Ipad control is nice but don't plan on using it as a remote unless you have a dedicated theater and the remote just sits in one place permanently. Ever play Wurdle, Angry Birds or Words with Friends for an extended period of time? Ipad gets heavy, doesn't it? Same thing happens if you try to use it as your everyday remote. If you haven't tried these games good for you, you're a productive human.

What is "expensive" to you?

$200: Go with URC MX350
$300: Go with URC MX450
$500: Go with RTI Ipad app and processor or MX980 if someone will give you a dealio. These options would be better as the buttons/screens are larger and the displays are brighter
$500+: Many options

These prices don't include programming so check with someone reputable to see what they will charge you to program things the right way.

Good luck.