Best Universal Remotes: Top Picks for Any Setup

If you want one remote to control your TV, soundbar, streaming box, and game console, the Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Remote is the best all-around pick for most people. It is simple to program, works with thousands of devices, and costs under $20, making it a practical choice for everyday use. For more advanced setups, the Logitech Harmony Elite remains the gold standard, but it comes with a premium price and a steeper learning curve.

What to Look For

Before you buy, focus on these criteria that actually matter:

• Device Compatibility: Check that the remote supports your TV, soundbar, streaming stick, and other gear. Most universal remotes cover major brands, but older or obscure devices may need a remote with a large code library or learning capability.
• Control Method: IR (infrared) requires line-of-sight, while RF (radio frequency) or Wi-Fi works through walls and cabinets. If your devices are hidden, RF or Wi-Fi is essential.
• Activity-Based Control: The best remotes let you press one button to start a “Watch TV” activity that turns on your TV, soundbar, and cable box simultaneously. This is a huge convenience feature.
• Number of Devices: Count how many devices you need to control. A basic remote handles 4-6, while advanced models can manage 8-15 or more.
• Ease of Setup: Look for remotes with simple code entry or app-based setup. Some require a computer or smartphone app, which can be a hurdle for less tech-savvy users.
• Backlighting and Buttons: A backlit remote is a must for dark home theaters. Check that the button layout matches your primary devices (e.g., dedicated streaming buttons).

Inteset 4-in-1 Universal Remote

Strengths: This remote is incredibly affordable, supports up to 4 devices, and includes dedicated buttons for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. It has a simple code-based setup that takes minutes, and the button layout is comfortable. It also has a learning function, so it can capture commands from your original remotes for unusual features.

Trade-offs: It relies on IR, so you need line-of-sight to your devices. It lacks activity-based macros, so you’ll still press multiple buttons to turn everything on. The build feels a bit plasticky, and the backlight is not automatic.

Who it suits: Perfect for a bedroom or secondary TV setup where you have a TV, a soundbar, and a streaming stick. It’s also great for guests or rental properties because it’s cheap and easy to replace.

Logitech Harmony Elite

Strengths: The Harmony Elite is the most powerful universal remote on the market. It controls up to 15 devices via IR, RF, and Bluetooth, and it uses a smartphone app for setup. It features a touchscreen, backlit buttons, and activity-based control that truly simplifies your entertainment system. It also integrates with smart home devices like lights and thermostats.

Trade-offs: It’s expensive, and the setup process is notoriously time-consuming—you’ll need to connect it to a computer or phone app and troubleshoot device commands. The remote requires a charging cradle, and the touchscreen can be a battery drain. Logitech discontinued the Harmony line in 2021, but they still work and are widely available.

Who it suits: Ideal for a dedicated home theater with many devices, including game consoles and smart home gear. If you’re willing to invest time in setup, it offers the most seamless experience.

SofaBaton U1

Strengths: The SofaBaton U1 is a modern alternative to Harmony, offering a companion app for setup, activity-based control, and support for up to 15 devices via IR and Bluetooth. It has a backlit keypad and a small LCD screen that shows activities. It also supports voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant.

Trade-offs: The setup app can be buggy, and some users report connectivity issues with Bluetooth devices. The build quality is decent but not premium. It’s more expensive than the Inteset but cheaper than the Harmony Elite.

Who it suits: Good for tech-savvy users who want a Harmony-like experience without the high price. It works well for setups that include smart speakers or streaming boxes that use Bluetooth.

GE Universal Remote (33709)

Strengths: This is a budget-friendly option that controls up to 4 devices. It’s incredibly simple to set up with a code search feature, and it has dedicated buttons for streaming services. The remote is lightweight and easy to hold, and it’s widely available at most retailers.

Trade-offs: It’s IR-only, so line-of-sight is required. It lacks activity macros, and the button layout may be too basic for complex setups. The build is flimsy, and there’s no backlight.

Who it suits: Best for a basic setup with a TV, cable box, and a streaming device. It’s also a good spare or travel remote.

Logitech Harmony 665

Strengths: The Harmony 665 is a mid-range option that controls up to 8 devices via IR. It has a color LCD screen for activity selection, backlit buttons, and supports activity-based control. It’s less expensive than the Elite and still offers the powerful Harmony software.

Trade-offs: Setup requires a computer or phone app, and it’s IR-only, so your devices need to be visible. The screen is small, and the remote feels dated compared to modern options. It’s also discontinued, but you can still find new units.

Who it suits: A good choice for a medium-sized home theater (TV, soundbar, cable box, game console) where you want activity control without paying for the Elite.

Caavo Control Center

Strengths: The Caavo is a unique hub-based remote that connects your devices via HDMI and uses a simple remote with voice control. It automatically detects your devices and creates activities like “Watch Netflix” or “Play Xbox.” It also supports Alexa and Google Assistant.

Trade-offs: It’s not a traditional universal remote—it requires an HDMI hub, so it only works with devices that connect via HDMI. It has a subscription service for some features, though the basic functionality is free. The remote itself is basic and lacks backlighting.

Who it suits: Ideal for people who want a streamlined, app-like experience and don’t mind the HDMI hub requirement. It’s great for smart home enthusiasts.

How to Choose

Start with your budget. Under $30, you’ll get basic IR remotes like the Inteset or GE—these are fine for simple setups. Between $30-$100, you can get the SofaBaton U1 or a used Harmony 665, which offer activity control and more device support. Above $100, the Harmony Elite is the top choice, but only if you need its advanced features.

Consider your use case. If you have a single TV with a streaming stick, a cheap remote is enough. If you have a full theater with a receiver, game console, and smart lights, you need an activity-based remote like the SofaBaton or Harmony. Also, think about where your devices are: if they’re hidden in a cabinet, you need RF or Wi-Fi, which limits you to the Harmony Elite or Caavo.

Common trade-offs: more features usually mean more setup complexity. Cheap remotes are easy but lack macros; expensive remotes are powerful but require time to configure. Also, consider future-proofing—if you plan to add more devices, get a remote that can handle more than you currently need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a universal remote control my Roku or Fire TV?

Yes, most universal remotes support Roku and Fire TV via IR or Bluetooth. The Inteset and GE have dedicated streaming buttons, while the Harmony and SofaBaton can control them through activities.

Do I need a remote with RF or Wi-Fi?

Only if your devices are hidden or you want to control them from another room. IR requires line-of-sight, so if your gear is in a cabinet, RF or Wi-Fi is necessary.

How do I program a universal remote?

Most use a code entry system: you look up your device brand, enter a code, and test. Some remotes have a code search feature that cycles through codes automatically. Advanced remotes like Harmony use a smartphone app to guide you.

Can I control my smart home devices with a universal remote?

Some remotes, like the Harmony Elite and SofaBaton U1, can control smart lights, thermostats, and other devices via hub or Bluetooth. Check compatibility before buying.

What if my device isn’t in the code list?

If your remote has a learning function, you can teach it commands from your original remote. Otherwise, try the code search feature or contact the remote manufacturer for support.

Are universal remotes still worth buying in 2025?

Yes, especially for simplifying a multi-device setup. While many devices have their own apps, a universal remote offers tactile buttons and one-press activities that apps can’t match.

Bottom Line

For most people, the Inteset 4-in-1 is the best value—it’s cheap, easy, and covers the basics. If you want activity control and have a more complex setup, the SofaBaton U1 is the best modern choice. Only invest in the Logitech Harmony Elite if you have a large, complicated system and are willing to spend time on setup. Whichever you choose, make sure it supports your devices and fits your budget.

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