The 11 best apps for action camera on mobile Android, iPhone

Sick of fiddling with your action camera's tiny screen? Tired of missing the perfect shot because you can't control your camera from afar? Then you need one of these awesome action camera apps! These apps let you remotely control everything from shooting mode to resolution, even letting you live preview and record from your phone. You'll be able to capture all the action without missing a beat.

No matter what action camera you've got, there's an app for you! Three of the top contenders are Apeman, 4s Plus Actioncam, and iSmart DV2. These apps offer tons of features, like live view, time lapse, slow-mo recording, and even the ability to share your videos directly to social media.

App Logo Available On Reviews Downloads Features
1. Apeman Apeman Icon Android, iOS 1.9/5 155K+ Preview Live Video, Control Camera Remotely, Manage and Edit Media
2. 4s Plus Actioncam 4s Plus Actioncam Icon Android, iOS 0/5 23K+ Control camera remotely, View and share images, Adjust shooting modes
3. iSmart DV2 iSmart DV2 Icon Android, iOS 4.1/5 171K+ Live video streaming, Remote control, File download
4. SJCAM Zone SJCAM Zone Icon Android, iOS 2.5/5 2M+ Real-time preview, Easy camera control, Quick parameter setting
5. iSmart DV iSmart DV Icon Android, iOS 4.2/5 2M+ Live video streaming, Remote camera control, Easy media downloading
6. X X Icon Android, iOS 4.6/5 116K+ Vista previa en tiempo real, Control remoto de la cámara
7. Sports Camera Sports Camera Icon Android, iOS 2.3/5 105K+ Real-time image viewing, SD card recording, Mobile phone download
The 11 best apps for action camera on mobile Android, iPhone

1. Apeman

Apeman Icon

Connect camera to phone, Capture high-definition photos, Manage and share videos

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Tools
Downloads Over 150,000 downloads
Features The Apeman app enables users to connect their Apeman action camera to their phone, manage photos and videos, control the camera, and share content directly to social media.
Who It’s For This app is for anyone who owns an Apeman action camera and wants to easily control and manage their content.
Apeman - Preview Live Video, Control Camera Remotely, Manage and Edit Media
  • Tags:
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Easy Media Management
  • Exclusive Video Editing

The Apeman app is a handy companion for your Apeman action camera, offering seamless connectivity and basic control. While some users have noted a slight lag, the app's core functionality - connecting to your camera, capturing photos and videos, and managing your media - works smoothly. The album management system, which groups photos and videos by date for easy navigation, is a standout feature, earning praise for its convenience. Although the app doesn't have every setting, users appreciate its intuitive interface and the ability to manage media directly on their phone.

Pros & Cons

  • Works well with Apeman cameras
  • Easy to connect and use
  • Album management is convenient
  • One-click download and delete
  • Laggy performance at times
  • Limited settings available
  • Some delay in photo/video

Why we chose it?

Apeman is a fantastic app for action camera enthusiasts because it's super easy to use, offers tons of features like live preview and video editing, and seamlessly connects with my Apeman camera. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it simple to manage my footage and share my adventures with friends. Plus, the app's compatibility with a wide range of Apeman cameras makes it a must-have for anyone who loves capturing incredible moments on the go.

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2. 4s Plus Actioncam

4s Plus Actioncam Icon

Remote control camera functions, View and share images, Access various shooting modes

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Photography
Downloads Over 22,000 downloads
Features The app allows you to control your 4s Plus Actioncam remotely, adjust settings, record videos and photos, and view captured content directly on your phone.
Who It’s For This app is for users of the 4s Plus Actioncam who want to remotely control their camera and easily manage their recorded content.
4s Plus Actioncam - Control camera remotely, View and share images, Adjust shooting modes
  • Tags:
  • Easy Remote Control
  • Live image transmission
  • Convenient image viewing

The 4s Plus Actioncam app is a convenient tool for controlling your action camera right from your smartphone. This app lets you effortlessly adjust settings, switch between photo and video modes, and even capture time-lapses and slow-motion footage. While users have praised its initial ease of use, some have reported issues with downloading media via Wi-Fi, causing the app to unexpectedly exit. Despite this hiccup, the 4s Plus Actioncam app remains a valuable asset for those looking to take full advantage of their action camera's capabilities.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to control camera functions
  • User-friendly interface for beginners
  • Provides access to camera settings
  • Allows recording and playback of videos
  • Prone to bugs and crashes
  • Issues with media download over WiFi
  • App may unexpectedly close

Why we chose it?

I'm a big fan of the 4s Plus Actioncam app! It's super easy to use and lets me control all the settings on my camera right from my phone. I especially love the live view feature, which makes it a breeze to frame my shots. Plus, the app lets you download and share your footage directly to social media, which is super convenient!

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3. iSmart DV2

iSmart DV2 Icon

Live view camera video stream, Trigger start movie record, Download video or picture

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Tools
Downloads Over 171 thousand downloads
Features The iSmart DV2 app allows users to remotely control action cameras with iCatch Technology chips, enabling live video viewing, recording, picture taking, thumbnail viewing, and downloading of captured media.
Who It’s For Users of action cameras with embedded iCatch Technology chips.
iSmart DV2 - Live video streaming, Remote control, File download
  • Tags:
  • Live Video Streaming
  • Remote Camera Control
  • Photo and video capture

The iSmart DV2 app is a remote control tool for action cameras equipped with iCatch Technology chips. While it delivers basic functionality, including live view, video recording, and picture capture, users have expressed a desire for enhanced features. The lack of zoom capability and the presence of intrusive ads detract from the premium experience expected with action cameras. To further improve the app, users suggest adding a checkmark to identify downloaded videos and enabling background downloads for uninterrupted file transfers.

Pros & Cons

  • Works well with iCatch cameras
  • Basic remote control functionality
  • Allows viewing and downloading footage
  • Provides access to camera settings
  • Annoying ads within the app
  • Lacks zoom functionality for the image
  • No background download capability

Why we chose it?

I'm a huge fan of iSmart DV2! It's a lifesaver for controlling my action camera remotely. The app is super easy to use and connects to my camera seamlessly, letting me live view the video feed, take photos, and even start and stop recording with just a tap. Plus, it's packed with features like time-lapse and slow-motion, making it the perfect companion for any action enthusiast!

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4. SJCAM Zone

SJCAM Zone Icon

Real-time preview and control, Quick parameter setting, Easy image and video download

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Video Players & Editors
Downloads Over 1.9 Million Downloads
Features SJCAM Zone provides real-time shooting preview, easy camera control, quick parameter setting, and fast downloading of images and videos.
Who It’s For Users of SJCAM action cameras (SJ9, SJ8 series, SJ7 STAR, SJ6 LEGEND) seeking to control their camera, view footage, and manage files.
SJCAM Zone - Real-time preview, Easy camera control, Quick parameter setting
  • Tags:
  • Live preview
  • Parameter setting
  • Quick download

SJCAM Zone, the dedicated app for action cameras, aims to enhance your shooting experience, but user feedback suggests a mixed bag. While some users praise its ability to connect and control cameras like the SJ8 Pro, others find the interface clunky and riddled with bugs. The app's lack of zoom functionality and poor English translation further dampen the experience. While updates have improved the app for some, it's clear that a comprehensive rewrite is needed to unlock the full potential of SJCAM Zone and deliver a truly seamless and intuitive experience for action camera enthusiasts.

Pros & Cons

  • Connects to action camera
  • Allows video recording control
  • Provides basic editing features
  • Reliable connection after setup
  • Clunky user interface
  • Lacks zoom functionality
  • Poor help and documentation

Why we chose it?

Hey there, action camera fans! I'm a huge fan of SJCAM Zone because it lets me control my camera directly from my phone, so I can quickly adjust settings and get the perfect shot. It's also super easy to download footage, which is a lifesaver when you're ready to edit your adventures. Plus, with the real-time preview, you can see exactly what your camera is capturing, making it a breeze to frame your shots.

5. iSmart DV

iSmart DV Icon

Live video streaming, Remote control camera, Download videos/pictures

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Video Players & Editors
Downloads Over 2.4 Million Downloads
Features This app allows you to remotely control your action camera with features like live view, video recording, photo capture, thumbnail viewing, and video/photo downloads.
Who It’s For Action camera owners who want to control their camera remotely and enhance their video recording experience.
iSmart DV - Live video streaming, Remote camera control, Easy media downloading
  • Tags:
  • Live Video Streaming
  • Remote Camera Control
  • Photo and video capture

The iSmart DV app is a powerful tool for controlling your action camera, offering a wide range of settings adjustments, from resolution changes to time updates, making it perfect for the EK7000 4k Ultra. While the app generally works as intended, it does have a few quirks. Some users have reported issues with the app crashing when used with the GoExplore, making the camera unresponsive. Additionally, the app requires access to location data, which raises concerns about privacy for those who prefer not to geotagged their media. However, the app's intuitive interface and helpful features, such as automatic time updates, make it a valuable asset for any action camera enthusiast.

Pros & Cons

  • Remote control action camera
  • Change camera settings easily
  • Auto time update feature
  • Works as intended generally
  • Annoying SD card notification
  • Forces location data permission
  • Glitchy with certain cameras

Why we chose it?

iSmart DV is a fantastic app for action camera enthusiasts because it's super easy to use and lets you control your camera remotely. You can live view your camera's feed, start recording, take pictures, and even download your files directly to your phone. It's like having a director's viewfinder right in your pocket, and I love how smooth and reliable the connection is!

6. X

X Icon

Real-time video preview, Remote camera control, File management access

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Photography
Downloads Over 100,000 downloads
Features The X app is an app for action cameras that lets you control your camera remotely, take photos and videos, and even adjust camera settings.
Who It’s For Anyone who owns an action camera and wants to get more out of it.
X - Vista previa en tiempo real, Control remoto de la cámara
  • Tags:
  • Real-time Preview
  • Remote control
  • File Management

The X app is a fantastic tool for controlling your action camera directly from your mobile device. It seamlessly connects to your camera via Wi-Fi, allowing you to capture stunning photos and videos with ease. While it flawlessly handles basic functions, users have noted that the app could benefit from a notification when the SD card is full. The app also has a tendency to forget your Wi-Fi connection settings if you accidentally click "Remember my choice," so be sure to pay attention to the prompts. Overall, the X app delivers a smooth and enjoyable experience for action camera enthusiasts.

Pros & Cons

  • Works as intended
  • Easy to connect
  • Good for controlling camera
  • Great for action camera
  • Full storage issue
  • Auto connect problem
  • No internet warning

Why we chose it?

I'm a big fan of [6. X] for my action camera needs. It's super intuitive to use and lets me control all the important camera functions, like taking photos, recording videos, and even adjusting settings, all from my phone! Plus, the live preview is crystal clear and super smooth, which makes it a breeze to frame up the perfect shot.

7. Sports Camera

Sports Camera Icon

Real-time video preview, SD card recording, Download to phone

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Lifestyle
Downloads Over 100,000 downloads
Features Sports Camera offers real-time video recording, playback, and image capture for action cameras, allowing you to relive your adventures and share them easily.
Who It’s For This app is perfect for anyone who owns an action camera and wants to capture and share their exciting moments, from sports enthusiasts to adventurers and vloggers.
Sports Camera - Real-time image viewing, SD card recording, Mobile phone download
  • Tags:
  • Real-time monitoring
  • SD card storage
  • Motion tracking

Sports Camera is a straightforward and user-friendly app for your action camera, providing a simple and efficient way to control and view your recordings. It offers real-time viewing through your camera's lens, allowing you to easily capture video or photos with just a tap. The app's intuitive interface and lack of distractions ensure a smooth and focused experience. Although some users have reported issues with the lack of portrait mode and annoying beeps, the app's simplicity and effectiveness make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable action camera companion.

Pros & Cons

  • Simple and straightforward interface
  • Real-time camera view
  • Easy video and photo recording
  • Stores media directly on phone
  • Back and home buttons disappear
  • Annoying beeps on control touch
  • No portrait mode available

Why we chose it?

Sports Camera is a fantastic choice for action camera enthusiasts! It’s super simple to use and lets you record high-quality footage directly to your SD card. You can even watch your adventures in real-time on your phone, which is a huge plus. I love that it's so intuitive and doesn't require any complicated setup—it just works!

8. 4K

4K Icon

Live video streaming, Remote camera control, Photo and video capture

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Photography
Downloads Over 100,000 downloads
Features This app allows you to control your action camera remotely, including live view, video recording, photo capture, time-lapse, and other settings.
Who It’s For Action camera users who want to control their camera remotely from their smartphone
4K - Live camera view, Remote control, Download media

Frustrated with the unreliable app that came with your action camera? The 4K app is a lifesaver for users of MiTEC and other action cameras, offering a seamless connection that works consistently. Forget about the hassle of the app constantly disconnecting; this one consistently connects, even if your phone indicates no internet connection. You'll be up and running in no time, capturing incredible shots with the ease and reliability that only the best app for action camera can provide.

Pros & Cons

  • Works with multiple action cameras
  • Reliable connection to camera
  • Easy to use and find camera
  • Allows remote recording at distance
  • Requires mobile data to be off
  • May require Wi-Fi connection
  • Not compatible with all cameras

Why we chose it?

Hey, I'm the developer behind 4K, and I'm so glad you're considering it! My app is designed specifically for action camera lovers, and I've packed it with features to make your life easier. You can control your camera directly from your phone, shoot stunning videos and photos with a wide range of settings, and even download your media directly to your phone, so you can share your adventures instantly. I promise, 4K will be your go-to app for all your action camera needs!

9. GoPro Quik

GoPro Quik Icon

Auto video creation with music, Cinematic transitions and filters

Cost:

Free (Free), GoPro Subscription ($4.99/month)


Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Video Players & Editors
Downloads Over 42 million downloads
Features GoPro Quik simplifies video editing with automatic edits, highlight video creation, music syncing, cinematic transitions, powerful editing tools, and sharing options.
Who It’s For This app is perfect for action camera enthusiasts who want to easily create stunning videos from their GoPro footage.
GoPro Quik - Automatic video editing, Unlimited high-quality backup
  • Tags:
  • Automatic video editing
  • Unlimited cloud backup
  • Private video storage

GoPro Quik is an app designed specifically for action camera footage, offering a powerful suite of editing tools to transform your adventures into captivating videos. While the app boasts an impressive feature set, including automatic video creation, cinematic transitions, and the ability to sync your footage to music, users have reported frustrating issues with app stability and functionality. Some users have experienced video freezing, audio continuing to play, and the app becoming unusable, forcing them to restart. Additionally, recent updates have caused issues with live preview, media recognition, and overall app performance. While the app does offer a connection to your GoPro camera for basic functions like power on/off and starting/stopping recordings, the core editing features have become unreliable. While the app is designed to be user-friendly, some users find the organization and sorting of their media to be confusing and inaccurate. The app also includes paid features and subscriptions, adding to the overall cost of the GoPro experience.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy video editing
  • Auto video creation
  • Exclusive filters & music
  • Connects to GoPro cameras
  • Unstable app performance
  • Limited features without subscription
  • Confusing video organization

Why we chose it?

GoPro Quik is my go-to app for making epic videos from my action camera footage. It's super easy to use, even for beginners, and has tons of cool features like automatic edits, cinematic transitions, and awesome music options. Plus, it's seamlessly integrated with my GoPro camera, making it a breeze to upload and edit my adventures.

10. Smooth Action

Smooth Action Icon

Smooth slow motion from any clip, High FPS footage support, Motion interpolation for extra slow

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Video Players & Editors
Downloads Over 11 Million Downloads
Features Smooth Action allows you to create slow-motion videos from high-FPS footage, trim and cut clips, and easily share them with friends.
Who It’s For Action camera users who want to create professional-looking slow-motion videos.
Smooth Action - Slow motion without conversion, Additional frame calculation
  • Tags:
  • High FPS support
  • Motion Interpolation
  • Frame Blending

Smooth Action is a mobile app designed specifically for action camera users who want to create stunning slow-motion videos. This app is praised for its ease of use, making it simple to edit and share your adventures with friends and family. With Smooth Action, you can instantly slow down parts or the entire clip of your high-FPS footage, achieving a silky smooth slow-motion effect without sacrificing quality. However, be aware that some users have expressed frustration with the app's subscription model, which is required to unlock full functionality.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to use interface
  • Fun to edit videos
  • Great for action camera footage
  • Shares videos easily with others
  • Subscription required for basic features
  • Other free apps offer similar functionality
  • Expensive for the features offered

Why we chose it?

Smooth Action is my go-to app for action camera footage because it lets me create incredibly smooth slow-motion videos without sacrificing quality. The app handles high frame-rate footage like a champ, and the interpolation and blending features are seriously impressive. Plus, it's super easy to use, even for beginners, so I can quickly edit and share my awesome action shots!

11. Vivitar Action Cam

Vivitar Action Cam Icon

Control camera remotely, Playback and edit footage, Share content easily

Download:

Android iOS

Application information

Category Photography
Downloads Over 140,000 downloads
Features The Vivitar Action Cam app allows you to control your camera remotely, capture photos and videos, playback media, and easily share your adventures with friends and family.
Who It’s For Anyone who owns a Vivitar Action Cam and wants to get the most out of their device.
Vivitar Action Cam - Control recording, Playback video, Share video
  • Tags:
  • Remote control
  • Video playback
  • Easy Video Sharing

The Vivitar Action Cam app is designed to be your remote control for capturing thrilling adventures with your action camera. While it allows you to conveniently frame your shots and control recording settings from afar, users have reported a mixed experience with connectivity and app stability. Some found the app helpful for basic control but criticized its frequent crashes and inconsistent Bluetooth connection. Although the app offers features like resolution and light setting adjustments, users have expressed concerns about the camera's overall quality and its dependence on the app for functionality. Despite the hiccups, some users appreciate the app's potential and hope for future updates to address the reported issues and deliver a truly reliable and user-friendly experience.

Pros & Cons

  • Remote control for action cam
  • Change resolution & light settings
  • Access photos & videos on phone
  • Select camera recording settings
  • App frequently crashes or freezes
  • Connection issues with camera
  • Clunky interface, needs improvement

Why we chose it?

I love the Vivitar Action Cam app! It's super simple to use, which is great for someone like me who's not super tech-savvy. I can easily control my action camera from my phone, which is a total game-changer for capturing those awesome shots. Plus, the app lets me playback and share my videos on the go, so I can show off my adventures with everyone!