Logitech Harmony 1100

Experts say the Logitech Harmony 1100 universal remote is a big step up from the Logitech Harmony 1000, which received mixed reviews because of a poorly responsive touch screen and a tendency to freeze. The Harmony 1100 earns very good reviews, thanks to a responsive 3.5-inch touch screen, easy web-based setup and a user-friendly interface. Like most tablet-style remotes, the Logitech Harmony 1100 will take up more space on your coffee table than a wand remote, but reviewers say the frame is easy to grasp (although it also shows every fingerprint and smudge). The remote can control up to 15 devices, but they must be within your line of sight because the Logitech Harmony 1100 is infrared (IR) only. You can add a radio frequency module, but you'll have to pay extra for the Harmony IF Wireless Extender (*Est. $68), which adds more to the already high price tag. The Logitech Harmony 1100 also offers less customization over macro sequences -- there are several pre-programmed macros, but you can't create your own customized activity sequences. If you don't need a big touch screen, the Logitech Harmony One (*Est. $200) is cheaper and receives excellent reviews.

CNET, PCMag.com and TrustedReviews.com provide the best reviews of the Logitech Harmony 1100. Each source thoroughly tests the remote and their balanced analysis details pros and cons. I4U.com, TechRadar.com and Audio/Video Revolution offer helpful but shorter commentary. There are also a good number of owner-written reviews on Amazon.com.