Metareview - Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 remote [Update]

By Christopher Grant

Now that you won't be finding a free bundled remote with new 360s, it's time to consider the alternatives. You can get either the $30 universal remote
or splurge for the enhanced functionality, and looks, of the Logitech Harmony Advanced Universal Remote for Xbox 360.

For around $100 you get a fully programmable remote, with macro capabilities, an LCD screen, and 360 integration.

  • AOL
    Games    : "Even with a few minor infractions, the Harmony's as close to perfection as any universal remote has ventured thus far... don't let the $130 price tag keep you from buying what might be the greatest technological development of the 21st Century: a universal remote control that actually makes life easier."
  • Krunker -
    "Life is absolutely chummy with the Logitech Harmony Advanced Unversal Remote for Xbox 360... this will be the only remote control that you'll ever need – especially for Xbox 360 console owners."
  • ExtremeTech – "It's pricey, but it's the perfect way to consolidate that coffee table full of remotes for the Xbox 360 fan that has way too much stuff hooked up in his home entertainment system."
  • IGN – "Logitech's Harmony Advanced Universal Remote for Xbox 360 is a really positive supporting factor in the hope that this sort of convergence may really make it into the mainstream, and it goes well beyond Microsoft's first efforts in uniting so many disparate components."
  • TeamXbox
    (8/10) – "While there is a Beginner section of the setup software, we still highly recommend that you are at least at 'geek-level' consumer electronics expertise before tackling the Harmony."
  • CNet user rating (8.8/10) – "My wife, who for years has chastised me about all the remotes we have, absolutely loves how easy this remote seamlessly controls every unit within our entertainment setup."
  • Amazon user rating (4.5/5) – "Granted, it does take time to program the remote. But once done, remote is programmed it work likes like charm."

The consensus is that you get a powerful, universal, all-in-one remote that can even control the Xbox 360; but be warned, it's expensive, and configuration is no simple task. If you're shopping for an LCD universal remote for your home theater and Xbox 360, something tells me you should be able to handle the configuration.

[Update: added a review from AOL Games. Any other notables we're missing on this list?
Add them to the comments.]

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