RCA RCR503BE Remote Review: Budget Control, Mixed Verdict
A verified buyer on Amazon summed it up: “For just over $5, it has everything… small to hold, controls TV and built-in DVD player… and best of all, a great sleep timer!” The RCA 3-Device Universal Remote (RCR503BE) earns a solid 7.5/10, praised for comfort and value but criticized for inconsistent device compatibility and challenging programming for certain models.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — great for basic control across multiple devices, frustrating for advanced functions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable — often under $8 | Programming can be tedious or outdated instructions |
| Controls up to three devices | Input/source functions may not work for some TVs |
| Comfortable palm-sized design | Not fully compatible with all advertised converter boxes |
| Large, easy-to-read multi-colored keys | Remote shape feels awkward for some users |
| Sleep timer included | Some device codes missing or incorrect |
| Works with Apple TV via manual setup | Menu functions may freeze on certain devices |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing promises “virtually every major brand” compatibility, but several Home Depot reviewers reported otherwise. One stated, “Tried all the codes listed for my TV brand and it failed to connect. Waste of cash.” This mismatch hits hardest with newer smart TVs or niche brands, despite the official code lists.
RCA touts “simplified setup” with auto, manual, and direct code search. While some Amazon buyers breezed through setup in minutes, others like one verified purchaser found “instructions… out of date” and endured “painful trial and error.” The auto scan method does work, but Reddit comments suggest patience — scanning can take up to 15 minutes per device.
The brand’s comfort claim on its “most comfortable remote you’ll ever hold” was challenged by an Amazon reviewer who admitted, “The remote shape itself is not conducive to the human hand and feels awkward,” though many agreed with the ergonomics. Comfort here is subjective — some love its small footprint, others find it cramped.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Its modest price tag delivers multi-device control ease. An Amazon customer described it as “a cost-effective replacement… programmed in under a minute.” For users juggling an old CRT TV, a VCR, and cable box, being able to consolidate controls in one palm-sized unit is a clear win.
Elderly or visually impaired users benefit from the large, color-coded buttons. One Home Depot review praised “easy to set up… functions so far” with clear labeling that aids navigation without squinting. A retired RV owner noted how pairing it with a built-in DVD player restored the media experience without shelling out for OEM remotes.
Compatibility with Apple TV, though not officially marketed, shines for tech-savvy tinkerers. A verified buyer shared step-by-step how they mapped number keys to navigation, warning others not to assign volume buttons to Apple TV directional commands.
Common Complaints
Code accuracy is the biggest frustration. RCA includes a code sheet, but as one Amazon user wrote, “None of the codes in the included sheet worked… auto scan… took 15 minutes.” These long setup times compound when programming multiple devices.
Input/source switching can break the single-remote dream. “Will not change to input key… still have to use my old remote,” lamented one reviewer. For gamers or streaming box users, this forces juggling remotes despite the consolidation promise.
Compatibility with some digital converter boxes is problematic. A Trustpilot review recounted how programming for the Digital Stream DTX9950 “locks up with the red light constantly flashing” if the menu is accessed, losing the stored code entirely.
Divisive Features
Ergonomics split opinion. While many lauded its “perfect size… fits in one’s palm,” others complained about its awkward shape, especially for extended use. This seems influenced by hand size and usage habits — binge-watchers might feel discomfort faster.
The sleep timer is a sleeper hit among late-night TV fans, yet overlooked by streaming-focused buyers. For one Amazon reviewer, this feature justified the purchase: “Missed falling asleep to TV… this remote was the answer to my prayers.”
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Amazon feedback suggest RCA’s product descriptions occasionally overpromise compatibility. One frustrated buyer linked this to “manufacturer lying about compatibility,” vowing to “steer clear of RCA completely” after menu malfunctions.
Durability fares better. One nostalgic Amazon review detailed rediscovering this model years after their original “abused” unit died from battery corrosion. The replacement matched the original’s tactile feel, suggesting consistent build quality across production runs.
Shipping reliability is strong — multiple buyers noted faster-than-promised delivery, even with free shipping.
Alternatives
Competitors appear in eBay listings, like the RCA RCR504 4-device remote. While it adds one more device slot, users should weigh whether the extra complexity is worth higher prices (often $12+ vs the RCR503BE’s ~$8).
Big Button RCA remotes cater to visually impaired users but lack the palm-sized convenience. For Apple TV integration, programmable learning remotes from GE are mentioned in some online communities, albeit at double the cost.
Price & Value
At $6–$8 new on eBay and Amazon, the RCR503BE offers strong economic appeal. Resale values hover low; a BidFTA auction ended at $2.50. High used volumes suggest easy replacement rather than resale investment.
Buying tips from buyers stress checking RCA’s online code list before purchase to confirm device compatibility. Bulk purchasers like one Amazon user (“bought 4 of these”) value it as a backup remote stash.
FAQ
Q: Does the RCA RCR503BE work with Apple TV?
A: Yes, but it requires manual learning setup via Apple TV’s settings. Assign functions to unused buttons — avoid using volume keys for navigation to prevent conflicts.
Q: Can it switch inputs on all TVs?
A: No. Some users report the source/input key won’t scroll through options on certain models, forcing use of the original remote.
Q: Is programming straightforward?
A: It varies. Some buyers set it up in minutes, others spend 15+ minutes per device with auto scan. Instructions in-box may be outdated; online guides help.
Q: Will it work with my digital converter box?
A: Not guaranteed. Issues are documented with Digital Stream DTX9950, where menu access causes lockups and loss of stored codes.
Q: Is it comfortable to hold?
A: Subjective. Many praise its palm-sized design, others find the shape awkward for long sessions.
Final Verdict: Buy if you need an affordable way to control up to three devices, have patience for programming, and can confirm your models are in RCA’s code database. Avoid if input/source switching is critical or you rely on niche converter box features. Pro tip from community: Keep the OEM remote for advanced functions — use the RCR503BE for daily basics to preserve your primary controller.
