Get a Logitech Harmony 880 remote for $69.99 shipped

Among home-theater enthusiasts, Logitech Harmony remotes have always rated fairly high. They're easier to program than most (thanks to browser-based software), they're packed with features (most notably built-in help), and they're quite comfortable to use. However, the higher-end models tend to be pretty pricey: witness the Harmony 880, which originally sold for $249. If you don't mind a refurbished remote, you can pick up a Harmony 880 for just $69.99 shipped.

Although this model is a couple years old, it's still one of the top options in the Harmony line. It features a color screen, charging station, and Windows and Mac compatibility. You can read CNET's review for more details (they gave it four stars out of five--the same as 100 or so Amazon buyers) and/or watch the above video.

I've got the newer Harmony One, which is quite similar except for having a touch screen. To put it simply: best...remote...ever. The 880 still sells new for around $140, so a refurb for half the price is definitely a good deal. The warranty expires at 90 days, but I think that's acceptable given the savings.

[jayty97]

The price is now $79.68. Still better than $140.00, just not quite as much!

[rickbroida]

Shoot! Sorry about that. Amazon bumped the price shortly after I posted.

[jgohlke]

Nice remote, works as advertised. We've had this one for a couple of years. We are happy with it, but I wouldn't buy another one. This model is notorious for having charging problems (web search, you'll find lots of hits). You put it on the base, it looks like it is charging, but the next day, the battery is still dead. After spending way too much time researching the issue, updating the firmware, synching and re-synching...etc., I finally looked at the remote and the base station with a magnifying glass. The contacts must not mate fully, and some shorting is occurring. This causes just a bit of plastic to melt and partially cover one or both of the contacts. Now when we have this charging problem, I just scrape the contacts on the remote lightly with a knife and that fixes it. We have also had some luck using a rubber band around the remote and charging station to keep it "tight" on the contacts. Basically, it's a crappy design.

[TommB1234]

I had the charging problem with the one I purchased. I called them up and they replace it right away. There appeared to be a problem with the connectors from the remote making solid contact with the base station. My replacement unit has been working flawlessly for 6 months now.

[norvabear]

I have had the same charging problem with my 880. Also, the software does not have the correct configuration for my receiver buttons and the remote would not process the "learning" proceedure correctly, so I finally had to stop using mine.

[robstak]

haha check out tom's hair... awesome. ;)

[aasls]

I too have an 880 and am generally very happy with it. I haven't had the charging problem, but I don't think I'd buy this model again. I agree that it is easy to program and works very well. My problem is with the button layout which is vastly improved over previous models but still falls short IMO. The volume, mute, channel up/down, and prev. channel buttons are all very thin and can be difficult to use. From what I have seen, the Harmony One (which is a higher end model) has a better layout.

[Magicland]

Refurb or not, this remote is a steal at $69. At $79, you might want to look around for a deal on a new one, as I got mine for $99 new after a $50 rebate. The thing that sets this remote (and I imagine most of the Harmony remotes) apart from most others which you have to program via macros to do what you want (ie., watch TV, watch a DVD, etc.) is that it remembers what is on and what is off when you change activities, and turns devices on and off appropriately. With most other remotes programming this functionality (especially on devices without discreet on/off commands) is a royal PITA.

[rufustel]

Current price: $199.99.

[j_a_s_p_e_r]

If you are a real cheapskate and a techie, then you might want to consider a cheapo remote with a JP1 programmable port (All-4-one or Radioshack). I bought one for $15 and paid $10 for a JP1 cable. The JP1 community is quite big with a lot of tools and program your remote. This is not for the technologically impaired!

[mil2civ]

Rick - you should demand a kick back from all these businesses that seem to INCREASE the price after your posts. Never knew one man could have such power...

[rakeshcshah]

Looks like they have jacked the price to $199.99. Which is stupid since you can buy a new Harmony One at the same price.

[drake900]

Rick is a stud. I have purchased many things (& missed out on a few because the sale was over) just on his recommendation alone. Somethings purchase stuff I really don't even need, but just feel compelled to do so. Keep up the good work!

[rickbroida]

Thanks for being so understanding, folks. It drives me nuts when prices get bumped so soon after I post them. I'd like to think it's the "Cheapskate Effect," but who knows? Anyway, you all rock.

[GeneralOSU]

Amazon runs daily special deals that often include electronics. This was one of those specials, which can last from a couple hours to a single day.

[diglow1]

I emailed Amazon this morning as I'm sure a few others did too and it's back to $79.99 as of right now.