10 Best Universal Remotes 2025 in the United States

The SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote stands out in the universal remote category due to its impressive compatibility, allowing you to control up to 60 devices, including TVs, set-top boxes, and more. Its extensive code library supports over 6,000 brands, making it a solid choice for diverse home setups. One of the standout features is the custom one-click activities, which simplify switching between functions like watching TV or listening to music with just a single button press.

The remote boasts a powerful hub that provides 360-degree control without needing to aim, which is great for convenience. Voice control integration with Alexa and Google Assistant adds a modern touch, allowing hands-free management of your entertainment. The backlit button design and 'raise to wake' feature make it user-friendly, especially in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 'Find my remote' function helps locate it easily when misplaced.

There are some drawbacks. While it supports many devices, its Wi-Fi control is limited to a few brands like Roku and Sonos, which may restrict its utility for some users. The need to pair Bluetooth devices via the original remote could be a hassle for those with multiple devices. Battery life is impressive at 45 days, but it may still require occasional charging, which some users might find inconvenient. The app's flexible API is a nice bonus for tech-savvy users looking to integrate it with other smart applications, though it may not be utilized by everyone. The remote itself has a comfortable grip, making it easy to use for extended periods, but its weight of 1.41 pounds could be a consideration for some.

This universal remote control by Acoyer is designed to simplify your entertainment experience, offering compatibility with a wide range of devices including TVs from popular brands like Samsung, LG, Vizio, and more. One of its standout features is the ability to control multiple devices, though it is limited to a maximum of three, which might suit many households but could be a drawback for users with more devices.

Setting up the remote is straightforward, following a step-by-step code input method. It may take a bit of patience, as users need to manually enter codes for their devices. However, the included user manual and code list are helpful resources for this process. Compatibility is generally broad, but it’s important to note that it does not work with Roku devices, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

In terms of design, it is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and store. The button layout is fairly standard, which should feel familiar to most users. However, some might find the button spacing less ergonomic, especially during extended use. Smart features are minimal, as the focus here is on basic control of various devices rather than advanced functionalities. Battery life will depend on usage, and the remote requires two AAA batteries, which are not included. Remember to avoid mixing old and new batteries for optimal performance.

The Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control is designed to simplify your home entertainment experience by replacing up to five remotes, which is great for reducing clutter and complexity. With compatibility for over 5000 brands, this remote can support a wide variety of devices, making it versatile for most households. The bright color screen enhances user experience by displaying favorite-channel icons and command options for easy navigation. Its one-click activity buttons allow for seamless transitions between tasks, like switching from watching a DVD to playing a video game.

However, the product isn’t without its drawbacks. While it does an effective job controlling multiple devices, the max limit of five may be restrictive for larger setups with more components. The setup process, although simple with online assistance, may still pose challenges for those who aren’t comfortable with technology. Additionally, it operates on infrared technology, meaning it requires a line of sight to the devices, which could be a limitation if you have a unique room layout.

In terms of battery life, the Harmony 650 uses a single Lithium Polymer battery, which is included but may need replacement over time, adding a minor ongoing cost.