10 Best Universal Remote Controls 2025 in the United States

The SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote Control is designed to manage up to 60 IR, Bluetooth, and WiFi devices, making it a versatile option for anyone with multiple home entertainment systems. Compatibility is a strong point, as it supports over 6,000 brands and 500,000 device models, with the database being continuously updated. This ensures that you can keep using the remote with future devices as well. The setup process is straightforward, aided by a comprehensive app that guides you through pairing the remote with various devices using IR, Bluetooth, or WiFi connections.

The X1S features a customizable button layout with backlit tactile buttons and a comfortable grip, making it easy to use in low-light conditions. The remote also includes advanced features like hands-free voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant, custom one-click activities, and a 'Find my remote' feature that activates a beeping sound. The range is excellent, thanks to the powerful SofaBaton Hub with 360-degree control and IR blasters that eliminate signal blind spots. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 45 days on a single charge, which reduces the need for frequent recharging.

On the downside, the remote's weight (1.41 pounds) might be a bit heavy for some users, and the app's integration with other smart home systems could be more robust. The SofaBaton X1S is a feature-rich and highly compatible universal remote that is ideal for tech-savvy users who want to consolidate multiple remotes into one, though it has some limitations with WiFi device support and app integration.

The Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control is designed to streamline your home entertainment system by replacing up to five different remotes. It is compatible with over 5000 brands, ensuring it can control a wide variety of devices both old and new, making it a versatile option for most households. The setup process is relatively straightforward, involving a simple online setup using your PC, and if needed, live customer support is available to assist you.

The remote includes a bright color screen that displays favorite-channel icons and commands, enhancing ease of navigation. One-click activity buttons like 'Watch a DVD' simplify the process of switching devices to the correct settings with minimal effort. The button layout and design are user-friendly, making it easy to locate and press buttons.

However, the remote supports only up to five devices, which may be limiting for users with larger home entertainment setups. Battery life is managed with a single lithium polymer battery included, which is convenient, but frequent use might necessitate regular replacements. While advanced features like programmable activity buttons are helpful, some might find the need to use a PC for setup to be a bit cumbersome. The infrared technology provides decent range, though it requires line-of-sight to function properly, which might be restrictive in certain setups. This remote is best suited for users seeking a clutter-free solution for a moderate number of devices with a user-friendly interface and straightforward setup process.

The Logitech Harmony 665 Advanced Remote Control is designed to provide a simplified control solution for your entertainment devices, specifically your television. The remote uses infrared connectivity, which is common and reliable for most TV setups. However, it supports only one device at a time, which might be a limitation if you have multiple devices to control.

The setup process is generally considered straightforward, thanks to the user-friendly interface and clear instructions that Logitech typically provides with their products. The button layout is intuitive, allowing easy access to frequently used functions. Although it is lightweight and comfortable to hold, the design might feel less premium compared to other models since it has been discontinued by the manufacturer.

One notable drawback is the lack of advanced features that you might find in newer models, such as smart home integration or touchscreens. The battery life is decent, ensuring you won’t need to replace batteries frequently. The range is adequate for most living rooms, providing reliable control without needing to point directly at the TV. This remote is best suited for users looking for a straightforward, easy-to-use solution for controlling their television without the need for additional bells and whistles.