The first remote control dates back to 1894, when a radio signal moved a mirror galvanometer to direct a light beam. Over a century later, modern remotes let you automate virtually any home task with precision and ease.
Today, your smartphone often serves as the ultimate all-in-one remote for everything from ceiling fans to robotic lawn mowers. Prefer a dedicated device? Universal remotes offer reliable control without the app hassle. In this guide, drawn from years of testing smart home tech, we explore standout remote-controlled devices that transform daily living.
Logitech's Harmony series leads the pack in versatile remote solutions. While excels at TV control, the Harmony Elite goes further, managing entertainment systems, lights, shades, locks, and more. It integrates seamlessly with Philips Hue, August locks, Roku, PlayStation, and others.
Logitech Harmony Elite Remote Control, Hub and App, works with Alexa. Buy Now On Amazon $248.95
Maximize your Harmony Elite by linking it to a Nest Learning Thermostat—adjust temperatures or activate 'Away' mode via remote or app. Set activity-based defaults, like warming up for movie nights or cooling for music sessions.
Prefer smart lighting? Pair it with Philips Hue to tweak colors and brightness with a single button press.
Affordable alternatives include the Harmony Companion and Harmony 950.
Remote tech shines in cleaning automation. From vacuums to window washers, these devices handle chores remotely, saving time and effort.
ILIFE's A4s and powerful A6 models deliver budget-friendly performance, outperforming pricier rivals on carpets thanks to innovative rubber brushes. Both include remotes and cost far less than Roomba equivalents.
ILIFE A4s Robot Vacuum Cleaner. Buy Now on Amazon $169.99
iRobot's Roomba line dominates with Wi-Fi-enabled models like the 980 flagship ($900). It features vSLAM navigation for full-home coverage, auto-recharging, and app control. Other options: 690, 890, 960. Competitors like Neato, Bissell, and Ecovacs offer variety.
iRobot's Braava series tackles mopping: Braava 380t and jet 240 support wet/dry modes with app control via the iRobot Home app.
Ecovacs' Winbots use vacuum suction for glass surfaces—framed or frameless, clear or tinted. Spray the pad, place on glass, and press start; it self-maps and returns. Remotes provide extra precision.
Hunter Fan and Haiku offer Wi-Fi/HomeKit fans with handheld remotes or app control. Retrofit existing fans using smart switches.
CleverPet Hub engages pets with puzzle games, dispensing kibble as rewards. Wi-Fi updates and app monitoring track progress and schedules.
CleverPet Hub: exercise your pet's mind + body. Buy now on Amazon
Husqvarna Automower 430X/450X handles slopes up to 45%, cuts 0.75 acres, and offers app controls plus PIN security.
Husqvarna 967622505 Automower 430X Robotic Lawn Mower, 3/4 Acre Capacity. Buy Now On Amazon $2,449.99
Options range from single-channel remotes to multi-channel or timers for sunrise/sunset automation. Apps from Somfy, Serena, HunterDouglas add geofencing and more.
Remote control extends to TVs, cleaners, pet feeders, mowers, and beyond. Which devices have revolutionized your home? Share in the comments.
