Looking for an alternative universal remote that will control your Home Theatre System? I have got your back. You have landed on the perfect site as here I have reviewed the Best Universal Remote Controls that will work with your Home Theatre System as well as Smart Home components.
Like you, I have searched a lot for a universal remote that’s compatible with my Home Theatre and checks all the boxes. Finally, I have found my best fit.
During this process, I have come across some amazing remotes that work great but didn’t check all my boxes. Each remote has its own unique features. I have selected based on my needs.
Few Universal remotes look like traditional remotes and the other few looked like geeky stuff. I of course prefer geeky stuff, you all knew it. Anyways, few are affordable and few are expensive and moderate. But all the remotes work great and are of top-notch quality.
In today’s Tried and Tested review on the Best Universal Remotes for Home Theatre System, I have reviewed some of the top quality universal remotes and even added a comparison table for you guys convenience.
Do check out the entire article to get a better understanding of each remote. If you are in a rush, directly jump to the end of the article where I have included great recommendations for you guys.
With that said, without further delay, Let’s dive into the article.
Top Best Universal Remote Control For Home Theatre System
Having many alternatives in the market will of course put you in a dilemma. But when we analyze the market, only a few universal remotes will be of top-notch quality and offer a wide range of features. This is where review articles come in handy.
Moreover, a universal remote is a remote control that can control multiple devices at once and is compatible with Entertainment devices as well as Smart Home components. Typically these remotes can operate your TV, Video source, Home theatre receiver, speakers, and many more.
They offer unique features such as a Touch screen, backlighting buttons, haptic touch, and many other features.
In simple terms, having a universal remote makes every device easy to use, Removes clutter on your coffee table, You don’t need to fumble between various remotes to control your Home Theatre System, and more importantly, saves your time and money.
So, for today’s review, I have picked 6 Top Universal Remote Control for your Home Theatre System. I have even dropped a comparison table that compares each remote and provides you with quick info on each product.
Without further ado, let’s get into the article.
Quick Comparison Table Between Home Theatre System Universal Remotes
| Image | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Name | Logitech Harmony Elite | Remote Control MX-450 | HCDZ Replacement | GE Remote Control | Philips Remote Control | RCA RCRN04GBE |
| Type | Universal remote | Universal remote | Works with Sony STR-K1600, STR-K790 Home Theatre AV system receiver. | Universal remote | Universal remote | Universal remote |
| Replaces Multiple remotes | 15 | 18 | Works with Sony STR-K1600, STR-K790 Home Theatre AV system receiver. | 4 different audio and video devices. | 4 different audio and video devices. | 4 AV devices |
| LCD / Touch screen | Yes ✔️ | Yes ✔️ | No ❌ | No ❌ | No ❌ | No ❌ |
| Key features | 1) One-touch activities. 2) Control devices in closed cabinets | 1) One touch macros. 2) Transmits IR and RF signals. | 1) 60 days warranty period. 2) No programming is needed. | 1) Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs. 2) Master Volume control option | 1) Preprogrammed for Roku boxes and Samsung TVs. 2) Primary audio control feature | 1) Setup is simple. 2) Supports major brands such as Apple, Samsung, and many more. |
| Voice assistant support | Yes ✔️ | No ❌ | No ❌ | No ❌ | No ❌ | No ❌ |
| Backlighting buttons | Yes ✔️ | Yes ✔️ | No ❌ | No ❌ | No ❌ | Yes ✔️ |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Polymer battery | 4 AA batteries | Install necessary batteries | two AAA batteries | 2 AA batteries. | 2 AAA batteries |
| Price |
Logitech Harmony Elite Control For Home Theatre System
Logitech’s line is famous for its wide range of featured Universal remotes. So, in today’s tried and tested series, my first recommendation would be Logitech Harmony Elite for your Home Theatre System.
It can operate up to 15 Home Entertainment and connected home devices. It supports a wide range of devices around 270,000.
The remote’s ever-growing regularly adds new devices to the database so that the remote will be compatible with the new devices. It can be connected to the WiFi and supports WPA Personal, WPA2-AES, as well as 64/128-bit WEP file encryption.
It comes with a Harmony hub that lets you control all the devices even through closed cabinets by using different protocols such as WiFi, IR, and Bluetooth.
Elite supports One-touch activities such as “Play Game”, “Watch Netflix”. All harmony activities can be activated from pretty much anywhere. You can activate any devices and set up recordings from anywhere.
Logitech Harmony Elite also offers button customization, you can assign specific activities to particular buttons of your choice. Moreover, it also supports a Harmony app which can be downloaded via the App Store and Google Play. This app works similar to Elite remote control and will be used to create custom activities.
Moreover, it offers a Cool colour LCD screen using which you can operate the devices by simple swipe and tap activities. All you need to do is swipe and tap on the activity you need and Elite automatically turns on all the required components of the selected activity. Swipe and tap to control channels, volume, movies, 50 favourite channels, and Smart Home devices such as Philips Hue Lights. Moreover, having an LCD screen makes the remote easy to operate in the dark.
The backlit feature helps you find buttons in the dark and makes movie night / Sports night simpler. Having a Motion-activated backlighting feature is a tech +1 feature for me.
Voice control has become a must feature these days. Elite supports Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. With this feature you can easily volume up and down, turn on and off your TV and devices.
It requires 1 Lithium Polymer battery and also the batteries are included in the box.
Pros
- Operate 15 Home entertainment devices and Smart Home components.
- Compatible with around 270,000 devices.
- LCD Touch screen facility and Motion-activated backlighting feature.
- Supports One-touch activities such as “Watch Netflix”.
- The Harmony hub will control the devices in the closed cabinets too.
- Offers voice control support.
- Supports Harmony app.
Cons
- Expensive.
- At first User Interface of the remote may confuse you as it is not a traditional remote interface.
Universal Remote Control MX-450
Get your hands on Universal Remote control MX -450 that will control your Home Theatre setup with ease. It can control up to 18 devices. This remote is one of the notable players in the AV remote control market.
MX-450 offers a cool stylish feature, 2-inch coloured LCD screen that is placed at the top of the remote. LCD feature makes everything easy to view and makes your Movie Night simpler.
Besides the LCD screen at the top, the remote also has a button layout for easy navigation and you feel comfortable when you hold it. It supports LED-backlit buttons that help you to locate buttons in the dark and makes your Game Night easy.
You don’t need an internet connection to program this remote as it is already pre-loaded with graphics and remote codes for most of the TV stations. By the way, new codes can be updated using a USB port inside the battery compartment.
The remote can be programmed with the addition of the MRF-260 base station to use RF control. This allows you to wirelessly operate all through walls, cabinets doors, and floors. This means you can close the doors of your AV cabinet yet control every device pretty much anywhere.
Moreover, it also offers Macros support by which you can turn on your TV, activate Music, start a DVD player, and many more with just one click of this button.
It allows you to create one-touch macros that correspond to activities such as “Play Game”, “Watch Movie” and many more. With macros, every device will automatically get activated based on the activity you choose. When you upgrade the components, you can just change the commands based on your upgrade settings instead of starting from scratch.
The remote requires four AA batteries. These batteries are already included in the kit and you don’t need to buy them separately.
Pros
- Affordable remote.
- Operate up to 18 devices.
- It transmits RF and IR signals.
- Cool 2-inch colour LCD screen for easy viewing.
- Offers One-touch activities support such as “Watch TV”, “Play Game”, and many more.
- Also supports LED-backlighting buttons that help you to locate the buttons in the dark.
- Long battery life.
- The remote can be programmable without the use of a computer and Internet connection.
Cons
- To trigger the backlight it doesn’t have a motion sensor.
- Since the programming capabilities of this remote will not accommodate the complex systems, You have to go higher in the URC line.
HCDZ Replacement Remote
If you are looking for a remote control that can work with Sony STR-K1600, STR-K790 Home Theatre AV system receiver then just get your hands on the HCDZ Replacement remote. This is not the original remote as it claims to be a replacement remote but it works great with your Home Theatre.
As it is a replacement remote for the above-mentioned devices, it works perfectly fine with them. If you need a traditional remote without any techie thing then just go with this remote as it is a simple remote and easy to use too.
Moreover, the HCDZ Replacement remote does not need any programming or setup. It also does not need any codes to make it work. You just need to install the necessary batteries into the battery compartment of the remote. It works straight out of the box.
It gives you 60 days of warranty after you buy. It is a guarantee promising to repair or replace the remote if necessary within 60 days of time.
Batteries and instructions are not included in the purchased kit. The batteries need to purchase separately.
Pros
- Works with Sony STR-K1600 STR-K790 Home Theater AV System Receiver.
- 60 days warranty period.
- Works straight out of the box.
- No programming is needed.
Cons
- Batteries are not included in the kit.
- Instructions are not included in the kit.
GE Universal Remote Control
Replace all your Home Theatre remotes with a smart universal remote, GE Universal Remote Control. This is a multi-device control that can operate up to 4 different audio and video components at once.
It can control components such as TVs, DVD / Blu-ray players, cable/satellite receivers, Soundbars, Roku boxes, and other streaming media players.
This universal remote is compatible with all the major brands such as Samsung, Apple, TCL, Panasonic, LG, Sony, Vizio, Sharp, Roku and also supports thousands of the latest audio and video components.
Ge Universal remote comes with a cool feature that is a Master Volume control option that allows you to control the volume of the device no matter what device you are operating.
Using the Menu navigation buttons, you will be guided through the menu on DVRs and the set-top boxes. The DOT button allows easy access to the sub-channels. The sleek brushes Silver GE Universal remote finish complements any home decor.
The remote setup is pretty easy, you just need to follow the instructions of the online setup video that includes trouble-free setup, auto-scan technology, and a master volume control.
Moreover, it comes pre-programmed for Samsung TVs which means you don’t need to remote setup for Samsung TV as it works straight out of the box. An easy-to-follow online setup video is included with the Instruction manual and the code library.
It requires two AAA batteries and the batteries are not included in the kit.
To install batteries, you need to remove the battery compartment cover by sliding down the cover then insert the 2AAA batteries such that matching (+), (-) marks on the batteries with the (+), (-) marks inside the battery compartment. Now, slide the battery compartment back into its place.
Note: This remote doesn’t work with Roku streaming sticks, Fire TV sticks, or other RF streaming devices.
Pros
- Most affordable universal remote.
- Operate up to 4 different audio and video components.
- Supports major brands such as Samsung, Apple, TCL, Panasonic, LG, Sony, Vizio, Sharp, and many more.
- Works with thousands of the latest audio/video components.
- Simple remote setup.
- Preprogrammed for Samsung TVs.
- Master Volume control option that allows you to control the volume of the device no matter what device you are operating.
Cons
- Doesn’t work with Roku streaming sticks, Fire TV sticks, or other RF streaming devices.
- No voice control support for Alexa or Google Assistant.
Philips Universal Remote Control For Home Theatre System
Control Home theatre system with Philips Universal Remote Control. It can operate up to 4 different audio and video devices such as TV, cable/satellite receivers, DVD / Blu-ray players, Roku boxes, soundbars, and other streaming devices.
The Colour choice is yours as it comes in gold, graphite rose, blue, and black finishes. The remote is designed ergonomically for ease of use. For added convenience,
Philips Universal Remote Control also comes with a Blu-ray/DVD player open/close button and one-touch streaming button to take you straight to media platforms on your devices, simple menu navigation, a dash button for sub-channel access, and advanced DVR functions.
It works with all major brands such as Samsung, Vizio, Panasonic, Sony, LG, TCL, Insignia, Sharp, Toshiba and supports thousands of the latest audio and video equipment.
To enhance your home entertainment system, you can customize the remote’s capabilities for a better experience.
Philips remote setup is pretty easy, you just need to follow the instructions of the online setup video that includes trouble-free setup, auto-scan technology, and a master volume control.
Moreover, it comes with the primary audio control feature. This feature allows you to adjust the volume of the device regardless of which device is selected.
How cool is that!
It requires 2 AA batteries and the batteries are not included in the kit with the remote. You need to purchase them separately.
Just a reminder, this remote doesn’t work with Roku streaming sticks, Fire TV sticks, or other RF streaming devices.
Pros
- Operate up to 4 different audio and video components.
- Supports major brands such as Samsung, Vizio, Panasonic, Sony, LG, TCL, Insignia, Sharp, Toshiba, and many more.
- Comes in gold, graphite, rose, blue, and black finishes.
- Simple remote setup.
- You can adjust the volume of the device regardless of which device you choose by using the Primary audio control feature.
- Can customize the remote’s capabilities for a better experience.
Cons
- Doesn’t work with Roku streaming sticks, Fire TV sticks, or other RF streaming devices.
- No voice control support for Alexa or Google Assistant.
RCA RCRN04GBE Remote Control For Home System
RCA RCRN04GBE is an entry-level universal remote that can control your Home theatre system. This remote can support 4 external AV devices. It can control devices with an IR receiver such as TV, satellite TV/cable box, DTC, VCR, and DVD/ Blu-ray players. However, this remote supports all the major brands such as Samsung, Apple TV, and many other devices.
Moreover, it comes with a Green backlit keypad to find your buttons in the dark. Backlighting buttons make your Movie Night or Game Night simpler. This remote has red, green, yellow, and blue keys to access advanced cable, satellite, or Blu-Ray functions.
Overall the remote looks tall and the few buttons such as volume and channel controls feel sticky when pressed. The remaining buttons feel right and offer tactile responses too. For the given price, the remote is worth paying.
Programming the remote is simple, you need manufacturing codes of your devices to set up the remote. The setup can be done with automatic, manual, brand, and direct search methods. You can find the user manual online.
It requires 2 AAA batteries and the batteries are not in the purchased kit of the remote. So, you need to buy it separately. So, if you require an entry-level remote that comes at an affordable price then get your hands on RCA RCRN04GBE.
Pros
- Affordable universal remote.
- Control up to 4 AV devices.
- Setup is simple.
- Supports major brands such as Apple, Samsung, and many more.
- Green backlit keypad to find your buttons in the dark.
Cons
- Few buttons feel sticky when pressed.
What’s The Best Universal Remote Control For Home Theater System?
With that said, these universal remotes are unique of their own. Each remote has its own pros and cons. But are of great quality.
However, I love my Logitech Harmony Elite. As I have already mentioned I love geeky stuff. It is a perfect remote for the current generation entertainment system as well as Smart Home components.
Its LCD screen, One-Touch activities, and many other features are worth paying for. If you are into geeky stuff like me then just get your hands on it.
If the above recommendation doesn’t come under your budget then just get your hands on Philips Universal Remote Control. It is budget-friendly and will control your Home Theatre setup.
As Philips is a well-established company, it works with all major brands such as Samsung, Vizio, Panasonic, Sony, LG, TCL, Insignia, Sharp, Toshiba, and many more. So, without any further ado, just get your hands on this remote and make your life easy.
Before buying, do check out whether your setup is compatible with the remote you have chosen.
Thank you for always trusting our TRIED and TESTED REVIEWS. Do let us know your views or drop a mail if you have any doubts, and will always be happy to reply to you guys.