The Logitech Harmony 650 Remote Control is a versatile universal remote designed to simplify home entertainment setups. With support for up to eight devices during the software setup process, it can replace multiple individual remotes, reducing clutter and complexity in any living room. The device features a bright, color screen that displays favorite channel icons and essential commands, allowing users to navigate their systems with ease. This thoughtful design makes managing multiple devices straightforward and enhances overall convenience.
A standout feature of the Harmony 650 is its one-touch activity buttons. For example, selecting “watch a DVD” automatically configures all connected devices to the optimal settings for that activity. This feature streamlines the process of switching between different modes of entertainment by eliminating the need to manually adjust each device. The remote’s intuitive layout and responsive interface are designed to offer a user-friendly experience, ensuring that even those new to universal remotes can quickly adapt and enjoy its benefits.
Compatible with over 225,000 devices from more than 5,000 brands, the Harmony 650 is built to integrate with your current setup and adapt to future additions. Whether you are using your existing devices or planning to expand your home theater system, this remote is engineered to be future-proof.
Pros
1. Ease of Setup and Quick Integration
One of the most commonly lauded aspects of the Harmony 650 is its straightforward setup process. Users consistently report that once they power on the remote, they can quickly add and program their devices using the “My Harmony” application. Many have found that transferring settings from an older Harmony remote is simple and intuitive, meaning that even those who are not technologically inclined can get the remote up and running within minutes. This ease of integration is a significant selling point, especially for users replacing older, worn-out remotes, as it eliminates the need for manual programming of each device.
2. Comprehensive Device Support
The Harmony 650 is celebrated for its broad compatibility. It supports up to eight devices, replacing multiple individual remotes with one streamlined solution. This capability means that users can control their TV, cable box, stereo system, DVD player, gaming console, and more—all from a single remote. With compatibility spanning over 225,000 devices from more than 5,000 brands, the Harmony 650 is future-proofed for both current devices and those that may be added later. Users appreciate that they no longer need to juggle multiple remotes, making their home entertainment setup less cluttered and easier to manage.
3. Intuitive User Interface and Bright Color Screen
The Harmony 650 comes equipped with a bright, color display that shows channel icons, favorite apps, and essential commands. This visual feedback significantly enhances the user experience, as it allows for easier navigation and quicker access to frequently used functions. The display is particularly helpful for users who want a visual guide to their programmed activities, and the interface has been designed to be both simple and effective. One-touch activity buttons, such as “Watch a DVD,” automatically set the appropriate inputs and configurations, which many users find to be a real time-saver and a convenient feature.
4. Reduction of Remote Clutter and Streamlined Control
By replacing up to eight separate remotes with a single device, the Harmony 650 dramatically reduces remote clutter in the living room. Users have noted that consolidating controls not only simplifies their setup but also creates a more organized and aesthetically pleasing environment. Instead of having a pile of remotes for every device, a single Harmony remote controls multiple devices seamlessly. This benefit is especially appealing in modern home theaters where simplicity and ease of use are paramount.
5. Consistent and Reliable Performance
Even though some users initially received refurbished units with minor issues, the overall performance of the Harmony 650 is highly regarded once any problems are resolved. Many customers have reported that after a brief troubleshooting period—sometimes involving a replacement unit—the remote works flawlessly and reliably controls all their devices. Long-time Harmony users have noted that their older models have lasted for decades, and while the newer models have had some early issues, those who have managed to get past those have found the device to be stable and dependable.
6. Excellent Customer Service and Warranty Support
One of the recurring themes in user reviews is the high quality of customer service provided by Logitech (and affiliated sellers). In several instances, users encountered initial problems—such as unresponsive buttons or connectivity issues—and the support team responded quickly with preprinted shipping labels and prompt replacements. This level of support has helped to build trust in the product, as customers feel reassured that any issues will be addressed swiftly and effectively. The willingness to replace malfunctioning units under warranty adds significant value to the purchase, making the remote a risk-free investment for many.
7. Familiarity for Long-Time Users
Many reviewers are long-time Harmony users who appreciate the familiar layout and functionality that the Harmony 650 continues to offer. Those who have used previous models—like the Harmony One or Harmony 659—find that the 650 retains the essential features they love, such as the ability to program complex sequences and the overall reliability of the system. This consistency allows users to upgrade without losing the features they have come to depend on over the years. The ability to transfer settings from older models seamlessly is also a major plus.
8. Versatility in Programming Activities
The Harmony 650’s capacity to program multiple activities is a standout feature. Users can create customized activity buttons that automatically adjust all connected devices to the optimal settings for watching movies, playing games, listening to music, or even a specific mode like “Relax.” These one-touch activity buttons simplify the process of switching between different types of media and make it easier to maintain a consistent experience across all devices. This versatility is appreciated by users who have complex home entertainment setups and desire a centralized control system.
9. Future-Proofing and Continued Software Support
Although Logitech has discontinued the Harmony line, many users appreciate that the Harmony 650 continues to receive firmware updates and remains compatible with a wide array of new devices. The “My Harmony” website, while sometimes less intuitive on certain operating systems, still offers a robust platform for managing and updating the remote’s settings. This ongoing support ensures that the remote stays current with new device technologies, even if its production has ceased. For users who plan to upgrade their home entertainment system in the future, this future-proofing is an important consideration.
10. Value Proposition and Competitive Pricing
For many users, the Harmony 650 offers excellent value for its price. Compared to the alternative of purchasing multiple separate remotes—or even switching to a completely new universal remote system that can cost significantly more—the Harmony 650 provides a cost-effective solution without sacrificing performance. Several reviews mention that, especially when purchased at a discount (or as a refurbished unit), the remote offers a level of functionality and ease of use that is hard to beat. The overall balance of features relative to its cost makes it a smart purchase for budget-conscious buyers who still desire high-end control over their home entertainment system.
11. Broad Device Compatibility
The Harmony 650’s extensive device compatibility is a major advantage. It can control devices from a wide range of brands and categories, ensuring that users can integrate their entire home entertainment system under one remote. This broad compatibility means that whether you have a cutting-edge 4K TV, a classic cable box, or a modern streaming device, the Harmony 650 can likely support it. Users find this flexibility indispensable, as it means they do not have to worry about future devices becoming incompatible with their control system.
12. Minimal Learning Curve for Experienced Users
For those who have been using universal remotes for many years, the Harmony 650 offers a minimal learning curve. The interface and programming functions are familiar to long-time users, making it easy to adopt and integrate into their existing setups. This familiarity extends to the “My Harmony” software, which, while sometimes criticized for its layout, is well-known among dedicated users. As a result, those who have experience with previous Harmony models find that the transition to the Harmony 650 is smooth and efficient.
13. Customization Options and Flexibility
The Harmony 650 allows for extensive customization, enabling users to program specific sequences, adjust settings, and even learn functions from other remotes. This flexibility means that the remote can be tailored to meet the exact needs of a user’s unique home theater system. Whether it’s controlling multiple devices with a single button press or fine-tuning the timing of commands for a complex setup, the remote’s customization capabilities are highly valued by those who demand precision and control in their home entertainment systems.
Cons
1. Occasional Hardware Glitches in Refurbished Units
Some users who purchased refurbished units initially encountered issues with non-responsive buttons or other minor hardware glitches. Although these problems were typically resolved through replacement or customer service intervention, they highlight a potential reliability concern for those who are considering a refurbished Harmony 650. However, the excellent customer service from Logitech has generally mitigated these issues, as replacements are provided quickly and without hassle.
2. Dependency on Online Programming Platform
A recurring point of criticism is the reliance on the “My Harmony” website for programming and customization. Several users have expressed frustration that the online platform is no longer fully supported on all operating systems—such as Mac—and that it may become unavailable in the future since the Harmony product line has been discontinued. This dependency on an online service can be a drawback for users who wish to add or modify settings over time, as future support may be uncertain.
3. Remote Control Limitations in Physical Design
While many users find the Harmony 650 to be effective overall, a few reviewers have noted that certain aspects of the physical remote design—such as the size of the remote or the placement and responsiveness of specific buttons—could be improved. For instance, some users mention that the back button does not always work as expected when watching certain streaming content (like Hulu), requiring additional manual intervention. Though these issues are minor, they can be frustrating for users who rely heavily on physical controls for immediate adjustments.
4. Lack of Future Availability and Official Support
Since Logitech has discontinued the Harmony line of remotes, there is an inherent uncertainty about future software support and compatibility updates for the Harmony 650. Some long-time users worry that as new devices enter the market, the Harmony 650 might not be able to support them without regular firmware updates. This concern is primarily for users who wish to maintain a comprehensive home entertainment setup over many years. However, for those satisfied with current compatibility, this is less of an immediate issue.
5. Occasional Remote Firmware Issues
A few reviewers have experienced minor firmware issues, such as delayed response times or glitches when switching between modes. Although these problems tend to be resolved by firmware updates or resetting the remote, they represent occasional hiccups in an otherwise smooth performance. Such glitches, while infrequent, can interrupt the user experience momentarily, especially during high-demand scenarios like gaming or live streaming.
Final Assessment
In conclusion, the Logitech Harmony 650 Remote Control emerges as an exceptionally capable universal remote that simplifies the management of multiple home entertainment devices. Its ability to replace up to eight separate remotes offers a significant reduction in clutter and complexity, while the intuitive, bright color screen and one-touch activity buttons streamline everyday operations. Users consistently praise the ease of setup, extensive device compatibility, and robust customization options available via the “My Harmony” online platform. These features make it an indispensable tool for those looking to consolidate their home entertainment systems into a single, efficient control interface.
Moreover, the remote’s solid performance—evidenced by the positive reviews regarding its sound, responsiveness, and reliability over years of use—ensures that it can meet the diverse needs of both long-time Harmony users and newcomers alike. Its design, which successfully marries modern functionality with a familiar layout, continues to delight users who have relied on Harmony products for decades. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as occasional connectivity or firmware issues, limited physical feedback for customization, and uncertainties regarding future support due to discontinuation, these concerns are generally outweighed by the extensive benefits it offers.
Ultimately, for anyone seeking a universal remote that delivers high performance, extensive device support, and seamless integration into a modern home theater system, the Logitech Harmony 650 is a highly recommended investment. It offers an outstanding balance of ease of use, reliability, and value for money. In a market where multiple remotes can create confusion and clutter, the Harmony 650 provides a streamlined, user-friendly solution that simplifies your entertainment experience, making it a top choice for controlling a diverse array of devices effortlessly.