The universal remote control is the ideal solution for those who want to simplify their life and reduce the number of remote controls in their home. In fact, universal remote controls can memorize a large number of different codes, so that the individual buttons can be programmed as desired according to their needs.
Universal remote controls can manage various appliances, such as TVs, DVD players, terrestrial decoders, digital decoders, Sky decoders, game consoles, soundbars, stereos but also air conditioners, smart lights, thermostats, and other home automation devices.
There are really many models on the market, and to choose the best universal TV remote control for your needs it is good to have a clear idea of what you intend to do with it.
One of the factors that have the greatest impact on the price is in fact the number of devices to be connected, and generally, the price will be proportional to the number of devices that can be managed.
Despite the name, in fact, universal remote controls are actually designed to work with a particular series of products, and it is, therefore, good to also check the models of the devices supported. The highest-end universal remote controls also allow you to remotely control many devices connected to the home automation system of your home and can also have a display to facilitate programming the remote control itself.
Among the other features to consider when choosing, it is good to check the possibility of having updates related to the latest products, the number of functions present, the management via smartphone and the possibility of connecting the remote control to the computer, the ease of programming, the type of power supply, whether with AAA batteries or with rechargeable battery via the charging base and finally the quality of the materials with which it is built.
Has it happened to you that you have many smart electronic devices and when you realize it, you see that you have a remote control for each one and that you don’t know which is which? When buying the best universal remote control you can forget about that problem, since it allows you to manage up to 20 electronic devices from a single remote control.
With this solution, you not only avoid that problem, but you will also be able to control devices that you did not think you could handle with remote controls before. Some of these products come with a supported Windows operating system, and others with a supported MAC operating system.
Of course, remember that no matter how many functions they have and however convenient they are, they must also be light, compact, ergonomic and easy to use.
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The Best Universal Remotes
Now let’s see which are the best universal remote controls, selected by price range, from the most expensive to the cheapest models.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | One For All URC1210 – Remote Control … | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! | ||
| 2 | Universal TV Remote Control for … | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! | ||
| 3 | Remote Control for LG television. | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! | ||
| 4 | Universal Remote Control for LG … | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! | ||
| 5 | MYHGRC Universal TV Remote Suitable for … | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! | ||
| 6 | Universal Multifrequency Garage Remote … | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! | ||
| 7 | Remote Control for Samsung Smart TV | SEE PRICE IN AMAZON! |
What is the best universal remote control?
Many users ask this question and do not really know which one is the best, since it is difficult to determine it by all the options that are in the market and the many models from so many different brands that all seem to be so good. So how do they differ and which one is the best?
Worry no more, because in the following comparative list that we share, we are going to show you the best 5 that you can currently find and we will explain the most outstanding of each one so that you know how to choose properly.
1. Logitech Harmony 950
The best for the smart home
The best universal remote control ever is the Logitech Harmony 950, capable of managing up to 15 devices simultaneously and compatible with more than 270,000 devices from 6,000 different brands.
One of the advantages of this remote control is the ability to set a series of actions with a single command: for example, by pressing the “Watch TV” button, it is possible to set the ignition of the TV, the TV box, and the soundbar, as well as turn downlights or shutters to make it easier to watch a movie.
For ease of use, the Logitech Harmony 950 features a color touchscreen which allows you to navigate the menu intuitively, while command management can be set via the Harmony app, compatible with Android and iOS devices.
The buttons on the Logitech Harmony 950 remote are backlit, and the vibration allows you to keep your eyes fixed on what you are doing, without having to constantly look at the remote.
Equipped with a rechargeable battery optimized by 20% compared to the previous generation remote controls, it has a charging base with a simple and modern design, which facilitates the identification of the remote control, thus decreasing the risk of losing it, as well as ensuring a device that is always ready. to use.
2. Logitech Harmony Ultimate Universal Remote Control 915-000203
Ergonomic, elegant and eye-catching
However, its beautiful, ergonomic and compact design and its functions are reflected in its price, since it is the most expensive model on our list.
3. Logitech Harmony 665
The universal remote control with the best quality/price ratio for home automation
The Logitech Harmony 665 is the best value for money universal remote control for the smart home, compatible with more than 270,000 devices, ideal for managing not only the TV and its accessories, but also other smart devices.
It is able to manage up to 10 devices at the same time and has an interactive on-screen guide that allows you to restore normal operations in case of problems.
The configuration of the devices is simple and can be done directly from your computer, by installing the dedicated MyHarmony software.
On the top of the remote control, you can find 4 customizable buttons which, once pressed, allow you to operate multiple devices at the same time, to facilitate the creation of the ideal environment for watching a film, listening to music or playing a video game.
For example, you can set up a custom command for watching a Blu-ray movie that turns on the TV and at the same time selects the correct TV input, turns on the Blu-ray player and soundbar, allowing you to simplify and speed up preparations.
You can customize up to 23 of your favorite channels, making them easy to access directly from the color screen on the remote control.
The Logitech Harmony 665 has an ergonomic handle, and the body of the remote is made of satin plastic on which no fingerprints are retained, with backlit rubber keys that facilitate use even in the dark.
The remote control works with 2 AA batteries which could run out quickly compared to a normal remote control also due to the presence of the display.
4. One For All Xsight Lite Plus 12 Universal Remote Control
It stands out for its large number of buttons and LCD screen
5. Logitech Harmony 350
Universal programmable mid-range remote control with USB and excellent price
The Logitech Harmony 350 is the mid-range solution for those who want a universal remote control capable of managing up to 8 Smart devices in their home , preferring the possibility of setting up to 5 programmable channels.
The remote control integrates perfectly into the home automation system of the home, allowing the setting of customized programmable buttons, but does not have a display that shows the information of the connected devices or the functions in progress.
The Harmony database ensures compatibility with over 270,000 devices, including smart lights and thermostats. It is ideal for controlling Sky , Apple TV , Roku , Netflix , Sonosand is compatible with many LG, Samsung, Sony, Hisense, Xbox and PS4 devices.
The remote has dedicated buttons for easy access to guides, menus and recorded programs. You can configure a set of commands so that pressing a single button causes the remote to perform different actions on different devices.
For example, you can set the “Watch TV” button to turn on or off all devices used to watch TV, such as your TV, audio / video receiver and cable / satellite receiver.
The Logitech Harmony 350 uses infrared signals, and it is therefore recommended that you have no objects between the remote control and the infrared receivers of connected devices. It is powered by 2 AA batteries.
The universal TV remote control that is easy to program
The Meliconi Control TV.1 is the ideal universal remote control for both standard and Smart TVs , and is compatible with more than 50,000 devices from more than 1,500 different brands.
It is the ideal tool for those who need to replace an old remote that is no longer working, or for those who are not tech-savvy users who want an easy-to-use device. However, it is not suitable for those who have several devices to control using a single remote control.
The Control TV.1 remote control reproduces infrared signals corresponding to the original, and is equipped with permanent memory, which means that the settings are not lost if the remote control runs out of batteries. It is powered by 2 AAA alkaline batteries.
To completely delete all settings, it is necessary to perform a complete reset of the remote control, thus returning it to its initial conditions.
Easy to program, it has a quick guide and web support that can be consulted from PC and smartphone to search for the codes to connect the different devices, complete with video guides and complete instructions.
Meliconi Control TV.1 has a LED to indicate that the device has been configured. Just check the flashing of the LED to understand if the device has been configured correctly or not.
7. One For All URC1912 for Sony TV
The universal replacement remote control for Sony TVs
The One For All URC1912 is ideal for those who want to replace an old Sony remote while maintaining all the functions and features of the brand, such as Theater, i-Manual and Options, arranged around the navigation ring at the top of the remote itself.
It is compatible with all Sony TVs and no installation is required. Just insert the batteries, and you can immediately start using them with your Sony TVs.
It is powered by two AAA batteries and has an ergonomic non-slip grip that makes it easy to handle.
The numeric keypad is located in the center of the device, while the keys to increase and decrease the volume and those to change programs are moved to the bottom.
The learning function of the One For All URC1912 for Sony TV allows you to add an accessory function to any key of your choice, thanks to the Copy function. In this way, it is also possible to set a favorite function, recognizable by the heart icon, present on one of the buttons of the navigation ring.
8. One For All URC1911 for LG TV
The best replacement remote control for LG TVs
The One For All URC1911 for LG TV is ideal for those who want to replace an old LG remote while maintaining all the functions, such as Menu, Guide, Energy Saving, Netcast, AD, 3D and Source, arranged around the navigation ring in the control panel of the remote control itself.
It is compatible with all LG TVs and no installation is required. Just insert the batteries, and you can immediately start using it with your LG TVs.
It is powered by two AAA batteries and the numeric keypad is located at the top of the device, while the keys to increase and decrease the volume and those to change programs are immediately below, between the numeric keypad and the navigation ring.
There learning function of the One For All URC1911 for LG TVs allows you to freely reprogram the functions of the keys, so as to be able to transfer some functions of your original remote control that do not find a correspondent in the new One For All URC1911 for LG TVs.
8. One For All URC1913 for Philips TVs
The best universal remote control for Philips TVs
Among the best universal remote controls for budget TVs, we find the One For All URC1913, ideal for those who own a Philips TV and want to keep all the original functions, such as Browse Menu, Home and Ambilight arranged in the central Multi Menu island positioned in the central part remote control.
It is compatible with all Philips TVs and does not require any installation. Just insert the batteries, and you can immediately start using them with your Philips TVs.
The numeric keypad is located in the lower part of the device, while the keys to increase and decrease the volume and those for channel advancement are immediately above, between the numeric keypad and the central Multi Menu island.
The learning function of the One For All URC1913 for Philips TV allows you to freely reprogram the functionality of the buttons so that you can solve any problems with the operation of the buttons.
10. One For All URC1910 for Samsung TV
The replacement remote control for Samsung TV
For those looking for a universal remote control for Samsung TV, the One For All URC1910 is the ideal choice, it allows you to keep the functions, such as Menu, Guide, HDMI and Smart Hub in the buttons around the central keypad and does not require installation.
It is compatible with all Samsung TVs and works immediately.
The numeric keypad is located in the upper part of the device, while the keys to increase and decrease the volume and those for channel advancement are immediately below, between the numeric keypad and the central keypad.
The learning function of the One For All URC1910 for Samsung TV allows you to freely reprogram the functions of the keys on the new remote control.
11. Meliconi FULLY 8.1
The affordable universal remote control to manage up to 8 devices
The Meliconi FULLY 8.1 is a unique universal remote control for TV and decoder, also capable of connecting simultaneously to other devices in the house. It is an economical, simple, and intuitive model.
It can simultaneously manage up to 8 entertainment devices such as TVs, Smart TVs, terrestrial decoders, digital decoders, DVD or Blu-ray players, consoles such as PlayStation, Xbox, and other audio-video devices.
It is possible to activate further secondary functions not present on the keyboard and check exactly on which keys the desired original functions are found on the online tables.
It is compatible with more than 80,000 devices from more than 1,500 different brands, and reproduces infrared signals corresponding to the original remote control, but does not support functions that operate in radio frequency, such as voice commands or pointers.
The codes of the connectable devices Meliconi FULLY 8.1 are available on the website, where it is possible to consult video guides and complete instructions.
It is possible to configure the remote control manually, through the manufacturer’s website or by sending an SMS with the information of the product to be associated, or by contacting the Italian telephone assistance.
12. One For All URC7140 Essence 4
Cheap universal remote control
In every home, there is a long list of electronic devices that need remote controls, and it turns out that many times we end up with many individual controls that complicate our lives too much.
That’s what universal controls are for, so you can stop using one for each device and can do it all with a single control. The good thing is that these devices are suitable for all the devices in your house, for TV, DVD, Blue-ray, Cable, VCR, DTV, DVR, stream devices. In fact, that is why they are called universals.
Apart from that, anyone can benefit from these devices, from the most knowledgeable in electronics to the fan of movies or video games.
They are so ideal for anyone, that each remote is capable of controlling up to 20 different electronic devices. You will also find very basic and easy-to-configure controls, even those tactile, with elegant LCD screens and also with many more functions.
What to look for in the best universal remote control?
If you want to make sure you buy a good universal remote control, you better be on the lookout and look for several of the following features that we will mention below. If you do, be confident that you will find the ideal model for you.
- Intuitive options
If you want to improve the experience of using your electronic devices, it is best to look for one with one or two “smart” functions. This means that you should always look for a device that allows you to program actions or that suggests which shows or movies you might also like.
However, they are a little less affordable than the rest.
- Easy to use
If you are one of those who gets scared when seeing all the functions and buttons of one of these controls, you are probably looking for an easy-to-use model, so you avoid complications and do not have to adapt a lot to be able to use it.
This is why some remote controls come with LCD screens, programmable buttons, or can be used with voice commands.
- Incorporating all kinds of technologies
The best universal controls can be used to control your television, your Xbox, Playstation, sound players or DVD.
However, the most capable and comprehensive ones can be used to control appliances, turn lights on and off, and much more. If this is what you are looking for as well, make sure that the model you purchase has all of that but is also aware that you will have to pay a higher price.
- Connectivity options
These devices can be used by infrared (IR) technology, which is the most economical of the available technologies but you need an uninterrupted direct line between your control and the electronic device it operates.
Radio Frequency (RF) solves this problem and allows you to operate devices inside closed cabinets, for example. The downside is that not many electronic devices can be controlled using this connection.
One of the most convenient connections is WiFi, so make sure your remote controls can connect to the same internet to which the electronic devices you want to control are connected.
- Screen
Some models have screens that allow you to choose what you want to do more easily and even send you messages about what you do.
Other remotes come with touchscreens, allowing you to make selections quicker and easier, especially for people used to modern phones and technologies. They also allow you a higher level of customization so you can configure everything the way you like it.
- Control other devices
Sure, good universal remote controls allow you to manage televisions, sound devices and record players but there are also other more complete models that allow you to manage your appliances and other devices that may be in your house.
- Mobile Device Applications
You can also choose to use your smartphone as a remote control by downloading an app. For Apple devices you can use applications like Simple Control or MyURemote, which work quite well. You just have to keep in mind that you will need a port accessory that produces infrared rays.
For Android, we recommend Touchsquid or SURE Universal. The good thing about Android models is that some phones already come with these ports, so you won’t need an additional accessory. For example, the S4 was a phone that had this feature.
- Characteristics
The features and functions of remote control are always quite exciting and should be quite comprehensive to satisfy all users.
Some models allow you to configure your favorite channels and program buttons “for him” and “for her”, so that everyone has their desired configuration.
Many features can be additional, of course. But there are others that are really important, such as programmable buttons, motion sensors or battery indicators.
- Design
Remember that these products should not be aesthetic or beautiful, they have to be practical and ergonomic. The important thing in the design should always be the size, length, width and weight.
Always keep in mind that a remote control should be easy to keep in the palm of your hand while changing channels. It should be compact, lightweight, and offer an easy grip so it doesn’t fall off.
We also recommend that you take into account that the model is easy to charge, that the batteries are convenient for you and that it is rechargeable if you prefer.
Help and Support
Do not forget that electronic devices can be damaged. What’s more, any product can come with factory defects or flaws, or just be difficult to configure.
That is why you always have to look for a brand that offers a good guarantee and online support in case you find it difficult to set it up. Apart from that, it is good that they come with user manuals and good support from the manufacturer in case you need it.
Photo: amazon.com