Philips RC9800i Touchscreen Remote Control - Product Review

The RC9800i has a lot to offer the consumer. Some of the features I especially liked included:

1. Extensive control of audio and video components. The RC9800i offers access to preset codes via its internal database, but also has learning capability that enables it to add codes to its database via interfacing with a component's original remote control.

2. The RC9800i has both a large 3.5-inch touch screen display as well as easy-to-use control buttons.

3. A very comprehensive user manual is provided that takes the user, step-by-step through the set-up and use process.

4. The RC9800 comes with a stylish and convenient charging base, that also doubles as an AC adapter.

5.The RC9800i is essentially future-proof as its database can be expanded and its operation enhanced via software downloads from a PC, using the provided USB interface cable.

Although the RC9800i is a powerful tool, there were some things that I felt could be improved:

1. With a device with such extensive capabilities, sometimes it can be confusing to setup and use - you may find your self on the wrong page or running into a step that doesn't let you proceed in the direction you would like.

2. There is no getting around this one. Even though the set-up procedures are logical for such a complex device - If you have several rooms and lots of components, it still takes a long time to set everything up.

3. The battery life of the RC9800i short, when in full operating mode. After about three hours of continuous use, it needs to be charged. If you are using the RC9800i in several rooms, I would recommend having a charging station available in each room.

4. At an MSRP of $599, the RC9800i is expensive.

Despite its seemingly basic appearance, the Philips RC9800i is a sophisticated remote control component that can be replace just about all the functions in any standard audio/video remote control, as well as interfacing with Wi-Fi enabled and the PC. With its extensive, upgradable, internal database, and its easy-to-use learning capabilities, the RC9800i is a powerful tool that will enable you to take control of your audio/video components and other devices, instead of you being at their mercy. I give the RC9800i 4.5 Stars out of 5.

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.