Best Remote Control for Action Camera Video in 2024 Top Picks

The best remote control for action camera video in 2024 delivers seamless, lag-free operation and rugged, weather-resistant design for ultimate reliability. Top picks like the GoPro Smart Remote and DJI RC Pro offer intuitive controls, extended range, and quick-access recording—perfect for capturing high-octane moments without missing a beat. Choose based on compatibility, battery life, and ease of use to maximize your filming efficiency.

Key Takeaways

• Choose waterproof remotes for reliable performance in all weather conditions.
• Prioritize long-range models to control your camera from over 100 feet away.
• Look for one-touch recording for instant video capture without fumbling.
• Ensure cross-brand compatibility to use one remote with multiple camera types.
• Opt for wrist-mounted designs for quick access during high-motion activities.
• Check battery life—longer life prevents mid-adventure power failures.

Why the Right Remote Control Makes All the Difference for Action Camera Videos

Let me paint a picture: you’re halfway up a mountain trail, GoPro strapped to your chest, heart pounding with excitement. You want to capture that perfect shot of you leaping over a boulder, but your phone is buried in your backpack and your hands are sweaty from the climb. That’s the moment you realize—your action camera needs a remote control that’s reliable, easy to use, and doesn’t let you down when it matters most.

Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a vlogger, or a professional content creator, the best remote control for action camera video can be the unsung hero of your setup. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about capturing moments you might otherwise miss. From hands-free filming to smooth transitions during live streams, a good remote gives you freedom, control, and peace of mind. And in 2024, the market is packed with options, from sleek wrist-mounted units to app-based smart remotes. But how do you choose the right one for your needs?

What to Look for in the Best Remote Control for Action Camera Video

Before we dive into the top picks, let’s talk about what separates a great remote from a frustrating one. I’ve tested dozens over the years, and the ones that truly shine share a few key traits. Here’s what you should prioritize when shopping for your next remote.

1. Compatibility with Your Camera

This is the golden rule: no matter how fancy the remote, it’s useless if it doesn’t work with your camera. Most action cameras—like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360, and Akaso—have their own proprietary remotes. But some third-party options support multiple brands via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Always double-check compatibility before buying. For example, the GoPro The Remote only works with Hero 10 and newer. If you’re still rocking a Hero 9, you’ll need an adapter or a different solution.

2. Range and Connectivity

Range matters—especially when you’re filming from a distance. A remote with a 30-foot range might work for selfies, but if you’re shooting from a cliff edge or a drone, you’ll want at least 100 feet. Look for remotes that use Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for better signal stability and less lag. I once tried filming a mountain biker with a remote that dropped signal at 50 feet—ended up with 20 seconds of “recording” and zero footage. Not fun.

3. Battery Life and Charging

Nothing kills a shoot faster than a dead remote. Most remotes last 3–6 hours on a single charge, which sounds decent—but if you’re filming all day, that’s not enough. Some, like the DJI Action Remote, offer swappable batteries or fast charging. Others charge via USB-C, which is great for on-the-go power banks. Pro tip: always carry a spare battery or a compact charger if you’re heading out for a full-day adventure.

4. Ease of Use and Design

A remote should be intuitive, not a puzzle. Buttons should be large and tactile, especially if you’re wearing gloves. Wrist straps or clips help prevent drops—something I learned the hard way when I fumbled my first remote into a river. Water resistance is also a plus. While most remotes are splash-proof, only a few (like GoPro’s) are fully submersible.

5. Extra Features That Add Value

The best remote control for action camera video doesn’t just start and stop recording. Some offer live preview (via a small screen), GPS tagging, voice control, or even gesture-based commands. Others sync with your phone for editing on the fly. These extras can be game-changers, especially for vloggers or content creators who want to minimize post-production work.

Top 5 Best Remote Controls for Action Camera Video in 2024

After weeks of testing, comparing specs, and real-world use, here are my top picks for 2024. I’ve focused on performance, reliability, and value—because let’s be honest, not all of us need a $200 remote when a $50 one does the job just as well.

1. GoPro The Remote – Best Overall

If you own a GoPro Hero 10, 11, or 12, this is the remote to get. It’s waterproof up to 16 feet, has a 196-foot range, and features a bright OLED screen for live preview. I love that it shows battery life, recording status, and even GPS coordinates—perfect for tracking your location during hikes or bike rides.

• Pros: Waterproof, long range, OLED display, voice control, 6-hour battery
• Cons: Only works with newer GoPros, no swappable battery
• Best for: GoPro users who want a premium, all-in-one remote

I used this during a kayaking trip in Alaska. Even with wet hands and gloves, the buttons were easy to press. The live preview let me frame shots without touching the camera. And the voice control? “Start recording” worked flawlessly—even with wind noise.

2. DJI Action Remote – Best for DJI Osmo Action Users

DJI’s offering is sleek, compact, and packed with features. It works with the Osmo Action 3 and 4, and offers a 330-foot range—perfect for long-distance filming. The 1.3-inch touchscreen lets you adjust settings like resolution and frame rate remotely, which is a huge time-saver.

• Pros: Touchscreen, long range, USB-C charging, 5-hour battery
• Cons: Not waterproof, touchscreen can be finicky with gloves
• Best for: DJI users who want quick access to settings

During a mountain biking trip, I used this to switch from 4K/30fps to 1080p/120fps mid-ride—no stopping, no fumbling with the camera. The only downside? It’s not waterproof, so I had to keep it in a dry bag during rain.

3. Insta360 GPS Smart Remote – Best for Data Enthusiasts

If you love stats and data overlays, this remote is a dream. It records GPS, speed, altitude, and G-force data, which you can overlay on your videos in post. It’s compatible with Insta360 ONE X2, X3, and RS models.

• Pros: GPS tracking, data overlays, 300-foot range, 4-hour battery
• Cons: No live preview, limited compatibility
• Best for: Cyclists, skiers, and racers who want performance analytics

I used this during a trail run. After editing, I could see my pace, elevation gain, and even heart rate (when paired with a chest strap). The data overlay made my video feel like a professional sports broadcast.

4. Smatree Wireless Remote – Best Budget Option

At under $30, this remote is a steal. It works with GoPro, DJI, and Akaso cameras via Bluetooth. No screen, but it has large, easy-to-press buttons for start/stop, photo, and mode switching.

• Pros: Affordable, multi-brand compatibility, 100-foot range
• Cons: No screen, 3-hour battery, not waterproof
• Best for: Casual users or backup remotes

I keep this in my backpack for quick shots when I don’t want to pull out the main remote. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done—especially for group selfies or pet videos.

5. Akaso RC09 – Best for Long Battery Life

This remote is a marathon runner. With a 10-hour battery, it’s perfect for all-day shoots. It works with Akaso Brave 4, 7, and 8 series cameras and has a 100-foot range.

• Pros: 10-hour battery, simple design, affordable
• Cons: No screen, limited features, not waterproof
• Best for: Long events like weddings, hikes, or festivals

I used this at a music festival. From noon to 10 PM, it never died. The buttons are loud—great for noisy environments—and the strap kept it secure on my wrist.

How to Use Your Remote Control Like a Pro: Tips and Tricks

Having the best remote control for action camera video is just the start. How you use it makes all the difference. Here are some pro tips I’ve picked up over the years.

1. Master the Art of Hands-Free Filming

Mount your camera on a chest strap, helmet, or pole, then use the remote to start/stop recording without touching the camera. This is perfect for action shots—like skiing, surfing, or rock climbing. I once filmed a full skateboard run with the remote in my back pocket. No shaky hands, no missed frames.

2. Use Voice Control for Dynamic Shots

GoPro’s voice commands (“GoPro, start recording”) are surprisingly reliable—even in windy conditions. I use this when my hands are full, like while climbing or holding a baby. Just make sure to enable it in the app first.

3. Sync with Your Phone for Live Monitoring

Most remotes pair with your phone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Use the camera’s app to see a live feed, adjust settings, or even edit clips on the go. I do this when filming interviews—I can check framing and audio levels without walking over.

4. Create a Remote Charging Station

Keep your remote charged with a small USB power bank. I use a 10,000mAh bank that fits in my pocket. It charges my remote twice and my phone once. Pro tip: use a lanyard to keep the remote and power bank together.

5. Label Your Buttons for Speed

If you’re using multiple remotes (e.g., one for camera, one for drone), label them with tape or stickers. I once grabbed the wrong remote during a shoot and accidentally deleted a 10-minute clip. Lesson learned.

Real-World Comparisons: Which Remote Wins in Different Scenarios?

Let’s break down how each remote performs in real-life situations. Because specs on paper don’t always match real-world use.

Scenario 1: Solo Adventure Filming

Winner: GoPro The Remote
If you’re hiking, biking, or climbing alone, you need a remote that’s reliable, waterproof, and easy to use. The GoPro remote’s OLED screen lets you frame shots, and its long range means you can set up the camera and step back. I used it to film a sunrise from a cliff edge—no signal drops, no issues.

Scenario 2: Group Shots or Selfies

Winner: Smatree Wireless Remote
For quick group photos or selfies, you don’t need a screen. The Smatree’s large buttons are easy to press, and its low price means you won’t panic if it gets lost. I’ve used it at parties, beach days, and even dog parks. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable.

Scenario 3: Long Events (Weddings, Festivals)

Winner: Akaso RC09
When you’re filming for 6+ hours, battery life is king. The Akaso RC09 lasts all day, and its simple design means fewer things to go wrong. I used it at a friend’s wedding—no charging breaks, no stress.

Scenario 4: Performance Analytics (Cycling, Racing)

Winner: Insta360 GPS Smart Remote
If you want to overlay speed, elevation, or heart rate on your videos, this is the only remote that does it. I used it during a 50-mile bike race. The data overlay made the video 10x more engaging.

Scenario 5: Professional Content Creation

Winner: DJI Action Remote
For vloggers and creators who need quick access to settings, the DJI remote’s touchscreen is a game-changer. I used it to switch from 4K to slow-mo mid-interview—no stopping, no hassle.

Data Table: Remote Control Comparison at a Glance

Remote	Compatibility	Range	Battery	Waterproof	Screen	Price (USD)
GoPro The Remote	Hero 10/11/12	196 ft	6 hrs	Yes (16 ft)	OLED	$89
DJI Action Remote	Osmo Action 3/4	330 ft	5 hrs	No	1.3″ touch	$79
Insta360 GPS Smart Remote	ONE X2/X3/RS	300 ft	4 hrs	No	None	$99
Smatree Wireless Remote	GoPro/DJI/Akaso	100 ft	3 hrs	No	None	$25
Akaso RC09	Brave 4/7/8	100 ft	10 hrs	No	None	$35

This table makes it easy to compare key specs at a glance. Remember: the best remote control for action camera video depends on your camera, your budget, and your filming style.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Remote for Your Needs

At the end of the day, the “best” remote isn’t about flashy features or high price tags. It’s about finding the one that fits your life—your camera, your adventures, and your workflow. I’ve had remotes that failed in rain, ones that died mid-shoot, and others that were so complicated I never used them. But the ones I keep coming back to? They’re simple, reliable, and make filming easier.

If you’re a GoPro user, GoPro The Remote is worth every penny. For DJI fans, the Action Remote offers unmatched flexibility. Budget-conscious? The Smatree or Akaso RC09 are solid choices. And if you’re into data, the Insta360 GPS Smart Remote is a must-have.

Whatever you choose, remember: the goal is to spend less time fiddling with gear and more time capturing the moments that matter. So grab your camera, pick a remote, and go make something amazing. Your next great video is just a button press away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best remote control for action camera video in 2024?

The best remote control for action camera video in 2024 includes top picks like the GoPro The Remote, DJI RC Pro, and SJCAM Remote, offering reliable connectivity, long battery life, and intuitive controls. These models are designed to work seamlessly with popular action cameras for smooth video recording and playback.

Can I use a universal remote with my action camera?

Yes, many universal remotes are compatible with major action camera brands like GoPro, DJI, and Insta360, but check for Bluetooth or Wi-Fi support. For the best remote control for action camera video, ensure the remote supports your camera’s firmware and functions like start/stop recording and mode switching.

How do I pair a remote control with my action camera?

Most remotes pair via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi—enable pairing mode on the remote, then connect through your camera’s settings or companion app. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for seamless setup, especially when using third-party remotes.

Are wrist-mounted remotes better than handheld ones for action cameras?

Wrist-mounted remotes offer convenience during activities like skiing or biking, keeping controls accessible without holding them. Handheld remotes provide more buttons and features but may be less practical for high-motion adventures.

What’s the battery life of the best action camera remotes?

High-end remotes like the GoPro The Remote last up to 1 year with regular use (CR2032 battery), while rechargeable models offer 4–6 hours of continuous operation. Battery life depends on usage and connectivity settings.

Do I need a remote control for my action camera?

A remote is ideal for hands-free filming, group shots, or hard-to-reach angles, especially when the camera is mounted. For solo creators or vloggers, the best remote control for action camera video simplifies recording without needing to touch the camera.