Universal remote control reviews

A well designed universal remote control can reduce stress. A poor one is sure to raise your blood pressure.
 
Get access to all CHOICE BENEFITS
$1.91/wk
*Billed quarterly
 
 
 
 

01.Introduction

Remote control

Test results for 15 universal remote controls priced from $89 to $699

The idea behind a universal remote control is to allow you to reduce the number of remotes in your lounge room to one easy-to-use device.

We tested them to see if they can control a whole room’s worth of equipment. That could be just a TV and DVD player, or as many as 16 devices. However, 'teaching' that many functions to some of these universal remote controls could try the patience of a saint.

A few make a pretty good attempt at dealing with a complex task, but most have one or more failings that are likely to render them just another remote on the coffee table.

Please note: this information was current as of May 2008 but is still a useful guide to today's market.


Brands we tested

  • Avico ARC8850
  • Logitech Harmony 1000i
  • Logitech Harmony 525
  • Logitech Harmony 785
  • Marmitek Easytouch35
  • One For All Kameleon 3 URC 8203
  • One For All Kameleon 4 URC 8204
  • One For All Kameleon 6 URC 8206
  • Philips Prestigo SRU9600
  • Philips SRU9400
  • Remotec iRemote 500
  • Sunwave SRC-1600
  • Sunwave SRC-3060
  • Sunwave SRC-3200
  • Sunwave SRC-3820
 
 

 
 

How to comment

Here's your chance to join in the debate. Just click in the comment box and let the CHOICE Community know what you think, or view all of the comments on this article.

Reporting offensive comments

If you see something offensive or something that just shouldn't be there, hit the report button and let us know immediately. View the Terms of use for user comments.

 

Make a Comment