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Xiaomi YI Review | 96 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£45
  • Video resolution: 1080p
  • Battery life: 120 min
  • Waterproof depth: 0 m
  • Electronic image stabilization: no
  • Maximum 4K frame rate: ?

Xiaomi YI review. Compare 96 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among action cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the action camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best action cameras on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

5.0

Technical Score

20.0%

7.2

User score

Good
5.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the action camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: video quality, image quality, stabilization, ruggedness, waterproofing, mounting options, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare action cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

30.0%

3.9

Video

22.0%

5.3

Photo

14.0%

4.2

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

6.0

Battery

11.0%

6.4

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

5.9

Display & Design

Good
7.2

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

5.3

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(350)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Very good
  • 3.6
    Motorcycle riding

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    Electronic image stabilization

    30.0%

    5.4

    Video resolution

    20.0%

    7.3

    Battery life

    15.0%

    1.0

    Waterproof depth

  • 1.0
    Skiing

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Electronic image stabilization

    25.0%

    1.0

    Horizon leveling

    25.0%

    1.0

    Waterproof depth

    20.0%

    1.0

    Minimum operating temperature

  • 2.7
    Low light

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    HDR mode

    30.0%

    6.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Color depth

    15.0%

    1.0

    Electronic image stabilization

  • 7.1
    Long videos

    Score components:

    50.0%

    7.3

    Battery life

    20.0%

    10

    Removable battery

    15.0%

    1.0

    Fast charging

    15.0%

    9.0

    Charging time

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Xiaomi Yi is a budget-friendly action camera featuring a 16-megapixel Sony Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor and an Ambarella A7LS processor capable of recording 1080p video at 60fps, 720p at 120fps, and 480p at 240fps. Its primary characteristics include a 155-degree ultra-wide-angle lens, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for smartphone app control, and a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount integrated into its lightweight 72-gram body. Main pros include exceptional video quality for its price point, a removable 1010mAh battery, and compatibility with most third-party GoPro-style accessories. However, it lacks a built-in LCD screen and image stabilization, is not waterproof without an additional external housing, and suffers from poor audio quality and limited battery life when Wi-Fi is active.

Technical Specifications of Xiaomi YI

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the action camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: video quality, image quality, stabilization, ruggedness, waterproofing, mounting options, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare action cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

30.0%

3.9

Video

22.0%

5.3

Photo

14.0%

4.2

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

6.0

Battery

11.0%

6.4

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

5.9

Display & Design

5.0
Xiaomi YI has a technical score of 5.01 points, which is lower than 88% of action cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

5.3

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(350)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

7.2
Xiaomi YI has a user score of 7.19 points, which is lower than 65.7% of action cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the action camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which action cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
5.3
Xiaomi YI has a popularity of 5.3 points, which is higher than 49.4% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the action camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.4

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.8
Xiaomi YI has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.8 points, which is lower than 68.1% of products in this category.
Video resolution
What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

Importance: HIGH

1080p
Xiaomi YI records video at 1080p, which is lower than that of 69.9% of action cameras.
Maximum 4K frame rate
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.
When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.

Importance: HIGH

?
Maximum 1080p frame rate
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 1080p resolution.
When it matters: When you want smoother slow motion or fast-action playback while staying at 1080p resolution.

Importance: MEDIUM

60 fps
Xiaomi YI has a maximum 1080p frame rate of 60 fps, which is higher than that of 24.2% of action cameras and equal to that of 34% of action cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: HIGH

25 Mbps
Xiaomi YI has a video bitrate of 25 Mbps, which is lower than that of 81% of action cameras and equal to that of 4.8% of action cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
Xiaomi YI supports the following video codecs: H.264. Its codec support is more advanced than that of 2.4% of action cameras.
Show more
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

Importance: HIGH

16 MP
Xiaomi YI has a main camera resolution of 16 MP, which is higher than that of 64.8% of action cameras and equal to that of 4.1% of action cameras.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

1/2.3"
Xiaomi YI has a sensor size of 1/2.3", which is larger than that of 18.3% of action cameras.
Main camera aperture
What it is: The size of the lens opening (f-stop) that controls light entry. A lower f-number indicates a wider aperture, allowing better low-light shots.
When it matters: When you want better low-light performance or a natural background blur effect.

Importance: HIGH

2.8 f
Xiaomi YI has a main camera aperture of 2.8 f, which is wider than that of 5.3% of action cameras and equal to that of 49.3% of action cameras.
Photo resolution
What it is: The maximum resolution of still photos captured by the camera, measured in megapixels.
When it matters: When you want more detail for cropping, large displays, or prints; higher photo resolution provides more pixels when image quality is otherwise comparable.

Importance: LOW

16 MP
Xiaomi YI captures photos at 16 MP, which is higher than 64.1% of action cameras and equal to 5.8% of action cameras.
Field of view
What it is: The field-of-view angle shows how wide the camera can capture in one frame.
When it matters: When you want a wider or tighter look from the camera.

Importance: MEDIUM

155 °
Xiaomi YI has a field of view of 155 °, which is narrower than that of 59.6% of action cameras.
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Built-in display
What it is: Whether the action camera has its own built-in screen for framing, playback, or settings.
When it matters: When you want to frame shots, review clips, or change settings directly on the camera.

Importance: LOW

no
Xiaomi YI does not have a display. 36.8% of action cameras have a display.
Screen size
What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
When it matters: When you want a bigger on-camera screen for framing, playback, or reading menus more easily.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Touchscreen
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

Importance: LOW

?
Secondary screen
What it is: Indicates whether the camera includes an additional display separate from the main screen.
When it matters: When you vlog, frame yourself often, or need status info visible without rotating the camera.

Importance: LOW

no
Xiaomi YI does not have a secondary screen. 14.3% of action cameras have a secondary screen.
Secondary screen resolution
What it is: States the pixel resolution of the additional display used for status information or framing.
When it matters: When you depend on the front or extra display for framing and want a clearer preview.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Show more
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: The ability to connect to wireless local area networks for internet access and local networking.
When it matters: When you want to save mobile data and connect to home or public networks.

Importance: LOW

yes
Xiaomi YI supports Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature is present on 92.5% of action cameras.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

802.11b/g/n
Xiaomi YI supports 802.11b/g/n, which is newer than the standard supported by 5.5% of action cameras and equal to the standard supported by 45.2% of action cameras.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version the action camera supports for wireless accessories and companion-device pairing.
When it matters: When you want to pair the camera with wireless accessories or a companion device reliably.

Importance: LOW

4.0
Xiaomi YI supports Bluetooth version 4.0 which is newer than that supported by 47.8% of action cameras and equal to that of 17% of action cameras.
GPS
What it is: Support for the Global Positioning System to determine the device's precise location.
When it matters: When you need accurate navigation for driving, walking, or exploring new places.

Importance: LOW

no
Xiaomi YI does not support GPS. 13.9% of action cameras include GPS functionality.
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Xiaomi YI does not include USB Type-C. 42.4% of action cameras use USB-C.
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Battery life
What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: HIGH

120 min
Xiaomi YI runs for 120 min per charge, which is longer than the battery life of 62.8% of action cameras and equal to the battery life of 10.4% of action cameras.
Battery power
What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: MEDIUM

1,010 mAh
Xiaomi YI has a battery capacity of 1010 mAh, which is lower than that of 74.5% of action cameras.
Charging time
What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.
When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.

Importance: MEDIUM

1.5 h
Xiaomi YI charges in 1.5 h, which is shorter than the charging time of 71.1% of action cameras and equal to the charging time of 9.2% of action cameras.
Fast charging
What it is: Whether the camera supports faster-than-standard charging to reduce downtime between shoots.
When it matters: When you need to recharge quickly between shooting sessions, travel stops, or battery swaps.

Importance: LOW

no
Xiaomi YI does not support fast charging. 19.4% of action cameras support fast charging.
Wireless charging
What it is: Whether the camera itself can charge wirelessly on a compatible charging surface or dock.
When it matters: When you want to top up the camera without plugging in a cable every time.

Importance: LOW

no
Xiaomi YI does not support wireless charging. 0.6% of action cameras support wireless charging.
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Waterproof depth
What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.
When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

Importance: HIGH

0 m
Xiaomi YI is waterproof to 0 m, which is shallower than the waterproof depth of 51.2% of action cameras and equal to the waterproof depth of 48.8% of action cameras.
40 with housing/case.
IP rating
What it is: A standardized protection code that shows how well the action camera resists dust and water ingress.
When it matters: When you shoot in rain, snow, dust, or around water and want to know how well the camera is sealed.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Maximum operating temperature
What it is: The highest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

45 °C
Xiaomi YI has a maximum operating temperature of 45 °C, which is higher than that of 74.5% of action cameras and equal to that of 19.7% of action cameras.
Minimum operating temperature
What it is: The lowest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

0 °C
Xiaomi YI has a minimum operating temperature of 0 °C, which is higher than that of 73.9% of action cameras and equal to that of 21.8% of action cameras.
External memory slot
What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.
When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

Importance: LOW

yes
Xiaomi YI includes an external memory slot. This feature is present on 95.2% of action cameras.
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Xiaomi YI vs the average action camera

  • 2 fps higher slow-motion frame rate
    Xiaomi YI has a higher slow-motion frame rate than the average action camera (240 fps vs 120 fps). The average action camera reaches 120 fps for slow motion.
    240 fps only at 480p.
    What it is: The highest native frame rate the camera can record for slow-motion playback.
    When it matters: When you want smoother slow motion and more detail in fast action; a higher native frame rate allows slower playback.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Xiaomi YI has a higher slow-motion frame rate than the average action camera (240 fps vs 120 fps). The average action camera reaches 120 fps for slow motion.240 fps vs 120 fps
  • 4 MP higher main-camera resolution
    Xiaomi YI has a higher main action camera resolution than the average action camera (16 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
    What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

    Importance: HIGH

    Xiaomi YI has a higher main action camera resolution than the average action camera (16 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.16 MP vs 12 MP
  • 30 min longer battery life
    Xiaomi YI has longer battery life than the average action camera (120 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
    What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Xiaomi YI has longer battery life than the average action camera (120 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.120 min vs 90 min
  • 5 °C higher max operating temp
    Xiaomi YI has a higher maximum operating temperature than the average action camera (45 °C vs 40 °C). The average action camera reaches a maximum operating temperature of 40 °C.
    What it is: The highest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
    When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

    Importance: LOW

    Xiaomi YI has a higher maximum operating temperature than the average action camera (45 °C vs 40 °C). The average action camera reaches a maximum operating temperature of 40 °C.45 °C vs 40 °C
  • 36.8% lighter
    Xiaomi YI is lighter than the average action camera (72 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the action camera body as carried or mounted in normal use.
    When it matters: When you mount the camera on a helmet, chest rig, bike, or selfie stick and want to keep the setup light.

    Importance: LOW

    Xiaomi YI is lighter than the average action camera (72 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.72 g vs 114 g
  • Has HDMI output
    Xiaomi YI supports HDMI output, the average action camera does not. 43.4% of action cameras support video-out features.
    Built-in Micro HDMI port.
    What it is: Whether the camera can output video to an external monitor or recorder over HDMI.
    When it matters: When you want live monitoring, external capture, or a direct feed to another display.

    Importance: LOW

    Xiaomi YI supports HDMI output, the average action camera does not. 43.4% of action cameras support video-out features.
  • 0.5 h shorter charging time
    Xiaomi YI has a lower charging time than the average action camera (1.5 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.
    What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.
    When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Xiaomi YI has a lower charging time than the average action camera (1.5 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.1.5 h vs 2 h
  • 2 MP higher photo resolution
    Xiaomi YI has a higher photo resolution than the average action camera (16 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera captures 12 MP photos.
    What it is: The maximum resolution of still photos captured by the camera, measured in megapixels.
    When it matters: When you want more detail for cropping, large displays, or prints; higher photo resolution provides more pixels when image quality is otherwise comparable.

    Importance: LOW

    Xiaomi YI has a higher photo resolution than the average action camera (16 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera captures 12 MP photos.16 MP vs 12 MP
  • 2 fps higher slow-motion frame rate
    Xiaomi YI has a higher slow-motion frame rate than the average action camera (240 fps vs 120 fps). The average action camera reaches 120 fps for slow motion.
  • 4 MP higher main-camera resolution
    Xiaomi YI has a higher main action camera resolution than the average action camera (16 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
  • 2 MP higher photo resolution
    Xiaomi YI has a higher photo resolution than the average action camera (16 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera captures 12 MP photos.
  • 36.8% lighter
    Xiaomi YI is lighter than the average action camera (72 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
  • 8.8 mm thinner
    Xiaomi YI is thinner than the average action camera (21.2 mm vs 30 mm). The average action camera has a thickness of 30 mm.
  • Has HDMI output
    Xiaomi YI supports HDMI output, the average action camera does not. 43.4% of action cameras support video-out features.
  • 30 min longer battery life
    Xiaomi YI has longer battery life than the average action camera (120 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
  • 0.5 h shorter charging time
    Xiaomi YI has a lower charging time than the average action camera (1.5 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.
  • 5 °C higher max operating temp
    Xiaomi YI has a higher maximum operating temperature than the average action camera (45 °C vs 40 °C). The average action camera reaches a maximum operating temperature of 40 °C.

Total
Overall
Video
Photo
Display & Design
Connectivity & Audio
Battery
Ruggedness & Storage
  • Lower video resolution
    Xiaomi YI records at 1,080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
  • No electronic stabilization
    Xiaomi YI does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
  • 58.3% lower video bitrate
    Xiaomi YI has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
  • Fixed field of view
    Xiaomi YI does not offer an adjustable field of view, the average action camera does. 56.1% of action cameras offer an adjustable field of view.
  • 11 ° narrower field of view
    Xiaomi YI has a lower field of view than the average action camera (155 ° vs 166 °). The average action camera offers a field of view of 166 °.
  • 3 older release date
    Xiaomi YI is older than the average action camera (2,015 vs 2,018). The average action camera was released in 2,018.
    Released in March 2015.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    Xiaomi YI uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.
  • 190 mAh less battery capacity
    Xiaomi YI has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,010 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.
  • 1 m shallower waterproof depth
    Xiaomi YI has a lower waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (0 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.
    40 with housing/case.
  • 64 GB smaller microSD limit
    Xiaomi YI has a lower maximum microSD capacity than the average action camera (64 GB vs 128 GB). The average action camera supports microSD cards up to 128 GB.
  • Lower video resolution
    Xiaomi YI records at 1,080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
    What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
    When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

    Importance: HIGH

    Xiaomi YI records at 1,080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).1080p vs 5.3K
  • No electronic stabilization
    Xiaomi YI does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
    What it is: Shows whether the camera uses digital motion correction to make handheld video look steadier.
    When it matters: When you shoot handheld, mounted, or in motion and want smoother footage without external gear.

    Importance: HIGH

    Xiaomi YI does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
  • Fixed field of view
    Xiaomi YI does not offer an adjustable field of view, the average action camera does. 56.1% of action cameras offer an adjustable field of view.
    What it is: Lets you switch between narrower and wider capture angles to match the scene or reduce distortion.
    When it matters: When you switch between immersive wide shots and tighter framing for travel clips or bike footage.

    Importance: LOW

    Xiaomi YI does not offer an adjustable field of view, the average action camera does. 56.1% of action cameras offer an adjustable field of view.
  • 58.3% lower video bitrate
    Xiaomi YI has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
    What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
    When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

    Importance: HIGH

    Xiaomi YI has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps
  • Older Bluetooth version
    Xiaomi YI uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    What it is: The Bluetooth version the action camera supports for wireless accessories and companion-device pairing.
    When it matters: When you want to pair the camera with wireless accessories or a companion device reliably.

    Importance: LOW

    Xiaomi YI uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.4.0 vs 5.2
  • 1 m shallower waterproof depth
    Xiaomi YI has a lower waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (0 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.
    40 with housing/case.
    What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.
    When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

    Importance: HIGH

    Xiaomi YI has a lower waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (0 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.0 m vs 1 m
  • 190 mAh less battery capacity
    Xiaomi YI has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,010 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.
    What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Xiaomi YI has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,010 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.1010 mAh vs 1200 mAh
  • 11 ° narrower field of view
    Xiaomi YI has a lower field of view than the average action camera (155 ° vs 166 °). The average action camera offers a field of view of 166 °.
    What it is: The field-of-view angle shows how wide the camera can capture in one frame.
    When it matters: When you want a wider or tighter look from the camera.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Xiaomi YI has a lower field of view than the average action camera (155 ° vs 166 °). The average action camera offers a field of view of 166 °.155 ° vs 166 °
Total
Overall
Video
Photo
Display & Design
Connectivity & Audio
Battery
Ruggedness & Storage

Graphic comparison of Xiaomi YI and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
350 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Xiaomi YI?

  • Excellent value for money and highly affordable compared to GoPros
  • Impressive 1080p video quality at 60fps with vibrant colour profiles
  • Built-in standard tripod mount allows mounting without a separate frame
  • Polished mobile application providing comprehensive setting configurations
  • Lightweight, compact, and durable enough to withstand minor impacts
  • Features a wide-angle lens with an option for electronic lens rectification

What customers dislike about Xiaomi YI?

  • Lacks a built-in LCD touchscreen for immediate playback and framing
  • No native electronic image stabilization resulting in shaky or bumpy footage
  • Mediocre low-light performance that drops frame rates and creates graininess
  • The camera is not waterproof on its own and requires an external housing case
  • Flimsy port cover and battery compartment doors that are easily misplaced
  • Subpar internal microphone quality with occasional clicking and noise issues

Expert reviews

T
techradar.com
09/03/2016
Yi Action Camera review

The Yi action camera positions itself as a strong, budget-friendly competitor to GoPro, offering performance comparable to the GoPro Hero3 Silver at a fraction of the cost. It features a simple box-shaped design with a 155-degree wide-angle lens, a combined power/mode button, a Wi-Fi button, and a standard 1/4-inch tripod thread. Unlike most cheap action cameras on the market, the...Read more

O
oscarliang.com
22/09/2015
Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Review - 60FPS For FPV

Oscar Liang’s review highlights the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera as an affordable, high-value alternative to GoPros for FPV, capable of 1080p recording at 60fps with a robust, crash-resistant housing that often includes a 120-degree wide-angle lens. Pros for drone pilots include the ability to easily remove the battery to save 20 grams, powering the unit directly from a 5V BEC, and...Read more

U
unbox.ph
15/04/2015
Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Review: Budget GoPro Killer

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is positioned as a budget-friendly "GoPro killer" featuring a 16-megapixel Sony sensor and Ambarella A7LS processor, capable of 1080p video at 60fps with high clarity and vibrant colors. Its compact 72-gram design includes a standard tripod mount for easy mounting without additional housing, though it lacks built-in image stabilization. Significant...Read more

D
dashcamtalk.com
20/03/2015
Yi Action Camera - DashCamTalk Review

The Yi Action Camera is a highly affordable 1080p action camera released by Yi Technology that directly targets the GoPro market with a budget-friendly price point of $70 to $90. Powered by an Ambarella A7LS processor and a Sony Exmor R CMOS sensor, it captures high-quality 1080p video at 60fps, outperforming older GoPro HERO3 models in daytime clarity. The device lacks a built-in...Read more

M
medium.com
16/09/2018
Xiaomi Yi Action Camera 2K Review

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera 2K delivers high-value performance featuring a 16-megapixel Sony Exmor sensor, Ambarella A7 processor, 2K/30fps video capabilities, and built-in Wi-Fi, according to the review. Key advantages include a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount, diverse photo modes, and lens rectification to reduce fisheye distortion. Conversely, the camera lacks a built-in LCD...Read more

L
liamalexcolman.net
31/12/2016
YI Action Camera review

The YI Action Camera is a highly affordable GoPro competitor equipped with a 16 MP Sony sensor capable of capturing 2K video at 30 FPS, smooth 1080p footage at 60 FPS, and 720p slow-motion at 120 FPS. Its standout features include a standard tripod mount for versatile mounting, an accurate 95-minute battery life during 1080p recording, and the ability to charge via Micro-USB during...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
15/09/2015
Test Xiaomi Yi Camera, simple et performante, une alternative sérieuse à la GoPro

The Xiaomi Yi action camera offers an affordable, minimalist alternative to higher-priced competitors, heavily resembling the form factor of a traditional GoPro. It features an attractive design available in bright yellow/cyan or classic white, and is equipped with a high-quality 16-megapixel Sony BSI CMOS sensor and an Ambarella 7ZLS processor. Key strengths highlighted in the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
helicomicro.com
10/05/2015
Xiaomi Yi, le test - Helicomicro

The Helicomicro review identifies the Xiaomi Yi as a disruptive, budget-friendly GoPro competitor featuring a 16-megapixel Sony sensor and Ambarella A7LS processor that produces excellent 1080p 60fps video. Key advantages include a lightweight 72-gram design, a built-in 1/4-inch tripod mount, and a removable battery, making it ideal for budget-conscious users. Conversely, the camera...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
computerhoy.20minutos.es
24/07/2015
Análisis de Xiaomi YI Action, la competencia china de GoPro

The Xiaomi YI Action camera is a highly affordable alternative to the GoPro Hero, offering a 16-megapixel Sony Exmor R sensor and 1080p video recording at 60 fps. Released at a competitive price point under 100 euros, it boasts a lightweight 72-gram body, a 155-degree wide-angle lens, and support for up to 128 GB of storage, which outperforms the base GoPro model in memory capacity...Read more

(Translated)Show original
I
italianeography.com
N/A
Recensione. Xiaomi Yi Video Foto e Time-Lapse - Italianeography

The original Xiaomi Yi is an affordable, entry-level action camera powered by an Ambarella A7LS processor and a 16-megapixel Sony Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor. It features an aspheric HD fisheye lens with a 155-degree wide-angle view and supports video recording up to 2K at 30fps or 1080p at 60fps. Because the device lacks a built-in rear LCD screen, users must configure settings and...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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