Universal Remotes - Simplify Your Entertainment Control
Nothing ruins a great TV setup like juggling four remotes. We see this constantly - beautiful mounted TV, great sound system, multiple streaming devices, and a coffee table full of remotes that confuse everyone in the household. Universal remotes solve this by consolidating control into one device that handles your TV, soundbar, streaming box, and other components. The best options today offer programmable activities ('Watch TV' turns everything on and sets inputs), voice control integration, and smartphone apps for when the remote inevitably falls between cushions. A quality universal remote transforms a complex system into something anyone can use.
🎛️ Smart Universal Remotes - Full Control
Smart universal remotes go beyond basic device control - they offer activity-based programming, smartphone apps, voice assistant integration, and control of hundreds of devices. These are the successors to the beloved Logitech Harmony remotes (now discontinued). Modern options from SofaBaton and others fill this gap with similar functionality. Worth the investment for complex home theaters or households where multiple people need simple control over complicated systems.
| Picture | Product | Shop |
|---|---|---|
 |
SofaBaton X1S |  |
 |
SofaBaton U2 | |
 |
Logitech Harmony (Legacy) | |
 |
Broadlink RM4 Pro | |
💡 Smart Remote Benefits: One-button activities (Watch TV, Watch Movie, etc.) • Smartphone app backup • Voice assistant integration • Controls IR, Bluetooth, and WiFi devices • Macro programming
Browse All: Smart Universal Remotes on Amazon
📱 Simple Universal Remotes - Easy Setup
Not everyone needs complex programming - sometimes you just want one remote that controls your TV and soundbar without apps or hubs. Simple universal remotes use built-in code databases to control common devices. Setup typically involves entering codes or using auto-search functions. These work great for straightforward setups: TV + soundbar, or TV + cable box. They're affordable, use standard batteries, and don't require internet connectivity or smartphone apps.
| Picture | Product | Shop |
|---|---|---|
 |
GE 4-Device Universal | |
 |
RCA 4-Device Universal | |
 |
One For All Universal | |
💡 Simple Remote Tips: Write down working codes for future reference • Keep original remotes for troubleshooting • Check code compatibility before purchasing
Browse All: Basic Universal Remotes on Amazon
🗣️ Voice Control Integration
Voice control is increasingly becoming the ultimate universal remote. If you have Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri devices, you may already have powerful entertainment control at your fingertips. Many TVs, soundbars, and streaming devices support voice assistants directly, and hubs like Amazon Echo can control IR devices with compatible accessories.
Voice Control Options:
| Assistant | Native Device Control | IR Control Option | Best Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexa | Fire TV, many smart TVs | Echo + Broadlink or SofaBaton | "Alexa, watch Netflix on living room TV" |
| Chromecast, Google TV | Google Home + Broadlink | "Hey Google, turn on the TV" | |
| Siri | Apple TV, HomeKit devices | HomeKit-enabled hubs | "Hey Siri, play something on Apple TV" |
Voice Control Accessories:
| Picture | Product | Shop |
|---|---|---|
 |
Amazon Echo Dot | |
 |
Google Nest Mini | |
 |
Apple HomePod Mini | |
Browse All: Voice Control for TV on Amazon
❓ Frequently Asked Questions - Universal Remotes
Find Your Universal Remote Solution
Simplify your home theater with one remote that controls everything. Browse our recommended universal remotes for any setup complexity.