Looking Beyond the Broadlink Compact Infrared Smart Remote? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Alternatives to BroadLink RM5plus

Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote

The Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote offers a slightly larger form factor at 1.85 by 1.65 inches. It weighs 4.23 ounces, which is heavier than the RM5plus at 2.08 ounces. This model comes in a pack of two, providing more coverage for your home. It maintains compatibility with Alexa for voice control. However, the data does not mention Google Home support for this specific mini variant. It lacks the manual user-defined IR learning feature found in the RM5plus. You should choose this if you need multiple units for different rooms and primarily use Alexa. It is a practical choice for standard infrared appliances without requiring RF capabilities.

BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote

The BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote supports both infrared and radio frequency signals. This allows you to control devices that do not require line-of-sight, such as ceiling fans. It is larger than the RM5plus, measuring 3.35 by 1.22 inches. It connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and integrates with Alexa. The RM5plus only handles infrared signals. If you have RF appliances like shades or certain fans, this dual-signal hub is a better fit. It offers voice control similar to the original. However, it is bulkier and heavier. You should pick this alternative if your home has a mix of IR and RF devices. It consolidates control for mixed signal types effectively.

BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster

The BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster is a compact option for basic home automation. It measures 1.89 by 1.69 inches and weighs 3.53 ounces. It supports both Alexa and Google Home for voice commands. This matches the smart home compatibility of the RM5plus. It lacks the manual IR learning feature available in the RM5plus. Instead, it relies on template-based operation. It is suitable for entry-level automated controls for line-of-sight electronics. You should choose this if you want a budget-friendly solution for standard TVs and air conditioners. It does not offer RF support. It is a straightforward choice for users who do not need advanced learning capabilities.

BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub

The BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub combines infrared and radio frequency control. It measures 3.35 by 1.22 inches and weighs 5.29 ounces. It is significantly larger and heavier than the RM5plus. It connects via Wi-Fi and supports both Alexa and Google Home. This hub allows you to control devices like shades that use RF signals. The RM5plus is limited to infrared only. If you need to manage a wider variety of device types, this dual-mode hub is superior. It provides versatile control for mixed signal environments. You should select this alternative if your home includes RF appliances. It offers comprehensive voice integration alongside expanded connectivity options.

Broadlink RM4 Pro IR and RF Remote

The Broadlink RM4 Pro IR and RF Remote supports both infrared and radio frequency signals. It measures 4.33 by 1.18 inches, making it larger than the RM5plus. It connects via Wi-Fi and integrates with Alexa for voice control. This model is designed for users who need to control both IR and RF devices. The RM5plus only handles infrared. It offers environmental monitoring capabilities. You should choose this if you require a hub for mixed signal types. It is a solid option for voice control and broader device compatibility. However, it lacks Google Home support in the provided data. It is best for homes with diverse infrared and RF appliances.

FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster

The FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster is a compact device measuring 1.97 by 0.39 inches. It weighs 1.76 ounces, which is lighter than the RM5plus. It connects via Wi-Fi and supports both Alexa and Google Home. This matches the smart home compatibility of the original. It includes a sensor cable for environmental monitoring. The RM5plus does not mention a sensor cable. This alternative is practical for basic voice-controlled IR device management. It lacks the manual IR learning feature of the RM5plus. You should pick this if you prioritize app and voice integration over RF capabilities. It is a simple solution for standard infrared electronics.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

BroadLink Compact Infrared Smart Remote

Best for: controlling older 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 38kHz infrared hub consolidates control of over 5,000 devices. It connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and supports voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Home. You can use the app for remote management or create custom scenes. The device also features a UserDefine learning function for older remotes. It replaces multiple physical remotes with one compact unit.

Pros

• Controls 5,000+ infrared appliances
• Voice control with Alexa and Google Home
• UserDefine IR learning for uncommon devices
• Custom scene and timer automation

Cons

• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only; 5GHz is incompatible
• No RF (radio frequency) support
• Requires 38kHz IR frequency

Good fit if

• You need to control older IR devices
• You want voice control via Alexa or Google
• You have a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network

Skip if

• You need 5GHz Wi-Fi support
• You require RF signal transmission
• You use 38kHz incompatible devices

Verdict: Broadlink RM5plus IR Smart Remote is a solid choice for users who need a dedicated infrared hub with voice control. It fits homes with 2.4GHz networks and older appliances.

2 Best premium

Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote

Best for: controlling infrared appliances via voice

Connectivity

IR, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi

Smart Home Compatibility

Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri

Network Interface

2.4GHz Wi-Fi

Power Source

USB

Application

Air Conditioners, Televisions

Dimensions

1.85 × 1.85 × 1.65 inches

View on Amazon: Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote Affiliate link

The Broadlink RM4 Mini is a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi infrared blaster designed for home automation. It supports over 50,000 IR devices, including TVs and air conditioners. You can control these devices via the free iOS and Android app from anywhere. It also integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Siri for voice commands. This compact unit measures 1.85 by 1.65 inches and weighs 4.23 ounces. It requires a 2.4 GHz network and does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi or RF signals.

Pros

• Supports over 50,000 IR devices with a constantly updated cloud library
• Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Siri for voice control
• Free app allows remote control from anywhere via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
• Compact size at 1.85 by 1.65 inches

Cons

• Does not support RF devices, only infrared
• Requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network and excludes 5 GHz
• Does not support mesh networks or Bluetooth remote control devices

Good fit if

• You need to control infrared devices like TVs and air conditioners
• You want voice control through Alexa, Google, or Siri
• You have a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network available

Skip if

• You need to control RF devices such as RF fans or blinds
• Your home network only supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi
• You require a device with a built-in temperature sensor

Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Mini IR Smart Remote is a practical choice for users who need reliable infrared control via voice assistants. It fits buyers who want app-based automation for standard IR appliances without needing RF capabilities.

3 Best ceiling fans

BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote

Best for: Dual IR and RF control with voice commands

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

View on Amazon: BroadLink IR and RF Universal Remote Affiliate link

This Broadlink RM4 Pro combines 38KHz infrared and 433MHz radio frequency control in a single compact unit. It connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and supports voice commands through Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. The device manages TVs, air conditioners, and ceiling fans. You can create custom timers and scenes using the app. It requires a separate 5V 1A USB power source for operation.

Pros

• Supports both 38KHz IR and 433MHz RF signals
• Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri
• Includes IFTTT integration for advanced automation
• Online updated IR library for new appliance models

Cons

• Does not support 5GHz Wi-Fi networks
• Requires a separate 5V 1A USB adapter
• May not support ceiling fans with rolling code motors

Good fit if

• You need to control both IR and RF devices
• You want voice control via multiple assistants
• You have a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network

Skip if

• You only have a 5GHz Wi-Fi network
• You want a device with built-in power
• You use rolling code RF devices

Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Pro IR/RF Remote is a solid option for users who need dual signal support and voice control. It fits homes with mixed IR and RF appliances on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.

4 Also great

BroadLink RM4 Mini Universal IR Blaster

Best for: basic line-of-sight infrared home automation

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

This compact hub operates as a universal controller for line-of-sight infrared appliances. It uses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to manage air conditioners and televisions through a database of over 50,000 supported devices. It pairs with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT, which fits you if you want automated voice control and custom button learning for standard infrared electronics.

Pros

• Supports over 50,000 infrared devices across preloaded cloud templates
• Works with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT smart platforms
• Features manual button learning for unlisted infrared hardware
• Compact housing measuring 1.89 by 1.89 by 1.69 inches

Cons

• Lacks support for Bluetooth, Zigbee, and RF devices
• Requires direct line of sight to target appliances
• Restricted to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks

Good fit if

• You want to control infrared appliances via Alexa, Google Home, or IFTTT.
• You need manual learning capability for older or unlisted infrared remotes.
• You maintain direct line of sight between the hub and your target gear.

Skip if

• You need to operate RF, Zigbee, or Bluetooth equipment.
• You rely exclusively on a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network setup.
• You cannot position the hub within line of sight of your devices.

Verdict: Broadlink Mini Infrared Smart Remote delivers voice integration and template-based operation for standalone infrared entertainment and cooling equipment. It fits users wanting entry-level automated controls for line-of-sight electronics without RF or Zigbee support.

5 Also great

BroadLink RM4 Pro IR and RF Smart Hub

Best for: controlling IR and RF devices together

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

This BroadLink RM4 Pro combines infrared and 433 MHz radio frequency control in one hub. It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to manage TVs, air conditioners, and shades. You can use voice commands with Alexa or Google Home. The device supports external temperature and humidity sensors. It features a compact black design that fits on any shelf.

Pros

• Supports both IR and 433 MHz RF signals
• Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
• Connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
• Allows external temperature and humidity sensors

Cons

• Does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks
• Excludes Bluetooth connectivity for direct pairing
• Requires separate purchase for sensor cables

Good fit if

• You need to control RF devices like shades
• You want voice control via Alexa or Google
• You have a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network

Skip if

• You require 5 GHz Wi-Fi support
• You want to control devices via Bluetooth
• You prefer a device with built-in sensors

Verdict: BroadLink RM4 Pro IR RF Hub is a versatile hub for users who need to control both infrared and RF devices like shades. It fits homes with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and voice assistant integration.

6 Also great

Broadlink RM4 Pro IR and RF Remote

Best for: Users needing both IR and RF control

Connectivity

IR, RF (433MHz)

Smart Home Compatibility

Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT

Network Interface

2.4 GHz Wi-Fi

Application

Air Conditioners, Televisions

Dimensions

4.33 × 4.33 × 1.18 inches

View on Amazon: Broadlink RM4 Pro IR and RF Remote Affiliate link

This universal remote combines infrared and 433 MHz radio frequency control. It connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and works with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. The device supports over 50,000 IR devices and RF items like curtain motors. You can add an external temperature and humidity sensor via USB. It requires the dedicated BroadLink app for setup and control.

Pros

• Supports both IR and 433 MHz RF signals
• Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT
• Allows external temperature and humidity sensor connection
• Supports over 50,000 IR devices
• FastCon technology for automatic device discovery

Cons

• Only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
• Does not work with Bluetooth devices
• External sensor is sold separately

Good fit if

• You need to control RF devices like curtain motors
• You want voice control through Alexa or Google Home
• You want to monitor room temperature and humidity

Skip if

• Your home network only uses 5 GHz Wi-Fi
• You prefer to control devices via Bluetooth
• You do not want to buy a separate sensor

Verdict: Broadlink RM4 Pro IR/RF Remote fits users who need to control both infrared and radio frequency devices. It is a solid hub for voice control and environmental monitoring.

7 Best budget

FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster

Best for: Basic voice-controlled IR device management

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

View on Amazon: FRANKEVER R4 Wi-Fi IR Blaster Affiliate link

The Frankever Wi-Fi IR blaster is a compact smart remote designed for infrared devices like TVs and air conditioners. It connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and works with the Smart Life app. You can control equipment using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. The unit includes a sensor cable for enhanced functionality. It supports code learning for devices without pre-loaded data. This hub is suitable for users who need basic voice and app control for standard IR electronics.

Pros

• Supports over 50,000 infrared device codes
• Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri
• Includes a sensor cable for extended functionality
• Features code learning for custom device setup

Cons

• Limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks only
• Does not support RF control signals
• No physical display on the hub unit

Good fit if

• You need voice control for existing IR devices
• You want to use the Smart Life app
• You require a compact hub for a single room

Skip if

• You need 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
• You require RF signal transmission
• You want a remote with a built-in screen

Verdict: The Frankever Wi-Fi IR Blaster R4 is a practical hub for controlling standard infrared electronics via voice commands. It fits users who prioritize app and voice integration over RF capabilities.

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