best universal remotes

11 Best Universal Remotes of 2024 [#11 is New!]

In Remotes: Other by Tim Brennan1 Comment

Affiliate Disclosure

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this blog post, I’ll explore the best universal remotes you can get this year, diving into what makes them stand out in a competitive market.

So without further ado, here are my top universal remote picks for 2023:

One Remote to Rule Them All

As a tech blogger who has tested and written over 50 universal remotes, I’ve developed a passion for reviewing the best of the best in this constantly evolving market. This has been an especially interesting year, with some cool best universal remotes cartoonnew players entering the fray and established brands refining their offerings.

When Logitech discontinued its famous Harmony line of remotes in 2021, the company left a void in the industry for others to fill.

Thankfully, this has led to a surge of innovation as newcomers and leading brands vie for the top spot in the universal remote game.

At the risk of being a bit sheepish, I’m thrilled to have you along as I look at the best universal remotes of 2023. We’ll explore some fresh innovations and reliable favorites, and I’ll share some insights from my personal experiences along the way.

While there is no perfect remote, they keep getting smarter each year. I pledge to do my best to blog about them until we find that ever-elusive one remote to rule them all.


Best Universal Remotes: Tim’s Top 3 Picks

Here’s a simple comparison table highlighting the key specifications of the top three best universal remotes on my list.

My Pick
SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote Control with Hub and APP Setting, Smart All in One Remote with Customize One-Touch Activities, Compatible with 500,000+ IR/Bluetooth/WiFi Devices/Alexa/Google Assistant
Best App
BroadLink RM4 pro Smart Remote and Sensor Cable Set RM4 pro S (2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Only), Universal IR RF Remote Control Hub with Temperature Humidity Monitor USB Cable, Works with Alexa & IFTTT
Best Voice Control
Amazon Fire TV Cube (newest model), Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD
Sofabaton X1S
Broadlink RM4 Pro
Amazon Fire TV Cube
Devices Controlled
15
Unlimited*
Limited to Compatible Devices
Favorite Channels
Smart Home Controls
Voice Assistant Support
Alexa, Google Assistant
Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri
Alexa
Mobile App
Alexa, Google Assistant
Yes (iOS, Android)
Yes (iOS, Android)
Mobile App
Easy, Mobile App
Moderate, Mobile App
Easy, Mobile App
Battery Life
2-3 months (depends on usage)
N/A
N/A
Power Source
Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
5V/1A Power Adapter
AC Power Adapter
Size (in inches)
5.6
4.6 x 4.6 x 1.3
3.4 x 3.4 x 3.0
Weight (in ounces)
5.6
6.2
16.4
My Pick
SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote Control with Hub and APP Setting, Smart All in One Remote with Customize One-Touch Activities, Compatible with 500,000+ IR/Bluetooth/WiFi Devices/Alexa/Google Assistant
Sofabaton X1S
Devices Controlled
15
Favorite Channels
Smart Home Controls
Voice Assistant Support
Alexa, Google Assistant
Mobile App
Alexa, Google Assistant
Mobile App
Easy, Mobile App
Battery Life
2-3 months (depends on usage)
Power Source
Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Size (in inches)
5.6
Weight (in ounces)
5.6
Best App
BroadLink RM4 pro Smart Remote and Sensor Cable Set RM4 pro S (2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Only), Universal IR RF Remote Control Hub with Temperature Humidity Monitor USB Cable, Works with Alexa & IFTTT
Broadlink RM4 Pro
Devices Controlled
Unlimited*
Favorite Channels
Smart Home Controls
Voice Assistant Support
Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri
Mobile App
Yes (iOS, Android)
Mobile App
Moderate, Mobile App
Battery Life
N/A
Power Source
5V/1A Power Adapter
Size (in inches)
4.6 x 4.6 x 1.3
Weight (in ounces)
6.2
Best Voice Control
Amazon Fire TV Cube (newest model), Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD
Amazon Fire TV Cube
Devices Controlled
Limited to Compatible Devices
Favorite Channels
Smart Home Controls
Voice Assistant Support
Alexa
Mobile App
Yes (iOS, Android)
Mobile App
Easy, Mobile App
Battery Life
N/A
Power Source
AC Power Adapter
Size (in inches)
3.4 x 3.4 x 3.0
Weight (in ounces)
16.4

Last update on 11/29/2024 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Note: Broadlink can control unlimited devices as long as they are compatible with the app and within IR range.

#1 – Editor’s Choice: Sofabaton X1S

As an owner of the Sofabaton X1S universal remote, I’m impressed with its performance and user-friendly design. This remote controls up to 60 devices, making it ideal for managing my home entertainment components.

Best universal remotes

My Sofabaton X1S

The mobile app simplifies the setup process, and the customizable OLED screen allows me to create and display my favorite activities with one press of a button.

One of the standout features of the Sofabaton X1S is its compatibility with a wide range of devices, including TVs, DVD players, Blu-ray players, projectors, AV receivers, soundbars, and streaming boxes. It also provides limited support for smart home devices like Philips Hue lights and Sonos speakers.

The rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides a staggering two months of battery life on a single charge, which is better than any remote I have tested.

SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote Control with Hub and APP
$189.99

The X1S is compatible with smart assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control for activating activities and interacting with your smart home entertainment systems.

Buy At Amazon
11/28/2024 12:01 pm GMT

Pros

  • Compatible with up to 60 devices
  • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery with up to two months of battery life
  • Customizable OLED screen for favorite activities
  • Backlit buttons for easy use in the dark
  • Works with smart home devices, including Hue lights and Sonos speakers

Cons

  • App-based setup process is be a bit time consuming
  • No touchscreen

Video Review

You can check out this unboxing video I recorded of the X1 on my YouTube channel. Please subscribe!


The Broadlink RM4 Pro is one of the best universal remotes for your smartphone. This hub and app combo offers exceptional mobile app support, making it one of my favorite universal remotes. Its intuitive smartphone app lets me easily control hundreds of home entertainment and smart home devices, including legacy IR devices like ceiling fans and old-school remotes.

Setting up the remote is straightforward, thanks to the app’s step-by-step guidance. Once up and running, I can seamlessly control and customize my home entertainment system. I especially love the app’s voice control feature that works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

With compatibility for various devices, including TVs, set-top boxes, and air conditioning units, the Broadlink RM4 Pro features a built-in IR blaster and RF signal capabilities, making it a versatile all-in-one solution for home automation.

Pros

  • Controls most IR devices and can automate dumb devices
  • Extensive customization options through mobile app
  • Voice control feature with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
  • Built-in IR blaster and RF signal capabilities

Cons

  • Doesn’t work with Bluetooth
  • Only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks issues
  • [/icon_list_item]

Video Review

Video Credit: BroadLink International


#3 – Best Voice Control: Fire TV Cube

My Fire TV Cube

My Fire TV Cube

I’ve owned all three generations of the Fire TV Cube, and I must say that the 3rd generation is a significant improvement. The blazing-fast performance with an octa-core processor and Wi-Fi 6E support ensures smoother streaming.

The true-to-life, cinematic 4K with support for Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio provides an impressive viewing experience. The hands-free Alexa with built-in mic and speakers makes controlling my entertainment system a breeze, even from across the room.

Navigating between my entertainment has also been made easier with the Fire TV Cube. Connecting compatible devices and going from streaming to a cable box, game console, or webcam has never been easier. Plus, managing my smart home right on the screen with Alexa is a great feature I always use. While not one of the best universal remotes per se, the new Alexa remote that comes with the Cube is decent, and you can also upgrade to the Pro version.

Best Voice Control
Fire TV Cube, Hands-free streaming device with Alexa, Wi-Fi 6E, 4K Ultra HD
$139.99 $99.99
  • Brings lightning-fast app starts with an octa-core processor and is 2X as powerful as Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
  • Control your compatible TV, soundbar, and receivers with your voice using Alexa, even from across the room.
Check Price Full Review
11/29/2024 04:00 am GMT

Pros

  • Lightning-fast performance with an octa-core processor
  • Hands-free Alexa with built-in mic and speakers
  • Seamlessly navigate between entertainment
  • Smoother streaming with Wi-Fi 6E support
  • True-to-life, cinematic 4K and support for Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio

Cons

  • Not all cable boxes and game consoles are compatible
  • Some users may prefer a simpler remote-based control system.
  • Costs more than Firestick for a lot of the same functionality.

Video Review

Check out this unboxing video I did over at my YouTube channel. Please subscribe!


#4 – Budget Sofabaton: U2

The Sofabaton U2 Universal Remote is an impressive upgrade from its predecessor, the U1, bringing an array of enhancements to both design and functionality. It is an excellent choice for users who want a refined, user-friendly, and efficient universal remote experience at an affordable price.

The U2 remote sports a more elegant design, featuring smoother edges and a sleek finish. The buttons are larger and provide a satisfying click, making it more enjoyable. Furthermore, the remote’s infrared range is extended to 35 feet, increasing its versatility in larger spaces. Additionally, the battery compartment is now easier to access, adding to its overall user-friendly design.

However, there are a few drawbacks to the U2 model. The OLED display is slightly dimmer than its predecessor, and the price point is higher than the U1.

Best Budget Universal
SofaBaton U2 Universal Remote
$59.99

The improved Sofabaton U2 remote features a better design, more responsive buttons, enhanced infrared performance, and easier battery replacement, making it a worthy upgrade from its U1 predecessor.

Buy at Amazon Full Review
11/29/2024 05:00 am GMT

Pros

  • Elegant design with smoother edges
  • Larger, responsive buttons for enhanced usability
  • Smartphone app for easy setup
  • Extended infrared range (35 ft)
  • Simplified battery compartment access
  • Better off-axis functionality

Cons

  • Slightly dimmer OLED display
  • Increased price point compared to U1
  • Lacks “Find My Remote” feature

Video Review

Video Credit: A-HIT


#5 – For Apple TV: Function101

I have also been testing the Function101 remote for my Apple TV, and I love it. This well-designed alternative to the traditional Apple TV remote focuses on simplicity and ease of use.

As one of the best universal remotes for Apple TV, the Function101 remote offers a refreshing change of pace for Apple TV users with its simple, straightforward design. Its durable build quality and dedicated volume and channel buttons make it a pleasure to use, while the infrared technology ensures reliable control of your device. The remote operates on AAA batteries, so there’s no need to worry about charging it.

Best for Apple TV
Function101 Button Remote for Apple TV/Apple TV 4K
  • Designed with traditional remote control buttons customers are used to, navigating Apple TV is easy with the Function101 Button Remote.
  • Infrared technology (IR) requires line and sight and will allow you to synchronize the remote control with your TV in seconds to control power, volume, and mute functions.
Buy from Amazon Buy from Function101

Pros

  • Compatible with Apple TV out of the box
  • Simple, straightforward design
  • Durable build quality
  • Infrared technology for reliable control
  • Dedicated volume and channel buttons

Cons

  • Limited compatibility beyond Apple TV
  • No voice assistant integration
  • Lacks advanced features found in some other remotes
  • No backlit buttons


#6 – Premium Pick: Harmony Elite

My Logitech Harmony Elite

My Harmony Elite

I have owned the Harmony Elite remote for several years, and while it’s no longer my top pick, it is still one of the best remotes out there. The Harmony line has been discontinued, but limited quantities are available at a premium price. The remote features a swipe-and-tap color LCD touchscreen, a sleek design, and customizable buttons, offering functionality and style.

Logitech’s extensive database of over 270,000 supported devices ensures compatibility with a broad range of home theater equipment, and you can also use it to control numerous smart devices.

The Harmony Elite provides comprehensive support for voice assistants, including Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. The remote also enables seamless automation through one-button activities like “Watch TV,” “Date Night,” or “Good Morning,” which can integrate various smart home functions for a truly customized experience.

Premium Pick
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App
$399.99

Once the best luxury remote to own, the discontinued-but-still-supported Harmony Elite remains a premium option for home theater and smart home controlif you can get your hands on one.

Check Availability
11/29/2024 05:00 am GMT

Pros

  • Swipe-and-tap color LCD touchscreen
  • Customizable buttons
  • Extensive device compatibility
  • Broad support for smart speakers
  • Seamless automation with Activities

Cons

  • Discontinued product line
  • Available at a premium price

Check out my all-time-favorite Harmony review of the Elite from TeQreation here. Love the special effects!

? Related: 9 Best Logitech  Harmony Alternatives


#7 – Mid-Range Universal: Inteset

The Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Backlit IR Learning Remote offers a reliable, straightforward solution for managing multiple devices. It allows you to control up to four devices, including streaming boxes, gaming consoles, and cable or satellite receivers.

This remote stands out with its pre-programmed device buttons, customizable macro buttons, and backlit keys for easy use in dimly lit environments. However, it lacks advanced features like voice control and smart home integration.

Budget Universal Alternative
Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Backlit Remote
$45.95
  • Solid budget remote has been a fan favorite for years. It won't control your smart home, but it will control up to four home theater devices.
  • Pre-programmed for Apple TV, Xbox One, Media Center, and Roku device codes, which are easily changed. Full LED Backlighting-All buttons.
Buy at Amazon

Pros

  • Controls up to four devices
  • Pre-programmed and customizable buttons
  • Backlit keys for easy use in the dark

Cons

  • No voice control
  • Limited smart home integration
  • IR-based technology with no RF support


#8 – Best For Seniors: Flipper

The Flipper Big Button Remote is a simple, user-friendly remote designed for seniors or those who prefer a minimalist approach. It combines TV and cable/satellite controls, eliminating the need for multiple remotes.

This remote features large, easy-to-read buttons and a straightforward design, making it accessible for users with limited dexterity or vision. However, it lacks advanced features found in more comprehensive universal remotes.

Best for Seniors
Flipper Big Button Universal TV Remote for Seniors, Dementia - TVs and Cable Set Top Boxes (STBs) - Simple Setup, Favorites, IR Devices Like Spectrum, Xfinity, Dish, Samsung, LG, Vizio, etc (2024)
$39.95
  • The Flipper Remote is designed to be senior-friendly with large color-coded tactile buttons for easy use. Only 3 functions: On/Off, Channel Up, Channel Down, Volume Up, Volume Down, and Mute.
  • Great for elderly loved ones with Dementia, Alzheimer's, or someone with low and impaired vision. Controls both TV and Cable, Satellite, or DTV box. Works for all major TVs and set-top boxes: Xfinity, Spectrum, Dish, Direct TV, Tivo, and others.
Check Price My Full Review
11/28/2024 07:00 pm GMT

Pros

  • Combines TV and cable/satellite controls
  • Large, easy-to-read buttons
  • User-friendly design

Cons

  • No advanced features
  • Limited device compatibility
  • Lacks smart home integration


#9 – Best Cheap Universal: GE

The GE Universal Remote is a budget-friendly remote that offers a range of features to control multiple devices. It’s pre-programmed to work with various devices, including TVs, cable/satellite boxes, DVD/Blu-ray players, and streaming devices.

This remote boasts an easy-to-use design with large, backlit buttons for simple operation in dimly lit environments. It also offers advanced features like a dedicated “Netflix” button and voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. However, it lacks some of the more advanced features in higher-end remotes.

Cheap Budget Pick
GE Universal Remote Control
$10.99 $9.88
  • Controls 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, Soundbars, and More.
  • This universal remote comes pre-programmed for Samsung TVs and Roku boxes, works with all major brands, and supports thousands of the latest audio and video equipment.
Buy at Amazon
11/28/2024 12:00 pm GMT

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Pre-programmed for a wide range of devices
  • Backlit buttons for easy use in the dark
  • Dedicated “Netflix” button
  • Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

  • Limited compatibility beyond pre-programmed devices
  • Lacks advanced features found in higher-end remotes
  • Plastic build quality feels somewhat cheap

Video Review

Video Credit: Take a Bath Productions


#10 – Cheap Alternative: Philips

Next on my list of the best universal remotes is this super inexpensive Phlips Universal Remote, which is pre-programmed to work with various devices, including TVs, cable/satellite boxes, and DVD/Blu-ray players. The large, backlit buttons make it easy to use in the dark, and there are macro buttons for customized commands. It even has a dedicated “Netflix” button for quick access.

However, there are some limitations to this remote. Its compatibility is limited to pre-programmed devices and lacks advanced features like voice control and smart home integration. Like the GE remote, the plastic build quality feels cheap.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Pre-programmed for a variety of devices
  • Large, backlit buttons for easy use in the dark
  • Macro buttons for customized commands
  • Dedicated “Netflix” button for quick access

Cons

  • Limited device compatibility beyond pre-programmed devices
  • Lacks advanced features found in higher-end remotes
  • Plasticy cheap feel


#11 – One to Watch: Yio Remote Two

I wanted to include the Yio Remote Two on my list of the best universal remotes. Why? This is an up-and-coming universal remote that promises to be the ultimate controller for a smart home. While I haven’t had the opportunity to test it yet, I have it on pre-order, and you can join the waitlist and be notified when it becomes available.

One of the standout features of the Yio Remote Two is its sleek, minimalist design. It has a high-quality aluminum body and a beautiful 3.5-inch touchscreen display. The remote is highly customizable, allowing you to create custom themes and button layouts.

The Yio Remote Two offers support for voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, as well as a variety of smart home protocols like Zigbee and Z-Wave. This means you can control everything from your lights and thermostat to your TV and home theater system, all from one device.

Overall, the Yio Remote Two looks to be a promising option for those looking for a powerful and highly customizable universal remote. While it is unavailable, you can join the waitlist to be notified when it becomes available. However, its high price point and limited availability may make it less accessible for some users.

One to Watch
Yio Remote Two

The Yio Remote Two is not available yet available.

However, you can join the Denmark-based company's waitlist by clicking on the Reserve button below.

Reserve Yio Here Learn More

Pros

  • Sleek, minimalist design with a high-quality aluminum body
  • Highly customizable with custom themes and button layouts
  • Promises support for voice assistants and a wide range of smart home protocols
  • Ability to potentially control a variety of devices from one remote

Cons

  • Limited availability at the moment
  • Unknown performance until it is released
  • Expensive compared to other universal remotes on the market


Best Universal Remotes: What Do You Think?

I hope you enjoyed my review of the best universal remotes you can get right now.

So which do you think are the best remotes out there? Do you agree with my picks?  Perhaps there is a product you like better than didn’t make my list?  Do you believe that there is one remote to rule them all?

Please leave me a comment below and let me know.

Also, if you liked my review, would you mind sharing it using any social media buttons at the top or bottom of this page?

Here’s a video recap of all my top picks if you are interested:


You Might Also Like

If you enjoyed reading this article about the best universal remotes, you might also like some of my other articles about remotes for various streaming devices.  I’ll list a few of them here.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tim Brennan

Tim Brennan is a technology blogger and hosts the @TecTimmy YouTube channel. He writes about smart homes at oneSmartcrib, home theaters at UniversalRemoteReviews, and AI in writing at Writeinteractive. A graduate of Northeastern University School of Journalism, he has written about technology for 30 years. Tim lives on the ocean in Nahant, Massachusetts.


Got Tech?

Please subscribe to my YouTube channel for a fun take on all things tech.

Views: 64

Comments

  1. Wow, I can’t believe how far universal remotes have come! I still remember the old days of fumbling through menus and programming codes. The new feature on the #11 remote is just what I need for my TV setup. Thanks for the helpful review!

Leave a Comment