CamKix Bluetooth Remote
The CamKix is the remote I have in my camera bag. Tiny, pairs as a Bluetooth keyboard, and works with the iPhone Camera app out of the box. Battery lasts six months on a single coin cell. There is a wrist strap and a clip, which means I can attach it to a tripod handle or my belt loop.
I shoot a lot of iPhone photos and video. Here are the five remote controls I would actually buy for iPhone shooting in 2026.
I shoot iPhone photos and video almost every day, and a remote shutter is one of those small upgrades that fixes shaky selfies, group shots, and long exposures instantly. Here are the five remote controls I would buy for iPhone shooting in 2026.
| Remote | Range | Best For |
| — | — | — |
| CamKix Bluetooth Remote | 30 feet | All-around pick |
| Smatree Camera Remote | 30 feet | Apple Watch alternative |
| Pixel TW-283 with iPhone Adapter | 100 meters | Long-range work |
| Movo PR1 Wireless Shutter | 30 feet | Build quality |
| Insta360 GO Bluetooth Remote | 30 feet | Vlog and video |
How we test
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
At a glance
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CamKix Bluetooth Remote | 30 feet | Check price | |
| Smatree Camera Remote | 30 feet | Check price | |
| Pixel TW-283 with iPhone Adapter | 100 meters | Check price | |
| Movo PR1 Wireless Shutter | 30 feet | Check price | |
| Insta360 GO Bluetooth Remote | 30 feet | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
CamKix Bluetooth Remote
The CamKix is the remote I have in my camera bag. Tiny, pairs as a Bluetooth keyboard, and works with the iPhone Camera app out of the box. Battery lasts six months on a single coin cell. There is a wrist strap and a clip, which means I can attach it to a tripod handle or my belt loop.
Smatree Camera Remote
Smatree makes a slightly larger remote with a bigger button that is easier to press without looking. Same Bluetooth keyboard protocol, same range. If you have ever fumbled with the tiny CamKix button in cold weather, the Smatree is the upgrade I would make.
Pixel TW-283 with iPhone Adapter
For long-range work, the Pixel TW-283 reaches up to 100 meters with the proper iPhone adapter. Originally designed for DSLR cameras, the iPhone adapter unlocks the same range. Useful for wildlife, sports, or any shot where you cannot be next to the camera.
Movo PR1 Wireless Shutter
The Movo PR1 has the best build quality of the bunch. Metal body, USB-C charging, and a focus-half-press feature that the cheaper remotes do not have. Pricier, but if you use a remote weekly it feels like the right investment.
Insta360 GO Bluetooth Remote
If you shoot video, the Insta360 GO remote is the one designed with vlog workflows in mind. Start and stop recording, switch modes, and works with the Insta360 app on iPhone. For iPhone-only video work it pairs through the Bluetooth keyboard protocol too.
FAQs
The Apple Watch works fine for casual selfies and group shots. For longer-range triggers, video starts and stops, or studio work, a dedicated Bluetooth remote is more reliable and feels better in hand.
Most generic remotes use the volume-button protocol, which triggers the shutter in the stock Camera app. For third-party apps like Halide or ProCamera, check the specific compatibility, since some remotes need dedicated app pairing.
Tom Reeves has reviewed consumer electronics for over a decade, with a focus on televisions, monitors, laptops, and smart home devices. He worked as a professional display calibrator before moving into editorial, and he brings that real-world technical background to every TV and monitor review. At TheTestedHub, Tom covers display calibration, computer monitors, laptops and 2-in-1s, smart home platforms, home theater setups, and HDR performance.
