Best Remote Controls August 2026
Finding the right remote control can simplify everything from your home theatre to your work presentations. This guide helps you compare the best options available, whether you need a powerful universal remote to manage all your devices or a simple presenter to ace your next slideshow. We've broken down the key features, pros, and cons to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
Last updated: 24 August 2026
Remote Controls: Top 5
1
One For All URC7985
from £49.992 stores
from £49.99
2 stores
2
Apple Siri Remote (3 gen.)
from £44.907 stores
from £44.90
7 stores
3
One For All URC 7145 Evolve 4
from £13.906 stores
from £13.90
6 stores
4
Logitech Harmony One
from £3.992 stores
from £3.99
2 stores
5
Logitech R400
from £9.999 stores
from £9.99
9 stores
This universal remote from One For All stands out with its mobile app for easy setup and a solid, ergonomic design. It features an e-paper display to manage your devices, though the screen can be a bit slow to update. While it lacks some device-specific functions like the swipe feature for Apple TV, it's a versatile controller for consolidating your home entertainment system.
Pros
Mobile app for easy setup
Solid build and good ergonomics
Features an e-paper display
Controls multiple devices
Cons
E-paper display can be slow to update
Lacks swipe function for Apple TV
The third-generation Apple Siri Remote is the official controller for Apple TV, featuring a familiar sleek design and both Bluetooth and IR connectivity. It's designed to work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem. However, it is primarily a replacement part and comes with a high price tag, making it a poor value unless you need to replace an original remote.
Pros
Official remote for Apple TV
Features Bluetooth and IR interfaces
Rechargeable via a USB port
Cons
Very expensive for a replacement part
Not a universal remote
Only intended for Apple TV
The One For All URC 7145 Evolve 4 is a practical universal remote capable of controlling up to four different devices. It offers advanced features like programmable buttons and macros for creating custom command sequences. It operates via infrared with a generous 15-meter range and runs on standard AAA batteries, but it does not have a screen for device selection.
Pros
Controls up to 4 devices
Programmable with macro functions
Long 15-meter usage range
Uses standard AAA batteries
Cons
Lacks a display for feedback
IR only, requires line-of-sight
Not rechargeable
The Logitech Harmony One is a classic, powerful universal remote that can control up to 15 devices. It features a colour touchscreen, backlit physical buttons, and a convenient charging dock. While it's an older model and its setup software can be troublesome, its deep customisation options keep it relevant for enthusiasts with complex home theatre systems.
Pros
Controls up to 15 devices
Colour touchscreen display
Rechargeable with docking station
Backlit physical buttons
Highly programmable via PC/Mac
Cons
Older model with potentially buggy software
Battery may swell over time
Programming requires a computer
The Logitech R400 is a wireless presenter for controlling presentations on a PC or Mac, not a universal remote for home entertainment. It offers a simple plug-and-play experience via a USB receiver and uses Radio Frequency (RF), so it doesn't require a direct line of sight. While effective for its purpose, some users report its practical range is shorter than the advertised 15 meters.
Pros
Simple plug-and-play setup
Designed for presentations on PC/Mac
Radio Frequency (RF) control
Built-in laser pointer
Cons
Not for home entertainment devices
Actual range may be shorter than advertised
Limited to 5 buttons
Compare specifications
| Number of units (max) | — | 4 st | 15 st | — |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interfaces | Bluetooth, Infrared (IR) | Infrared (IR) | Infrared (IR) | Radio frequency (RF) |
| Display | — | No | Yes | — |
| Features | — | Programmable, Macro function | Programmable, Backlit buttons, Docking station, Macro function | — |
How we create the list
The ranking is updated monthly and is based on data we collect from our own platform. Products that rank highly are popular among our users while also maintaining high quality according to editorial expert assessments. Specifically, we weigh how many users follow the product via price alerts or lists, how it is rated by experts and users, as well as how much traffic it generates to stores and how well it is represented in retail. The texts on this page are AI-generated and created to give you a quick and clear overview. No products are paid placements – the ranking is driven solely by data.
