A universal remote is a one-stop solution to all your entertainment needs. However, choosing the ‘one’ is not easy. Here is a buyer’s guide listing the important factors to look out for, as well as the benefits of using a universal remote control:
All-in-one remotes are designed to fulfill all your entertainment center needs. That’s why you shouldn’t be buying one randomly. Rather you should judge the different options against the following parameters to make the right choice.
Before you purchase any universal remote, the first thing you have to ensure is its compatibility. Make sure that the device you are getting will work with the electronics you already have at home. Some models also have built-in support for streaming devices like Netflix others don’t work with these at all. Be sure to check the remote’s compatibility before making the purchase.
A good universal remote does not incorporate complicated buttons or functions. Rather, all its tabs and functions are simple and easy to understand. You wouldn’t face any difficulty in connecting it to the nearby devices thanks to its unambiguous controls.
We prefer remotes that are simple, sleek, and fit the palm comfortably. If you think like us, you should look for a remote that you can easily operate with one hand. Make sure that your fingers can easily reach all the buttons once you have them in your hand.
Also, keep an eye out for the button layout. It should be logical, systematic, and conform to the already established remote control standards. Meaning it should adhere to the alpha-numeric system as closely as possible.
Some universal remotes go beyond standard automation by supporting virtual home assistants like Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Getting such a device enables you to use voice commands to stream your favorite movie, tune into a match or launch a game on the gaming console. In short, you can control its operation with your voice rather than your fingers.
There are many benefits of using a universal remote control. Have a look:
A large entertainment center consists of various peripherals like a DVD player, streaming device, cable box, sound system, and of course the TV. Owning one of these means having a range of remote controls cluttering your living room. A universal remote control is a simple way to take control of all the different devices without having any clutter sitting around.
You may have not thought about it, but having separate remotes to control all your devices costs you a fortune in battery replacement. A universal remote control helps you significantly cut down on costs by allowing you to operate all the peripherals with a single remote, saving you from the cost of buying separate batteries for all the remotes.
It’s frustrating to switch through the different remotes one by one in order to find the right one. This really complicates the overall TV watching experience. A universal remote boasts both simplicity and convenience by allowing you to easily switch between the different systems. It is an all-in-one device with power buttons, input options, volume controls, and all the play pause options at your fingertips.
Some people think setting up a universal remote is a complicated task. We assure you that this is not the case. Most of these devices come with step-by-step instructions and downloadable documents containing programming codes for all the various devices and models that ease the setup process.
The first product on our list is a versatile device designed to work with most Samsung TVs. It does not need any sort of pairing or setting up. In fact, you can use it straight out of the box. Slide the back cover off, insert two AAA batteries, replace the cover, and your remote is ready to go.
This device is an exact copy of the original Samsung remote included with its TVs. The only differences are that it doesn’t carry the brand name and the Smart Hub button does not feature a house icon. Instead it says Smart Hub. All the other functions are completely identical. The convenience, functionality and affordable price have earned this universal remote control the top spot on our list.
Universal remote controls are not limited to a range of premium models. You can also find affordable ones like the GE Universal Remote Control that works with TVs from different bands as well as the peripherals like DVD player and streaming devices. Its ergonomics design fits most hands comfortably while the brushed finish adds an elegant touch.
This universal remote control is extremely simple to set up because it comes pre-programmed with Samsung TVs and Roku boxes. You can configure it with the device of your choosing by automatic code search or direct code entry.
The SofaBaton Universal Remote Control is perfect for people looking for an all-inclusive solution for their various entertainment needs. It features three configuration modes that enable it to control up to 15 devices at once.
You can use the traditional IR learning mode, IR matching mode, or Bluetooth mode to connect with 350,000+ different devices. Their code sheet is up to date, and they keep adding new devices as they come out. You can use it as a single remote for your entertainment center or as a whole house remote control. The choice is yours.
Our next pick is a highly versatile device that supports smart TVs from over 16 brands. The MYHGRC Universal Remote Control features a lightweight and ergonomic design with sturdy ABS material body and soft plastic buttons. It includes all the functions like volume control, play/pause setup, and channel configuration.
It is one of the easiest remotes to set up. All you have to do is point it towards the TV and press the corresponding brand name for five seconds or when the TV switches off. And that’s it. The setting is complete.
The last universal remote on our list is a suitable choice if you own a Vizio TV. It boasts durable ABS construction with soft plastic buttons. Its response time is fast at 0.2 seconds.
The OMAIC Store Universal Remote Control offers precise control from as far as 12 meters. And, it has dedicated buttons for various streaming apps including Vudu, Amazon, and Xumo.
A: Yes, universal remotes are definitely worth it. A universal remote is ideal in two key scenarios: when you streamline your AV experience by having fewer remotes, or when your original remote is lost or faulty and you are looking at a costly replacement.
A: Universal remotes do work with multiple devices. Since they are not brand specific, you can easily program one to work with a range of devices including TV, sound system, cable box, streaming device, DVD player, and other peripherals.
A: Sure it is tempting to download a remote app for free rather than buying a standalone universal remote control, there are some inherent problems with this setup. For one it might not work as you desire. For another, it is frustrating to share your smartphone with others who are watching TV with you.