URC MX-990 Remote Review: Complete Analysis

The URC MX-990 is one of the most popular universal remote controls in the smart home industry. As authorized URC dealers, we've installed and programmed hundreds of these remotes for Chicago homeowners. In this comprehensive review, we'll break down everything you need to know: features, battery life, pros, cons, and whether it's the right choice for your home.

What is the URC MX-990?

The URC MX-990 is a premium universal remote control designed for whole-home automation. It's part of URC's Total Control line, which means it can control not just your TV and audio equipment, but also lights, shades, thermostats, and more.

Features That Make the MX-990 Stand Out

1. Full-Color LCD Display

The MX-990 features a bright, full-color LCD screen that makes navigation intuitive. You can see device icons, room names, and activity buttons clearly, even in low light. The display updates dynamically based on what you're controlling.

2. Dual Communication (RF + IR)

This is a game-changer. The MX-990 uses both RF (radio frequency) and IR (infrared). RF means you don't need line-of-sight - you can control devices from another room or even through walls. IR handles traditional devices that require direct line-of-sight.

3. Rechargeable Battery with Docking Station

No more hunting for batteries. The MX-990 comes with a sleek docking station that charges the remote automatically when you place it down. The battery life is impressive - typically lasting 7-10 days with normal use.

4. Extensive Device Control

This remote can control virtually everything in your smart home:

• TVs, cable boxes, streaming devices
• Audio systems (receivers, amplifiers, speakers)
• Smart lights (Lutron, Philips Hue, etc.)
• Motorized shades and blinds
• Thermostats
• Security systems
• And much more

5. Customizable Buttons and Activities

Every button can be customized. Want a "Movie Night" button that dims the lights, closes the shades, turns on the TV, and starts your sound system? The MX-990 can do that with a single press.

Battery Life: What to Expect

This is one of the most common questions we get. Here's the honest truth about MX-990 battery life:

Factors That Affect Battery Life:

• Screen brightness: Higher brightness drains battery faster
• RF usage: Using RF (controlling devices through walls) uses more power than IR
• Backlight: Keeping the button backlight on constantly reduces battery life
• Frequency of use: Obviously, more use = shorter battery life

The good news: The docking station makes charging effortless. Most people just place the remote in the dock when they're done using it, so battery life rarely becomes an issue.

Pros: What We Love About the MX-990

Who Should Buy the MX-990?

The MX-990 is perfect for:

• Homeowners with whole-home automation systems
• People who want to control multiple devices from one remote
• Those who want RF capability (control from other rooms)
• Users who prefer a physical remote over phone apps
• Families who want simple, one-button activities

You might want to consider alternatives if:

• You only need to control a TV and cable box
• You prefer using your phone or tablet
• You're on a tight budget
• You want a DIY solution without professional installation

Common Questions About the MX-990

Our Verdict

The URC MX-990 is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a premium universal remote. It's well-built, feature-rich, and reliable. The RF capability and long battery life are standout features that justify the premium price.

However, it's not for everyone. If you're looking for a simple TV remote or prefer app-based control, there are more affordable options. But if you want the best physical remote for whole-home automation, the MX-990 is hard to beat.