In this guide, I compare the main differences between Broadlink products. I also aim to answer the most common Broadlink related questions when getting started.
What are Broadlink RM products?
Broadlink products are universal remotes that enable you to control both IR & RF devices on your smartphone and smart speakers. As long as you are connected to the internet (2G, 3G, 4G or Wi-Fi), you can control your IR or RF device anywhere at any time.
How do Broadlink RM products compare?
I have studied the current product range from Broadlink to determine the primary differences. As you will see from our comparison table, the differences are essentially the remote control technologies, IR/RF control range, weight and size.
Features | RM Mini3 | RM4 Mini | RM Pro+ | RM4 Pro |
Form Factor |  |  |  |  |
Remote Control Connectivity | IR (38 kHZ) | IR (38 kHZ) | IR (38 kHZ) & RF (433 MHz) | IR (38 kHZ) & RF (433 MHz) |
IR Control Range | 6-8 m | 6-8 m | 8-10 m | 8-10 m |
RF Control Range | N/A | N/A | 30 m | 50 m |
Operating Indicator | 1x LED | 1x LED | 2x LED | 1x LED |
Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n > 2.4 GHz | 802.11b/g/n > 2.4 GHz | 802.11b/g/n > 2.4 GHz | 802.11b/g/n > 2.4 GHz |
Voice Support | Alexa & Google Home | Alexa & Google Home | Alexa & Google Home | Alexa & Google Home |
Power Input | DC 5V 1A (Micro USB) | DC 5V 1A (Micro USB) | DC 5V 1A (Micro USB) | DC 5V 1A (Micro USB) |
Weight | 141 g | 100 g | 340 g | 159 g |
Size | 10 x 7 x 7 cm | 9 x 7 x 5 cm | 11 x 11 x 3 cm | 8 x 8 x 3 cm |
External Sensor | N/A | HTS2 Temp & Humidity | N/A | HTS2 Temp & Humidity |
Product Launch | 2016 | 2019 | 2017 | 2020 |
Apps | ihc for EU | ihc for EU | ihc for EU | ihc for EU |
Rating |
Broadlink RM4 Mini appears to be the same as the older RM Mini3 other than a slightly smaller size, ~40 grams lighter and ability to connect an external temperature and humidity sensor.
This theme continues when comparing the smaller RM4 Pro with the heavier RM Pro+ except for the 2x LED operating indicators and RF control range. I find the RM Pro+ 2x LED useful, especially during the pairing mode.
Whilst it is not clear from Broadlink’s website, I believe the RM Pro+ & RM4 Pro both support radio frequency bands 315 MHz and 433 MHz. 315 MHz is the Chinese open frequency for remote controls whereas 433 MHz is the open frequency for remote controls used in EU, US and other countries. However, RM4 Pro offers an additional 20 meter RF range. I have not tested the RM4 Pro 50 meters (line of sight) that Broadlink claim.
RM4 Mini & Pro can connect an external HTS2 temperature and humidity sensor via their Micro USB port. This could be useful for IFTTT integration.
I feel the lower cost RM Mini3 (IR) and RM Pro+ (IR & RF) remain the best suited products for controlling your devices and creating your very own smart home.
Update: Broadlink has made the RM Pro+ End of Life. RM4 Pro is the suitable replacement. If you are interested in both the RM4 Pro and HTS2 temperature & humidity sensor accessory, Broadlink are offering a bundle deal for less than if you purchased individually.
What devices work with Broadlink?
Majority of devices controlled by either IR & RF remotes will work with Broadlink products. The list of devices is endless but just to name a few:
IR Devices
- TV
- HDMI Switch
- Set-Top Box
- Blu-Ray Player
- Air Conditioning
- Heater
- Speakers
RF Devices
- Electric Roller Blinds
- Electric Curtains
- Electric Projector Screen
- Lights
- Garage Door
- Car Key
How do you setup Broadlink?
The first step to setup your Broadlink RM products is to make sure your wireless router is set to a 2.4GHz (only) network. The next step is to download & install either of the Broadlink Intelligent Home Center (ihc for EU) or e-Control apps on your smartphone or tablet. Lastly, connect your RM Mini3 or RM4 Pro to your Wi-Fi network.
How do I control devices with Broadlink & Alexa?
We have produced step-by-step instructions for controlling devices using Broadlink & Alexa. Check out our in-depth How To’s:
What are new Broadlink products?
Broadlink has launched many new products recently. As well as their universal remotes, the company now offers several smart home products that are compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa.
Smart Plugs
Broadlink’s SP4D-US is interesting because it claims to be the “world’s first” smart plug that supports both 2.4GHz & 5GHz Wi-Fi networks.