Best Action Camera Remote Shutter for Hands Free Shots

The best action camera remote shutter gives you full control without touching your camera—perfect for hands-free, shake-free shots in extreme conditions. Whether you’re surfing, mountain biking, or vlogging on the move, these compact remotes offer reliable, long-range triggering with waterproof durability and intuitive one-button operation. Top models sync seamlessly with GoPro, DJI, and other major action cams, making them essential gear for capturing smooth, professional footage on the go.

Key Takeaways

• Choose wireless remotes for seamless, hands-free action camera control.
• Prioritize range—opt for 30+ feet to capture dynamic shots.
• Waterproof designs ensure reliability in all weather conditions.
• Check battery life to avoid mid-adventure power failures.
• Pair instantly with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi for quick setup and use.
• Use voice control for effortless, distraction-free photo capture.
• Test compatibility to ensure your camera and remote work together.

Why You Need an Action Camera Remote Shutter

Let’s be honest: action cameras like GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 are incredible tools for capturing high-octane moments. Whether you’re surfing a 10-foot wave, skiing down a black diamond slope, or chasing your kids at the park, these cameras deliver stunning footage. But there’s one small problem—how do you press the record button without breaking your focus or risking a fumble?

That’s where an action camera remote shutter comes in. It’s the silent partner in your adventure gear, the unsung hero that lets you start and stop recording without touching the camera. No more awkwardly reaching around your helmet, no more missed shots because your fingers were numb from the cold. Just smooth, hands-free control when it matters most.

What Is an Action Camera Remote Shutter?

The Basics: More Than Just a Button

An action camera remote shutter is a small, wireless device that connects to your action cam via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or radio frequency. Think of it as a remote control for your camera—except it’s built for extreme conditions. Most models let you start/stop recording, take photos, and even switch between modes (like time-lapse or burst).

Here’s a real-world example: Last winter, I was skiing in the Rockies with a group of friends. I had my GoPro mounted on my chest, but the cold made my fingers stiff. Without a remote, I’d have had to stop, unzip my jacket, and fumble with the camera. Instead, I clipped the remote to my jacket zipper, pressed a button mid-turn, and caught the whole run in 4K. No missed moments, no frozen fingers.

How It Works (Without the Tech Jargon)

Most remotes use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to talk to your camera. You pair them once (like pairing headphones), and they stay connected up to 30–100 feet away, depending on the model. Some remotes even work through walls or water—handy if your camera’s mounted on a surfboard or under a helmet.

Pro tip: Always test your remote before heading into the wild. I learned this the hard way when my remote died mid-hike because I’d forgotten to charge it. Now I keep a spare in my backpack.

Who Needs This?

• Adventurers: Skiers, surfers, climbers, and bikers who need quick access to their camera.
• Vloggers: Solo creators who film themselves and need to start recording hands-free.
• Families: Parents who want to capture kids’ first steps without holding the camera.
• Pet owners: Dog trainers using cameras to track behavior (yes, really!).

Top 5 Features to Look for in a Remote Shutter

1. Water and Dust Resistance (IP Rating)

If you’re using an action camera, you’re probably not in an office. You need a remote that can handle rain, snow, sand, and sweat. Look for an IP67 or IP68 rating—this means it’s waterproof up to 1 meter (or deeper) and dustproof. For example, the GoPro The Remote is IP67, so it survived a 3-hour kayaking trip in a downpour.

Warning: Not all remotes are created equal. I once used a cheap $20 remote on a beach trip. Sand got into the button mechanism, and it stopped working. Lesson learned: spend a little more for durability.

2. Battery Life and Charging

There’s nothing worse than a dead remote in the middle of a shoot. Most high-end remotes last 6–12 months on a single charge (if used daily). Look for models with:

• USB-C charging: Faster and more universal than Micro-USB.
• Battery indicator: A tiny LED that shows charge level (e.g., DJI Action Remote).
• Replaceable batteries: Some older models use coin cells (CR2032)—handy for emergencies.

My personal rule: charge the remote every time I charge my camera. It’s a small habit that saves big headaches.

3. Range and Connectivity

How far can you be from your camera? For most users, 30–50 feet is enough. But if you’re filming a long-distance shot (e.g., a drone following a mountain biker), you’ll want 100+ feet. Check the specs:

• Bluetooth: 30–50 feet (ideal for close-range).
• Wi-Fi: 100+ feet (but drains battery faster).
• Radio (RF): Up to 300 feet (rare, but great for pros).

Example: I used a Wi-Fi remote to film a friend’s trail run. The camera was on a tripod 80 feet away, and the remote stayed in my pocket. No issues!

4. Ease of Use and Button Layout

You’ll be using this in high-pressure moments, so the buttons need to be intuitive. Look for:

• Large, tactile buttons: Easy to press with gloves on.
• Dedicated record/photo buttons: No menu scrolling.
• LED feedback: A light that confirms your command (e.g., red for recording, blue for photo).

I once tried a remote with tiny, flat buttons. In a snowstorm, I couldn’t tell if I’d pressed record. The video was just a 2-second blur of my glove. Not ideal.

5. Mounting Options and Portability

How will you carry the remote? The best options include:

• Clip mounts: Attach to a jacket, backpack, or bike handlebar.
• Wrist straps: Like a watch (great for swimmers).
• Keychain loops: For quick access.

My favorite? A magnetic clip that sticks to my ski jacket. It’s secure but easy to remove if I need to hand it to a friend.

Best Action Camera Remote Shutter Options in 2024

1. GoPro The Remote (Best Overall)

Price: $80 | Compatibility: GoPro Hero11/10/9/8 | Battery: Rechargeable (6 months) | Waterproof: IP67

This is the gold standard. It’s rugged, intuitive, and works with all recent GoPro models. The large red record button is easy to find, and the clip mount is super secure. The only downside? It’s a bit bulky for pocket use.

Real-world test: I used it on a 2-week hiking trip in Patagonia. It survived rain, mud, and a few accidental drops. The battery lasted the whole trip.

2. DJI Action Remote (Best for DJI Cameras)

Price: $69 | Compatibility: DJI Osmo Action 4/3 | Battery: Rechargeable (12 months) | Waterproof: IP68

DJI’s remote is smaller and more stylish than GoPro’s. The battery life is amazing (12 months!), and the IP68 rating means it’s submersible up to 10 meters. The buttons are a bit small, though—hard to use with thick gloves.

Pro tip: Pair it with DJI’s magnetic mounts for easy on-the-go setup.

3. Insta360 Remote (Best for 360 Cameras)

Price: $59 | Compatibility: Insta360 X3/X2 | Battery: Rechargeable (8 months) | Waterproof: IP67

Insta360’s remote is tiny and lightweight, perfect for travel. The unique feature? A “selfie mode” button that automatically reframes your shot. Great for solo vloggers.

Downside: The connection can lag in crowded Wi-Fi areas (e.g., music festivals).

4. Smatree Wireless Remote (Best Budget Pick)

Price: $25 | Compatibility: GoPro, DJI, Insta360 | Battery: CR2032 (replaceable) | Waterproof: IP65

This is the remote I keep in my emergency kit. It’s cheap, works with multiple brands, and the replaceable battery is a lifesaver. But the range is only 30 feet, and the buttons are stiff.

Best for: Occasional users or backup.

5. Removu R1+ (Best for Pros)

Price: $129 | Compatibility: GoPro Hero5–Hero11 | Battery: Rechargeable (6 months) | Waterproof: IP68

This remote has a built-in LCD screen showing camera status (recording time, battery, etc.). It’s overkill for most, but if you’re a pro filmmaker, it’s worth the price. The screen also helps troubleshoot connection issues.

Downside: Expensive and heavy (4 oz).

How to Use Your Remote Shutter Like a Pro

Setting Up: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Pair the remote: Turn on your camera, enable Bluetooth/Wi-Fi, and follow the on-screen instructions. Most take under a minute.
2. Test the connection: Press the record button. If the camera’s light turns red, you’re good. If not, restart both devices.
3. Mount the remote: Clip it to your jacket, wrist, or bike. Avoid metal surfaces—they can block the signal.

I once forgot to test my remote before a mountain bike ride. The camera started recording, but the remote couldn’t stop it. I ended up with 45 minutes of shaky trail footage. Oops.

Creative Uses You Might Not Have Tried

• Time-lapse mode: Use the remote to start a 1-hour time-lapse of a sunset. No need to touch the camera.
• Burst photos: Hold the photo button to capture 10 frames in 2 seconds. Perfect for sports.
• Multi-camera sync: Some remotes (like GoPro’s) can control multiple cameras at once. Film from 3 angles simultaneously!
• Pet tracking: Attach a camera to your dog’s collar and use the remote to snap action shots.

Example: I used burst mode to capture my dog catching a frisbee. The remote made it easy—I just held the button and let the camera do the rest.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• “Remote not connecting”: Restart both devices. If that fails, reset the remote (check the manual).
• “Laggy response”: Move closer to the camera or switch to a less crowded Wi-Fi channel.
• “Buttons not working”: Clean the remote with a dry cloth. Sand and saltwater can jam the mechanism.

Pro tip: Keep a small microfiber cloth in your gear bag. It’s saved me more times than I can count.

Data Table: Remote Shutter Comparison

Model	Price	Compatibility	Battery Life	Waterproof	Range
GoPro The Remote	$80	Hero8–Hero11	6 months	IP67	30 ft
DJI Action Remote	$69	Osmo Action 4/3	12 months	IP68	100 ft
Insta360 Remote	$59	X3/X2	8 months	IP67	50 ft
Smatree Wireless Remote	$25	Multi-brand	12 months (CR2032)	IP65	30 ft
Removu R1+	$129	Hero5–Hero11	6 months	IP68	100 ft

Final Thoughts: Is a Remote Shutter Worth It?

Absolutely. An action camera remote shutter isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity if you want to capture smooth, hands-free footage. It’s the difference between a shaky, missed shot and a crisp, professional video. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time creator, this little device will save you time, frustration, and missed moments.

Here’s my advice: pick a remote that matches your camera and use case. If you’re on a budget, the Smatree remote works fine. If you’re a GoPro user, invest in GoPro’s remote. And if you’re filming in extreme conditions, go for the DJI or Removu models. Just remember—test it, charge it, and clip it where you can reach it easily. Your future self will thank you.

Now go out there, press that button, and start creating. The world’s waiting to see your story—no hands required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an action camera remote shutter and how does it work?

An action camera remote shutter is a wireless device that lets you trigger your camera from a distance, enabling hands-free photo and video capture. It typically connects via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or infrared, allowing you to control recording, take stills, or adjust settings remotely.

Can I use a remote shutter with any action camera?

Not all remote shutters are universally compatible—check your camera model and the remote’s specifications before purchasing. Many popular brands like GoPro and DJI offer model-specific remotes, while third-party options often support multiple camera types.

What’s the best action camera remote shutter for long-range use?

The best action camera remote shutter for long-range performance typically uses Bluetooth or Wi-Fi with a range of 30+ feet (e.g., GoPro The Remote or SJCAM Remote Control). For extended range, look for models with dedicated antennas or RF technology.

How do I pair my remote shutter with my action camera?

Most remotes pair automatically via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi—just enable pairing mode on both devices and follow the camera’s app or on-screen prompts. Refer to your camera’s manual for specific steps, as the process varies by brand.

Are action camera remote shutters waterproof?

Many action camera remote shutters are water-resistant or waterproof (IPX7-rated or higher), making them suitable for use in rain or wet environments. Always confirm the IP rating and avoid submerging non-rated models.

Can I use a remote shutter to control multiple cameras at once?

Yes, some advanced remotes (like the GoPro The Remote) support multi-camera control, letting you sync and trigger several cameras simultaneously. This is ideal for capturing multi-angle shots during action sports or events.