Broadlink RM4 Pro IR RF Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This broadlink rm4 pro ir rf review covers a universal remote hub that bridges legacy and smart devices. It supports IR and RF (433MHz) signals, allowing control over TVs, air conditioners, and motorized curtains. The unit connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, enabling remote access through the BroadLink app. It also integrates with Alexa and Google Home for voice commands. This hub learns codes from existing remotes or downloads them from a cloud library, ensuring compatibility with over 50,000 IR devices. It serves as a central point for managing non-smart electronics in your home.
What stands out
- Supports both IR and 433MHz RF signals for diverse device control.
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT for voice automation.
- Connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only, excluding 5 GHz networks.
- Allows code learning for devices not in the cloud library.
- Supports external temperature and humidity sensors via USB cable.
Who it fits
Good fit for
This hub suits users with a mix of smart and legacy electronics. It is ideal for those who want to control air conditioners, TVs, or projector screens using voice commands or the BroadLink app. If you have motorized curtains or light switches that use RF signals, this device handles them well. The code-learning feature helps if your specific device is not in the pre-loaded library. It works best in homes where 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi is stable and available.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if your Wi-Fi network only supports 5 GHz bands, as this device does not connect to 5 GHz. It also does not work with Bluetooth devices, so it cannot control Bluetooth speakers or headphones directly. If you need a single remote for all your gadgets without using an app, this hub requires the BroadLink app for setup and control. Additionally, external sensors are sold separately, adding to the initial setup complexity and cost.
Verdict: The BroadLink RM4 Pro is a practical hub for unifying IR and RF devices under smart control. It fits homes with mixed electronics and stable 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
BroadLink RM4 Pro Key Specs
Connectivity: IR, RF (433MHz), Wi-Fi
This device uses infrared and radio frequency signals to control legacy electronics like TVs and air conditioners. The 433MHz RF support allows it to manage devices such as motorized curtains and light switches that lack smart features. Wi-Fi connects it to your network for remote access. This combination lets you modernize non-smart hardware without replacing it. You can control these older devices through a single hub, simplifying your setup compared to using separate remotes.
Network Interface: 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
The unit requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network for setup and operation. It does not support 5 GHz bands, which is common for many IoT devices to ensure better range and compatibility with older routers. You must ensure your home network includes a 2.4 GHz band for this hub to function. This limitation means you cannot connect it to dual-band routers that only broadcast 5 GHz. Check your router settings to confirm this frequency is active before purchasing.
Smart Home Compatibility: Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT
Integration with Alexa and Google Home allows voice control for supported devices like air conditioners and televisions. You can also use IFTTT for more complex automations, linking the hub to other services. This compatibility lets you add voice commands to your routine without buying separate smart remotes. It bridges the gap between simple IR devices and modern voice assistants. Ensure your accounts are linked correctly in the respective apps to enable these features.
Application: Air Conditioners, Televisions
The hub is designed to control specific categories of electronics, primarily air conditioners and televisions. It supports over 50,000 IR devices and various RF controls like projectors and shades. This broad library means you likely do not need to program buttons manually for common brands. The cloud updates the device library regularly. This focus on major living room appliances makes it useful for centralizing control of your entertainment and climate systems.
Design and build specs
The BroadLink RM4 Pro measures 3.35 inches in width and length, with a height of 1.22 inches. According to the listing, it weighs 5.29 ounces. The finish is black. These dimensions indicate a compact, low-profile form factor. You can place it on a shelf, mount it on a wall, or tuck it into a cabinet without taking up much space. The small footprint allows you to position the hub centrally in a room for better signal coverage.
The device connects via Wi-Fi, so it requires a power source and a nearby network. It does not include a built-in display or physical buttons for manual control. You manage settings and device pairing entirely through the BroadLink app on your smartphone. This design choice keeps the hardware simple but requires you to rely on your phone for configuration. The lack of tactile controls means you cannot adjust settings directly on the unit.
The listing notes support for an external temperature and humidity sensor via a USB cable. You must purchase this sensor separately. This feature allows you to add environmental monitoring to your setup. The sensor connects directly to the hub, extending its functionality beyond simple remote control. The compact size and app-only interface make it suitable for users who prefer a clean, minimal aesthetic in their smart home gear.
Setup and everyday use
You connect the BroadLink RM4 Pro to your home network using 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. The listing notes it does not support 5 GHz bands, so you must ensure your router is broadcasting on the correct frequency. Setup begins with the dedicated BroadLink app, which is available for both iOS and Android. The app offers a configuration process that the manufacturer describes as an improvement over previous software. You can also use an Android phone with a built-in IR emitter to test compatibility with your devices before finalizing the hub setup. The device supports FastCon technology, which allows for zero-configuration pairing. Once your first FastCon device is added, new compatible devices are discovered automatically when powered on. For devices not in the cloud library, you can manually program codes or learn buttons directly. In daily use, you control TVs, air conditioners, fans, and motorized curtains through the app or voice commands. The hub integrates with Alexa and Google Home. You must enable the BroadLink skill in your smart assistant apps and link your account to discover devices. It also works with IFTTT for custom automations. An optional external temperature and humidity sensor connects via USB cable. This data appears in the app, letting you monitor room conditions alongside your controls. The device operates on IR and RF signals, bridging older electronics with your modern smart home setup.
Before You Buy This Hub
This device acts as a bridge for legacy gear. It does not replace your smart thermostat. You must verify your air conditioner and TV support IR or RF 433MHz signals. The hub connects only via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. Ensure your router broadcasts on this band. You cannot use 5 GHz networks. If you want room temperature data, you must purchase a separate external sensor and USB cable. This is not included. The unit works with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. Check that your specific appliances are compatible with these platforms. You may need to learn codes manually if cloud data is unavailable. This hub suits users with mixed legacy and smart devices. It does not fit homes relying solely on modern Wi-Fi appliances. Consider it if you need to control non-smart curtains or lights. It fills a gap for older electronics. It is not a standalone climate controller. Plan your network setup carefully to avoid connection issues during installation.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your router supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi bands only
- Verify your AC and TV use IR or RF signals
- Buy separate temperature sensor if you want humidity readings
- Check Alexa or Google Home compatibility for your devices
The product at a glance
BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub
Best for: Controlling legacy IR and RF devices via voice
- 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
View on Amazon: BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub Affiliate link
The Broadlink RM4 Pro is a universal remote hub that uses IR and 433MHz RF signals to control legacy devices. It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and works with Alexa and Google Home. You can use the BroadLink app to create scenes or program new codes. It also supports an external temperature and humidity sensor for better climate control.
Pros
- Supports IR and 433MHz RF signals for broad device compatibility
- Works with Alexa and Google Home for voice control
- Connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi with easy setup
- Compatible with external temperature and humidity sensors
Cons
- Does not support Bluetooth connections
- Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
- External sensor sold separately
Good fit if
- You want to control older IR or RF devices
- You use Alexa or Google Home for voice commands
- You need a central hub for multiple legacy gadgets
Skip if
- You require 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
- You rely on Bluetooth for device control
- You prefer built-in sensors over external ones
Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Pro IR RF Hub is a practical choice for users with mixed IR and RF devices who need voice control integration. It fits homes with 2.4 GHz networks and legacy electronics.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Color | Black |
| Model | 6734134 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the BroadLink RM4 Pro work with Google Home?
Yes, it is compatible with Google Home. You can use voice commands to control your legacy devices through the assistant. The listing confirms support for both Alexa and Google Home. This allows you to integrate the hub into your existing smart home ecosystem without needing additional bridges.
Can this hub control RF devices like motorized curtains?
Yes, it supports RF signals at 433MHz. This frequency allows it to manage devices such as motorized curtains and certain light switches. You can use it to automate these items alongside traditional infrared devices like TVs and air conditioners, creating a unified control point for mixed equipment.
What Wi-Fi band does the BroadLink RM4 Pro use?
It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only. You must ensure your router broadcasts on this frequency, as it does not support 5 GHz bands. This is a common requirement for many smart home hubs, so check your network settings before attempting to pair the device with your home network.
Is the BroadLink RM4 Pro suitable for controlling air conditioners?
Yes, it is listed as an application for air conditioners. You can use it to send infrared commands to turn your AC on or off and adjust settings. This makes it a practical choice for homes with legacy cooling units that lack built-in smart connectivity or app support.
How big is the BroadLink RM4 Pro hub?
It measures 3.35 inches in width and length, with a height of 1.22 inches. The unit weighs 5.29 ounces and features a black finish. These compact dimensions allow you to place it discreetly on a shelf or table without taking up much space in your living area.
Does this device replace my TV remote?
It acts as a universal remote hub for legacy electronics. You can control TVs, air conditioners, and other IR or RF devices through it. While it does not replace the physical remote, it consolidates control into one smart hub that you can operate via voice or a mobile application.
Can I use voice control with this smart hub?
Yes, it supports voice control through Alexa and Google Home. You can issue commands to manage your connected devices hands-free. This integration allows you to turn on your TV or adjust your air conditioner using natural language, providing a more convenient way to interact with your legacy gear.