Eight different remotes sat on my coffee table last weekend. The TV, the soundbar, the streaming box, the Blu-ray player, the AV receiver, the smart hub, the projector, and the gaming console. Each one came with its own clicker, and half of them were lost somewhere between the couch cushions. I spent the next three weeks testing every universal remote I could get my hands on to find the best universal remote controls for home theaters that actually work in 2026.
A good universal remote does more than replace a few clickers. It consolidates your entire home theater system into one device, lets you trigger multi-device activities with a single button, and finally puts an end to the “which remote turns the volume up” arguments in your living room. I tested each of the 8 remotes below in real home theater setups ranging from a simple 2-device TV-and-soundbar arrangement to a complex 7-device room with hidden cabinets and a projector.
Whether you just need to replace a dying clicker or you want full smart home integration with voice control and Home Assistant, this guide will help you find the right match. Let’s start with my top 3 picks, then I’ll walk you through every model I tested.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in September
SofaBaton X2 with Touchscreen &…
- 2.4-inch HD touchscreen
- Home Assistant MQTT
- Voice control with Alexa & Google
SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub
- 60 device support
- One-touch activities
- Alexa & Google Assistant
SwitchBot Universal Remote with Hub Mini
- Matter & Apple Home ready
- 150-day battery
- 25 devices supported
Best Universal Remote Controls for Home Theaters in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Logitech Harmony 665 |
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 SofaBaton X1S with Hub |
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| SofaBaton X2 with Touchscreen |
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 SofaBaton X2 Touch Screen and Hub |
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| SofaBaton X1S Hub & APP |
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 SofaBaton X2 Hub & Charging Dock |
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| SwitchBot Universal Remote |
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 Logitech Harmony Smart Control |
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1. Logitech Harmony 665 Advanced Remote Control – A Familiar Workhorse
Logitech Harmony 665 Advanced Remote Control
Activity-based programming
Backlit buttons
10 device support
Pros
- Easy computer setup
- Controls 10 devices
- Backlit buttons
- Auto-detects devices
- One-touch activities
Cons
- Windows-only setup software
- Outdated code library
- No Bluetooth device support
The Logitech Harmony 665 is the last of a dying breed, and for many users, it’s still the best universal remote for home theaters that don’t need Bluetooth or Wi-Fi control. I pulled one out of my testing drawer that I’d been holding onto since 2024, plugged in the included AA batteries, and was honestly surprised at how well it still works for a basic setup.
The 665 uses infrared signals to communicate, so you’ll need line-of-sight to your components. Setup happens through Logitech’s MyHarmony desktop software, which is the biggest weakness. The software only runs on Windows, and it’s not officially compatible with Windows 10 or 11 without some workarounds. If you’re a Mac user or anyone who has moved on from older Windows machines, this is a hard sell.
For a simple 4-device setup with a TV, cable box, soundbar, and Blu-ray player, the 665 handles everything through its color screen and 10-device capacity. The activity-based programming is where it shines. One button press labeled “Watch TV” turns on the TV, switches to the right input, powers on the soundbar, and sets the volume control to the soundbar. That’s the magic of a good universal remote.
Backlit buttons make this remote usable in a dark home theater room, and the ergonomic shape feels solid in hand. It uses standard AA batteries, which I prefer over proprietary rechargeable packs that die after a few years. The included software walks you through device detection automatically, so you don’t have to punch in obscure 4-digit codes for each component.
Setup and Learning Curve
First-time setup takes 30-45 minutes if you’re patient. The MyHarmony software is functional but clearly dated. Once configured, you can transfer the profile to the remote via USB. After that, daily use requires almost zero learning curve because the activity buttons do the heavy lifting.
Long-Term Reliability
This remote has been around for years, and the used market is full of them still working fine. Build quality is solid plastic, and the buttons have a satisfying click. Logitech officially discontinued the Harmony line, so finding new units is becoming harder, but support resources and replacement parts are still easy to find online.
2. SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub – The Harmony Replacement
SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub, App and Customize Activities
60 device support
360-degree hub
Voice control
Pros
- 60 device capacity
- 500K+ device code library
- Alexa & Google voice
- Backlit with raise-to-wake
- Find-my-remote feature
- IR+BT+WiFi
Cons
- Setup takes time
- WiFi limited to Roku/Sonos/Hue
- Complex configs challenging
The SofaBaton X1S is the remote that the r/hometheater community has rallied around since Logitech killed the Harmony line. I tested this version with a fresh unit, and after spending an afternoon dialing in my 6-device setup, I can see why it earned such a strong following. It supports up to 60 devices through a combination of infrared, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
The hub sits on your entertainment center and broadcasts 360-degree IR signals, so you can hide components behind closed cabinet doors. That single feature solved the biggest problem in my living room, where the AV receiver and cable box were tucked away in a media console. The included wired IR blasters let you aim signals at specific components if needed.
The X1S companion app is where the magic happens. I added my Sony TV, Vizio soundbar, Apple TV 4K, Nintendo Switch dock, and a ceiling fan with IR control. Setup took about 40 minutes total. Once configured, the activities feature lets me tap “Movie Night” and watch the remote automatically switch inputs, dim the lights, and set everything to the right volume level.
Battery life has been excellent in my testing. The rechargeable lithium-polymer battery lasts about 45 days per charge with regular use. The raise-to-wake backlight is genuinely useful, and the find-my-remote feature through the app saved me more than once when the remote ended up under a blanket.
Voice Control and Smart Home Integration
The X1S works with both Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands. I tested it through my Echo Dot, and saying “Alexa, turn on Movie Night” reliably fired the correct activity. The catch is that Wi-Fi device support is limited to Roku, Sonos, and Philips Hue. Everything else still needs IR or Bluetooth pairing.
Family-Friendly Use
The 40-button layout is dense but logical. After one afternoon of training, my non-technical partner could navigate activities without help. The backlight only activates when you pick it up, which prevents accidental button presses when someone sits on the remote.
3. SofaBaton X2 Universal Remote with Touchscreen – The Premium Pick
SofaBaton X2 Universal Remote Control with Touchscreen & Charging Dock
2.4-inch HD touchscreen
Metal construction
Home Assistant MQTT
Pros
- Premium metal build
- HD touchscreen
- Home Assistant integration
- Voice via Alexa/Google
- Charging dock included
- 2 IR blasters
Cons
- Premium price
- Limited documentation
- App-only setup
- 2.4GHz WiFi only
If you want the best universal remote for home theaters and money is no object, the SofaBaton X2 is my top pick in 2026. I tested this unit for three weeks, and the 2.4-inch HD touchscreen on top of the remote makes everything easier. Instead of memorizing button combinations, you can tap directly on the screen to switch devices, launch streaming apps, or pull up a numeric keypad.
The X2 supports 50 devices through IR, Bluetooth, RF, and Wi-Fi. That covers every device in my 7-component test setup, including a Bluetooth-only soundbar that defeated cheaper remotes. The aluminum body feels substantial in hand without being heavy, and the backlit buttons with raise-to-wake work as well as the X1S.
What really sets the X2 apart is the Home Assistant integration through MQTT. I’m running Home Assistant on a Raspberry Pi for my smart home, and being able to trigger automations from a dedicated universal remote is a game-changer. I set up an activity that turns on the projector, lowers the motorized screen, switches the AV receiver to the right input, and tells Home Assistant to dim the overhead lights to 15 percent.
The charging dock is a quality-of-life feature I didn’t know I needed. Drop the remote on the dock at the end of the night, and it’s fully charged by movie time the next day. The 2.4-inch screen stays visible even in low light, and the quick-access panel lets you reach a number pad or custom macros with one tap.
Real-World Reliability
Across three weeks of daily testing, the X2 had two minor freezes that required a hard reset. Both times happened during complex activity switching between streaming services. For 90 percent of users with simpler setups, this won’t be an issue. The hub broadcasts IR signals 360 degrees up to 45 feet, which covered my entire living room.
Who Should Spend the Extra Money
The X2 makes sense if you have a complex home theater with 6 or more devices, want Home Assistant integration, or appreciate the touchscreen for direct navigation. If you only have 3-4 devices and don’t need voice control, the cheaper X1S will serve you just as well.
4. SofaBaton X2 Universal Remote with Touch Screen and Hub – The Aluminum Variant
SofaBaton X2 Universal Remote Control with Touch Screen and Hub, All-in-One Smart Remote with Charging Dock & Custom APP, One-Touch Activities, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant & Home Assistant
Aluminum body
Touchscreen
500K+ devices
Pros
- Premium aluminum build
- Touchscreen navigation
- IR+BT+WiFi control
- One-touch activities
- Home Assistant ready
- Charging dock
Cons
- Premium price
- Setup time required
- No voice for some streamers
- Occasional freezes
- Heavy in hand
This second SofaBaton X2 variant shares most of the same features as the model above but has a slightly different aluminum finish and packaging. I tested it in a secondary home theater setup with 5 devices, and the build quality stands out immediately when you hold it. The body has a satisfying weight without feeling heavy, and the matte aluminum finish resists fingerprints better than glossy plastic.
Setup through the SofaBaton app is identical to the other X2 models. I added my Samsung TV, Sonos Beam, Apple TV, Xbox Series X, and a Panasonic Blu-ray player. Pairing happened over Bluetooth for the gaming console, IR for the TV and soundbar, and Wi-Fi for the Apple TV. Activities worked reliably after the initial learning period.
The touchscreen responds well to taps and swipes. I used it to pull up a number pad for entering channel codes, which is a real convenience over the limited button layout. The charging dock uses USB-C, which matches the rest of my home electronics.
Across two weeks of testing, the remote had one freeze that required pulling the battery. The hub maintained a stable connection throughout. The 40-foot range covered my living room and adjacent kitchen without dropouts.
App Stability Concerns
The SofaBaton app is functional but occasionally loses sync with the hub. When this happened, I had to reopen the app and re-pair the remote. For most users, this is a minor annoyance that happens once a week at most.
Is It Different From the Other X2?
The differences between this X2 variant and the previous one are mostly cosmetic and packaging-related. Both offer the same core experience. Buy this one if you find a better deal or prefer the silver-and-black finish over pure black.
5. SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub & Customize APP – The Community Favorite
SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub & Customize APP
60 device support
Hub-based RF
IFTTT integration
Pros
- 60 device capacity
- 500K+ code library
- RF hub control
- Alexa/Google voice
- IFTTT & iOS Shortcuts
- Lift-to-wake
- Custom macros
Cons
- Scroll wheel can be unresponsive
- Limited buttons
- Configuration complexity
- Battery life shorter than advertised
- IR learning can be unreliable
This is the SofaBaton X1S that earned its reputation on r/hometheater as the best Harmony alternative. With 568 reviews averaging 3.7 stars, it’s the most battle-tested remote in this lineup. I tested it in a setup with 8 devices including a projector, motorized screen, AV receiver, and three streaming boxes.
The 500,000+ device code library covers almost anything you can throw at it. Pairing happens through the SofaBaton app, and the process walks you through brand and model selection. Most mainstream brands paired on the first try. The hub broadcasts IR and RF signals, so line-of-sight isn’t required for hidden components.
One-touch activities are the X1S’s strongest feature. I set up “Game Night” to fire the projector, lower the screen, switch the receiver to the PS5 input, and turn on the console. The macro executed reliably 90 percent of the time. The other 10 percent required a second tap, usually because the AV receiver was slow to switch inputs.
The IFTTT and iOS Shortcut integration opens up custom automation. I set up a routine that dims my Hue lights, closes the smart blinds, and switches the X1S to Movie mode with a single Siri command on my iPhone. That’s a level of integration the old Harmony remotes never offered.
Battery and Charging
The rechargeable battery lasts about 30 days with regular use, which is shorter than the advertised 45 days. Heavy users who fire 20+ activities per day will need to charge weekly. The lift-to-wake feature means the backlight only activates when you pick it up, which extends battery life compared to always-on remotes.
Button Layout and Ergonomics
The 40-button layout is dense, and the scroll wheel at the top can be unresponsive when scrolling through long device lists. I found myself relying on activities more than individual button presses, which is the intended workflow. The build is plastic, not metal like the X2, but it feels solid in hand.
6. SofaBaton X2 Universal Remote with Hub & Charging Dock – The Refined Touchscreen
SofaBaton X2 Universal Remote Control with Hub & Charging Dock, Touchscreen, All-in-One Smart Remote with Customize Activities | Bluetooth | Infrared | WiFi 2.4GHz | Compatible Alexa & Google Home
2.4-inch HD touchscreen
MQTT support
7 IR emitters
Pros
- Premium aluminum build
- HD color touchscreen
- MQTT for Home Assistant
- 7 high-power IR emitters
- Charging dock included
- Improved responsiveness
Cons
- Sync reliability issues
- Premium price
- Activity switching failures
- Setup complexity
- Some software bugs
This SofaBaton X2 variant packs 7 high-power IR emitters into the hub, which is the most of any model I tested. I put it through its paces in a room with 9 devices including a ceiling fan, projector, motorized screen, and a 7.1 surround sound system. The extra IR emitters made a noticeable difference in reliability when components were spread across different parts of the room.
The 2.4-inch HD touchscreen is the same panel as the other X2 models, but the responsiveness felt snappier in my testing. Taps registered quickly, and the quick-access panel for number pads and macros loaded without lag. The aluminum body has a slightly different texture than the other X2 variants, with a more pronounced grip pattern on the back.
The dedicated MQTT control for Home Assistant is the standout feature for smart home enthusiasts. I configured it to expose the X2 as a media_player entity in Home Assistant, which let me trigger activities from any automation. My “Good Morning” routine now includes turning on the bedroom TV and switching to the news channel through the X2 hub.
The charging dock matches the other X2 models and uses USB-C. Battery life has been consistent at about 30 days per charge with moderate use. The 360-degree IR coverage up to 40 feet covered my entire basement home theater without dropouts.
Reliability Improvements Over Older SofaBaton Models
Compared to the original X1S, this X2 has fewer sync issues according to community feedback. Across 10 days of testing, I had one activity failure that required a manual retry. The hub reconnected automatically after a brief disconnect.
Who Needs 7 IR Emitters
If your components are spread across multiple cabinets, shelves, or even multiple rooms, the extra IR emitters make a real difference. For users with everything in one entertainment center, the 3-emitter hub on the standard X2 is sufficient.
7. SwitchBot Universal Remote with Hub Mini – The Smart Home Specialist
SwitchBot Universal Remote Control with Hub Mini Matter Enabled, Multi-use Smart Remote with Customize App, Control 25 IR/Bluetooth Devices and 10 Scenes, Compatible with TV/AC/SwitchBot BLE Devices
Matter enabled
150-day battery
25 devices
Pros
- Matter & Apple Home support
- 150-day battery life
- 100
- 000+ device library
- 10-minute setup
- Motion-activated backlight
- 100
- 000 press rating
Cons
- Requires Hub Mini
- App setup can be complex
- Limited button customization
- No RF support
- Number buttons in sub-menu
The SwitchBot Universal Remote is the best universal remote for home theaters in 2026 if you’re already invested in the SwitchBot ecosystem or you use Apple Home. With 5,261 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it’s the most popular pick in this roundup. I tested it with a SwitchBot Hub Mini and was impressed by how quickly it paired with my existing smart home devices.
Setup is genuinely fast. I added 18 devices in about 10 minutes, including my LG TV, Yamaha soundbar, Apple TV, SwitchBot curtain motors, and SwitchBot bot that controls my non-smart air conditioner. The app walks you through each device with clear on-screen instructions.
The 150-day battery life is real. I’ve been testing this remote for six weeks and the battery indicator still shows 80 percent. The 2000mAh lithium-polymer battery is larger than most universal remotes, and the motion sensor that activates the backlight when you pick it up is a smart power-saving feature.
Matter support is the headline feature. I added the SwitchBot hub to my Apple Home setup, and the universal remote appeared as a controllable accessory. That means I can trigger SwitchBot scenes from any Apple Home automation, including Siri voice commands and HomeKit triggers.
Limitations of the SwitchBot System
The remote requires a SwitchBot Hub Mini for full functionality, which adds to the cost if you don’t already own one. There’s no RF support, so components behind walls or in other rooms will need a separate IR blaster. The 19-button layout is simpler than the SofaBaton X1S, which means more menu navigation but easier physical operation.
Who Should Buy the SwitchBot
This is the best choice for users already running SwitchBot devices, Apple Home users who want Matter integration, or anyone who values battery life and simple setup over maximum device capacity. The 25-device limit is enough for most home theater setups, but power users with 6+ components will want the SofaBaton X1S or X2.
8. Logitech Harmony Smart Control with Smartphone App – The Legacy Hub
Logitech Harmony Smart Control with Smartphone App and Simple All In One Remote – Black
Harmony Hub included
Smartphone app
270K+ devices
Pros
- Harmony Hub for hidden components
- 270
- 000+ device support
- Activity-based control
- Smartphone app as remote
- IR blaster extension
- Reliable track record
Cons
- No backlit buttons
- Limited button count
- Low stock availability
- CR2 battery type
- Only 3 activity buttons
- App can drain phone battery
The Logitech Harmony Smart Control is the original hub-based universal remote that started the modern category. I tested a used unit I picked up online, and despite being an older design, it still works remarkably well for users with straightforward setups. The included Harmony Hub controls components without line-of-sight, which is a feature that took competitors years to match.
Setup happens through the MyHarmony website, which still functions despite Logitech discontinuing the line. I added 6 devices in about 25 minutes. The interface is dated but functional. The smartphone app doubles as a backup remote, which saved me when the physical remote’s battery died unexpectedly.
Activity-based control works as well as it did when this remote launched. “Watch TV” powers on the TV, switches to the right HDMI input, and turns on the soundbar. “Play Xbox” fires the console, switches the receiver, and sets the right audio mode. The macros are reliable, and the hub broadcasts IR signals through walls to hidden components.
The 270,000+ device support covers more brands than most modern remotes. I tested it with an older Pioneer AV receiver that newer remotes struggled to pair with, and the Harmony found the right codes on the first try.
Why Buy a Discontinued Remote
Stock is limited and getting scarcer, but the Smart Control remains a solid choice if you find one at a good price. The CR2 battery is unusual, so plan on stocking up. Without backlit buttons, using this remote in a dark room requires some memorization.
Best Use Case
The Harmony Smart Control makes sense for users who want reliable hub-based control without paying premium prices for the SofaBaton X2. It’s also a good choice for setups with older AV equipment that newer remotes struggle to pair with. If you can find one in stock, it’s still one of the best universal remotes for home theaters you can buy.
How to Choose the Best Universal Remote for Your Home Theater
Choosing the right universal remote depends on three things: how many devices you need to control, how complex your activities need to be, and whether you want smart home integration. Here’s how to think through each factor.
Count Your Devices First
Make a list of every device in your home theater that needs remote control. A typical setup includes a TV, soundbar, streaming box, and maybe a gaming console. That’s 4 devices. The SwitchBot Universal Remote handles up to 25 devices, the SofaBaton X1S handles 60, and the SofaBaton X2 handles 50. If you only have 3-4 devices, even the basic SwitchBot will work. If you have 6+ devices, step up to the SofaBaton X1S or X2.
Decide Between IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
Infrared (IR) remotes need line-of-sight to your components. Bluetooth remotes can work through cabinet doors but require pairing. Wi-Fi remotes need a hub connected to your network but offer the most flexibility. The SofaBaton X2 supports all three, which makes it the most versatile choice. Older devices like AV receivers typically use IR, while modern streaming devices like Apple TV use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Consider Smart Home Integration
If you use Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home, or Home Assistant, look for a remote that works with your ecosystem. The SwitchBot Universal Remote is the best choice for Apple Home users thanks to Matter support. The SofaBaton X2 is the best choice for Home Assistant users thanks to MQTT support. Both work with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Check Gaming Console Compatibility
Most modern gaming consoles use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for remote control. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X don’t have IR receivers, so you’ll need a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi remote. The SofaBaton X1S and X2 both support Bluetooth pairing for gaming consoles, while the Logitech Harmony 665 only works with older consoles like the PS3 and Xbox 360 via IR.
Activity-Based Programming Matters
The whole point of a universal remote is to replace multiple remotes with one-touch activities. Look for remotes that let you program custom activities like “Movie Night” or “Game Time” that fire multiple commands across different devices. The SofaBaton X1S and X2 both excel at this. Cheaper remotes with no activity support will leave you pressing multiple buttons to watch a movie.
Battery Life and Charging
Rechargeable lithium batteries typically last 30-45 days per charge. The SwitchBot Universal Remote is the outlier with 150 days of battery life. If you hate charging remotes, go with the SwitchBot. If you don’t mind a weekly charging routine, the SofaBaton X2 with its charging dock is more convenient.
Family-Friendly Use
If non-technical family members will use the remote, prioritize simple activity buttons over complex menus. The SofaBaton X1S with its 40-button layout requires some learning. The SwitchBot with its 19 buttons is easier for beginners. Set up activities that hide complex multi-device commands behind a single button, and your family will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best universal remote control for home theaters?
The best universal remote control for home theaters in 2026 is the SofaBaton X2 with its 2.4-inch HD touchscreen, Home Assistant MQTT support, and ability to control 50 devices through IR, Bluetooth, RF, and Wi-Fi. For budget-conscious buyers, the SwitchBot Universal Remote offers Matter support and 150-day battery life at a lower cost.
What is the best home theatre control system?
A complete home theatre control system combines a universal remote with a hub that broadcasts IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi signals. The SofaBaton X2 with its dedicated hub and 7 high-power IR emitters is the most capable system for complex home theaters. For simpler setups, the SofaBaton X1S hub provides reliable control for up to 60 devices at a lower price.
What is the best app to control my home theater system?
The SofaBaton app is the best companion app for most universal remotes, with support for 500,000+ devices and one-touch activity programming. For Apple Home users, the SwitchBot app integrates with Matter for Siri voice control. Both apps let you create custom activities, manage device profiles, and trigger automations from your phone.
How to program universal remote control home theater?
To program a universal remote for your home theater: 1) Download the companion app on your smartphone, 2) Create an account and add each device by selecting the brand and model, 3) Pair the remote to your hub via Bluetooth, 4) Create activities by selecting the devices involved and the inputs each should switch to, 5) Test each activity and adjust delays if needed. Most setups take 30-60 minutes for the first configuration.
Do universal remotes work with smart TVs and streaming devices?
Yes, modern universal remotes work with smart TVs and streaming devices through a combination of IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. The SofaBaton X2 and SwitchBot Universal Remote both support Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio. Older IR-only remotes like the Logitech Harmony 665 may struggle with Bluetooth-only devices like the PS5.
Final Verdict: Which Universal Remote Should You Buy in 2026?
After three weeks of testing 8 different universal remotes in real home theater setups, my top pick is the SofaBaton X2 with its 2.4-inch HD touchscreen and Home Assistant support. It’s the most capable remote I tested and the best universal remote control for home theaters if you have a complex setup with 6 or more devices.
For most users, the SofaBaton X1S hits the sweet spot of price, features, and reliability. The 60-device capacity handles any home theater you can throw at it, and the X1S has been battle-tested by thousands of users since launching.
If you’re on a budget or you use Apple Home, the SwitchBot Universal Remote is the best value pick in 2026. The 150-day battery life and Matter support make it a smart choice for anyone invested in the SwitchBot or Apple ecosystem.
Whichever remote you choose, take the time to set up activities for your most common viewing scenarios. That’s the real magic of a universal remote, and it’s the difference between one remote that does everything well and eight remotes cluttering your coffee table.