Remember when you had five different remotes on your coffee table? One for the TV, another for the sound system, another for your Blu-ray player, and two more you weren’t even sure about? Then came the universal remote like a superhero, saving the day. But now it’s 2025. So you might ask — are universal remotes still worth it?
Let’s dive into this fun little gadget and see if it still holds up in today’s smart world.
What Is a Universal Remote Anyway?
Simply put, a universal remote is a device that can control multiple electronics. Instead of juggling five remotes, you grab one, push a few buttons, and you’re good. Easy, right?
Most universal remotes work using infrared (IR) signals, but newer ones also talk to your devices using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. That makes them way more versatile than the old days.
So Many Options in 2025
In 2025, universal remotes are slicker than ever. You’ll find remotes with:
- Touchscreens instead of buttons
- Voice commands that work like a dream
- Built-in smart assistants like Alexa and Google
- Rechargeable batteries, so no more digging for AAAs
They’re designed to be powerful but simple. Almost like having a wizard wand for electronics.
But Wait — Don’t Smart Homes Make Remotes Obsolete?
It’s a good question. With smart homes on the rise, more devices can be controlled with your phone or voice. Think about:
- Saying “Hey Google, watch Netflix”
- Using an app to dim your smart lights
- Automating your home theater with a smart routine
Sounds like you don’t need a remote at all, right?
Well, not so fast.
Why People Still Love Remotes
Despite all the apps and voice control, remotes still rock. Here’s why:
- They’re fast. No app opening or waiting on a voice assistant to respond.
- They’re physical. Some folks like pressing actual buttons.
- They work during chaos. Background noise doesn’t affect a remote. Your voice assistant? Not so much.
- Guests understand them. Your grandma might not know how to yell at Alexa, but she can press “Power.”
So yeah — remotes still have a place, even in 2025.
Cool New Features in Today’s Universal Remotes
The universal remotes of 2025 are not your grandma’s clickers. Check out some of the cooler features:
- Smart device compatibility: Most new remotes can control TVs, soundbars, game consoles, lights, thermostats, and even blinds.
- Custom scenes: Press one button and your remote dims the lights, turns on Netflix, and sets your speaker volume. All at once.
- Voice search: Can’t find the right app? Just say it. “Play Stranger Things.” Boom. You’re watching.
- Phone integration: Lose your remote? Open the app and use your phone instead. Handy!
Some high-end remotes even come with haptic feedback. That means a little buzz to confirm your press. Kinda cool, huh?
Do You Even Need One?
This really depends on what kind of user you are. Let’s break it down.
If you have a smart home:
You might already be using Alexa or your phone to control everything. But still, a universal remote can tie it all together nicely. One remote to rule them all.
If you love movies:
You probably have a soundbar, An Apple TV, maybe a gaming console or a Blu-ray player. Instead of juggling all those remotes, one smart remote makes life easier.
If you’re not tech-savvy:
Apps and voice commands feel like overkill? No shame! A universal remote keeps everything simple.
For households with kids or guests:
A single, easy-to-use remote means fewer questions and tech support calls from Grandpa.
Popular Universal Remotes in 2025
Here are a few crowd favorites this year:
- Harmony Ultra Elite: Logitech bowed out of remotes, but the Harmony brand lives on through third-party developers. It’s as powerful as ever.
- SofaControl Pro: An awesome tablet-like remote with a beautiful screen and tons of customization options.
- Google Nest Wand: Yep, Google made a wand-like remote that integrates straight into your Nest home system.
- YaraVoice Remote: All voice, all the time. Super popular with minimalist fans who like to go screen-free but still want precise control.
These remotes aren’t cheap. But neither is convenience.
What About Using Your Phone Instead?
Phones can do a lot — no surprise there. You can download apps that mimic universal remotes. They’re handy, especially when your actual remote takes a vacation under the couch cushion.
But phones have downsides:
- They run out of battery quickly when used this way.
- You share them with other tasks — messages, games, calls — and that can interrupt the experience.
- They’re not always fast — fumbling with apps is no match for a dedicated button press.
So yes, your phone is a decent backup. But a real universal remote still wins on speed and simplicity.
What’s the Verdict?
If you love control, organization, and simplicity — a universal remote is still totally worth it in 2025.
Sure, they’re not as essential as they were a decade ago. Some people are happy living without one. But for others, especially home theater fans and anyone juggling several devices, they’re a lifesaver.
And hey — there’s something kind of magical about clicking one button and having your whole room respond. Like living in the future.
How to Choose the Right One
Still interested? Here’s what to look for:
- Device compatibility: Make sure it works with all your stuff. TV, soundbar, smart plugs — check them all.
- Ease of setup: Some remotes make setup super simple with QR codes or onboarding apps.
- Battery life: Get one that charges fast or holds battery forever (some do both!).
- Build quality: You’ll be holding it a lot — make sure it feels good in your hand.
And if you can, try out a few at the store. Sometimes the feel of the buttons matters more than the features.
Final Thoughts
Universal remotes may no longer be the hottest tech gadget on the block. But they’re by no means outdated.
In our app-crowded, voice-commanded world, sometimes you just want to press a button. No talking, no swiping, no waiting.
So yes — in 2025, universal remotes are still worth it. Especially if you love convenience, comfort, and a little dose of nostalgia.
