Test methods
We focused on simple remote controls with just a few buttons for people who have difficulty using a full functionality remote, perhaps because of poor dexterity or partial sight. The six selected looked the easiest to use, with four that operated a single product and the other two operating more. We also assessed a fully programmable, universal remote that could replace a number of your existing controls for a TV, DVD player and so on.
Three types of assessment were carried out on each remote control:
- a features inventory that included dimensions, weight, batteries required and most importantly, their ability to operate UK brands of TV and digital TV products.
- functional tests for correct operation of a small number of iDTVs, set top boxes and digital TV recorders. We tried them out with the highest scoring products on this site.
- ease of use – two experienced assessors checked this, programming and using the remotes to operate both basic commands and where possible advanced commands to access digital TV features. Their ratings are on a five point scale, where ***** is very good and * is very poor, in the summary test reports.
Click here - for a list of the seven remote controls tested
For the best of the bunch, see Recommendations
For buying tips, see What to look for