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In this updated remote review, I compare the Sofabaton X1s vs U2 to help you decide which universal remote will best unify your smart home and home theater gear.
Clash of the Sofabaton Remotes
As the founder of this home theater website and OneSmartCrib.com, I’ve published over 100 articles about universal remotes and smart home gadgets—so you might say I’ve clicked more remote buttons than most people have had hot dinners.
Ever since Logitech discontinued Harmony remotes, I’ve been searching for worthy successors. In this post, I’ll compare the Sofabaton X1s vs U2, two leading options that have stepped up as Harmony replacements.
According to a recent market report by Allied Market Research, the universal remote industry is booming, driven by rising smart home adoption and a demand for simplified control. Sofabaton’s latest models clearly illustrate this growth with features Harmony fans know and love: programmable macros, OLED screens, and broad device compatibility.
Let’s dive into a detailed Sofabaton X1s vs U2 comparison to see which remote best suits your needs.
Key Takeaways
If you are short on time here are the main differences between the Sofabaton X1s and U2:
- Sofabaton X1s is built for smart home aficionados, offering app-driven voice commands, Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi support, and advanced device automation.
- Sofabaton U2 suits users valuing simplicity, with long‑lasting AA battery life, tactile macro buttons, and reliable IR control for traditional entertainment gear.
- Both remotes provide solid compatibility with a broad spectrum of devices, from streaming sticks to game consoles, perfect for consolidating multiple remotes.
Sofabaton X1S vs U2: Comparison Table
The following table compares key Sofabaton X1S vs U2 technical specs side by side.
Last update on 07/30/2025 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sofabaton X1s – Smart Power
At a Glance
- Type: App‑connected universal remote with IR hub and extender
- Use Case: Advanced smart home setups, multi‑device entertainment systems
- Display: Large 2.0″ OLED with scroll wheel
- Voice Assistants: Alexa & Google Assistant via app and hub
- Best For: Power users replacing Harmony, seeking automation and voice control
Full disclosure, while I did plenty of testing of the Sofabaton X1s vs U2, I’ve been relying on the Sofabaton X1s for over a year as my primary living room remote. Its combination of a powerful hub, dual IR blasters, and broad wireless protocols gives it unparalleled reach—even behind closed cabinets.
The accompanying mobile app streamlines device grouping into smart “activities.” For example, my “Watch Netflix” button dims lights, turns on the soundbar, switches the TV input, and launches the app—all in one tap or voice command.
The scroll wheel makes flipping between 60+ devices effortless, and the OLED screen is bright and crisp. Battery life is impressive, with a single charge lasting around a week in daily use.
Smart home integration is smooth: Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands via the app add hands‑free convenience to a polished overall experience. This remote is my go‑to for total control with minimal hassle.
Pros
Cons
Where to Get It
You can check current pricing and availability at Amazon:
The SofaBaton X1S controls up to 60 IR, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices with a hub, app, and voice commands.
Sofabaton U2 – Practical Performance
At a Glance
- Type: Standalone IR and Bluetooth universal remote (no hub)
- Use Case: Simpler home theaters, secondary remote needs
- Display: Compact 1.3″ OLED with scroll wheel
- Voice Assistants: None
- Best For: Budget‑conscious users valuing reliability and ease
I’ve also tested the Sofabaton U2 extensively. While it doesn’t have the X1s’ bells and whistles, it delivers reliable IR and Bluetooth control with a tactile feel that’s surprisingly satisfying.
The eight dedicated macro buttons simplify multi-command sequences like powering on your TV, switching HDMI inputs, and adjusting volume in one go. Battery life is excellent, powered by two AA batteries that last months.
Setup is straightforward since there’s no hub. You just pair via Bluetooth, and you’re off to the races. The U2 is perfect if voice commands and app-based automations aren’t on your must-have list.
In the Sofabaton X1s vs U2 battle, the U2 shines as the practical, no-nonsense universal remote for everyday use.
Pros
Cons
Where to Get It
You can check current pricing and availability at Amazon:
The SofaBaton U2 adds a backlight, better IR, and a better design over the U1.
Similarities and Differences
In comparing Sofabaton X1S vs U2 here are the key similarities and differences between these two remotes.
Sofabaton X1S vs U2 : Similarities
Sofabaton X1S vs U2: Differences
🪄Related: Sofabaton vs Harmony: How They Compare
What’s in the Box
In this section I’ll compare the box contents of the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 and also share a few videos.
My New in the Box X1S and U1
Sofabaton X1S
Sofabaton U2
My X1 Unboxing
Here is my YouTube video unboxing of the Softbaton X1. The company just sent me the X1S model to test and I will get more videos up soon.
Please subscribe to my @TecTimmy YouTube channel!X1S Review
Thanks to my boy Kpaceguy for the stellar X1S video and review.
FAQ
Can the Sofabaton X1s replace my old Harmony remote?
Yes. In the Sofabaton X1s vs U2 debate, the X1s excels as a Harmony replacement, offering advanced macros, app‑based control, voice integration, and support for devices behind cabinets. Although setup differs slightly from Harmony, the X1s provides comparable versatility and enhanced smart‑home compatibility, making it the superior modern alternative for Harmony fans.
Is the Sofabaton U2 easy for beginners to set up and use?
Absolutely. The Sofabaton U2 was designed specifically for simplicity, featuring intuitive buttons and quick Bluetooth pairing without complex configurations. Unlike more advanced models, it requires no hub or app setup. This straightforward design makes it ideal for beginners and non‑technical users seeking reliable control of home entertainment devices without unnecessary complexity or steep learning curves.
How does battery life compare between Sofabaton X1s vs U2?
In the Sofabaton X1s vs U2 comparison, battery life differs considerably. The U2 offers an impressive 60‑day lifespan using standard AA batteries, perfect for hassle‑free, long‑term use. The X1s features a rechargeable lithium‑ion battery providing roughly 60 hours per charge, usually needing weekly recharges depending on usage intensity. Choose U2 for convenience or X1s for advanced capabilities.
Do these remotes need a direct line‑of‑sight to control devices?
Yes, the Sofabaton U2 primarily relies on IR signals, requiring direct line‑of‑sight for effective operation. It also uses Bluetooth, which offers limited flexibility. Conversely, the Sofabaton X1s employs a separate IR hub and extenders, enabling control of devices hidden behind cabinets or walls, offering significantly more flexibility and convenience for complex home theater and smart home setups.
Will Sofabaton continue to update these remotes over time?
Both remotes receive updates, but frequency and scope differ. In comparing Sofabaton X1s vs U2, the X1s regularly receives firmware updates via the app, enhancing compatibility, stability, and features. The simpler U2 occasionally receives basic compatibility updates but fewer enhancements due to its standalone, less complex design and absence of a hub or app‑driven interface.
x1S vs U2 Conclusion: Which Sofabaton Fits You?
Your choice between the Sofabaton X1s vs U2 hinges on your desired level of control.
- Opt for the X1s if you want an all‑encompassing smart home controller with voice integration, app‑based automation, and wide device coverage.
- Choose the U2 if you value straightforward, reliable IR/Bluetooth control with long battery life and tactile buttons—no hub or voice assistant needed.
🪄Read Next: Sofabaton U1 vs U2
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