SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub, Universal Remote Control with One Touch Activities, Customize SofaBaton APP, Compatible with 60 Devices, Compatible with Alexa Google Assistant, Raise to Wake

I purchased the X1S in September of 2024. This is the second Sofabaton X1 I've had; I bought the first X1 version a little more than a year ago, and I have been very, very pleased with both models. I use the X1S for our main sound and video system, and the original X1 with an auxiliary TV. The codes for operating several hundred thousands of devices from several thousand brands are easily download from Sofabaton's data base, or the codes from your original remote controls can be learned by the X1S. A relatively simple scripting language lets you control and operate multiple devices with one operation or "activity", so the multiple remote control devices that you would normally have to use with the various devices in your A-V setup can all be consolidated and run on one remote, the X1S, with the press of one button. The setup is relatively easy. The device is well made and feels solid in your hand. After the X1S was configured and programmed, it has operated flawlessly for the past seven months -- this has also been the case with my original X1. The X1S remote controls your various A-V devices by communicating with a "hub" using RF signals, so the remote does not have to be pointed at the device; it can be pointed anywhere, and it has an impressive range. I recently did a major equipment and carrier switch involving one of my A-V setups, replacing several Comcast cable boxes for internet, phone, and tv, with one Xfinity unit. I simply added the Xfinity box to the main "activity" I'd programmed into the X1S, which automatically included the new device into the existing program and continued to function normally with no further requirements. I am sincerely impressed with Sofabaton's products. I could ask for the moon, I suppose, but I really can't think of much more I would want in a remote control device. Having said that, I do have one suggestion that I think would make the X1S an even more flexible device, which is to add an If-Then construct to the scripting language. Here's an example of how such a construct might be used: you can easily switch input sources from within an Activity, for example, from cable tv, to Netflex, or Youtube, etc. However, depending on your equipment, the key bindings for doing things like navigating up, down, right, and left, for example, may use different codes for different devices -- the arrow keys used when watching cable TV may use one set of codes, whereas if you switch to watching Netflix within the same Activity, there is no way to also automatically switch the navigation key bindings from those used by cable TV, to those needed by Netflix. The workaround is to create separate Activities for live cable tv and streaming sources. This is a wish list item; it would be nice to have, but it doesn't impact my general satisfaction with this product.

As someone with a home setup that includes a non-smart TV, AV receiver, Roku, Xfinity set-top box, Fire TV, and a Sound bar, managing multiple remotes was a challenge, especially for my mother when she visits or dog sits. I decided to try the Sofabaton X1S universal remote, and after two weeks of use, I’m thoroughly impressed with its ability to simplify my setup.Setup and ConfigurationGetting started with the Sofabaton X1S was straightforward. The process involved downloading the Sofabaton app, connecting the hub via Bluetooth, and then syncing it to my Wi-Fi network. The app is central to both the setup and operation, allowing you to add devices, configure activities, and customize button mappings. One feature I particularly appreciated is the ability to use the phone app as an additional remote, which means I can control everything even if the main remote isn’t nearby.Adding devices was seamless. The app includes an extensive database of remote codes, and for my devices, finding the correct code set was easy. For example, my Roku and Xfinity box were added in minutes. I did run into some issues with an older device, but the app's user-submitted codes helped me get it working. Configuring power settings and button layouts for each device was intuitive.I initially had some difficulty with the remote, experiencing lag and inconsistent performance. After some troubleshooting, I realized the issue was due to improper placement of the IR repeater eyes. Once I adjusted their positioning to ensure they were correctly aligned with my devices, the remote's functionality improved dramatically, and the lag was eliminated.Using Activities to Simplify ControlOne of the standout features is the ability to create custom activities. For instance, I created an “ROKU” activity that powers on the TV, AV receiver, and Roku, sets the correct inputs, and adjusts the soundbar—all with one button press. This has been a game changer, especially for my mother, who can now enjoy her shows without fumbling through multiple remotes.Daily UseThe remote communicates with the hub via Bluetooth, and the hub sends commands to devices using infrared (IR) repeaters, which, after adjusting the IR placement, now work flawlessly in my setup. The remote is responsive and feels very much like using individual remotes. I also noticed that it transmits RF signals, though I haven’t had the chance to set that up yet.The physical remote has been easy to use. I also added shortcuts for common actions to make it even simpler for others. The app, however, has become my backup remote when I don’t have the physical one handy. It mirrors the remote’s functions, offering additional flexibility.Build Quality and Battery LifeThe remote is rechargeable via USB-C, and after two weeks of regular use, I haven’t needed to recharge it yet. Compared to previous universal remotes I’ve used, the Sofabaton X1S strikes a good balance between functionality and affordability.Overall ThoughtsThe Sofabaton X1S has made controlling my home theater setup much easier. The ability to use the phone app as both a setup tool and a secondary remote adds significant value. While I had initial issues with IR placement, resolving them made a significant difference in performance. For anyone looking for a Harmony remote alternative, this is an excellent option that simplifies complex setups and makes life easier for everyone in the household.