Are you constantly juggling multiple remotes to control your home entertainment system? Especially as an apartment renter with limited space, a universal remote might be the perfect solution to simplify your life and reduce clutter.
With a vast array of options available, picking the right one isn’t always easy. We’ll guide you through the essential features to consider when selecting the best universal remote and provide recommendations for the top options on the market. From budget-friendly to high-end models boasting advanced functionality, we’ll help you find the ideal universal remote tailored to your needs.
Say farewell to the disarray of multiple remotes and embrace the convenience and space-saving benefits of a universal remote in your apartment.
What to look for when searching for a universal remote
There are a few key features that are important to look for when on the search for a universal remote, including:
- Compatibility: Ensure the remote is compatible with all of your devices, including your TV, sound bar, streaming device and gaming console.
- Number of devices: Determine how many devices you need the remote to control. Some remotes can handle a limited number of devices, while others can control a lot.
- User interface: Consider the remote’s user interface and ease of use. Look for a remote with clear labels and easy-to-navigate menus.
- Programmability: Look for a remote that is programmable, allowing you to customize buttons and functions to meet your needs.
- Connectivity: Consider the remote’s connectivity options, such as WiFi or Bluetooth, and how they it will integrate with your devices.
- Price: Set a budget and look for a remote that fits your price range while still meeting your needs.
All together, these elements will help point you in the right direction of the best universal remote for you.
Our top picks for the best universal remote
Ready to begin your search for the device that will simplify your entertainment system at home? Start with these top-performers.
Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All-in-One Remote Control
Source: Amazon.com
Able to replace up to five other remotes, the Logitech Harmony All-in-One Remote reduces complexity and clutter in your living room. Supporting over 5,000 different brands, this remote will integrate with any and all of your devices through the simple online set up process.
Easy-to-see buttons and a colorful screen make this remote easy to use, and favorite channel icons get you to the shows you want to watch fast. One-click activity buttons also save you time. You can just hit one button to watch TV and the right device will automatically switch on with the right navigation settings.
GE 6-Device Backlit Universal Remote Control
Source: Amazon.com
This top-rated product features soft-blue LEDs that fully backlight the buttons, allowing easy visibility in dark or dimly lit rooms. The GE Universal Remote boasts a large, simplified keyboard design that is comfortable to hold and includes big buttons for effortless navigation.
With the ability to control up to six audio/video components, such as TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, cable/satellite receivers, Roku boxes, streaming media players and sound bars, this multi-device remote simplifies your life and provides complete control. The GE Universal Remote is an excellent choice for basic entertainment setups in homes and is a simple, easy-to-use universal remote.
Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Learning Remote
Source: Amazon.com
This top pick is a rugged, commercial-grade remote that comes pre-programmed with codes for popular devices such as Apple TV, Xbox One & X, Media Center/Kodi and Roku (excluding Roku Stick.) The codes can be easily changed as needed. The full LED backlighting feature of the Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Learning Remote ensures that all buttons are visible in any lighting condition.
The remote comes with self-adhesive labels that can be cut out and applied under the buttons that you program for your device functions. The key punch through feature allows the user to configure the same key function in one mode into any or all other modes. It also boasts a complete worldwide database of device codes and library search capability, allowing you to search for any missing codes. Additionally, the learning capability feature is used to program any device that is not in the database.
SofaBaton U1 Smart Universal Remote Control
Source: Amazon.com
Another top pick, the Sofabaton U1 Smart Universal Remote Control replaces up to 15 infrared and Bluetooth device remotes. With the convenience of fingertip control, your home life is made easier. It is the best choice for those seeking to simplify their remote control experience.
The remote boasts powerful cloud data that works with over 500,000 devices from more than 6,000 brands, including Roku and other smart TVs, entire home theaters, DVD players, satellite receivers, digital terrestrial receivers, cable set-top boxes (STBs), TiVo, Blu-ray players and more. Setting up your devices is a breeze with the Smartphone App that offers real-time code library database access. It also has a learning function in case your device is not in the database.
The programmable macro feature allows for easy customization and programming. You can program up to 10 commands with a single button, combine commands from the same or different devices, assign custom key actions, rearrange keys, record macros and more. It is super easy to use and can save you time and effort, offering maximum flexibility.
The remote’s ergonomic scroll wheel design is comfortable to hold, rounded at the edges, and well-balanced, allowing for quick switching between multiple devices. The advanced OLED display technology provides high resolution, and the screen auto-lights up as soon as you pick up the remote. It also has a sleep function that saves battery when not in use.
One For All Smart Control 8 Universal Remote Control
Source: Amazon.com
The One For All Smart Control 8 replaces up to eight existing remotes. It’s the next generation of advanced universal remotes, with an easy setup process using the free One For All Setup app. The Smart Control 8 is 100 percent compatible with your video and audio devices, with the setup app selecting from over 335,000 devices from more than 7,000 brands. The device list on the app is always up-to-date, ensuring that any future device will be available for setup as well. This makes the Smart Control 8 100 percent future-proof.
This remote control works with all brands of TV, STB, SKY Q, Blu-ray, game console (IR Only), media player and audio devices. It also features three handy shortcut keys to your favorite streaming services like Amazon Prime, YouTube and Netflix. Additionally, the learning feature allows for full customization to your needs.
RCA 3-Device Universal Remote Control Platinum Pro
Source: Amazon.com
The RCA 3-Device Universal Remote Control can control up to three devices with long-range IR, including keys for TV, DVD or VCR, satellite receiver, cable box or digital TV converter. This remote replaces and consolidates remotes from most major brands, including Samsung, Vizio, TCL, LG, Sony, Hisense and more.
The remote features streaming controls for Roku, Apple TV and other streaming boxes, allowing you to easily control your streaming services. It simplifies device setup with automatic, brand, manual and direct code search methods. The backlit keys make it easy to use in any lighting conditions.
With infrared connectivity technology, the RCA 3-Device Universal Remote Control maintains compatibility with a ride range of devices and provides unparalleled convenience.
Philips Universal Remote Control 4-Device
Source: Amazon.com
The Philips Universal Remote Control 4-Device adds a touch of color and style within anyone’s home entertainment area. Available in gold, graphite, rose, blue and black finishes, this universal remote is designed to operate four separate devices. It lets you consolidate your controllers into one ergonomic, handheld device, that’s easy to use.
This universal remote comes pre-programmed for Samsung TVs and Roku boxes, offering multi-device control for up to four different audio and video components such as TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, cable/satellite receivers, Roku boxes and other streaming media players, sound bars and more. The remote code library ensures compatibility with all major brands and supports thousands of the latest audio/video equipment.
The remote is simple to set up with auto-scan technology and a master volume control, allowing you to control the volume no matter what device you are operating. It includes an easy-to-follow online setup video, providing trouble-free setup for a hassle-free experience.
Gmatrix Big Button Universal Remote Control
Source: Amazon.com
The Gmatrix Big Button Universal Remote Control is designed to easily integrate with the most popular electronic brands. It has large buttons and a smooth design that is comfortable to hold.
Multiple set-up options are available, including the quick set-up option that does almost all of the work for you. At a very affordable price this simply-designed universal remote is perfect for anyone looking for an easy answer to consolidating the number of remote controls you need to use at once.
SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote with Hub and App
Source: Amazon.com
The SofaBaton X1 Universal Remote is an all-in-one smart remote control that works with over 60 devices including TVs, sound bars and streaming players. The X1 remote control itself is enough for all devices, and the updated X1 app makes it easy to configure with “Reassign the Button,” and “Macro Button” features. It also has “One-TouchActivities,” and is compatible with Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistance for voice control.
The powerful signal X1 hub that’s included allows for control of devices even in closed cabinets. A straightforward and convenient remote control, it’s a top pick because of its versatility and compatibility.
Universal Big Button TV Remote – EasyMote
Source: Amazon.com
With a simplistic design in a compact dorm, the Universal Big Button TV Remote – Easy Mote controls both your TV and cable box (IR) with the same remote, and works with all major IR (infrared) TVs and Set Top Boxes. The remote has six large, bright, backlit buttons for basic TV control with clear text for easy-to-see use even in the dark.
This particular remote is highly recommended for seniors, caregivers, loved ones or someone with low or impaired vision. Overall, users highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a simple and easy-to-use universal remote option.
Choose the best universal remote that works for you
Choosing the best universal remote depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the devices you want to control, the features you need and your budget before making a purchase. Then, look for remotes with clear and easy-to-read buttons, learning capabilities and compatibility with your devices. With the right universal remote, you can simplify your home entertainment experience and enjoy more control and convenience.
Source: apartmentguide.com