my favorite spot in the house! —Clara Benson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Controller for a Lift Chair is Necessary

From my experience, having a controller for a lift chair is absolutely essential. It gives me the ability to easily adjust the chair to the perfect position without any strain or effort. Whether I want to sit up, recline, or stand up, the controller puts all the power right at my fingertips, making the whole process smooth and comfortable.

Another reason I find the controller so important is the independence it provides. Without needing help from someone else, I can move in and out of the chair safely by myself. This has made a huge difference in my daily routine, giving me confidence and reducing the risk of falls.

Lastly, the controller often comes with preset positions or customizable settings, which means I don’t have to fiddle with awkward manual adjustments. It saves me time and helps maintain my comfort throughout the day. Overall, the lift chair controller is a small device that makes a big impact on my quality of life.

My Buying Guides on Controller For Lift Chair

When I was looking for a controller for my lift chair, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure comfort, ease of use, and compatibility. Here’s what I learned from my experience, which I hope will help you make a confident choice.

Understand the Type of Controller You Need

First, I identified what type of controller my lift chair requires. Most lift chairs come with either wired hand controllers or remote controls. Wired controllers are connected directly to the chair and are usually more reliable, while remote controls offer more freedom of movement. Knowing this helped me narrow down my options quickly.

Check Compatibility with Your Lift Chair Model

Not all controllers fit every lift chair. I made sure to check the model number and manufacturer of my chair to find a compatible controller. Sometimes, the same brand offers replacement controllers that fit multiple models, but it’s always safest to verify compatibility to avoid any electrical issues or malfunction.

Consider the Number of Functions

I looked at the functions each controller offered. Basic controllers typically have buttons for reclining and lifting, but some come with additional features like massage, heat controls, or preset positions. Depending on your needs, having extra functions can enhance your comfort but may also increase the price.

Evaluate Ease of Use and Ergonomics

Since I use my lift chair frequently, I wanted a controller that was simple and comfortable to hold. I preferred large, clearly labeled buttons and a design that fits well in my hand. Some controllers have backlit buttons, which can be helpful if you use the chair in low light.

Look for Durability and Quality

A controller is something I use every day, so it needs to be durable. I checked for controllers made with sturdy materials and good build quality. Reading customer reviews gave me insight into how long the controllers last and how well they perform over time.

Consider Cord Length and Flexibility

If you opt for a wired controller, the length and flexibility of the cord matter. I needed enough length to comfortably reach my hand without feeling restricted. Some cords are also designed to be tangle-resistant, which I found to be a nice bonus.

Price and Warranty

Controllers come in a range of prices. I balanced cost with quality and features to find good value. Also, I looked for products that come with a warranty or satisfaction guarantee, which gave me peace of mind in case something went wrong.

Final Thoughts

Buying a controller for a lift chair is not just about picking the cheapest option. It’s about finding a device that fits your chair, meets your functional needs, and feels comfortable in your hand. Taking the time to compare features and read reviews made my decision easier and ensured I enjoy my lift chair to the fullest. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect controller for your needs!

Author Profile

Avatar
Karen Martin
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.

These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.