Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Universal Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for broadlink rm4 mini ir universal alternatives to control your infrared appliances. The original BroadLink RM4 Mini handles voice commands via Alexa and Google Home effectively. It offers a compact design that fits easily into any room. However, you might need different capabilities. Some users require radio frequency support for ceiling fans or curtain motors. Others may prefer a device with a built-in temperature sensor. The original model does not support Bluetooth or RF signals. It also lacks a sensor cable for environmental monitoring.
This list includes 6 similar picks that share key specifications with the original device. All selected products support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity for reliable network integration. Each option provides smart home compatibility with major voice assistants. The list covers devices with infrared control, RF capabilities, and smart plugs. You can compare sizes, weights, and connectivity types to find the right fit. These alternatives address specific needs like multi-protocol support or Matter compatibility. Review the specs to match your exact automation requirements.
Our top pick: BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster.
Comparing Broadlink RM4 Mini Alternatives
BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub
The BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub is slightly smaller and lighter than the original RM4 Mini. It measures 1.85 by 1.65 inches and weighs 2.12 ounces. This compact form factor makes it easier to hide behind furniture. It supports Alexa for voice control but does not list Google Home compatibility in its attributes. You get basic infrared control for TVs and air conditioners. If you need the smallest possible footprint and only use Alexa, this is a practical choice. You give up the broader smart home ecosystem support found in the original.
BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote
The BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote adds radio frequency support alongside infrared. This allows you to control ceiling fans and other RF devices that standard IR blasters cannot reach. It is larger, measuring 3.35 inches wide, and weighs 3.4 ounces. It supports Alexa for voice commands. You gain the ability to control a wider range of appliances, including those that do not use line-of-sight infrared signals. You give up the compact size of the Mini. If you have RF devices like ceiling fans, this hub is a necessary upgrade over the basic IR-only original.
BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub
The BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub offers both infrared and RF 433MHz control. It is the largest device on this list at 3.35 inches wide and 5.29 ounces. It supports both Alexa and Google Home for voice commands. This model is designed for users who want to add an external temperature sensor to their routine. You get comprehensive control over various device types and better smart home integration. You give up the tiny, unobtrusive design of the Mini. If you need sensor data and multi-protocol support, this is the superior option despite its larger physical size.
FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster
The FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster is extremely thin, measuring only 0.39 inches in height. It weighs just 1.76 ounces, making it the lightest option here. It supports both Alexa and Google Home for voice control. This device is ideal if you need a low-profile blaster that blends into your entertainment center. You get basic infrared control for TVs and air conditioners with a minimal footprint. You give up the robust build and larger sensor options of the BroadLink models. If space is tight and you need standard IR control, this compact blaster is a strong alternative.
Tapo Compact Matter Smart Plug 3-Pack
The Tapo Compact Matter Smart Plug 3-Pack operates on a completely different protocol. It uses Matter connectivity for cross-platform automation across Apple and Google homes. This is not an IR blaster, so it cannot control TVs or air conditioners directly. It is designed for smart plugs that control power to devices. It measures 1.5 inches wide and 2.36 inches tall. You gain reliable local automation and broader ecosystem support through Matter. You give up the ability to send infrared signals. If you need to automate plugged-in devices rather than control IR appliances, this is the correct choice.
SONOFF Zigbee Dry Contact Relay
The SONOFF Zigbee Dry Contact Relay uses Zigbee connectivity instead of Wi-Fi. It is designed for automating low-power mechanical devices like garage doors. It measures 1.61 inches long and 0.85 inches tall. It supports Alexa and Google Home through a hub. This is a specialized tool for dry contact outputs rather than general IR control. You gain reliable local control for specific mechanical tasks. You give up the ability to control TVs or air conditioners via infrared. If you already have a Zigbee hub and need to automate garage doors or similar devices, this relay is a specialized alternative to the universal IR blaster.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster
Best for: Basic infrared device control via voice
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT
- Network Interface
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Connectivity
- Infrared
- Application
- Air Conditioners, Televisions
- Dimensions
- 1.89 × 1.89 × 1.69 inches
- Weight
- 3.53 ounces
The Broadlink RM4 Mini is a compact smart remote that uses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to control infrared devices. It supports Alexa and Google Home for voice management. The unit includes a library of 50,000+ codes and allows manual learning for unlisted items. Its small footprint makes it suitable for discreet placement. This device is designed for users who need basic infrared automation without radio frequency or Bluetooth capabilities.
Pros
- Supports 50,000+ infrared devices via cloud library
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Allows manual button learning for custom devices
- Compact dimensions of 1.89 by 1.69 inches
Cons
- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks only
- Does not support RF or Bluetooth signals
- Requires clear line-of-sight for infrared control
Good fit if
- You want to control TVs or air conditioners via voice commands
- You have a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network
- You need a small remote for tight spaces
Skip if
- You need to control RF devices like garage doors
- Your Wi-Fi network only broadcasts 5 GHz
- You require Bluetooth connectivity for your setup
Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Remote is a practical choice for controlling standard infrared appliances through voice assistants. It fits users who prioritize simplicity and compact size over multi-protocol support.
BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub
Best for: basic infrared device control
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri
- Network Interface
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Power Source
- USB
- Connectivity
- Infrared
- Application
- Air Conditioners, Televisions
- Dimensions
- 1.85 × 1.85 × 1.65 inches
The Broadlink RM4 Mini is a compact IR hub that turns your phone into a universal remote. It connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and supports over 50,000 IR devices. You can control TVs, air conditioners, and fans through the free app or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. This model does not include a sensor cable or RF support. It is a practical option for basic infrared control needs.
Pros
- Supports over 50,000 IR devices with cloud updates
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT
- Compact dimensions of 1.85 by 1.65 inches
- Lightweight at 2.12 ounces
Cons
- No RF capability for radio frequency devices
- Requires 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
- No included temperature sensor cable
Good fit if
- You need to control standard IR appliances like TVs and ACs
- You want voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant
- You have a small space for the hub
Skip if
- You need to control RF devices like garage doors
- You only have 5GHz Wi-Fi networks
- You require a built-in temperature sensor
Verdict: The Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote is a solid choice for users who need basic infrared control via voice assistants. It fits well in homes with standard IR devices and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.
BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote
Best for: Users needing RF and IR control in one hub
- Connectivity
- 433MHz RF, 38KHz IR, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri
- Network Interface
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Power Source
- 5V 1A USB
- Application
- Air Conditioners, Ceiling Fans, Televisions
- Dimensions
- 3.35 × 3.35 × 1.22 inches
This hub controls IR and RF devices via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. It supports 433 MHz RF signals for curtains and 38 kHz IR for TVs and fans. You can use the app for remote control or voice commands with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. It requires a 5V 1A USB adapter. This model is ideal for users who need to manage both infrared and radio frequency appliances from a single device.
Pros
- Supports 433 MHz RF and 38 kHz IR signals
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri
- Includes IFTTT integration for custom automation
- Allows manual learning for new devices
Cons
- Requires a separate 5V 1A USB adapter
- Only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- Does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi or mesh networks
Good fit if
- You need to control RF devices like curtain motors
- You want voice control through multiple assistants
- You prefer a single hub for IR and RF appliances
Skip if
- You only have 5 GHz Wi-Fi available
- You need a built-in power adapter
- Your RF devices use rolling codes
Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Pro RF/IR Hub is a versatile option for users who need to control both infrared and radio frequency devices. It is best for those who want voice control and manual learning capabilities.
BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub
Best for: RF and IR control with sensor support
- Connectivity
- IR, RF (433MHz), Wi-Fi
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT
- Network Interface
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Application
- Air Conditioners, Televisions
- Dimensions
- 3.35 × 3.35 × 1.22 inches
- Weight
- 5.29 ounces
The BroadLink RM4 Pro adds RF 433MHz support to the standard IR blaster, letting you control curtain motors and light switches alongside TVs and ACs. It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and works with Alexa and Google Home. You can add an external temperature and humidity sensor via USB. It is a strong option if you need radio frequency control in addition to infrared.
Pros
- Supports RF 433MHz for curtains and light switches
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Allows external temperature and humidity sensor
Cons
- Does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi
- Does not work with Bluetooth
- External sensor is sold separately
Good fit if
- You need to control RF devices like curtain motors
- You want to add a temperature sensor to your setup
- You use Alexa or Google Home for voice control
Skip if
- Your home network only uses 5 GHz Wi-Fi
- You want built-in Bluetooth for direct device control
- You only need IR control and want the simplest option
Verdict: BroadLink RM4 Pro RF/IR Hub fits users who need RF 433MHz control for devices like curtain motors and light switches. It is a practical choice for those who want to add an external temperature sensor to their smart home routine.
FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster
Best for: Basic TV and AC control via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, IR (38K kHz)
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, Siri
- Network Interface
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Application
- Air Conditioners, Televisions
- Dimensions
- 1.97 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches
- Weight
- 1.76 ounces
The Frankever R4 is a compact Wi-Fi IR blaster designed to control entertainment devices like TVs and air conditioners. It measures 1.97 by 1.97 by 0.39 inches and weighs 1.76 ounces. The hub supports Alexa, Google Home, and Siri. It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only. You can use the Smart Life app to manage devices remotely or set timers. It is a practical alternative for users who need basic infrared control without RF capabilities.
Pros
- Supports over 50,000 infrared devices
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Siri
- Compact size at 1.97 inches square
- Allows custom button programming
- Works with the Smart Life app
Cons
- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- No RF support for radio frequency devices
- Requires external sensor cable for some features
Good fit if
- You need a small IR blaster for TVs or ACs
- You already use Alexa or Google Home
- You want to control devices via the Smart Life app
Skip if
- You require RF control for fans or garage doors
- You only have 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- You need a built-in temperature sensor without cables
Verdict: Frankever R4 IR Smart Hub fits users who need a tiny, app-controlled IR blaster for basic entertainment devices. It works well if you rely on Alexa or Google Home for voice commands.
Tapo Compact Matter Smart Plug 3-Pack
Best for: cross-platform home automation
- Connectivity
- Matter, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home
- Network Interface
- 2.4G Wi-Fi
- Dimensions
- 1.5 × 1.5 × 2.36 inches
This 3-pack of Tapo smart plugs uses Matter, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to connect to Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home. Its compact design avoids blocking adjacent outlets. You get local LAN control for offline use and scheduling via the Tapo app. It suits those wanting cross-platform compatibility without a hub. The UL-certified flame retardant build adds safety for continuous use.
Pros
- Matter support for Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home
- Local LAN control works without internet
- Compact design avoids blocking other outlets
- Bluetooth onboarding for easy setup
Cons
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only, no 5 GHz support
- No RF or IR blaster for legacy devices
- Energy monitoring not included in this specific model
Good fit if
- You want a single app for multiple ecosystems
- You need reliable offline local control
- You have many outlets to automate
Skip if
- You require 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- You need to control IR devices like TVs
- You want real-time energy usage tracking
Verdict: Tapo P125M Matter Smart Plug 3-Pack offers solid cross-platform control via Matter. It is best for users who want reliable local automation across Apple and Google homes.
SONOFF Zigbee Dry Contact Relay
Best for: Automating garage doors with existing Zigbee hubs
- Connectivity
- Zigbee 3.0
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa, Google Home
- Power Source
- 110–240V AC or 12–48V DC
- Application
- Air Conditioners
- Dimensions
- 1.61 × 1.69 × 0.85 inches
This Sonoff relay uses Zigbee 3.0 connectivity to integrate with smart hubs. It supports 110–240V AC or 12–48V DC input. The device acts as a signal repeater to extend mesh network coverage. You can use it for local control even without internet. It features dry contact output for NO/NC modes. This unit suits users automating garage doors or access control systems with low-power motors.
Pros
- Zigbee 3.0 connectivity for hub integration
- Supports 110–240V AC or 12–48V DC input
- Acts as a mesh network repeater
- Dry contact relay output for NO/NC modes
Cons
- Requires a separate Zigbee hub to function
- Limited to low-power devices up to 8W
- No built-in Wi-Fi or direct app control
Good fit if
- You already have a Zigbee 3.0 hub
- You need to automate a garage door opener
- You want to extend your mesh network range
Skip if
- You only have Wi-Fi smart home devices
- You need to control high-power appliances directly
- You want a device that works without a hub
Verdict: Sonoff Mini-ZBD Zigbee Relay is a specialized tool for automating low-power mechanical devices like garage doors. It fits buyers who already use a Zigbee hub and need reliable local control for dry contact outputs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster | BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub | BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote | BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub | FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster | Tapo Compact Matter Smart Plug 3-Pack | SONOFF Zigbee Dry Contact Relay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | not specified | not specified | 433MHz RF, 38KHz IR, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | IR, RF (433MHz), Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, IR (38K kHz) | Matter, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Zigbee 3.0 |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri | Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT | Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, Siri | Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home | Alexa, Google Home |
| Network Interface | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4G Wi-Fi | not specified |
| Power Source | not specified | USB | 5V 1A USB | not specified | not specified | not specified | 110–240V AC or 12–48V DC |
| Application | Air Conditioners, Televisions | Air Conditioners, Televisions | Air Conditioners, Ceiling Fans, Televisions | Air Conditioners, Televisions | Air Conditioners, Televisions | not specified | Air Conditioners |
| Dimensions | 1.89 × 1.89 × 1.69 inches | 1.85 × 1.85 × 1.65 inches | 3.35 × 3.35 × 1.22 inches | 3.35 × 3.35 × 1.22 inches | 1.97 × 1.97 × 0.39 inches | 1.5 × 1.5 × 2.36 inches | 1.61 × 1.69 × 0.85 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces | 2.12 ounces | 3.4 ounces | 5.29 ounces | 1.76 ounces | not specified | not specified |
| Size | RM4 mini | RM4 mini (No Sensor Cable) | RM4 pro+Hub Only | not specified | R4 (IR) | 3-Pack | not specified |
| Color | Black | black | black | Black | R4+sensor Cable | white | white |
| Model | RM4 MINI | RM4 mini | RM4 pro | 6734134 | FK-UFO-R4 | Tapo P125M(3-Pack) | MINI-ZBD |
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Broadlink RM4 Mini support both infrared and radio frequency signals?
No, the standard Broadlink RM4 Mini only supports infrared connectivity. It is designed for basic infrared device control via voice assistants. If you need radio frequency support, you should look at the BroadLink RM4 Pro. That model handles both IR and RF 433MHz signals for devices like curtain motors.
Which Broadlink remote is best for controlling ceiling fans?
The BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote is the best choice for ceiling fans. It supports both infrared and radio frequency connectivity. This allows you to control fans that use RF remotes, which standard IR blasters cannot reach. It also works with Alexa for voice control.
Can I use these smart remotes with Google Home?
Yes, several models support Google Home integration. The BroadLink RM4 Mini and the BroadLink RM4 Pro both work with Google Home. The Frankever R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster also supports Google Home. However, the BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub only lists Alexa compatibility in its specifications.
Is there a Broadlink option with an external temperature sensor?
Yes, the BroadLink RM4 Pro includes support for an external temperature sensor. This allows you to add sensor data to your smart home routines. The Frankever R4 also comes with a sensor cable option. These sensors help automate devices based on room temperature changes.
What is the smallest Broadlink IR blaster available?
The Frankever R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster is the most compact option. It measures 1.97 by 1.97 inches and weighs only 1.76 ounces. The BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub is also very small at 1.85 by 1.65 inches. Both fit easily behind entertainment centers.
Do I need a hub for the Tapo Matter Smart Plug?
No, the Tapo P125M Matter Smart Plug does not require a separate hub. It uses Matter connectivity for cross-platform control. This allows it to work directly with Apple Home and Google Home. It is best for users who want reliable local automation without extra hardware.
Can I automate a garage door with a Broadlink device?
You can automate a garage door using the Sonoff Zigbee Dry Contact Relay. It connects via Zigbee and provides a dry contact output. This is ideal for low-power mechanical devices like garage door openers. It requires an existing Zigbee hub to function properly.