The GoPro Smart Remote works well with the HERO5 Black... but is it needed since the camera has voice recognition for triggering the recording? I went back and forth on this purchase... trying to justify if I needed the GoPro Smart Remote for my GoPro usage. In the end I think it is worth it for the following reasons: 1) Provides a silent way to stop video recording remotely (already tired of hearing my voice at the end of my clips) 2) Quick indication of the HERO5 status when it's mounted on your helmet/chest strap or someplace where you cannot see the camera front/back display. 3) Better accuracy in noisy environments or at long range 4) Able to control multiple cameras at same time 5) Better than trying to use the GoPro smartphone app Only shortcomings I have are... - Poor velcro wrist strap design that is uncomfortable to wear directly on your wrist(and barely fits over my wrist... Much less over a ski jacket sleeve) - Another device with a battery to charge and check (but when fully charged easily outlasts the run time of the HERO5 camera battery) In summary the voice recognition trigger capabilities on the HERO5 are great but the Smart Remote adds a bit more flexibility. Just wish the wrist strap was more functional and that the cost was lower ($50 vs $80) as it would of made it a much easier purchase decision for what it does. One last point... I think the Smart Remote is a much better option that the Voice Activated Remote as the display lets you see the current device/recording status at a glance.