Top 5 Universal Remote Control Devices

You've waited all week for this moment. All you want to do is watch the game on television. Yet, you spend more time looking for the remote than watching the game. Once located, the one remote works fine and turns on the flat screen television with ease. But, the other remote doesn't work or needs batteries. What do you do now?

Universal Remote Controls that Deliver For You

Don't panic. A universal remote control may be just what you need, one that's pre-programmed to control several components at once. A good universal remote control system is quick and easy to configure. I like the ones that have Setup Wizards or step-by-step technical guides that make it a snap to replace your existing remote control devices for your television, DVD player, TiVo and cable box. I like universal remotes that mirror how my television and cable remotes operate, functions like favorite channels, one-stop power buttons, switching inputs, volume control and so much more. I also like remotes that have an extensive code library and learning capability (in case you upgrade your audio-visual components). I like remote controls with rubber buttons and memory retention for battery changes. I haven't used the touch screen models yet but it may be something to consider down the line.

Professional Class Universal Remote Control

For professional-class universal remote control devices that are built for everyday consumers, check out Universal Remote Control's product line. These are especially good for home theaters. Check out the new URC-SR3 model. Yes, indeed, the URC-SR3 universal remote control device has great functionality and can handle all of your television and viewing needs. URC-SR3 is built to last and super easy for kids and adults to operate.

Parental Controls and Universal Remotes

Do you have young ones at home? Check out Weemote TV Parental Control. Easy to set up and great for young children's daily use. Weemote has safe channel surfing, important functionality if you care what your young ones are watching when you step out of the room.

Price of Universal Remote Controls Varies Widely

Before you make a decision on the universal remote control for you and your family, consider the number of television sets and components you have and how much you want to spend. I recommend spending more money on universal remotes for high-use areas like your family room and less for universal remotes that won't have to endure the wear and tear of a high traffic area.

Price is an important factor when you consider that the cost of a universal remote control device and its functionality varies widely. Some universal remotes will set you back $300 or more while others may be purchased for under $20. The higher the price tag, the more functionality, staying power and sophistication. The lower priced models have limited shelf life and capabilities.

Top 5 Universal Remote Control Devices

Looking for one remote control device to answer all of your television viewing needs? Check out these Top 5 Universal Remote Control Devices. Seriously great universal remotes that are easy to use and perfect for your audio and visual needs.

Sony RM-VLZ620
Retail Price: $26
Where to buy: Amazon

Sony's done it again. High production values. One great universal remote. Features include Learning function for expanded AV equipment control, 8 AV component capability, 12 one-touch System Control functions (macros), onscreen menu and so much more. All the bells and whistles. Sony Sony RMVLZ620 soars in performance. A remote like none other. Time to ditch the other remotes. A great value. Check out the Sony today.

Logitech Harmony 1100
Retail Price: $286/$299
Where to buy: Amazon/Best Buy

Check out Logitech Harmony 1100. Expensive, but all the bells and whistles, and more. The Harmony 1100 has everything the 900 model (below) has plus customizable hard buttons and LCD buttons. Easy to use and put into play. Nice functionality and can easily handle several components at the same time. Well-designed. A stylish addition to your family room.

Logitech Harmony 900
Retail Price: $209-$286
Where to buy: Best Buy/Amazon

Features include: RF System, Touch Screen, Backlighted Controls, Battery Status Indicator, Color Display, Guided Online Setup, Infrared and Infrared Learning, Interactive Help, Multi-Device Control, Onboard Intelligence, One-Touch Activity-Based Control, Rechargeable and USB connection. Nice functionality and keyboard. Easy to use. Everything you need in a universal remote control.

Philips TSU9200 Pronto Universal Remote Control
Retail Price: $329
Where to buy: Amazon

Works great, looks super sleek. Great functionality and keyboard. Designed for ease of navigation with a nice mix of hard buttons and on-screen interfacing, An all around good remote to substitute for all the others in your television viewing room. Very stylish model.

Acoustic Research Xsight ARRX15G
Retail Price: $69 to $81
Where to buy: Amazon

Basic but works well. A great value with nice features and functionality. This one remote control device controls up to 15 devices and features one-touch controls, effortless navigation, full color LCD screen, remote guided setup and so much more. Easy to use and versatile for all your television needs. Can handle several components at once. Excellent price. Built to last.

RESOURCES

Best Universal Remotes
CNET Reviews

Remote Central - Reviews and More
www.remotecentral.com

Weemote TV Parental Control
www.familysafemedia.com/weemote.html