TO THE TEST: Universal remotes

SLX 8 Way, pounds 24.99 (www.argos.co.uk, 0870 600 8784)

Lots of features for the price. It controls eight devices including stereo and PC. You can even " teach it" new functions, but it worked best with TV/DVD/VCR.

Total Control 3 Way, pounds 9.99 (www.argos.co.uk, 0870 600 8784)

A great value remote, but it only controls TV, DVD and VCR so it's not great for satellite subscribers.

It looks cheap, but it is very simple to set up, by typing in the codes in the booklet.

Kameleon 8, pounds 69.99 (www.oneforall.com, 0808 100 0306)

Its aluminium body and big touch screen look fantastic but it's fiddly to set up and use. Annoyingly, the screen goes into "sleep" every few seconds before you find the right button.

Energy Saver 4 Way, pounds 34.99 (www.oneforall.com, 0800 100 0306)

Quick and easy to program. It only works the TV, DVD, stereo and satellite but you can turn them all off with one button - saving up to pounds 37 a year compared to leaving them on standby.

Prestigo SRU 8008, pounds 70 (www.philips.co.uk, 0870 013 0791)

Stylish remote control with a small colour LCD screen and clear instructions. The keys are easy to get the hang of. And you can teach it "activities" that do several tasks at once.

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