Remote controls

How can I find easy to use remotes?
If you can, try to see and use a product’s own remote control before you purchase. For information on what to look out for, see Features to look for in a remote control

We have tested each product’s remote control to see how easy it is to use. Our star rating (out of 5) is shown on each product’s summary test report.

We have also tested a range of alternative remotes. These include simple products with just a few basic buttons and some with a few plus concealed extra buttons - see Remotes.

If you regularly use subtitles, a direct access button on the iDTV or digital box remote is very useful.  Use our Product Search and select ‘Subtitle button on remote’ as a search criteria to find products that have a remote with this feature. See also below about universal remote controls.

Do I need to have different remotes for my TV, digital recorder / set top box/ DVD player?
Some of the products (often the more expensive ones) have a remote that allows you to control other digital products. For example you can use the digital TV recorder remote to control the TV and DVD player as well. See ‘Remote control for TV functions’ in the features section towards the top of the Detailed test reports on all the digital products on our website.  

Alternatively you can find ‘universal remote controls’ in most electrical stores. These can be programmed to control a number of products. They vary in price and complexity. Many cheaper models cannot operate Freeview products, but we have tested a universal remote that can - - see Remotes.

How do I find which remotes have a subtitles button?
Use our Product Search and select ‘Subtitle button on remote’ as a search criteria to find products that have remotes with this feature.