Unpopular Opinion: Why I Actually Prefer the Onn Streaming Device Remote

The streaming landscape is dominated by a few key players, and when it comes to streaming devices, the Google TV platform and its accompanying remote often receive high praise. You’ll find countless articles lauding the sleek design and smart features of the Chromecast with Google TV (and now the standalone Google TV Streamer) remote. And while I can certainly appreciate its minimalist aesthetic, I find myself consistently reaching for the remote that came with my Onn Streaming Device. Yes, you read that right. I prefer the often-underestimated Onn remote.

Now, before you think I’ve completely lost my cord-cutting mind, let me be clear: remote preference is incredibly subjective. What feels like a natural extension of your hand to one person might feel clunky or awkward to another. For me, the Onn remote simply hits the mark in two key areas: ergonomics and button placement.

The Feel in Hand: Comfort Matters

For as much time as we spend navigating streaming menus and pausing content, the way a remote feels in your hand is more important than you might think. The Onn remote, for me, just feels right. Its shape and weight distribution sit comfortably in my palm. There’s a certain heft to it that provides a sense of stability, and the contours seem to mold naturally to my grip.

While the Google TV remote is undeniably stylish and compact, I sometimes find its smooth, rounded edges a little less secure in my hand. The Onn remote, perhaps due to its slightly more traditional design, offers a more substantial and reassuring feel during those extended binge-watching sessions.

Button Placement: Intuitive Control (For My Thumb)

Beyond just the overall feel, the layout of the essential buttons on the Onn remote is, for my hand, more intuitive. My thumb naturally rests in a position where the directional pad, volume rocker, power button, mute, back, and home buttons are easily accessible without needing to significantly shift my grip.

While the Google TV remote also places these core functions within reach, I find the spacing and arrangement on the Onn remote to be just a bit more natural for my muscle memory. I can navigate menus and control playback without having to think about where my fingers need to go. While I acknowledge the dedicated app shortcut buttons aren't a feature I personally prioritize, their presence doesn't detract from the comfortable and accessible placement of the buttons I use most frequently.

It's All About Personal Preference

Ultimately, my preference for the Onn remote comes down to personal comfort and what feels most natural in my hand. I’m not arguing that the Google TV remote is bad – in fact, many reviews (like those you can find on major tech websites praising its design and voice capabilities) highlight its strengths. However, for my specific needs and the way I interact with my streaming devices, the Onn remote simply provides a more comfortable and intuitive experience.

So, the next time you’re considering a streaming device, don’t just focus on the specs and the platform. Take a moment to think about the remote and how it might feel in your hand. You might just find that an often-overlooked option like the Onn remote is the perfect fit for you.

My Streaming Life finds that prioritizing comfort and intuitive button placement, even in a less-lauded remote, significantly enhances the overall cord-cutting experience.