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In this updated remote smackdown, I give you the scoop on the differences between the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 universal remote controls.
Comparing Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1
Since Logitech said it will stop making Harmony remotes a few years back, there hasn’t been anyone that even came close to measuring up in the universal remote space. That is, until now.
As someone who has been blogging about remotes for over five years now, I don’t think I have been more excited about new remotes than I am about these latest remotes from Sofabaton.
While the U1 has been around for a while, the new U2 and X1S remotes are next level and in some respects even better than Harmony. But how do these remotes stack up against each other? Here’s the short version:
The Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 remotes each offer unique features. The X1S supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RF, and IR, plus Alexa, Google Assistant, Hue, and Sonos. The U2 improves on the U1 with backlit buttons, better IR range, and more responsive controls. All three feature one-button activities for seamless device automation.
There are also some other key technical differences like battery life that I will go into more detail about below.
Sofabaton X1S vs U1 & U2: Comparison Table
The following table compares key Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 f features side by side.
Last update on 03/06/2025 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sofabaton X1S
With Logitech Harmony hub gone, the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 debate is heating up, with the X1S standing out as the best consumer universal remote available today.
This all-in-one universal remote control can be used to control all the different devices in your home theater system—including your Samsung TV OR oither Smart TV, Amazon Fire TV, blu-ray player, multiple streaming devices, Apple TV, Nvidia shield. sound bar, AV receiver—and even smart devices like Philips Hue lights and Sonos speakers.
With support for 500,000+ infrared and Bluetooth devices from 5,000 brands (cloud-based database), compatibility is a non-issue.Setup is done via the mobile app and the remote works in the app interface too.
A key advantage in the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 debate is customizable activity buttons that automate multiple commands—like dimming lights and stopping music when you start a movie. Neither the U2 nor U1 offer this level of automation.
The X1S also includes two IR blasters, letting you control devices in closed cabinets. Though not always needed, its strong range makes Bluetooth control seamless, even for streaming media players.
Pros
Cons
The X1S is compatible with smart assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control for activating activities and interacting with your smart home entertainment systems.
Sofabaton U2
The new and improved Sofabaton U2 refines the U1 with backlit buttons, better IR range, more responsive controls, and an easier-to-remove battery cover. It still controls 15 devices and offers easy setup via the smartphone app, but now works more reliably at longer distances.
If you’re comparing Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1, the U2 is the better mid-tier option, offering key upgrades without adding smart home features. However, it still lacks Alexa, Google Assistant, and smart home control. If you need those, the X1S is the way to go.
For most users, the U2 is the smarter buy over the U1, as it fixes common complaints without a big price jump. Unless you’re on an ultra-tight budget, the U2 is the better long-term investment.
Pros
Cons
The improved Sofabaton U2 remote features a better design, a back light, enhanced infrared performance, and easier battery replacement, making it a worthy upgrade from its U1 predecessor.
Sofabaton U1
The Sofabaton U1 is a solid budget remote, but unless you’re desperate to save a few bucks, go with the U2 instead. It controls 15 devices, features an OLED display, and offers one-button macros for automation. Setup is easy via the smartphone app, which also works as a backup remote.
However, in the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 debate, the U1 lacks backlit buttons, improved IR range, and faster response time—all of which the U2 fixes. It also doesn’t support smart home devices or voice assistants.
If budget is your only concern, the U1 works—but the U2 is a smarter buy for a small price jump. For smart home control, the X1S is the best choice.
Pros
Cons
Video Review
The following video from A-HIT does a nice job by going over what the Sofabaton U1 has to offer:
The Sofabaton U1 controls 15 devices and supports 500,000+ from 6,000+ brands, but the U2 is the better choice with key upgrades.
Similarities and Differences
In comparing Sofabaton X1S vs U1 here are the key similarities and differences between these two remotes.
Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 : Similarities
Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1: Key Differences
🪄Related: Sofabaton vs Harmony: How They Compare
What’s in the Box
In this section I’ll compare the box contents of the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 and also share a few videos.
My New in the Box X1S and U1
Sofabaton X1S
Sofabaton U2 / U1
X1S Unboxing
Thanks to my boy Kpaceguy for the stellar X1S unboxing video and review.
My X1 Unboxing
Here is my YouTube video unboxing of the Softbaton X1. The company just sent me the X1S model to test and I will get more videos up soon. Please subscribe
Please subscribe to my Tec Timmy YouTube channel!U1 Unboxing
RodrickViews does a nice job in this unboxing video of the U1.
Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1: Final Analysis
My final thoughts on the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1 remotes are this:
- While the X1S is not cheap, it remains the best consumer universal remote available today. If you want the most powerful option, the X1S is the way to go. With its cloud-based technology, a numeric keypad and scroll wheel, this remote is only going to improve the way I watch TV over time, and I expect it to support more smart home devices beyond Philips Hue and Sonos in the future. It has a solid build quality and feels good in the hand. The added integration with Alexa and Google Assistant makes it even more versatile.
- If the X1S price is a concern, the U2 is a strong alternative with key improvements over the U1, like backlit buttons, better IR range, and more responsive controls. Wnhile it will control your home entertainment devices, it still lacks smart home control and voice assistant support. The U1 remains a budget-friendly option but is best suited for basic home theater setups without smart home devices.
- I have been in touch with the company, and their r&d team and customer service /custom support are superb.
Between the Sofabaton X1S vs U2 vs U1, each remote has its strengths, and choosing the right one depends on your needs. No matter which you pick, it’s clear that Sofabaton is leading the way in universal remotes as we leave good old Harmony in the rearview mirror.
🪄Read Next: Sofabaton U1 vs U2
Tim Brennan is a technology blogger and hosts the @TecTimmy YouTube channel. He writes about smart homes at oneSmartcrib, home theaters at UniversalRemoteReviews, and AI in writing at Writeinteractive. A graduate of Northeastern University School of Journalism, he has written about technology for 30 years. Tim lives on the ocean in Nahant, Massachusetts.
Please subscribe to my YouTube channel for a fun take on all things tech.