Broadlink Mini IR Smart Remote vs Broadlink Compact Infrared Smart Remote (2026): Key Differences
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The broadlink rm4 mini smart remote vs rm5plus infrared smart remote comparison highlights two compact hubs for controlling legacy devices. Both units connect via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and support Alexa and Google Home. They share a similar cubic form factor and weigh nearly the same. The main difference lies in their device library size and advanced learning features. One offers a larger cloud database, while the other emphasizes manual code capture for uncommon appliances.
Key differences
| Aspect | BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub | BroadLink Compact Infrared Smart Remote |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri | Amazon Alexa, Google Home |
| Device Library Size | 50,000+ IR devices | 5,000+ infrared appliances |
| Color | Black | White |
| Dimensions | 1.85 x 1.65 x 1.85 inches | 1.77 x 1.77 x 1.77 inches |
| Weight | 2.12 ounces | 2.08 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub if
- You need support for IFTTT and Siri voice control alongside Alexa and Google.
- You want access to a larger cloud database of 50,000+ device codes.
- You prefer a black device that fits a darker entertainment center.
Choose BroadLink Compact Infrared Smart Remote if
- You want to manually learn IR codes from existing remotes for uncommon devices.
- You prefer a white device that blends into lighter walls or shelves.
- You want a slightly more compact cubic design with balanced dimensions.
Verdict: Choose the RM4 Mini if you require broader voice assistant integration and a massive device database. Pick the RM5plus if you value manual IR learning for older gadgets and a white aesthetic. Both devices handle standard 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and basic home automation effectively.
RM4 Mini vs RM5plus Comparison
Device Compatibility
The BroadLink RM4 Mini supports over 50,000 infrared devices in its cloud library. This extensive database covers TVs, set-top boxes, DVD players, projectors, fans, and air conditioners. The library updates regularly to include newer models. You can also manually program buttons if the cloud data does not match your device. The BroadLink RM5plus supports more than 5,000 infrared appliances. It covers similar categories like TVs, ACs, fans, and set-top boxes. The RM4 Mini offers a significantly larger pre-programmed device library for immediate use.
Manual Programming
Both units allow you to learn signals from existing remotes. The RM4 Mini lets you program IR remote devices and learn buttons when cloud data is unavailable. The RM5plus features a UserDefine IR learning function. This allows the remote to capture and store commands from virtually any infrared remote. This is useful for older or uncommon appliances not in the database. Both products support manual learning. Neither has a clear advantage in this category based on the provided specifications.
Smart Home Ecosystem
Both hubs connect via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and exclude 5GHz and mesh networks. The RM4 Mini works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Siri. The RM5plus integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. The RM4 Mini includes IFTTT support, allowing for more complex automation routines beyond simple voice commands. Siri support is also listed for the RM4 Mini. The RM5plus does not mention IFTTT or Siri integration. The RM4 Mini offers broader third-party automation options.
Physical Dimensions
The RM4 Mini measures 1.85 inches by 1.65 inches by 1.85 inches. It weighs 2.12 ounces. The RM5plus is a perfect cube, measuring 1.77 inches on all sides. It weighs 2.08 ounces. The RM5plus is slightly smaller in width and length. The RM4 Mini is slightly taller. The weight difference is negligible at less than one-tenth of an ounce. Both are compact cubes that sit easily on a shelf. The RM5plus has a more uniform cubic shape.
Power Requirements
The RM4 Mini requires a 5V 1A USB power source. The package includes a USB cable but does not include the power adapter. You must provide your own 5V 1A adapter. The power source for the RM5plus is not listed in the provided data. Both devices rely on wired power rather than batteries. You need to ensure a nearby USB port or power adapter is available for the RM4 Mini. The lack of data for the RM5plus power source prevents a direct comparison.
Automation Features
Both hubs support custom scenes and timers. The RM4 Mini lets you create multiple timers and customized scenes to control smart home devices. The RM5plus also allows you to create custom scenes, such as Movie Night, and set schedules or timers. This helps optimize home automation and efficiency. Both products offer remote on/off control via the app. The automation capabilities are similar in both units. Both provide the core scheduling and scene-setting features for infrared devices.
Choose the Right Broadlink Hub
You need full Siri voice control
The RM4 Mini lists Siri compatibility alongside Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows you to control your infrared devices using your iPhone without needing a separate hub. The RM5plus only supports Amazon Alexa and Google Home, leaving Siri users without native integration for voice commands in their smart home routine.
You want to learn new remote codes
The RM5plus includes a UserDefine IR learning function. This lets you capture and store commands from virtually any infrared remote, which is useful for older or uncommon appliances not in the cloud database. The RM4 Mini description mentions programming but does not explicitly highlight this manual learning feature in the same way.
You prefer a larger IR library
The RM4 Mini supports over 50,000 infrared devices in its cloud library. This extensive database covers TVs, set-top boxes, DVD players, projectors, fans, and air conditioners. The RM5plus supports over 5,000 infrared appliances. If you have many legacy devices, the larger library on the RM4 Mini may reduce the need for manual setup.
The products compared
BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub
Best for: Basic infrared control via voice assistants
- 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
The Broadlink RM4 Mini is a compact infrared hub designed to control legacy devices via Wi-Fi. It supports 50,000+ IR commands at 38KHz and connects only to 2.4GHz networks. You can manage TVs, air conditioners, and fans through the free app or voice assistants like Alexa and Google. The unit measures 1.85 by 1.65 inches and weighs 2.12 ounces. It requires a USB power source and does not include an adapter.
Pros
- Supports 50,000+ IR devices at 38KHz
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT
- Compact 1.85-inch square design
- Free app control for iOS and Android
Cons
- Only works with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks
- Does not support RF devices or Bluetooth
- Requires clear line of sight to devices
Good fit if
- You want to control infrared appliances with voice commands
- You have a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network available
- You need a small hub for entertainment centers
Skip if
- You need to control RF devices like garage doors
- Your home network only uses 5GHz Wi-Fi
- You require a device with a built-in sensor
Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Mini Smart Remote is a compact hub for users who need basic infrared control via voice assistants. It fits well in entertainment centers where space is limited and line of sight is maintained.
BroadLink Compact Infrared Smart Remote
Best for: Managing legacy infrared appliances via voice
- Connectivity
- 38KHz IR, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Amazon Alexa, Google Home
- Network Interface
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Application
- Air Conditioners, Televisions
- Dimensions
- 1.77 × 1.77 × 1.77 inches
- Weight
- 2.08 ounces
View on Amazon: BroadLink Compact Infrared Smart Remote Affiliate link
This Broadlink RM5plus is a compact white cube designed to consolidate control of over 5,000 infrared appliances. It connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and supports voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Home. The device includes a UserDefine IR learning function for older remotes that lack database entries. You can create custom scenes and timers for automation. It measures 1.77 inches on each side and weighs 2.08 ounces.
Pros
- Supports 38kHz IR for TVs and ACs
- UserDefine IR learning for uncommon devices
- Integrates with Alexa and Google Home
- Creates custom scenes and timers
Cons
- Only compatible with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks
- Incompatible with 5GHz or mesh Wi-Fi systems
- Wi-Fi credentials limited to 32 characters
Good fit if
- You need to control older IR devices not in standard databases
- You want voice control via Alexa or Google Home
- You have a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network available
Skip if
- Your home network only supports 5GHz Wi-Fi
- You require Bluetooth connectivity for local control
- You need control over RF or radio frequency devices
Verdict: Broadlink RM5plus 38kHz IR Smart Remote fits users who need to manage legacy infrared appliances through voice commands or app automation on a 2.4GHz network.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BroadLink Mini IR Smart Remote Hub | BroadLink Compact Infrared Smart Remote |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | not stated | 38KHz IR, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri | Amazon Alexa, Google Home |
| Network Interface | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | 2.4GHz Wi-Fi |
| Power Source | USB | not stated |
| Application | Air Conditioners, Televisions | Air Conditioners, Televisions |
| Dimensions | 1.85 × 1.85 × 1.65 inches | 1.77 × 1.77 × 1.77 inches |
| Weight | 2.12 ounces | 2.08 ounces |
| Size | RM4 mini (No Sensor Cable) | not stated |
| Color | black | White |
| Model | RM4 mini | RM5plus |
Frequently asked questions
Which Broadlink remote is smaller, the RM4 Mini or the RM5plus?
The RM5plus is slightly more compact. It measures 1.77 inches on each side, while the RM4 Mini measures 1.85 inches per side. Both devices weigh nearly the same, with the RM5plus at 2.08 ounces and the RM4 Mini at 2.12 ounces. The RM5plus is white, and the RM4 Mini is black. Both fit easily in tight spaces.
Does the RM5plus support Siri voice control?
No, the RM5plus does not support Siri. It only works with Amazon Alexa. The RM4 Mini supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. If you use an iPhone and want to control your infrared devices with Siri, the RM4 Mini is the correct choice for your setup.
Can I use these remotes with air conditioners?
Yes, both devices work with air conditioners. The RM4 Mini and RM5plus both list air conditioners in their supported applications. They send infrared signals to control your AC unit. You can manage temperature and modes through your voice assistant or the Broadlink app.
Do these hubs require a separate bridge or hub?
No, they do not need a separate hub. Both the RM4 Mini and RM5plus connect directly to your Wi-Fi network. They act as smart remotes themselves. You just need a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection to set them up and control your devices remotely.
What is the main difference in connectivity for these models?
The RM5plus explicitly lists Infrared connectivity in its attributes, emphasizing its direct control capability. The RM4 Mini highlights Wi-Fi connectivity and Alexa compatibility. Both use Wi-Fi to receive commands and infrared to send them. The RM4 Mini is described as a hub for basic control.
Are these remotes suitable for controlling televisions?
Yes, both models support televisions. The RM4 Mini and RM5plus both list TVs in their application specs. You can replace your original TV remote with either device. They allow you to change channels, adjust volume, and power the TV on or off using voice commands.
Which model is better for limited entertainment center space?
The RM5plus is slightly better for tight spaces due to its smaller dimensions. It is 1.77 inches cubic, compared to the RM4 Mini’s 1.85 inches cubic. Both are compact and lightweight. The RM4 Mini is black, which may blend better with dark electronics, while the RM5plus is white.