This is a comparison between 2 similar remotes and how they work for the 2017 Nvidia Shield. There are several that look like this, but they're NOT the same.
Looking at the picture, on the left is the ILEBYGO MX3 remote and on the right is my older MX3 by YOUKONG. I actually thought these would behave the same but the ILEBYGO had the backlight that I wanted. Most of these remotes are in the $13.99 price range. I also have a Minix remote that cost about $34. The air mouse function of the Minix is smoother than the 2 in this review, but outside of that it doesn't have many functions that work with the Shield. On both MX3 versions the air mouse can work pretty well if you choose the right Nvidia USB port for the receiver. It's also worth noting that on both MX3 remotes the D-ring (arrow controls around the OK button) is a bit narrow and not raised enough to make it as easy to use as it could be. I wish it was higher or wider so it would be easier to hit with my thumb without also hitting the OK button. However, I found it easy to pop open the case on each MX3 and shim the D-ring up about 1mm with a couple bits of greeting card cardboard and now the feel is perfect.
Now for the 2 main differences between these 2 remotes:
First, the programming procedure for the programmable buttons is different on each unit, but one isn't necessarily easier than the other. However, once programmed, you have to click the TV button first in order to use the programmed buttons on the YouKong. You don't have to do this on the ILEBYGO where the programmed buttons operate seamlessly just like all the other buttons. I have now added my Yamaha's volume controls to the ILEBYGO (needed for 5.1 volume control) along with a DPL (Dolby pro logic) button and a Stop button for videos (taken from my Vizio TV remote). The Stop button is really handy for Kodi and other apps to stop movie, TV and audio programs.
Second, you can use the mic on the ILEBYGO just like on the original Shield remote. It's the first button on the 2nd row. It's actually a "search" magnifying glass button but it activates the mic. On the YouKong, neither this button nor the actual Mic button will work with the Shield.
So, here's the deal. If you just buy a remote that looks like the ILEBYGO Backlit MX3, it won't necessarily behave like it. Just look at the 2 remotes in my picture. Except for the colors they're about identical. With this remote, I no longer need my Logitech 400 keyboard, my Bluetooth mouse, my 5.1 receiver remote (usually), or my original Shield remote. I can turn the complete system (including the Shield) off with the remote's Power Button and turn it on by pressing any button.
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