SofaBaton X1S Universal Remote with Hub, Universal Remote Control with One Touch Activities, Customize SofaBaton APP, Compatible with 60 Devices, Compatible with Alexa Google Assistant, Raise to Wake

Well, the Sofabaton X1S is a work in progress ... On the positive side, the hand-held remote is well made and the simplicity of the layout might work for most streaming devices that you want to control with the X1S. However, if you want to use the Sofabaton X1S to control your Over The Air (OTA) recorder, note that the hand-held lacks a record button - as well as other transport controls. Perhaps Sofabaton's work-around for the lack of the record/transport buttons is that the device would be selected using the scroll wheel, and that one would actuate the button sequence using the scroll wheel / select actuations. For my ChannelMaster CM-7500, DVR+, OTA recorder, starting a recording using the X1S requires a bit of effort to scroll to the RECORD selection, followed by a press of the scroll wheel. Most of the confusion comes when you want to STOP the recording, which you do by scrolling and selecting STOP. However, the DVR+ wants you to confirm that you really want to STOP the recording, so a dialog appears on the TV screen asking for a CONFIRM. You then need to scroll to the OK selection and hit it to dismiss the dialog. At this point, perhaps you might think that the recording is over and you can watch OTA TV, but the OK actuation opens another dialog on the TV screen asking if you want to start a another recording. You then need to dismiss the dialog by scrolling to and hitting the EXIT selection. Otherwise, you need to wait a few minutes for the dialog to time out... At this point, I'm really irritated with Logitech for their abandonment of the Harmony remote, which had working RECORD/transport control buttons on the hand-held, as well as other features for easily dismissing the DVR+ dialogs. Another issue with the X1S is that each device as displayed on the hand-held's screen is listed as the manufacturer and not the model number (or preferably, a user-assigned name). Maybe there is a way to rename the device, but I did not find it. x1s-display.png For example, my media system includes a Sony XBR television, a Sony Blu-Ray DVD player, and a Sony Soundbar. Why must the Sofabaton X1S identify these devices using the name: "Sony" for all three devices? If you need to go to extended controls for the Sony Soundbar (like the rear speaker volume, for example), you need to remember which of the three "Sony" selections is for the Soundbar - before scolling to the control and selecting via the scroll wheel press. It is clear - that IF one can successfully configure the X1S, the best way to use it is for routine selection of devices for a desired activity as well as simplified configuration and control of your media system. The Sofabaton X1S is not practical for control of additional device features provided by the component's hand-held remotes that came with each component. In other words, using the scroll wheel for selection of these detailed commands is impractical. One might ask: what is the real purpose for the Scroll wheel and its display - given the issues with device naming and the actions required to select using the thumbwheel? Use of the original Remote I don't often record OTA signals on my ChannelMaster DVR+. When I would want to, I would use the DVR+ hand-held remote control - to set up and start a recording. The DVR+ remote would also be used to fast-forward through commercials or to go back in a recording to replay. This approach is superior to trying to use the X1S scroll wheel... In other words, don't think that the X1S will allow you to stop using your old hand-held remote that came with the component, in this case, the ChannelMaster DVR+ ... Problems with Learning from another Remote The control code database for the Sofabaton X1S covers many components from numerous manufacturers, but there are instances where you may not find a device for your component in the database. For such cases, Sofabaton offers a learning feature that is used to record control codes from an existing hand-held IR remote. Unfortunately, the recording of control codes from the hand-held (IR-only) remote can be affected by many factors, which can make the recording of IR commands unreliable. For example, I plan to use a model: UHDS-401A, HDMI switch (manufactured by OREI), for selecting HDMI sources in my system. The Sofabaton database includes other OREI devices, but not the UHDS-401A, so I tried to record the IR control codes using the "Code Learning" feature. I think that the UHDS-401A hand-held remote sends multiple control messages in rapid succession whenever a button is pressed, and the X1S hub does not do an adequate job of finding the button-press message's beginning and end. The X1S records a corrupted version of the IR control message, and for the UHDS-401A remote, any attempt to use the recorded IR message will be unreliable. The recorded IR signal may work perhaps 50% of each attempted actuation, which is not acceptable for reliable control of a devices' button selection. Also, the configuration of a set of IR control codes for some non-existing device's IR remote, requires that you start with some other (unrelated/different) device in the Sofabaton database. Rather than provide some simplified tool to define user-entered button names with recorded codes, Sofabaton requires that you must find some other device/remote in the database, which you would then edit to assign recorded IR control codes to pre-existing buttons provided for that selected device. For the OREI, UHDS-401A, I decided to start with the UHDS-402A (which is in the database) and to edit the buttons with reciorded IR codes. So, for selection of the "In 1" HDMI input, I need to edit the button named "Up" by recording the IR code, while pressing the button for that function on the UHDS-401A IR remote. Instead of allowing the user to change the name of the button to "In 1", I must refer to the button selection as "Up", because I can't edit the button name! I need to maintain a table somewhere else (like an EXCEL spreadsheet), so that I know what button name corresponds to which functional selection on the actual HDMI switch. Because the recording of the IR codes would have been corrupted anyway, it is evident that I could not have used the modified X1S UHDS-402A device from the database to reliably control an OREI, UHDS-401A switch. The only recourse I had to go with was to find some other similar, OREI device in the database that might control the switch. With a bit of research, I found that the OREI, HDA-934 device, which is available in the Sofabaton database, does reliably control the UHDS-401A, HDMI input selection. However, the HDA-934 device does not support control of other button presses available on the UHDS-401A IR remote... Note: I found during the process for defining an activity, that it may be possible to change the name for the button; however, I was not able to test the renaming capability, because of a non-recoverable communication issue. The Last Straw While I was working on the X1S activity configurations, I ran into numerous issues with hub communication, where the WiFi connection between my cell phone and the hub would disconnect. After many tries to reconnect and finish the activity configurations, the X1S hub eventually refused to communicate with my cell phone over the WiFi network. I felt that my only recourse was to do a factory reset of the X1S hub and to start over with the configuration. I went to the Sofabaton website and sent a chat message to Sofabaton support, asking how I could do a factory reset for the X1S hub. The chat was not active, but my support request message was sent, and I got an email back a day or so later: reset-x1s-hub.png Unfortunately, from the response from Sofabaton, performing a factory reset of the X1S hub, requires that you connect to the hub via WiFi, so that you can actually send the factory reset command. In my case, I could not connect via WiFi to the hub, so a factory reset was not an option. Note that the X1S hub did appear to work with whatever I had previously configured, so, for example, I could control my Apple TV with the Sofabaton X1S hand-held remote. The Bluetooth connection between the hub and hand-held apparently worked just fine, but the WiFi connection to my cell phone would not... Comment: The X1S hub includes a button to initiate Bluetooth pairing. It would make sense for the button to also function as a means to initiate a factory reset - by pressing and holding the button for say, 20 seconds. This way, the hub could be reset to a controllable state - without having to depend upon a WiFi communication link with the hub to issue the factory reset. I finally decided that the Sofabaton X1S was no longer worth the effort and that it was time to send it back to Amazon for a refund...

I originally wrote a pretty scathing review of this remote but after some help from Reddit I got it up and working. I'm using the X1S to take the place of a Harmony remote. I figure it's only a matter of time before the Harmony remote stops working and I wanted a remote that is actively supported. I had some issues with the power toggle for my Samsung TV but once I resolved that the different activities were easy to set up. The system also learned a command for my Denon AVR with minimal effort. I would say that when I reached out to tech support at Sofabaton for my power issues they weren't really helpful. As I mentioned earlier Reddit was able to steer me in the right direction. At this point the X1S works as well as my Harmony remote so I'm pleased I made the switch.

As someone with a home setup that includes a non-smart TV, AV receiver, Roku, Xfinity set-top box, Fire TV, and a Sound bar, managing multiple remotes was a challenge, especially for my mother when she visits or dog sits. I decided to try the Sofabaton X1S universal remote, and after two weeks of use, I’m thoroughly impressed with its ability to simplify my setup. Setup and Configuration Getting started with the Sofabaton X1S was straightforward. The process involved downloading the Sofabaton app, connecting the hub via Bluetooth, and then syncing it to my Wi-Fi network. The app is central to both the setup and operation, allowing you to add devices, configure activities, and customize button mappings. One feature I particularly appreciated is the ability to use the phone app as an additional remote, which means I can control everything even if the main remote isn’t nearby. Adding devices was seamless. The app includes an extensive database of remote codes, and for my devices, finding the correct code set was easy. For example, my Roku and Xfinity box were added in minutes. I did run into some issues with an older device, but the app's user-submitted codes helped me get it working. Configuring power settings and button layouts for each device was intuitive. I initially had some difficulty with the remote, experiencing lag and inconsistent performance. After some troubleshooting, I realized the issue was due to improper placement of the IR repeater eyes. Once I adjusted their positioning to ensure they were correctly aligned with my devices, the remote's functionality improved dramatically, and the lag was eliminated. Using Activities to Simplify Control One of the standout features is the ability to create custom activities. For instance, I created an “ROKU” activity that powers on the TV, AV receiver, and Roku, sets the correct inputs, and adjusts the soundbar—all with one button press. This has been a game changer, especially for my mother, who can now enjoy her shows without fumbling through multiple remotes. Daily Use The remote communicates with the hub via Bluetooth, and the hub sends commands to devices using infrared (IR) repeaters, which, after adjusting the IR placement, now work flawlessly in my setup. The remote is responsive and feels very much like using individual remotes. I also noticed that it transmits RF signals, though I haven’t had the chance to set that up yet. The physical remote has been easy to use. I also added shortcuts for common actions to make it even simpler for others. The app, however, has become my backup remote when I don’t have the physical one handy. It mirrors the remote’s functions, offering additional flexibility. Build Quality and Battery Life The remote is rechargeable via USB-C, and after two weeks of regular use, I haven’t needed to recharge it yet. Compared to previous universal remotes I’ve used, the Sofabaton X1S strikes a good balance between functionality and affordability. Overall Thoughts The Sofabaton X1S has made controlling my home theater setup much easier. The ability to use the phone app as both a setup tool and a secondary remote adds significant value. While I had initial issues with IR placement, resolving them made a significant difference in performance. For anyone looking for a Harmony remote alternative, this is an excellent option that simplifies complex setups and makes life easier for everyone in the household.

Overall, this remote was a huge disappoint. Despite other reviews indicating the difficulty getting this remote configured and similar reviews on YouTube, I decided to take a chance as the X1S as Sofabaton supposedly addressed key issues present in the X1. Unfortunately, there are still far too many bugs and/or poor software design. Here are pros and cons I experienced with the remote: Pros: It does have a nice weight and feel to it. The remote wakes-up when you pick it up and the buttons are all backlight. The app was relatively easy to navigate. I loved the idea of the activities - allows you to configure multiple devices like TV, Receiver + Apple TV to all turn-on with the right inputs...etc. and turn them all off. Cons: The configuration was way more challenging that it should be, particularly the power settings. For some reason it defaults to a separate power on and power off for all devices, in my case a Denon AVR-X1300W receiver and Sony XBR-65A8F. I don't recall the last time in 40+ years that I've seen any remote with separate power on/off buttons - why is this the default?? While I did get the Denon to work after 2 - 3 times messing with the power configuration, the Sony simply would not work. I tried all 3 methods (selected the model, used the cloud configuration where you press a button and it tries different codes (94 of them - none worked), and many, many tries at the learning option where you point the TV remote at the hub - even that I had to do it 3 - 4 times each time I tried it before it would work, and even then it only ever worked temporarily. Then, I setup an Activity which included my Denon, TV and Apple TV 4K. This never fully worked because of the TV power setting issues. It would turn everything on / off as expected when I tested it. Then I'd go to run the activity and the TV wouldn't turn-on, or it would turn on but by the time I finished watch something (maybe an hour) it wouldn't turn off the TV - this would happen despite a successful on/off test - so frustrating. I'm fairly savvy with this stuff and this is an absolutely ridiculously, unnecessarily frustrating product to try to use. I returned it and would not recommend wasting your time with this thing. Apparently a new version (X2) is due out later in 2024, but based on my experience I would not risk it. Finally, I will also note that the app did not prompt me to install updates, which you do need to do, nor firmware updates for the hub and remote. I did install all the available updates and still had the issues noted. So, I don't know if there is a particular issue with the model Sony TV I have, which is not that old, or what. When I had my Apple TV remote setup to turn it and the TV on/off, I had no issue with turning the TV turning on/off. So, there is something going on with the X1S.

SofaBaton X1S — A Home Automation Powerhouse With Huge Potential Ahead The SofaBaton X1S has quickly become the command center of my entire home. I work with home-theater and home-automation equipment every day, and I’ve used more universal remotes over the years than I can count. Nothing I’ve touched matches the versatility, multi-protocol reach, and practical real-world capability this remote delivers. With IR, RF, Zigbee, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi support, this isn’t just a universal remote — it’s a universal controller. ⭐ What I Control With the X1S Here’s what this thing currently runs in my home: • Every TV in multiple rooms • A full home-theater projector setup • Room lighting and LED lighting • Motorized blinds, mini-blinds, and window shades • Smart AC, fans, and a bathroom heater • RF outlets for appliances • My router (rebooted through an RF plug) • My entire surveillance system • My home-security system — including arming/disarming Once everything was set up, it stopped feeling like “a remote” and became the central control hub for my whole smart-home ecosystem. ⭐ Remote + App = Total Control The handheld remote and the SofaBaton app mirror each other perfectly. The app works like a second remote, giving you full control even when the physical unit isn’t nearby. It’s fast, smooth, and extremely helpful in multi-room setups. ⭐ Suggestions for Future Versions (X2 / X3) The X1S is impressive, but a few additions would push it into legendary territory. 1. Customizable App Launch Buttons Instead of preset paid streaming buttons found on many remotes, fully customizable quick-launch buttons would be incredible. Let users create one-touch buttons for: • Tubi • Plex • YouTube • Smart-home scenes • Security toggles Physical buttons, a scroll-wheel menu, or a quick-launch panel would make this remote the most customizable in the industry. 2. Custom Icons for Activities A simple icon library — or lightweight custom icon uploads — would make navigation clearer and faster. ⭐ 3. App Interface & GUI Usability The hardware is outstanding. The app works, but the GUI would benefit from a more modern, intuitive design. Certain parts still resemble older universal-remote interfaces that became more complicated than they needed to be. Improvements that would help: • Cleaner layout • More intuitive navigation • Streamlined activity setup • Touch-friendly UI elements • Faster access to common functions Professional note: I think the visual approach used by Channels DVR is an excellent example of a clean, user-friendly smart-home interface. For context: I’ve used the SofaBaton U2 for years and recommended it constantly. The X1S is a major step forward, and the app now has room to evolve to match the hardware’s sophistication. ⭐ 4. Base Station Improvements The base station works very well for protocol management, but future releases could offer: • A more compact design • Additional mounting options • A higher-end model with extended range New Suggestion: A secondary wireless IR blaster would be extremely useful. If devices are spaced farther apart than the included IR-blaster cable can reach, users are forced to rely on RF/Bluetooth/Wi-Fi alternatives. A wireless IR module — connecting via Bluetooth, RF, or Wi-Fi — would allow IR control in rooms or cabinets without running long cables. This would dramatically increase flexibility for multi-room and multi-rack setups. ⭐ Final Thoughts The SofaBaton X1S is the most capable and forward-thinking universal remote I’ve ever used. It controls entertainment systems, lighting, blinds, HVAC, appliances, networking equipment, and even security systems — all from one controller. If you’re building a smart home and you want a single device that brings everything together, this is it. I’ve followed SofaBaton since the U1 croudfunding days, and with just a few refinements — customizable buttons, a modernized GUI, and expanded base-station options — the next generation could completely redefine the smart remote catagory. It has been my pleasure writing this review and making suggestions looking forward to the next release.