Best TV-Remotes for Your Convenience

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 25, 2023
If you’ve got at least 5 remotes in your place, you'll definitely estimate universal remote control that will let you switch ...Read more
PROS
Easy setup and compatibility with all types of devices. Music streaming and controlling within the range of up to 150 feet. Regularly updatable software.
CONS
The bright LED backlight may dazzle you when you are in a dark room.
OUR VERDICT
This digital TV remote is the best choice for those who want to forget about remotes at all and manage all home appliances from a smartphone or tablet.
detailed parameters
Compatible devices
TV, Stereo receiver, DVD and Blu-ray players, CD players, Cable boxes, iOS, Android and Apple Watch
Wireless interfaces
Bluetooth receiver to connect to smartphones and tablets
Features
Programming mode, Backlighting, Macro function
Number of controlled devices
48
Range, feet
150
Number of buttons
No buttons
Touchscreen
Yes
PROS
Simplicity in use. High-quality build. The macro function is able to prerecord 32 commands.
CONS
Incompatible with some Anthem® receivers. The buttons are backlit only when pressed.
OUR VERDICT
This programming TV remote will be perfect for data streaming appliances and over 100,000 devices.
detailed parameters
Compatible devices
TVs, Sound Bars, Windows Media Center, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Kodi, Media Center, Nvidia Shield, Matricom Roku, Apple TV and more
Wireless interfaces
IR signal
Features
Programming mode, Learning mode, Backlighting, Macro function
Number of controlled devices
4
Range, feet
30
Number of buttons
54
Touchscreen
No
PROS
Versatile and comfortable to hold in the arm. Wear-resistant body. Easy programming through free Logitech database.
CONS
Quite a short battery life - from 3 to 4 months. No driver to connect the remote to USB 3.0 when programming.
OUR VERDICT
This very easy-to-use universal TV remote can be set up from PC or Mac and is compatible with more than 225 000 devices of 5 000 brands.
detailed parameters
Compatible devices
AV receivers, TVs, Satellite receivers, Media players, Blu-ray players
Wireless interfaces
IR signal, Radio channel
Features
Macro function, LCD display, USB Programming mode, Learning mode, Backlighting
Number of controlled devices
8
Range, feet
< 30
Number of buttons
55
Touchscreen
No
PROS
Sturdy body and sensitive buttons. Good ergonomics and advanced learning function. Long battery life.
CONS
Batteries are not included. No backlight.
OUR VERDICT
This is the great and cheap programming TV remote with good functionality allowing you to manage up to 8 AV devices at the same time.
detailed parameters
Compatible devices
Audio/video devices, DVD players, Videocassette recorders, Blu-Ray players, Digital video recorders
Wireless interfaces
Radio channel N/A, Two IR LEDs
Features
Macro function, Programming mode, Learning mode
Number of controlled devices
8
Range, feet
36
Number of buttons
65
Touchscreen
No
PROS

Has a special button for turning on the backlight, which makes it more convenient to switch channels, rewind videos etc in the dark.

CONS

The remote requires programming every time you change batteries.

OUR VERDICT

It is one of the most affordable TV remotes in the class. It can support up to 4 different media devices, from 325 brands, simultaneously. If you'd like to have one remote to manage all of the devices in your house, this universal remote from RCA is certainly what you need. 

detailed parameters
Compatible devices

TVs, SAT/CBL/DTC receivers, DVD/VCR/DVR players, Cable boxes

Wireless interfaces

IR signal

Features

Green backlit keypad, Volume and transport key punch-through

Number of controlled devices

4

Range, feet

~30

Number of buttons

49

Touchscreen

No

Compatibility

Blumoo Universal Remote will turn your smartphone or tablet into a remote control compatible with TV, stereo receivers, DVD and Blu-ray players, CD players, cable boxes, iOS, Android, and Apple Watch. The remote will be set up within a few minutes and requires Bluetooth, IOS 4.0 or Android 4.0 or higher to establish the connection. This universal TV remote is compatible with more than 250 000 devices.

Programming methods

This digital TV remote is super easy to set up and operate. Put Blumoo on the table, turn it on and download the Blumoo app from Google or Apple store. The user-friendly interface of the app will help you to get connected to all the devices. Specify your zip code to get the list of local TV providers, then choose the brand and model of your TV. You may add the other devices after as well and to take control over your home entertainment center.

Functionality

Blumoo will allow you to set and give the commands with one touch thanks to macro command function and has the buttons for simplified equipment setup. TV Guide installed on your smartphone will help to find the needed show, help to organize the channels and mark as your favorites. Blumoo will synchronize and control all the devices via cloud technology and can be customized by each member of your family.
Last updated price $17.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B00JEMMD9Q

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What customers say about this product

Key Specs(4)

The app connects to the Blumoo device through bluetooth quickly, within a second for me.

Size & Weight(4)

This little device sets up easy and does a lot for your home entertainment system.

Features(4.6)

This was bought to control our TV with Alexa since it was advertised as compatible. Setting up macros in the app for iOS was a breeze. Using the iPad as a remote was wonderful too, and the app is five stars by itself easily.

Compatibility

The Inteset Technologies INT-422 is a universal TV remote intended to control the well-known data streaming platforms like Apple, TV, Xbox ONE, Windows Media Center and Roku. The remote contains the huge code database, so it can be connected to plenty of devices. The remote features 4 buttons at the top to pre-program several appliances, so you can control all of them at the same time conveniently and effortlessly.

Programming methods

This programming TV remote is programmed by selection of the proper code from the available database. If your device is not recognized by remote, you can program all functions through the learning function. You can also assign the previously unused buttons to control your TV or stereo system. The self-adhesive labels can be placed under the buttons and will help you to find the right keys with ease.

Functionality

This universal TV remote contains 54 buttons for easy control of multiple devices. Red, green, yellow and blue button of this remote act as standard control buttons of Xbox (B, A, Y, X). When you use Media Center, these buttons provide the access to TV broadcasting and movies, images and videos. For Roku, they open Netflix®, Pandora® and Crackle® apps. The Volume Lock function helps to fix the volume in different modes and macro support allows you to program the chain of commands (up to 15).
Last updated price $25.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B00M4I1BAY

What customers say about this product

Key Specs(4)

Very easy to setup and the range and responsiveness is great.

Size & Weight(4.8)

The back side of the remote as a nice satin finish instead of just shiny hard plastic and the weight feels about right for a solid remote.

Features(4.9)

The Inteset will control up to four devices, those who need more should be aware of this limitation.

Compatibility

Logitech Harmony 650 features the constantly updatable database supporting more than 225 000 devices of 5000 brands. With this TV remote, you will be able to control not just the devices you currently have but those you will get in the future since all of them will be included in the database automatically. Therefore, you won't have to look for another remote and program it over and over again to control the new devices.

Programming methods

Logitech Harmony 650 is programmed through the online setup with PC or Mac compatible with Windows 8, 7, Vista, Windows XP and Intel powered by Mac OS X 10.6 or higher. You just have to connect your remote to computer or laptop and pick the devices you will control. The software will guide you through the setup online, just make sure your Internet connection is stable and good. Once you complete, you can enjoy the easy controlling!

Functionality

Logitech Harmony 650 is equipped with a color display for easy navigation showing the icons of favorite channels. This remote is able to control up to eight devices at the same time. The buttons are grouped so you won't be in a maze and the backlight will let you see your remote in the dark. You can turn any device on and change the settings with a single hit of a button.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $249.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B004OVECU0

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What customers say about this product

Key Specs(4)

One button turns on the projector, surround sound amp, and bluray player. I am able to control all the devices with just one remote and it actually works well with everything.

Features(4)

Smart, intuitive and easy commands to walk you out of tangles.

Compatibility

RM-VLZ620 provides centralized control of all your audio and video devices so you don't need to use other remotes. You can easily manage your TV, stereo system and DVD player at the same time through the IN/A radio channel. This remote features two infrared LEDs providing the stable connection within the range of up to 36 feet.

Programming methods

Sony RMVLX620 can be programmed to control most AV equipment. All you need to do is to set a specific code. Due to the learning function, it’s also easy to assign different Sony and non-Sony appliances to one of the 8 buttons, and control all of them with a single remote. The only fuss you’ll face is the necessity to set the given manufacturer’s code to each device. It’s only then when centralized control can be achieved and switching between the appliances becomes a snap.

Functionality

This programming TV remote features 12 macros to perform the sequence of control commands with just a single pressing a button. Learning of this remote is an important and usable feature allowing you to get the enhanced control over your audio and video equipment. Sony RMVLZ620 is able to keep up to 8 appliances controlled at the same time, so you will get convenient and smart assistant to manage your digital friends.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $127.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B00385XUG0

VIDEO

What customers say about this product

Key Specs(4.4)

It also has a wide range of transmission ability which is nice, so you don't have to aim right at the device.

Size & Weight(4)

The size and placement of the buttons (especially the volume and channel) are just about perfect.

Features(4.8)

The best part is that the macro functions make running a complicated AV system easy for occasional and new users. Programming takes a few minutes to figure out, but once you get it you can program it to do most things fairly quickly.

Best Bang for the Buck

Purchasing a universal remote control will be a good ideal if you're looking for a means of managing multiple media devices in the office or in your house. And if you'd like this remote to be reliable, quality yet not too expensive and easy-to-use, then we'd advise you to consider buying the RCRN04GZ 4 Device Universal Remote produced by RCA. Easily programmable and intuitive in use, this remote control will substitute for a bunch of remotes, giving you an easy way to control all of your electronic devices. It supports over 325 different brands and is able to control up to 4 devices simultaneously, which is quite impressive for the price it costs. Be sure, with its help, you'll be able to create comfortable conditions for you and for your family to program and handle audio and video equipment set up in your place. The RCRN04GZ 4 Device Universal Remote offers the expanded DVD and DVR capabilities as well as provides you with the option to control TV, SAT/CBL/DTC, DVD/VCR, and DVR/AUX, allowing you to easily switch between Satelite television and other popular channels, like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube etc. More importantly, the instructions that come with the RCRN04GZ 4 include a full list of codes for all sorts of media devices. Programming it is easy. If you do not want to enter the codes manually for one reason or another, the remote control offers an auto code feature that can facilitate this process even for those people who've never held a programmable TV remote in their hands before.

Additional Benefits

The RCA remote was carefully designed with user-friendliness in mind. It has a straightforward menu and the instructions included are clear on how the programming should be done to control different devices. The ergonomics of the remote is also great. You will like that all the keys on it are differently colored and it's easy to avoid the confusion as to what functions they perform. One of the more convenient features of this RCA remote, though, is that it has a green-lit backlighting which makes the keys bright and well visible even in the dark.

Taking into account all the features of the RCRNO4GZ, we'd definitely recommend it for purchasing. With this remote control, you will not only make your house a smarter place but will also reduce the number of all those unneeded remotes collecting dust on the shelves. Universal remote controls have never been so affordable before!

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $6.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B003EYV210

What customers say about this product

Key Specs(3.8)

Big, easy to see, easy to use buttons.

Features(4.5)

This remote is awesome. I use it to control my TV, Blu Ray player, and stereo receiver. It does everything it claims to do and I haven't had any issues with it, whatsoever.

Size & Weight(5)

Good size remote, not too large, not too small.

What Is a TV Remote?

Have you ever thought of combining all your remotes at home in one unit and program it to control all your home appliances? That can be possible with a universal remote. The device has been designed to control a few appliances of the same and different manufacturers by programming in specific codes so there is no need in use of any others. The abilities of the universal remotes are vast and we would like to tell you more about them in the review, so you can choose your best remote.

If you speak at presentations and large-scale lectures on a regular basis, you will probably be interested in presentation remotes and projector screens. This device will help you switch slides and point out the most important presentation parts.

In addition, people who adore watching films in their family circle, could get interested in the home theatres. Looking through our review, you will be able to figure out the most important usability and functionality features and choose the best model of a home theatre to meet your preferences and requirements without hitting your family budget. Be sure, you will be satisfied!

What Features to Compare

In this review, we will consider the key peculiarities worth your attention when choosing a universal remote. The first point is Сompatibility with equipment to be controlled, since your devices may not be recognized by a connection channel featured in a remote. Universal remotes may use infrared, ultrasonic or radio channel to control various devices. You should consider that even universal remotes may not recognize all models of equipment.

The next important feature of a universal remote is Рrogramming method. There are three programming methods: programming by codes, learning, and online programming. Programming by codes is based on "insertion" of control commands into the memory of the remote. The number of devices can be estimated at thousands and all you need to do is to pick the right code. Learning is the “teaching” of buttons performed by the original remote under certain algorithm. Your remote can "learn" from several remotes as well. Online programming features a specialized software packed with a remote to set it up and get connected to your devices. The advantage of this method is the regularly updatable database allowing you to be up with the latest appliances.

Functionality of remote is the last but not least feature to draw your attention to. Take into account the function of code reading. The code reading is catching and memorizing infrared signals sent from other remotes. This function is useful when the codes of devices are not included in a universal remote database and these codes can be simply read from the original remote. The number of control buttons is essential for convenience of use, in particular, if you need to control a lot of devices at the same time. It should be noted that every remote has got its own connection range and the number of supported devices. The function of macro commands allows you to give several commands by pressing a single button. The pre-recorded chain of commands can be performed in any operation mode. The backlighting of the keypad is also relevant. The shining buttons will let you quickly find your remote in the dark. It should be noted that some universal remotes are equipped with touch-sensitive LCD displays which simplify the assignment of functions, distribution of controls and switching between the controlled devices.

Sources:

1. TV Remote Control Buying Guide, eBay. March 3, 2016.

2. Matthew Torres How To Replace A Lost or Broken Remote Control, Lifewire. September 30, 2016.

3. Ralph Graves Universal remote buying guide, Crutchfield. November 30, 2016.

4. Remote control, Wikipedia. December 22, 2016.

5. Julia Layton How Remote Controls Work, HowStuffWorks.

6. How Does a Remote Control Work?, Wonderopolis.

7. Jim Hamblen IR and RF remote controls, Mbed. June 24, 2017.

8. How to Check if a Remote Control is Transmitting an Infrared Signal, wikiHow.

9. Remote control, Wikipedia. November 21, 2017.

10. Remote Control (RC), Techopedia.

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