Top Apps for Controlling Action Camera Like a Pro

Take full command of your action camera with top-rated apps designed for pro-level control and seamless wireless operation. These powerful tools let you adjust settings, preview shots, and trigger recordings remotely—right from your smartphone or tablet—making it easier than ever to capture dynamic, hands-free footage. With intuitive interfaces and real-time feedback, these apps transform your mobile device into a high-precision camera hub.

Key Takeaways

• Choose app with real-time preview: Monitor shots instantly for perfect framing.
• Prioritize low-latency control: Ensures immediate response for fast-paced action.
• Use multi-camera support: Manage multiple angles seamlessly from one device.
• Enable voice commands: Hands-free operation boosts convenience during adventures.
• Check firmware compatibility: Avoid glitches by matching app and camera versions.
• Explore editing integrations: Speed up post-production with direct app workflows.

Top Apps for Controlling Action Camera Like a Pro

Remember the first time you tried to film a skateboard trick with your action camera? You set it up, ran back, landed the ollie, and then sprinted to check the footage—only to find it was still on standby. Or worse, it recorded the ground the whole time. Frustrating, right? We’ve all been there. But here’s the good news: apps for controlling action camera have come a long way. They’re no longer just remote triggers—they’re full-fledged command centers for your adventures.

Whether you’re capturing mountain bike descents, underwater dives, or family hikes, the right app can turn shaky, missed shots into smooth, professional-looking footage. These apps let you preview your shot, adjust settings, start/stop recording, and even edit and share—all from your phone. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the one that fits your style? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top apps for controlling action cameras, sharing real-world tips, pros and cons, and even some lesser-known features that’ll make you feel like a pro—even if you’re still figuring out what “white balance” means.

Why You Need a Dedicated App for Your Action Camera

Beyond the Basic Remote Control

Sure, your action camera probably came with a tiny remote. But let’s be honest—it’s easy to lose, the battery dies fast, and you can’t preview your shot. That’s where apps for controlling action camera shine. They turn your smartphone into a high-resolution viewfinder, a settings dashboard, and a live monitor—all in one.

Think about it: when you’re on a surfboard, 30 feet from your camera, a remote just isn’t enough. With a good app, you can see exactly what your camera sees, adjust exposure, switch modes, and start recording—without getting off your board. That’s a game-changer for solo creators, travelers, and anyone who films dynamic scenes.

Key Features That Make the Difference

• Live View: See your shot in real time. No more guessing if the camera is pointed at your face or the sky.
• Settings Control: Adjust resolution, frame rate, ISO, white balance, and more—on the fly.
• Remote Start/Stop: Start recording without touching the camera. Perfect for selfies or group shots.
• File Management: Browse, download, and delete clips without removing the SD card.
• GPS & Data Overlay: Some apps sync with your phone’s GPS to add speed, altitude, and location data to your footage.
• Editing Tools: Trim, add music, and share directly from the app. No need to transfer files to a computer.

For example, when I was hiking in the Rockies last summer, I used my phone to preview a time-lapse setup on a cliff edge. I noticed the camera was slightly tilted—thanks to the live view—and fixed it before starting. Without the app, I would’ve come back to a 20-minute video of the sky and a tiny sliver of mountain. That’s the power of real-time control.

Compatibility Matters

Not all apps work with all cameras. Before downloading, check if your brand (GoPro, DJI, Insta360, etc.) has an official app—and whether your specific camera model is supported. Most modern action cameras use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect, but older models might need a physical remote or a different setup.

Pro tip: If you’re buying a new camera, prioritize one with a robust companion app. It’s often a better long-term investment than a slightly higher resolution or frame rate.

Top Apps for GoPro Cameras: The Gold Standard

GoPro Quik: The All-in-One Powerhouse

If you own a GoPro, GoPro Quik is your go-to app for controlling action camera. It’s free, intuitive, and packed with features. I’ve used it for everything from filming my dog’s birthday party to documenting a week-long kayaking trip.

The interface is clean and user-friendly. Once connected via Wi-Fi, you get live view, settings control, and access to all your media. But what really sets Quik apart is its auto-editing feature. You can import clips, and the app will automatically cut, add transitions, and even suggest music. It’s not perfect, but it’s a huge time-saver for quick social media posts.

• Pros: Live preview, auto-editing, GPS overlay (on supported models), cloud backup (with subscription), easy sharing.
• Cons: Auto-edits can feel generic. Some advanced settings (like manual exposure) are buried in menus.

One thing I love: the “Highlight Tag” feature. While recording, you can tap a button to mark important moments. Later, when editing, Quik prioritizes those clips. It’s perfect for long adventures where you don’t want to sift through hours of footage.

GoPro Labs (For Tech-Savvy Users)

If you’re into tinkering, GoPro Labs unlocks experimental features not available in the main app. You can enable things like:

• Custom time-lapse intervals (e.g., 1 photo every 10 seconds)
• Low-light mode for night shots
• Auto power-off after recording

It’s not for everyone, but if you’re the type who loves pushing gear to the limit, Labs is a playground. Just remember: these features are experimental, so they might not work perfectly on all cameras.

Third-Party Alternatives: When Quik Isn’t Enough

While Quik is great, some users prefer alternatives like GoPro Remote (a minimalist app) or ActionDirector (for advanced editing). These aren’t official GoPro apps, so use them at your own risk. But they offer features like:

• Better manual control (shutter speed, ISO)
• More stable connection (in some cases)
• No forced auto-edits

I’ve used ActionDirector for filming night rides with my bike lights. The manual exposure controls let me tweak the brightness in real time—something Quik doesn’t allow easily.

DJI Action Cameras: The Osmo Action Companion

DJI Mimo: Sleek, Smart, and Feature-Rich

DJI’s Mimo app is the official app for controlling action camera models like the Osmo Action 3 and 4. It’s one of the most polished apps I’ve used—clean design, fast connection, and excellent live view quality.

One standout feature: RockSteady Stabilization Preview. You can see how the stabilization will look before recording. It’s a small detail, but it helps you frame shots better, knowing the final footage will be smooth.

• Pros: High-quality live view, intuitive interface, advanced stabilization preview, manual controls, AI editor.
• Cons: Some features (like AI editor) require a subscription. Connection can drop in crowded Wi-Fi areas.

The AI editor is impressive. It analyzes your footage, picks the best clips, and creates a highlight reel with music and effects. I used it after a mountain biking trip, and it turned 2 hours of shaky footage into a 2-minute, cinematic recap. Not perfect, but close.

Manual Mode: For the Control Freaks

If you’re serious about video quality, Mimo’s manual mode lets you tweak:

• Shutter speed (for motion blur)
• ISO (for brightness in low light)
• White balance (to avoid weird color shifts)

During a sunrise shoot, I manually set the white balance to “Daylight” to keep the sky from looking too orange. Without the app, I would’ve had to guess the settings on the camera itself—a pain when it’s mounted on a tripod.

Tips for Better Connection

DJI cameras connect via Wi-Fi, but the signal can be weak. Here are my tips:

• Keep your phone close (within 30 feet)
• Turn off other Wi-Fi devices (like Bluetooth headphones)
• Use the 5GHz band if your phone supports it (faster, less interference)

On a recent beach shoot, I kept losing connection. I realized my phone was switching between 2.4GHz and 5GHz. After locking it to 5GHz, the preview stayed stable.

Insta360: The 360-Degree Experience

Insta360 App: Reframe Your World

If you’re into 360-degree video, the Insta360 app is a must-have. It’s not just a remote—it’s a creative tool. The app lets you:

• Preview 360 footage in real time
• Reframe shots after recording (using keyframes)
• Add dynamic transitions and effects
• Export to standard formats (16:9, 1:1, etc.)

I used it to film a hiking trail. Instead of setting up multiple cameras, I mounted one 360 cam on my backpack. Later, I “reframed” the footage in the app to follow the path, add text overlays, and even insert drone shots. It felt like editing a movie—not just a video.

• Pros: 360 preview, reframe editing, AI auto-follow, easy sharing to social media.
• Cons: App can be slow with large files. Reframe editing has a learning curve.

AI Auto-Follow: Like a Virtual Camera Operator

Insta360’s AI can track you in 360 footage. I tested it while running—the app kept me centered in the frame, even as I turned. It’s not perfect (it sometimes loses track in crowds), but it’s impressive for a phone-based tool.

Pro tip: Use the “Deep Track” feature for better accuracy. It analyzes your movement patterns and predicts where you’ll go next.

Live Streaming: Share Your Adventure in Real Time

The Insta360 app supports live streaming to YouTube, Facebook, and more. I used it to stream a sunset from a rooftop. The app handled the encoding and connection, so I could focus on the view—not the tech.

Just remember: streaming eats data and battery. Bring a power bank and use Wi-Fi if possible.

Universal Apps: For Mixed Camera Setups

When You Own Multiple Brands

What if you have a GoPro, a DJI, and an Insta360? Switching between apps is annoying. That’s where universal apps for controlling action camera come in.

Camera Connect (by Sony, but works with others) supports multiple brands via Wi-Fi. It’s not as feature-rich as official apps, but it’s great for basic control: start/stop, preview, settings.

Open Camera Remote is an open-source app that works with GoPro, DJI, and some Insta360 models. It’s free, no ads, and highly customizable. I used it during a multi-cam shoot at a skatepark. I controlled three cameras from one phone—no app switching, no confusion.

• Pros: Cross-brand support, free (no subscriptions), lightweight.
• Cons: Fewer features than official apps. Connection can be less stable.

Tips for Mixed Setups

• Use different Wi-Fi channels for each camera (e.g., GoPro on channel 1, DJI on channel 6)
• Name your cameras clearly in the app (e.g., “GoPro – Helmet,” “DJI – Handlebar”)
• Test the connection before the shoot—nothing worse than a dropped signal mid-action

During a mountain biking trip, I had three cameras: one on my helmet, one on my bike, and one on a tripod. Using Open Camera Remote, I synced their start/stop times and previewed all three feeds. It was chaotic at first, but after a few tries, I got the hang of it.

Choosing the Right App: A Quick Comparison

What to Look For

Not sure which app for controlling action camera is right for you? Here’s what to consider:

• Camera Brand: Start with the official app (GoPro Quik, DJI Mimo, Insta360). It’s optimized for your camera.
• Features: Do you need live view? Manual controls? Auto-editing? GPS? Pick an app that matches your needs.
• Ease of Use: If you’re not tech-savvy, avoid apps with complex menus. Go for clean, intuitive design.
• Connection Reliability: Test the app in your usual filming spots. Does it drop often? Does the preview lag?
• Cost: Most official apps are free, but some features (like cloud backup) require a subscription.

Comparison Table: Top Apps at a Glance

App	Best For	Live View	Manual Controls	Auto-Editing	GPS	Cost
GoPro Quik	GoPro users, quick edits	Yes	Basic	Yes (AI)	Yes	Free (cloud: paid)
DJI Mimo	DJI Osmo users, pros	Yes (high quality)	Advanced	Yes (AI)	Yes	Free (AI: paid)
Insta360	360 video, creativity	Yes (360)	Yes	Yes (reframe)	Yes	Free
Open Camera Remote	Mixed brands, budget	Yes	Basic	No	No	Free

My Personal Recommendations

• For beginners: GoPro Quik or DJI Mimo. They’re easy to learn and handle most tasks.
• For pros: DJI Mimo (manual controls) or Insta360 (360 creativity).
• For mixed setups: Open Camera Remote or Camera Connect.
• For quick sharing: Any app with auto-editing (Quik, Mimo, Insta360).

I’ve tried nearly every app out there, and my favorite is still DJI Mimo—for its balance of power and simplicity. But your needs might be different. Try a few, see what works for you.

Final Thoughts: Control Your Creativity

At the end of the day, the best app for controlling action camera is the one that helps you tell your story—without getting in the way. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a travel vlogger, or a pro filmmaker, the right app can save you time, improve your footage, and unlock new creative possibilities.

I’ll never forget the first time I used live view to film a backflip. I could see the camera angle, adjust the exposure, and hit record—all from the ground. The footage was smooth, perfectly framed, and ready to share. That’s the magic of modern action camera apps. They’re not just tools—they’re partners in your adventures.

So go ahead: download an app, connect your camera, and start exploring. Experiment with settings, try new features, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The best shots often come from unexpected moments—and with the right app, you’ll be ready to capture them.

Remember, technology should serve your creativity, not the other way around. Pick an app that feels right, master its features, and let it help you film like a pro—no matter where your journey takes you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best apps for controlling action cameras remotely?

The top apps for controlling action cameras include GoPro Quik, DJI Mimo, and Insta360, offering intuitive interfaces for live preview, settings adjustments, and quick editing. These apps connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them ideal for capturing shots from unique angles.

Can I use my smartphone as a remote for my action camera?

Yes, most action camera brands provide dedicated apps that turn your smartphone into a wireless remote. For example, the apps for controlling action camera like GoPro Quik let you start/stop recording, adjust settings, and even preview footage in real time.

Do these apps work with all action cameras?

Most apps are brand-specific (e.g., DJI Mimo for Osmo Action, Sony Imaging Edge for RX0), but some third-party apps like Camera Connect offer cross-brand compatibility. Always check your camera’s compatibility before downloading.

Are there apps that let me edit videos from my action camera?

Absolutely! Apps like GoPro Quik and Insta360 include built-in editing tools for trimming, adding music, and applying effects. They’re perfect for creating polished content directly from your phone after using the apps for controlling action camera.

How do I connect my action camera to a control app?

Typically, you’ll enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on your camera, then pair it with the app on your phone. For example, DJI Mimo guides you step-by-step to establish a connection in under a minute.

Can I live-stream using action camera control apps?

Yes, apps like GoPro Quik and DJI Mimo support live-streaming to platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Just ensure your camera is connected to the app and your phone has a stable internet connection.