Imagine coming home after a long day and wanting to relax with your entertainment system. You sit on the couch, surrounded by many remotes. Each one controls a different device: TV, sound system, streaming box. Seeing them all can be overwhelming.
The Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote wants to fix this problem. It costs $250 and controls your entertainment system and smart home devices. You can manage devices from Sonos, Apple TV, and Philips Hue with just one remote. This review will explore its features, setup, and user experiences to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Key Takeaways
- The Logitech Harmony Elite retails for $250 and supports various smart home devices.
- Setup may initially be complex, but the Harmony app guides you through the process.
- Features an impressive 1.5-inch LCD display and rechargeable battery.
- Backlit buttons enhance usability in darker environments.
- Integration with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa allows for voice control.
- Dimensions: hub measures 4.07 x 4.91 x 1.05 inches; remote measures 2.13 x 1.14 x 7.56 inches.
Introduction to the Logitech Harmony Elite
The Logitech Harmony Elite is a top-notch universal remote that makes your home theater easier to use. It controls TVs, sound systems, and smart home tech, making it key for any entertainment setup. This advanced remote lets you manage all your devices easily, streamlining your home automation needs.
The Harmony Elite weighs 5.85 ounces, a bit more than the Harmony Ultimate’s 4.8 ounces. This extra weight gives it a solid feel in your hand, fitting its smart design. It lasts about two days on one charge, perfect for long viewing sessions. The included cradle charges it fast, getting it over 50% in about 30 minutes.
For more control over smart devices, the Harmony Home Extender is available for $99. It boosts the number of smart home devices you can control, adding to your convenience. A standout feature of the Harmony Elite is its “Activities.” These are custom sequences that set multiple devices to the right settings with one press, making things easier.
The Harmony Elite bundle includes the Harmony Hub and the Harmony 950 touch-screen remote. It costs $349.99. This bundle has won the Editors’ Choice award, showing it’s a leading universal remote.
Key Features of the Harmony Elite
The Logitech Harmony Elite is packed with features for today’s home entertainment. It’s great for multi-device compatibility and smart home automation. This remote makes controlling your devices easy and simplifies complex setups.
Multi-Device Compatibility
The Harmony Elite can handle up to 15 devices. It’s perfect for managing TVs, gaming consoles, and smart home gadgets. No more juggling multiple remotes.
Logitech’s huge database means most devices work well with it. This makes controlling everything a breeze.
Smart Home Automation Integration
The Harmony Elite is also a pro at smart home automation. It works with Philips Hue and Nest, making your home smarter. You can set it to change lights and adjust the thermostat while starting a movie.
This blend of universal remote features and smart home devices makes your home experience better. It’s all about convenience and customization.
Design and Ergonomics
The Logitech Harmony Elite combines function and style in its design. It looks great and feels comfortable to hold for a long time. Its size, about 7.5 inches long, fits perfectly in your hand.
The touch display makes it easy to navigate. It adds a modern touch to the remote.
Remote Control Design
The remote’s design makes it easy to use. It has backlit buttons for easy access in the dark. It also comes with a charging dock for convenience.
Hub Specifications
The hub is about 4 x 5 inches. It fits well on your TV stand, keeping things tidy. It connects to devices via infrared, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.
These features make the Logitech Harmony Elite a top choice. It offers a great user experience.
Setting Up the Logitech Harmony Elite
Setting up the Logitech Harmony Elite is easy. It’s the first step to enjoy its full features. Make sure the hub is in the right spot and plugged in.
Initial Setup Process
Start by downloading the Harmony app on your phone or tablet. Follow the app’s instructions to connect your devices. You’ll need to enter the brand and model for each device.
Next, create activities that let you control multiple devices at once. This makes using the Harmony Elite simple and efficient.
Connecting Devices through the Harmony App
Connecting your devices through the Harmony app is key for the best experience. It works with many devices, like smart TVs and gaming consoles. It also connects with smart home gadgets.
Thanks to Bluetooth, it can even control devices that don’t use infrared signals. Here’s how to set it up:
- Open the Harmony app and tap “Add Devices.”
- Pick your device type and brand from the list.
- Follow the app’s instructions to connect each device.
- Make custom activities and assign functions to your remote’s buttons.
This makes the Harmony Elite more than a remote. It’s a key part of your home entertainment system, linking everything together smoothly.
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Download Harmony App | Install the app from the App Store or Google Play Store. |
| 2 | Set Up Hub | Connect the Harmony Hub to your Wi-Fi network and power it on. |
| 3 | Add Devices | Follow on-screen instructions to add devices based on the brand and model. |
| 4 | Create Activities | Customize button functions and set up activities for seamless control. |
The setup is easy, and it connects your devices well. This makes managing your home entertainment simple and hassle-free.
Activity-Based Commands for Enhanced User Experience
The Logitech Harmony Elite changes how you control your home entertainment. It uses activity-based commands to make things easier. You can customize how you interact with your devices, making your experience better.
Creating Custom Activities
The Harmony Elite lets you create your own activities. This means you can make commands that fit your needs. For example, you can have a command for ‘Watch Movie’ that turns on the TV, adjusts the volume, and dims the lights.
This makes enjoying your favorite activities simple. You don’t have to deal with multiple remotes anymore.
Examples of Popular Activities
There are many pre-set activities that make life easier. Some popular ones include:
- Watch TV: Turns on your TV and picks your favorite channel.
- Play Video Games: Powers on your console and sets the TV input.
- Listen to Music: Turns on your audio system and plays your music.
Being able to create and use custom activities makes using technology better. It makes everyday interactions smooth and fun.
Customizable Experience
The Logitech Harmony Elite offers a customizable remote that changes how you control your home entertainment. It’s designed to fit your needs, making your experience unique. This remote is all about giving you the control you want.
Programmable Buttons
The Harmony Elite has programmable buttons that you can set up as you like. You can adjust the volume, launch apps, or switch activities with just a press. This makes controlling your entertainment setup easy and efficient.
Customizing these buttons makes your remote even more useful. It’s a powerful tool for a better user experience.
Using the Touch Display
The remote has amazing touch display features for easy navigation. The 1.5-inch touch screen lets you access devices and activities with a tap. It comes with vibrant colors and a simple interface, making it easy to find what you need.
The touch screen design also keeps things simple. It reduces clutter, letting you focus on your entertainment without hassle.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Programmable Buttons | Assign specific functions to each button, making it flexible. |
| Touch Display | 1.5-inch screen with 65,000 color options for easy navigation. |
| User Interface | Streamlined for simple access to devices and activities. |
| Device Compatibility | Control up to 15 devices, including smart home gadgets. |
Performance and Usability
The Logitech Harmony Elite is a top choice for your home theater. It’s easy to set up and use, making it a great addition. People love how it works well with many devices, making things simple.
Ease of Use after Setup
Getting used to the Harmony Elite is easy once you know it. It’s designed for comfort, unlike regular remotes. You can control up to eight devices and many smart home gadgets. It might take some time to learn, but it’s worth it for the simplicity it brings.
Response Time and Control
The Harmony Elite is known for its fast response. It sends commands quickly to your devices. Even though there might be a tiny delay sometimes, it’s usually very fast. This shows Logitech’s dedication to making it easy to use.
Smart Home Automation Control
The Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote is great for controlling many smart home devices. It lets you manage your home from one place, making things easier and more efficient. You can set up devices to work together easily, thanks to its automation features.
Customizing your setup is easy, so it fits your life perfectly. This means you can create a home environment that works just for you.
Integration with Smart Home Devices
The Harmony Elite works with lots of smart home devices, like Philips Hue lights and Nest thermostats. This lets you connect all your devices into one smart home system. You can control everything from one place, saving energy and keeping your home safe.
It’s easy to change the lights or heat with just your remote or app. This makes managing your home simple and efficient.
Voice Control Compatibility
Voice control makes using the Harmony Elite even easier. It works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can use voice commands. This lets you start routines, like turning on lights and playing music, with just a voice command.
Whether you’re getting ready for a movie or cooking dinner, voice control makes things smoother. It’s a great way to control your home without lifting a finger.
| Smart Home Device | Harmony Elite Compatibility | Voice Control Capability |
|---|---|---|
| Philips Hue Lighting | Yes | Yes |
| Nest Thermostat | Yes | Yes |
| Sonos Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Locks | Yes | Depends on Compatibility |
| Roku Devices | Yes | No |
Long-Range Control Abilities
The Logitech Harmony Elite is great for controlling devices from anywhere in your home. It uses infrared and Bluetooth to manage your entertainment and smart home devices smoothly.
Infrared and Bluetooth Control Range
The Harmony Elite can control up to 15 devices with infrared. This is super helpful for big setups where it’s hard to reach each device. Bluetooth lets you control connected home devices from far away.
Here’s a comparison of the control ranges of different technologies used in the Harmony Elite:
| Control Type | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Infrared | Up to 30 feet | Line of sight required for optimal performance |
| Bluetooth | Approximately 30 feet | No line of sight needed; better for connected devices |
| Wi-Fi (via app) | Depends on Wi-Fi range | Applicable for controlling smart home devices remotely |
The Harmony Elite’s infrared and Bluetooth make controlling devices easy and efficient. It’s perfect for those who want to make their home entertainment and automation easier to manage, no matter the distance.
Pros and Cons of the Logitech Harmony Elite
The Logitech Harmony Elite has both good and bad points. Knowing these can help you decide if it’s right for your home theater.
Advantages of Using Harmony Elite
- The Harmony Elite can control up to 15 devices, making it great for big home entertainment setups.
- It integrates with smart homes, controlling lights and thermostats, making things more convenient.
- It has a rechargeable battery, so you don’t have to change batteries often.
- The touchscreen can be customized, letting you set up commands and access channels easily.
- It can sync changes wirelessly, making setup easier than other models.
Drawbacks of the Device
- It costs $250, which might be too much for those watching their budget.
- Setting it up can take a lot of time, which might be frustrating for some.
- Some users find the software slow and clunky, which can be annoying.
- While it works with smart homes, some users say it’s not as good as it could be.
- It doesn’t have numeric buttons like regular remotes, which can be a problem for some.
| Feature | Harmony Elite | Harmony Companion | Harmony Hub |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $250 | $150 | $100 |
| Device Control Capacity | 15 Devices | 8 Devices | 8 Devices |
| Rechargeable | Yes | No | No |
| Smart Home Integration | Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Touchscreen | Yes | No | No |
Comparison with Other Universal Remotes
The world of universal remotes has changed a lot. Now, there are many options for different needs and budgets. When looking at the Logitech Harmony Elite, it’s key to compare it with others. This helps you see how it stacks up against cheaper and pricier options.
Price Point and Value for Money
Logitech is known for making top-notch universal remotes. But, new options like the SofaBaton X1S might catch your eye. It costs about the same as the Harmony Elite, around $250. It works with up to 60 devices and connects well with Alexa and Google Assistant.
The SofaBaton U2 is a cheaper choice, under $100. It supports up to 15 devices but might take some time to set up. The SwitchBot Universal Remote is $59 but needs extra hubs for full use. The Harmony Elite is a big investment but might be worth it for its wide compatibility.
Alternatives in the Market
Logitech remotes used to be the top choice, but now there are challengers. The SofaBaton models are simple and customizable, great for beginners. But, they have some limits in programming. The Amazon Fire TV Cube is a strong contender with voice control and great image quality. But, it only works with Alexa.
When looking at universal remotes, think about how many devices you need to control. Also, think about what features are most important to you. The cost is a big factor, so choose a remote that fits your budget and needs.
User Experiences and Testimonials
User testimonials offer valuable insights into the Logitech Harmony Elite’s performance. Many customers are happy with its functionality and how well it works with smart home devices. It has a 4.0 out of 5-star rating, showing it’s well-liked.
96% of users say it’s well designed, and 91% find it easy to use. Also, 84% find programming it straightforward.
Positive Customer Feedback
Users love how the Harmony Elite works with home entertainment systems and smart gadgets. The Harmony Hub and the 7.4-inch remote make controlling your home easy. It can handle many devices, from TVs to lights.
The activities feature makes quick access to routines or macros. This simplifies the user experience a lot.
Common User Issues and Solutions
Some users face challenges during setup, like configuring devices or integrating with smart homes. But, many find solutions by following the manual or visiting support forums. Tips include making sure all devices are on the same network and using the Harmony app for setup.
Users suggest being patient. Learning to use the remote well can greatly improve convenience and control over time.
| Rating | Percentage | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 5-star | 80% | 140 |
| 4-star | 9% | 16 |
| 3-star | 6% | 11 |
| 2-star | 1% | 2 |
| 1-star | 3% | 6 |
For a detailed review and comparison, check out this in-depth analysis.
Conclusion of Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote Review
The Logitech Harmony Elite Universal Remote is a top choice for home theater simplicity. It can control up to 15 devices and works with about 270,000 smart devices. This makes it perfect for various home entertainment setups.
It offers a seamless experience, managing everything from TVs to smart lights with one interface. The remote’s performance is impressive, thanks to its easy setup and user-friendly features like gesture control. Users find it very useful after setting it up, which can be done quickly with the Harmony app on iOS or Android.
Many users give it high marks, with an average rating of 4 out of 5. This shows its value in the market. If you’re looking for a smart and easy-to-use remote, the Harmony Elite is a great choice. It offers features that make your viewing and living experience better.
FAQ
What devices can the Logitech Harmony Elite control?
The Logitech Harmony Elite can manage up to 15 devices. This includes TVs, sound systems, and gaming consoles. It also works with smart home gadgets like Philips Hue and Nest.
How do I set up the Logitech Harmony Elite?
First, place the hub near your devices. Then, download the Harmony app on your phone. Follow the app’s instructions to connect your devices by brand and model.
Can I create custom activities with the Harmony Elite?
Yes, you can make custom activities with the Harmony Elite. For example, press ‘Watch Movie’ to turn on your TV and adjust the lights.
Does the Harmony Elite support voice control?
Yes, it works with voice control systems like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. This lets you control your devices without touching the remote.
What is the design of the Harmony Elite like?
The Harmony Elite has an ergonomic design. It has a touch display and backlit buttons for easy use in the dark. Its hub fits neatly on your TV stand.
How does the response time of the Harmony Elite compare to other remotes?
The Harmony Elite has a quick response time. Users find it easy to use after setting it up.
Are there any drawbacks to using the Harmony Elite?
Yes, it’s pricier and setting it up can be complex. But many users say the benefits are worth it.
Can I customize the buttons on the Harmony Elite remote?
Yes, you can program the buttons to fit your needs. This lets you tailor the remote to your preferences.
How does the Harmony Elite connect with smart home devices?
It connects with smart home devices using infrared and Bluetooth. This gives you full control and integration.
What are some popular activities users create with the Harmony Elite?
Users often create activities like ‘Watch TV’ and ‘Listen to Music.’ These activities make controlling your system easier.
