I'm ready to retire my venerable MX-500. I'd like a remote with a LCD (non-touchscreen) with good macro capabilities and the ability to display more than 5 character names on the LCD labels. I've zeroed in on the MX-450 and the MX-810. I like the MX-810 layout better and would like to do my button editing on a PC. I can get the MX-450 for less, but would have to do my editing on the remote and I don't like the layout of the 450 as much.

If anyone has experience with both, I'd like to hear about what you like and dislike about both remotes to help with the decision. Any other remote suggestions would be welcome as well.

The MX-810 has [sometimes annoying] wizard-based software... the MX-880 is otherwise identical but uses URC's full software. And costs somewhat more.

The MX-450 is a deluxe version of the R50.

Do you need RF?

I thought about the 880, but $250 is pretty much my limit for a remote. I don't really have a need for RF - my setup is pretty simple. I've got a JVC TV, HTPC w/Windows Media Center, Onyko Receiver, and VIP 622. I've never had a problem with IR working in my setup.

Well, of the R50, MX-450, MX-810 and MX-880 I personally would go for the MX-880 if you want PC programming. Otherwise, between the MX-450 and R50, if you don't need RF there's not too much reason to get the MX-450 over the much less expensive consumer R50.

And otherwise, regarding the MX-810, I guess it depends on the price - there's nothing actually wrong with it, it's just a preference as to how I like to program things.

I like the MX-810 to me it is one of the better remote on the marker . the mx 450 is more problematic creating macros which will turn off everything and switch to what you want with one click of a button

It *is* very convenient to have the ability to import discrete codes that may not be in the database by default (on the MX-810 & higher).

Do you mean importing Pronto-style hex files? And are there screen shots for the MX-810 software here on the site? I have seen the MX-850 software, and I'm assuming the MX-880 software is that style.

I've found a MX-900 from an authorized URC dealer willing to give me the software that's in my price range. Though it's closer to the MX-500 in display, it does have 7 characters for each label instead of five, and its PC programmable. I also understand it has variables available for storing the state of button pushes, etc.

I'm seriously thinking about going with the MX-900. Other than the icons, color, and longer names on the LCD screen, any differences between the MX-880 and MX-900 I should be concerned about?

MX880 has a rechargeable battery (with a cord that plugs in the bottom of the remote like a cell phone might, no base). The MX900 uses 4 AAA batteries. The MX880 also has limited variables, like the MX900. My preference, especially based on a lower MSRP, would be the MX900- a tried and true model for may programmers.