CHF249.– currently CHF329.– new
Logitech Harmony Elite
Universal remote control, Infrared, Bluetooth
Product ratings
Pros
Cons
102 reviews
Good basis, very poor software, absolute paternalism
I bought two Elite and spent days setting them up (previously had two Philips pronto). Unfortunately, it is NOT possible to programme the Elite FREELY (e.g. action "All devices on" and "All devices off", as the owner is extremely "patronised" by the software. The software is also very poor and often does not work properly (e.g. several attempts are needed for synchronisation). As soon as further elements such as light or ventilation are to be controlled SEPARATELY via actions, it becomes difficult. If, for example, a "light on" action is created (with only the IR code for the light), all devices are then automatically switched off. It is absolutely incomprehensible that the owner is so patronised by Logitech (pressed into a scheme) and cannot program the FB freely (the entire base would be available for this).
For example, the on/off commands of the devices in the actions are simply "herded" (so that they cannot be used) and automatically (partly incorrectly) generated commands in the actions cannot be adapted / deleted!
After days I gave up my attempts to set up the Elite the way I wanted it and (of necessity) let myself be forced into the scheme.
In the meantime I experimented with AIO Creator Neo and created an Android/iOS app for remote control. Neo has an interface to the Elite Hub and can (really) be freely programmed. However, this also requires a mobile / tablet and the creation of the app is time-consuming.
The app also runs via the WLAN, which causes delays (this is very unpleasant, for example, especially with the volume).
However, I now have the two Elite running and they work reasonably well.
If the Elite was freely programmable and the software was better, I would give it 4-5 stars.
So if this FB is bought, the concept imposed by Logitech must be adopted!Pro
- Hub has good IR performance (all devices could be reached)
- Quality and feel of remote control basically OK.
- Large IR database (almost all devices, except exotic ones) were found
- BT devices (e.g. PS3) are also supported.
- Communication FB <-> Hub runs smoothly
Contra
- A poor WLAN module is installed in the hub (additional WLAN had to be set up)
- The software is an imposition! Illogical operation and faulty.
- Absolute paternalism of the customer. The given operating concept must be adopted 1:1.
- No free programming possible!
Looking forward to alternatives
All in all, no recommendation to buy (I only bought this because I had no alternatives). But I am very disappointed). I have already had various predecessors (895, 1000, Champion, ...) The Elite is not exactly a step forward.
Pro
- Appearance
- Scope of the IR database
Contra
- Unstable connection to the hub (2m).
- Battery must be charged every week.
- Touchscreen inaccurate and not up to date
- Wifi functions of the remote control use 10% of the potential.
- Control of Smarte-Home via FB insufficient.
- Sonos control options are insufficient (only Start/Stop and Next)
- The implementation of the operation of Philipps Hue is very spartan.
- Small database of supported smart home devices.
top remote control
With a little time, you can adjust a lot of things. A lot of helpful information can be found on various forums.
Useful information for Apple TV users:
Instead of the standard Apple TV, use the Harmony Pro Beta Apple TV (it is easier to switch off the Apple TV and you can also start the first five apps in the favourites bar directly).Pro
- Any programmable
- could replace all my remote controls
- the actions are easy to create
- The teaching of unknown devices is also quite simple.
Contra
- Price
- Programming is only possible via smartphone or tablet (laptop not possible)
Very practical
Bought as a replacement for the Harmony Touch. Finally, no PC/Mac is required. Devices and activities can be set up conveniently via tablet (iPad). I find the shape better than the predecessor. The display is clearly better than before. The harmony is ideal if you have several devices and an AV receiver, because you can select the input for each action. E.g. Watch TV = AV receiver on HDMI 1, TV on HDMI 2, Horizon Box on.
Settings can be taken over from other Harmony remote controls.Pro
- Very practical
- Good workmanship
- Better shape than predecessor
- Can be used without Pc/Mac
Contra
- Rather expensive but worth it
Not recommended
Extremely complicated configuration even for IT-savvy users, requires PC or tablet. Does not work properly for us even with a standard configuration (Sony TV, Swisscom TV, Samsung Blu-Ray player). The devices fall out of synchronisation. Short battery life. An unusable product in my opinion.
1A remote control, I can recommend
The remote control works perfectly. The configuration for my devices (Philips TV and Blu-Ray, Swisscom TV 2 with IR receiver, WD TV Live, Apple TV, Sonos Playbar with Sub, Sonos Play:1) was done within 2 hours. Switching from TV via Swisscom TV to e.g. Apple TV also works perfectly. I can now also play my Sonos favourites with the remote control. I am very satisfied, even if the price was a bit of a pain.
Pro
- Simple configuration
- Works with all my devices
Contra
- Price
6 out of 102 reviews
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