Have you become tired of using multiple remotes to control your media room? If yes, then you need a smart solution to this problem. And it’s called, a universal remote. Such remotes can easily consolidate the controls of all your home theatre equipment into a single easy-to-grab device. This means you can easily switch channels on your Spectrum TV while controlling the volume of your sound system from a single remote.
Like different home theater devices, the universal remote is also made by various companies. Their cost can range from hundreds of dollars to $10 or below. Considering this, it becomes hard for the users to figure out the remote they should go for, and the company they should trust. However, you don’t need to worry! This article will list down five of the best universal remotes you can’t go wrong with.
#1. Logitech Harmony 665
If you are looking for a universal remote that is both cheap and is packed with different useful features then Harmony 665 is your answer. This device improves over its previous model Harmony 650 in three ways;
- It can control 10 devices
- The buttons are backlit, allowing you to use them easily in the dark
- Let’s you program up to 23 channels for quick access from the color screen
For Logitech Harmony 665 to work, you will need an internet-enabled PC. Once the device is connected, you can perform multiple functions such as ‘Watch TV.’ This option will turn on your television, and cable/satellite box. Also, it will connect your TV to the right input. Please keep in mind that it is an infrared remote and would only be able to control devices such as cable box, A/V receiver, and television. It would not let you control Bluetooth devices like a Playstation.
#2. Logitech Harmony Companion
The second option on the list is also from Logitech called the Harmony Companion. It is designed for the 21st century and can let you control 8 devices from smart TVs to Philips Hue lights. Also, you can use it to control A/V components. Plus, you can download its app for both Apple and Android which will help you control the compatible devices. You would also receive the Harmony Hub which can be perceived as the brain of the system. It sends the command via both Bluetooth and infrared depending on the device that you want to control. Best of all, the remote sends wireless signals which can work even through walls.
The Logitech Harmony Companion is integrated with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. So, for instance, if you have a smart speaker then you can simply command either Google or Alexa to switch on the television. It also has a long-lasting battery.
#3. GE 33709
Are you in search of a universal remote that can perform just the basic functions? If yes then GE 33709 is just for you. It allows you to control 4 infrared devices. This remote control has a simple design and is equipped with a basic D-pad. You can use this device if you don’t like using touch screens or don’t want to program the device with a mobile application.
#4. SofaBaton U1
Logitech remotes are highly reliable and great but the only drawback is that it forces the users to choose between compatibility and affordability. This creates a gap for a remote to include both of their strengths and that device is SofaBaton U1. What makes it so special is that it controls both Bluetooth and IR devices. It can control up to 15 hardware pieces. You can also use it wirelessly with the help of the SofaBaton U1 app which is available for both Android and iOS.
The remote control has an OLED display at the top which you can use to connect the device that you want to control. However, the buttons are not backlit which will make it a bit difficult for you to use them in a dark room. This remote is best for those who own a lot of different devices but don’t want to spend much on a universal remote.
#5. Logitech Harmony Elite
Logitech Harmony Elite is the perfect remote control for those who want an an-in-one feature. It is a fitting option to conclude this list. Unsurprisingly, it is a bit on the pricier side. The device is stylish in its looks and has a colored touchscreen. If you buy this remote, then you will get two IR mini-blasters along with the Harmony Hub. It will also include a charging station which you will use to charge the Harmony Elite. This device is best for anyone who wants to control every equipment of in their home theatre with a single remote.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Although the Harmony remotes by Logitech has dominated the list but don’t overlook GE 33709 and SofaBaton U1 as both of them will best cater to the needs of their respective users. The Logitech Harmony 665 will require you an internet connection to make it work. Therefore, make sure that you have subscribed to Spectrum internet or any other network that promises a stable connection. Keep these options in mind if you are planning to buy a universal remote and you won’t be disappointed!
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