Switchbot Universal Remote

I've been using the Unfolded Circle Remote Two, and its reliance on Home Assistant have actually made me realize that if I never use IR again, I'll be fine with it. IP control and automation of my theater and smart home devices is definitely the way forward for me. It's more reliable and more powerful.

This does, however, have one of the better designs of the IR remotes. I'm not a fan of plastic, but this isn't bad. I like the white finish, kind of refreshing.

I'm in on the Unfolded Circle Remote Three.

Right now using the AVA Cinema and really like it, but it's EXPENSive!

Also have the Allonis but it's a pain to program... still not finished on it.

I have the RTI T2x system still in the box that I've got to get out and get programmed at some point.

mechman said:

You are, unquestionably, our remote aficionado!

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I have Control4 taste on a Harmony budget. The NEEO was such a perfect fit years ago that C4 purchased it and destroyed it. The Unfolded Circle in conjunction with Home Assistant is really a $500 C4.

There are definitely those who prefer to just use something with IR capability and the ease of simply learning their existing remotes and doing some basic macros or activity scripting, which is primarily what I believe the vast majority (including myself) were/are doing with their Harmony remotes. So moving into a new IR remote is natural and comfortable.

My struggle initially programming the Unfolded Circle remote was the hurdle of getting out of that IR mindset. I shelved the UC remote for a month and stuck with the Harmony, but had the Home Assistant still running in the background and I realized what could be relatively easily be done with IP control instead of relying on IR, and started expanding the HA automations. Then, with this new mindset, I did a factory reset on the UC remote and started over and it's been an incredible experience. Just a great setup, so powerful, and makes it so simple on a daily basis once the automations are done (which is much easier than most would think).

I appreciate the IP control on the AVA remote. However, I miss learning IR for those few items that can't be controlled via IP and that are not in the database.

Sonnie said:

I appreciate the IP control on the AVA remote. However, I miss learning IR for those few items that can't be controlled via IP and that are not in the database.

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That’s where the Unfolded Circle remote shines. I’m using about 90% IP and filling in IR to accentuate the IP control and automation.