The universal remote control is an excellent system for controlling many devices and appliances, replacing all remote controls. Let’s see how it works and choose the best universal remotes to buy.
Unlike conventional remote controls, the universal remote control is designed to be compatible and interchangeable with many devices and appliances. This means that it is also more useful over time in addition to being comfortable. Most models can be updated occasionally and accommodate new versions of the same devices or software.
The electronic devices in our homes are many, not only TV and stereo systems; now, many appliances are controlled remotely, such as air conditioners, boilers, or refrigerators. Yet, the convenience of remote management translates into a series of remote controls scattered around our homes.
To buy a good universal remote control means to free ourselves from all the others and have the convenience of using a single remote control.
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How to choose a universal remote control
Let’s see how to choose the best universal remote control suitable for our devices and appliances.
Compatibility
The first feature to keep in mind is the compatibility of the new remote control with the devices we have at home, and we want to check. Must verify compatibility for the type and number of the device to be checked and for the brand.
It is easy to find a remote control that can manage TV, satellite decoder and DVD players, and other systems of this type, maybe five at a time. In this case, we must ensure compatibility between brands. For example, a Pioneer universal remote control could also handle Sony, Hitachi, and many other brands. This fact is to be verified in the specifications indicated by the manufacturer.
Suppose we want to add the control of air conditioners, lights, and more. In that case, we have to opt for the best possible universal remote control compatible with many brands and manage up to 10-15 devices simultaneously, including the TV and decoder above.
Programming
The sore point when choosing the universal remote control is programming. In general, the cheapest remote controls may require a little effort for the initial configuration, and the whole thing can be a little complicated for those not accustomed to these devices.
However, today, many universal remote control models have automatic programming or learning functions. This system points the remote control towards the device to acquire all the programming easily. In addition to the initial programming, must update the remote control periodically.
Display
The best models of universal remote control have a display. Thanks to the display, we can have easier and more precise management of all the devices. Intuitively, we can pass from one appliance to another with the utmost simplicity by selecting the related icons and options.
The top models have a touchscreen display, which is even easier to use because it minimizes the keys’ use.
Keyboard
The keys of a remote control should always be large and visible. Unfortunately, it is not always possible due to space issues. If it is true that the universal remote control is more comfortable than others, we must say that the number of keys is sometimes much higher to cope with the many functions available.
Based on your experience and attitude, it will be useful to evaluate the size and quantity of the keys or rely on a model with a touchscreen display that makes navigation easier.
Suppose the remote control is used by older people or those unfamiliar with technology. In that case, it is better to choose a universal remote control with a keyboard that is the simplest ever, with fewer keys and larger. We remember that buying a universal remote control does not necessarily mean looking for more features. On the contrary, it can be useful to buy it to replace other remote controls that seem too complicated.
Customization
Almost all universal remote controls are equipped with pre-selection or preset functions. For example, if you need several key combinations to operate the TV, you can only reduce them to one or two keys. Just set the controls once, and then using the remote control will be even easier.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity is present in most of the latest universal remote controls. The aim is to connect the remote control to smartphones and PC, both for programming and updating the remote control and managing numerous household appliances.
For example, a boiler, garage door, refrigerator, lights, and other programmable devices can be controlled via Wi-Fi. Once the remote control has been synchronized with a smartphone, it is possible to set up or update the universal remote control via an online guide, a dedicated Internet website, or an SMS or QR code.
USB Output
The universal remote control with USB output allows you to be connected to devices to be programmed or updated. This type of remote control must be considered compatible with the types of devices (smartphone, tablet, PC) and operating systems (Mac, Windows, etc …) and supported versions.
Supply
Universal remote controls are powered by normal disposable batteries or rechargeable batteries. The best models come with a rechargeable battery via USB or a power cable. Sometimes they include a convenient charging base.
The best universal remotes to buy
Below is the complete list of the best-selected universal remote controls with their respective technical characteristics and prices.
- Universal replacemenremote control can be directly used for LG, Samsung, Philips,...
- Two setting methods: (1) Set by code: After pressing the corresponding brand button for 3...
- (2)Brand search: after pressing the corresponding brand button for 5 seconds, the LED...
- Multi-device control – Operate up to four audio and video devices such as your TV,...
- Best TV remote code library – Universal TV remote works with all major brands and...
- Simple setup – Add two AAA batteries (not included) and enjoy easy automatic code search...
- 【All In One Remote】Universal Remote Control for All Insignia/Toshiba/Pioneer Smart...
- 【Perfectly Replace Your Remote】Replacement IR remote control compatible with Voice...
- 【Key Features】With NETFLIX, Prime Video, Disney and hulu hot keys, you can switch to...
- 【Package lncluded】 Pack of 2 remote. Two-pack remote control can solve your home...
- 【Applicable Type】This infrared replacement remote works with all Samsung Smart TV,...
- 【Key Features】The universal infrared TV remote features 3 shortcut buttons for...
- 【Simple Setup 3 Device Universal Remote】Multi Device Control that can operate Up To 3...
- 【All In One Remote】This Universal Remote Works With All Major Brands And Supports...
- 【Easily Program】①Press and hold down the SETUP button for 3 seconds until the red...
- Multi-device control – Operate up to three audio and video devices such as your TV,...
- Best remote code library – Universal remote works with all major brands and supports...
- Preprogrammed for Samsung and Roku – Universal remote’s TV and STR device buttons are...
- 1. Universal infrared remote desgined.It is compatible with most of new and old Samsung...
- 2.Farther transmitting distance, stable performance. Replaces your damage or old one and...
- 3.Simple universal remote，small and compact size makes this remote control easy to grip...
- 【All In One Remote】Universal remote control is compatible with thousands of audio and...
- 【NOT Compatible Devices】The universal remote is not compatible with Roku Streaming...
- 【Simple Setup】Step 1: Find the device type you need in the code list. Then find and...
- This infrared replacement remote works with all Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D,...
- Compatible with all for Samsung series TV Including 2024 year, 2023 year, 2022 year, 2021...
- Simple universal remote，small and compact size makes this remote control easy to grip...
- All In One Remote : Universal Remote is suitable for all TV remotes Samsung,LG, Sony,...
- The remote control is light and compact, easy to grasp and has more complete functions. It...
- Brand setting method: after pressing the corresponding brand button for 5 seconds, the LED...
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