Ok so I totally get the frustration with that micro-shake on the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. Even on a heavy tripod, just touching the body can mess up a long exposure, especially if you're doing macro work where every millimeter counts. In my experience, you basically have two paths here. If you want maximum reliability, the Canon RS-80N3 Remote Switch is the industry standard for that N3 connector. It's built like a tank and honestly, it won't fail you in the cold. But, since you mentioned wanting an intervalometer for time-lapses, I would suggest looking at the Canon TC-80N3 Timer Remote Controller. It's pricey, but it handles the timing logic internally which is SO much better than trying to guess. If you're worried about the cost, I've had decent luck with the Vello ShutterBoss II Timer Remote for Canon N3. It's a third-party option that gives you the intervalometer features for way less. Just be careful with the cable connection; sometimes the third-party N3 plugs feel a bit tight. Quick tip: If you go wired, make sure to drape the cord over a tripod knob so the wind doesn't pull on the camera. For macro, I'd highkey recommend the Pixel TW-283 N3 Wireless Remote Control if you want to stand back and not bump your setup at all! gl!

Quick question - how much are u actually looking to spend? Over the years I've seen cheap knockoffs literally snap off in the N3 port, so being cautious is key... u dont want to ruin a pro body. Are u planning to be far from the camera or is a cord fine? Tbh, for value and time-lapses, Vello ShutterBoss II Timer Remote Switch for Canon with N3 Connection is way more reliable than the generic ones, right?

Curious about one thing: how much distance are you actually looking for when you say "freedom to move around"? Tbh, for macro stuff, you're usually right on top of the lens anyway, so a short cable might actually be LESS of a headache than dealing with batteries in a wireless setup. I'm kinda uncertain about one detail, but i think i heard:
- The 7D Mark II might actually have a basic interval timer built into the menu? I dont remember if it handles BULB mode for long exposures or just standard shots tho...
- Third-party brands like Vello or Pixel are SUPER popular, but sometimes the weather sealing on the N3 plugs isnt as tight as the official Canon gear. Anyway, before I give advice, are you planning on doing CRAZY long 5-minute exposures or just like 30 seconds? That basically changes what kind of trigger you actually need to look for! gl!

Like someone mentioned, the 7D II has a built-in timer, but unfortunately it is way too limited for serious technical work. I have had issues with the basic Canon remotes being overpriced for what they offer, and the wireless interference on cheap sets is honestly not as good as expected for macro distances. The thread mostly covers the basic OEM vs Vello stuff, but here are some more technical routes if you want actual precision without the usual gear failure:

• Link your camera to a smartphone using an OTG cable and qDslrDashboard App for Android. This is basically the best way to handle focus stacking and complex intervals for macro.
• The Phottix TR-90 Digital Timer Remote for Canon N3 is a bit more robust than the ShutterBoss but still has a clunky interface that takes time to learn.
• If you must go wireless, the Hahnel Captur Remote Control and Flash Trigger for Canon is more reliable than generic IR remotes because it uses a digital channel. It is kinda frustrating that these N3 connectors are still the bottleneck for such a pro body, but the tethered phone approach solves the UI problems that most remotes have. Just saw this thread and figured I would chime in before you buy something that lets you down in the field... most of these remotes dont hold up well in the cold anyway.

Good to know!

👆 this

Following

So basically, the discussion so far has highlighted the choice between the high-end Canon OEM stuff that's super durable and the more feature-rich 3rd party brands like Vello. It sounds like you're weighing the 'Canon tax' for reliability against the better value you get with other brands. I'm still a bit of a beginner here, but looking at the market, it seems like the gap between these brands is mostly about the quality of the plastics and how well they handle the N3 port. Some of the mid-tier brands seem to hit a sweet spot, but idk if they all last as long in the field. Just to help narrow it down, I have a couple questions: 1. Are you planning to shoot in extreme weather, like really heavy rain or freezing temps? 2. Do you care more about having a digital screen for precise timing, or do you prefer a simple tactile button you can feel without looking? TL;DR: You're choosing between the peace of mind of an official brand vs. the extra features of a 3rd party. Just depends on your budget and how much abuse you think the gear will take!

Can confirm