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Where possible, check compatibility of your remote-controlled devices with an intended universal remote purchase Looking to replace a faulty, broken or missing remote? You can save bucks on a cheaper universal remote Cheaper universal remotes can still control multiple devices, particularly if you’re only looking for TV controls (including attached playback devices) The more devices you want to control, the more you’ll have to spend Smart home functionality tends to be exclusive to high-end universal remotes Programming cheaper universal remotes is more painful than expensive options, but you really only need to program a cheaper option once Universal remotes with backlit buttons or LCD screens make low-light navigation easier Cheaper universal remotes tend to use replaceable batteries, while more expensive options may have a rechargeable battery
There are also cheaper universal remotes like the Sansai 5in1 from online outlets like Kogan.com that’s designed to either replace or consolidate up to five entertainment devices. The Essence 2, for instance, is built to control two multimedia devices (TV, set-top boxes, etc.) or you can opt for the Essence 3 or Essence 4 to – you guessed it – replace the remote controls for three or four multimedia devices, respectively. One For All’s Streamer Remote is a simplified universal remote with fewer buttons and backlit keys. It’s designed to combo with three devices: for example, TV, soundbar and streaming devices. The Logitech Harmony 350 is an affordable better-than-starter universal remote that can control up to eight remotes, more specifically video-playback devices like TV, set-top boxes, Blu-ray players, home theatre systems, and so on. It can be configured for one-touch options for watching TV, which would turn on the tele, the sound, and even a set-top box (if required). If those macro functions are of interest, though, it’s worth looking at the pricier Logitech Harmony 650. It can replace the same number of devices as the 350, but one-click activities are easier to program via the colour screen. Both the Companion and Elite do come with remotes, but you can just as easily use the Logitech universal remote app on your tablet or smartphone to control devices without actually needing the remote. What kind of devices? Outside of the multimedia devices of cheaper universal remotes, the Harmony Hub can be used to control game consoles, smart lights, smart locks, shades, plugs, and smart home hubs. This means that those same macro functions for a single-press solution that’d otherwise involve multiple remotes can also be applied to compatible smart devices. So, for instance, watching Netflix can be complemented by automatic dimming of smart lights.
