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Smart TV remotes are a fabulous tech invention — one that provides a faster way to conveniently access all of the TV shows and films you want to watch. But, while it may seem like every smart remote is exactly the same, small details in each remote’s design matter. If you’re on the fence about buying one, Tech Expert Daniel Walsh, owner of a smart home technology website called www.smarthomeperfected.com, spoke to SHEFinds.com about the one smart remote you should never buy — as well as one he recommends instead.
If you’re like a lot of tech savvy people, you probably assume anything made by Apple is naturally going to be superior to other devices and products. And while this may be the case sometimes, Walsh admits the brand falls short when it comes smart TV remotes.
“As an Apple fanboy, it pains me to say this: The worst smart TV remote I have ever used is the first generation Apple TV remote,” Walsh says. “Normally known for their cutting-edge device design, every now and then, even Apple gets it wrong.”
According to Walsh, when re-imagining the TV remote, Apple designers seemed to favor form over function. “The remote looks slick and aesthetically is far more pleasing to the eye than standard remotes,” Walsh says. “However, from a usability perspective, it leaves a lot to be desired. The trackpad took a long time to get used to and unfortunately, my wife still struggles with it.”
The first gen Apple TV remote is simply too light and small for flicking through channels, Walsh says. “You constantly need to re-adjust it in your hand, and I don't have large hands. It is also so small it gets lost in the sofa, which requires fishing it out.”
The other issue is that you can normally navigate the buttons on a TV remote without actually looking at them, solely from the balance and feel, but Walsh says the Apple TV remote is so symmetrical that you have to look down to see is it facing you or the TV.
Wondering which smart TV remote you can get instead of the Apple remote?
“As far as smart TV remotes go, I recommend the Logitech Harmony Companion,” Walsh says. “I have a home theatre style setup, so I've used one of these remotes to control my Smart TV, along with other connected devices including my Xbox, surround sound, blinds, and cinema lights. Not only that, I have Alexa configured to ‘Activate’ and ‘Deactivate’ my home theatre.”
Apple may be one of the most loved brands for phones, computers, and other devices, but when it comes to your smart TV remote, other options are worth considering first.
