Broadlink Mini IR Smart Remote vs Broadlink RM4 Mini Universal IR (2026): Key Differences
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This broadlink rm4 mini smart remote vs rm4 mini ir universal comparison looks at two similar hubs. Both devices use 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to control over 50,000 IR devices. They both support Alexa and Google Assistant. The main difference lies in their physical design and specific voice control features. One model includes a sensor cable option and mentions Siri support, while the other is a standard blaster. You need to check the specs to see which fits your setup.
Key differences
| Aspect | BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub | BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri | Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT |
| Dimensions (W x H x L) | 1.85 x 1.65 x 1.85 inches | 1.89 x 1.69 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 2.12 ounces | 3.53 ounces |
| Sensor Cable | Optional (with or without) | not listed |
| Warranty | not listed | One-Year Warranty |
Which one should you choose?
Choose BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub if
- You want a lighter device that fits into tight spaces.
- You need optional temperature sensing via a separate cable.
- You want to use Siri voice control on your iPhone.
Choose BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster if
- You prefer a device with a stated one-year warranty.
- You do not mind a slightly larger and heavier unit.
- You only need Alexa and Google Home integration.
Verdict: Choose the Hub if you need Siri support or optional temperature sensing. Pick the Universal IR Blaster if you want a device with a clear warranty and do not need the extra features. Both handle standard IR commands effectively.
Broadlink RM4 Mini vs RM4 Mini IR
Smart Home Compatibility
Product A, the BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub, lists Siri voice control in its features, alongside Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. This gives you more options for voice commands if you use an iPhone. Product B, the BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster, supports Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT but does not mention Siri. Both devices rely on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi for connectivity. If you want broader voice assistant support, especially for Apple users, Product A has a clear advantage. Product B covers the standard smart home bases without the extra Siri integration.
Connectivity
Both devices use infrared signals at 38Khz to control your appliances. They both connect to your home network via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only. Neither device supports Bluetooth, Zigbee, or RF signals, as noted in their specifications. You must place each hub within line of sight of your devices, as IR signals cannot pass through obstacles. Both hubs allow you to learn commands from your original remote if the cloud library lacks your specific device. Since the core connectivity specs are identical, this is a tie for both products.
Build
The physical dimensions and weight differ slightly between the two units. Product A measures 1.85 inches by 1.65 inches by 1.85 inches and weighs 2.12 ounces. Product B is slightly larger and heavier, measuring 1.89 inches by 1.69 inches by 1.89 inches and weighing 3.53 ounces. Both are black and use a USB power source. The size difference is minimal, but Product A is more compact and lighter. If space is tight on your shelf, Product A might fit better. Otherwise, the build quality appears comparable based on the provided data.
Compatibility
Both hubs claim support for over 50,000 IR-controlled devices. This includes televisions, air conditioners, fans, DVD players, and set-top boxes. The cloud library for both devices is updated continuously to add newer models. You can also manually program the hub if a specific device is not in the database. Both products explicitly state they do not work with RF or Bluetooth devices. If you need to control RF appliances, you would need a different model like the RM4 Pro. For standard IR devices, both offer the same extensive compatibility.
Wiring Requirement
Product A requires a USB cable for power but explicitly notes that the package does not include a 5V 1A adapter. You will need to provide your own power brick. Product B also uses USB power but does not specify the adapter inclusion status in the provided data. Both devices require a stable 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection to function. You cannot use a 5 GHz network. Since Product A clearly states the adapter is missing, you must plan for that. Product B's power setup is less detailed in the specs, making Product A more transparent about your wiring needs.
Which Broadlink RM4 Mini Should You Buy
iPhone users wanting Siri integration
Product A lists Siri compatibility in its features. This allows you to use voice commands on your iPhone alongside Alexa and Google Assistant. If your smart home ecosystem relies heavily on Apple devices, this support simplifies control. You get direct voice access to your IR devices without needing a separate hub or complex workarounds.
Users preferring a lighter device
Product A weighs 2.12 ounces, which is lighter than Product B at 3.53 ounces. The dimensions are also slightly smaller. If you plan to mount this hub in a tight space or move it frequently, the lighter build and compact footprint make it easier to install discreetly behind your entertainment center or near appliances.
Buyers wanting a warranty included
Product B explicitly includes a one-year warranty in its features. This provides clear coverage for hardware defects or connectivity issues during your first year of use. If you prefer the security of a defined manufacturer guarantee for peace of mind, this explicit warranty term is a practical advantage over the other option.
The products compared
BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub
Best for: IR-only 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
View on Amazon: BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub Affiliate link
This is the IR-only version of the Broadlink RM4 Mini. It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to control 50,000+ infrared devices like TVs and ACs. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. You get remote app control and voice commands. It lacks RF support and a sensor cable. It fits homes with only IR devices.
Pros
- Supports 50,000+ IR devices via cloud library
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT
- Compact size at 1.85 x 1.65 x 1.85 inches
Cons
- Does not support RF devices
- Requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only
- No temperature sensor cable included
Good fit if
- You only need to control IR devices
- You want voice control via Alexa or Google
- You have a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network
Skip if
- You need to control RF appliances
- You require a built-in temperature sensor
- You only have a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network
Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote is a focused hub for IR devices, ideal for users who do not need RF or sensor capabilities.
BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster
Best for: controlling IR appliances via voice commands
- 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
View on Amazon: BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster Affiliate link
The Broadlink RM4 Mini is a compact smart remote hub that uses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to control infrared devices. It supports over 50,000 preloaded device codes and allows custom learning for unlisted items. You can manage TVs, air conditioners, and fans through Alexa or Google Home. Its small 1.89-inch frame fits easily near electronics. It requires line-of-sight to function effectively.
Pros
- Supports 50,000+ preloaded IR device codes
- Custom learning mode for unlisted devices
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Compact 1.89-inch square design
Cons
- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- Does not support Bluetooth or RF devices
- Requires clear line-of-sight to operate
Good fit if
- You need to control legacy IR appliances
- You use Alexa or Google Home ecosystems
- You want a small hub for tight spaces
Skip if
- You require 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- You need to control RF devices
- You want Bluetooth device support
Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Hub is a practical solution for automating infrared devices via voice assistants. It suits users with 2.4 GHz networks who need reliable IR control for TVs and AC units.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub | BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri | Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT |
| Network Interface | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi |
| Power Source | USB | not stated |
| Connectivity | Infrared | Infrared |
| Application | Air Conditioners, Televisions | Air Conditioners, Televisions |
| Dimensions | 1.85 × 1.85 × 1.65 inches | 1.89 × 1.89 × 1.69 inches |
| Weight | 2.12 ounces | 3.53 ounces |
| Size | RM4 mini (No Sensor Cable) | RM4 mini |
| Color | black | Black |
| Model | RM4 mini | RM4 MINI |
Frequently asked questions
Do both Broadlink RM4 Mini models support Google Home?
Yes, both devices support Google Home. The first model lists Alexa compatibility, and the second explicitly lists Alexa and Google Home. This means you can use voice commands with either assistant for controlling your infrared appliances like TVs and air conditioners.
What is the size difference between the two RM4 Mini hubs?
The dimensions are very similar but not identical. The first model measures 1.85 by 1.65 by 1.85 inches. The second model is slightly larger at 1.89 by 1.69 by 1.89 inches. Both are compact enough to fit discreetly in most living spaces.
Which Broadlink hub is lighter?
The BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub is lighter. It weighs 2.12 ounces. The BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster weighs 3.53 ounces. If you are mounting these devices in tight spaces, the weight difference might influence your choice.
Can I use these remotes with Alexa?
Yes, both units work with Alexa. The first model lists Alexa compatibility. The second model also lists Alexa compatibility. You can use voice commands to control connected infrared devices such as televisions and air conditioners through your Alexa-enabled speakers or displays.
Do these devices require a sensor cable?
The first model is specified as the RM4 mini with no sensor cable. The second model is listed as the RM4 mini without specific mention of a cable in its size description. You should check the packaging contents to confirm if a cable is included for your specific unit.
What types of devices can these hubs control?
Both hubs are designed for air conditioners and televisions. They use infrared technology to send commands to these appliances. You can automate your TV power, volume, and input selection, as well as adjust your air conditioner settings using your smartphone or voice assistant.
Is there a color difference between the two models?
Both devices are black. The first model is listed in black. The second model is also listed in black. There is no visible color distinction between the two hubs based on the provided specifications. They share the same neutral aesthetic for home integration.
Do these remotes use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?
Both devices connect via Wi-Fi. The first model lists Wi-Fi connectivity. The second model lists infrared connectivity for device control but relies on Wi-Fi for smart home integration. You do not need Bluetooth for setup or operation with these specific hubs.