App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Review Features and Performance

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera delivers impressive 4K video quality and smooth stabilization at a budget-friendly price, making it a top contender in the action cam market. Packed with features like voice control, a user-friendly app, and excellent low-light performance, it rivals premium brands without the hefty price tag. Ideal for adventurers and content creators, the Yi app enhances functionality with seamless editing and instant sharing.

Key Takeaways

• Superb 4K video: Delivers crisp, vibrant footage in high resolution.
• User-friendly app: Simplifies camera control and media sharing seamlessly.
• Long battery life: Records up to 120 minutes on a single charge.
• Lightweight design: Weighs only 72g, perfect for on-the-go adventures.
• Advanced stabilization: Minimizes shakes for smoother, professional-looking videos.

Why the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera App Is a Game-Changer for Adventurers

Let’s be real—capturing life’s wildest moments isn’t just about having a camera. It’s about having the right tool that’s easy to use, reliable, and doesn’t get in your way. That’s where the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera steps in. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, shredding waves, or just documenting your kid’s first bike ride without training wheels, this little gadget and its companion app promise to make recording your adventures a breeze.

I first got my hands on the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera after my old GoPro died mid-surf trip. I needed something affordable, tough, and—most importantly—easy to control when I was dripping wet, wearing gloves, or dangling from a rock face. After reading a few reviews (and watching one too many shaky YouTube comparisons), I decided to give the Xiaomi Yi a shot. Fast forward six months, and I’m still using it weekly. The camera itself is impressive, but what really won me over was the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera—a free, intuitive mobile app that turns your smartphone into a remote control, live viewfinder, and editing studio. It’s like having a personal film crew in your pocket. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned: the features, performance, quirks, and real-world usability of the app and camera combo. No fluff, no hype—just honest insights from someone who’s used it in the real world.

Getting Started: Setting Up the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera

Download and Installation

Getting the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera up and running is surprisingly simple. Head to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search “Xiaomi Yi.” You’ll find the official app—Yi Action Camera—developed by Xiaomi. It’s free, with no in-app purchases or ads (a rare win in today’s app world). Once installed, open it and follow the on-screen prompts.

Here’s what I loved: the app walks you through the setup step by step. No cryptic menus or confusing Bluetooth pairing. You just power on the camera, enable Wi-Fi, and the app automatically detects it. I had mine connected in under two minutes. Pro tip: Make sure your phone’s Wi-Fi is turned on—even if you’re not connected to a network. The camera creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot, which your phone connects to directly.

Pairing and Connecting the Camera

Pairing the camera with the app is a one-time process, but it’s worth doing right. After the initial setup, the app remembers your camera, so future connections are nearly instant. I use my Yi camera on hikes, and I’ve never had to re-pair it unless I reset the device (which I did once—more on that later).

One thing to note: the connection uses Wi-Fi, so you’ll lose your regular internet connection while using the app. That’s normal. The camera acts as a hotspot, and your phone switches to it. Just don’t try to browse Instagram while filming—your feed won’t load. But hey, you’re out adventuring, right? Put the phone down once in a while.

For best results, keep your phone within 30 feet of the camera. I’ve tested it up to 50 feet in open areas, but signal drops happen when trees or walls get in the way. If you’re using it for remote shots (like on a helmet or bike), just make sure you’re not too far out of range.

First-Time User Experience

The first time I opened the app, I was greeted with a clean, minimalist interface. No clutter, no overwhelming options. The main screen shows a live feed from the camera, along with icons for recording, taking photos, and accessing settings. It felt intuitive—like using a smartphone camera app, but with more power.

I appreciated the “Quick Start” tutorial that popped up. It explained the basic functions: how to start/stop recording, take photos, switch modes, and adjust resolution. It’s not a long tutorial, but it covers the essentials. If you skip it, you can always re-enable it in settings.

One small hiccup: the app occasionally froze the first few times I used it. A quick restart fixed it, and I haven’t had the issue since. Xiaomi seems to have ironed out most bugs in recent updates.

Key Features of the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera

Live View and Remote Control

The standout feature of the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is the live view. It streams video from the camera to your phone in real time, so you can frame your shots perfectly—even when the camera is mounted somewhere hard to reach. I’ve used this to set up shots on a tripod while I’m in front of the lens, or to check if my helmet cam is angled right before a downhill run.

The remote control function is just as useful. You can start and stop recordings, take photos, and even adjust settings—all from your phone. No more fumbling with tiny buttons on the camera while wearing gloves or holding a surfboard. I’ve used this during winter hikes, and it’s a lifesaver when my hands are numb.

The latency is impressively low—usually under 0.5 seconds. That’s fast enough for most use cases, though if you’re doing fast-paced action (like racing), you might notice a slight delay. Still, it’s far better than older action camera apps I’ve tried.

Photo and Video Modes

The app gives you access to all the camera’s modes, including:

• Video Recording: Up to 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps, and 720p at 120fps for slow motion.
• Photo Mode: 16MP stills, with options for single, burst, and timed shots.
• Time-Lapse: Customizable intervals (1–60 seconds). Great for sunsets or cityscapes.
• Loop Recording: Overwrites old footage automatically—ideal for dashcams.
• Slow Motion: 1080p at 120fps or 720p at 240fps.

I love the burst mode for capturing fast action. On a recent mountain biking trip, I set it to 10 shots per second and got some epic mid-air shots of my friend jumping a ramp. The time-lapse feature is also fun. I set it up on a beach at sunset, and the resulting video was so smooth I almost thought it was professionally shot.

One tip: use the app to preview your settings before hitting record. You can toggle between resolutions and frame rates in real time, so you can see exactly how your shot will look.

Settings and Customization

The app lets you tweak almost every setting on the camera. From exposure and white balance to ISO and shutter speed, you’re in full control. I’m not a pro photographer, but I appreciate being able to adjust these settings without digging through the camera’s tiny menu.

For example, I often shoot in low light (dusk hikes, indoor events). The app lets me increase ISO or adjust exposure compensation to brighten the image. I also use the “Auto Low Light” mode, which automatically boosts brightness in dim environments. It’s not perfect—sometimes it introduces noise—but it’s better than nothing.

Another cool feature: Wi-Fi password customization. By default, the camera’s Wi-Fi network has a generic name and password. You can change both in the app, which is great if you’re worried about security or want to avoid interference in crowded areas (like music festivals).

Performance in Real-World Use

Video and Photo Quality

Let’s talk about what really matters: the footage. The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera delivers solid quality for its price. 4K video is sharp and vibrant, with good dynamic range. Colors are accurate, and the camera handles contrast well—no blown-out skies or crushed blacks in most conditions.

I’ve used it in bright sunlight, rainy hikes, and even underwater (with the waterproof case). In ideal lighting, the footage looks almost as good as a GoPro. The 1080p 60fps mode is my go-to for action shots—it’s smooth, detailed, and perfect for editing into highlight reels.

Low-light performance is decent but not great. At ISO 800 or higher, noise becomes noticeable. But for casual use—like filming a campfire or a night market—it’s totally usable. Just don’t expect cinema-grade quality in the dark.

Photos are sharp and well-exposed. The 16MP sensor captures plenty of detail, and the app lets you adjust focus and exposure before snapping the shot. I’ve used it for landscape photography, and the results are impressive for a small action cam.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life is a mixed bag. On a full charge, the camera lasts about 90 minutes of continuous 1080p recording. That’s enough for most day trips, but not for all-day adventures. I always pack a spare battery (they’re cheap and easy to swap).

The app helps you monitor battery levels in real time. It shows a percentage on the main screen, so you’ll never get caught off guard. You can also check how much storage is left on your microSD card. The camera supports cards up to 64GB (Class 10 recommended). I use a 32GB card, which gives me about 2 hours of 1080p footage.

One thing to watch out for: the camera gets warm during long recordings. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I’ve had a few instances where the battery drained faster than expected. A quick cooldown break usually fixes it.

Stability and Durability

The camera itself is built like a tank. It’s lightweight (72g) but feels solid in your hand. The lens is scratch-resistant, and the body is dustproof. I’ve dropped it a few times (oops), and it’s held up perfectly.

The app doesn’t affect physical durability, but it does help with functional stability. For example, the app’s “Auto Power Off” feature prevents the camera from staying on accidentally. You can set it to shut down after 1–5 minutes of inactivity. This has saved me from dead batteries more than once.

The Wi-Fi connection is stable in most conditions, but I’ve had a few dropouts in crowded areas (like concerts). It’s rare, though—usually, reconnecting takes just a few seconds.

Editing and Sharing Made Easy

Built-In Editing Tools

One of my favorite surprises was the app’s built-in editing suite. You can trim clips, adjust speed (for slow motion or time-lapse), add basic filters, and even overlay text. It’s not as powerful as desktop software like Adobe Premiere, but it’s perfect for quick edits on the go.

I used it to cut down a 10-minute hike video into a 1-minute highlight reel. The process took five minutes, and the result was smooth and professional. You can also adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation—great for fixing overexposed shots.

The “Stabilize” feature is a game-changer. It smooths out shaky footage, which is a lifesaver if you’re filming while moving. I used it on a mountain biking video, and it made the ride look much smoother.

Direct Sharing to Social Media

Once you’ve edited your video or photo, you can share it directly to Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, or save it to your phone’s gallery. The app compresses files for faster uploads, which is handy if you’re on a slow connection.

I’ve shared clips straight from the trail, and my friends always ask what camera I’m using. The quality holds up well even after compression. For higher-quality exports, you can save files in their original resolution—just be aware that 4K videos are large (about 1GB per minute).

Pro tip: use the app’s “Download to Phone” feature to back up your footage before editing. This way, you keep the original files safe.

Limitations and Areas for Improvement

Wi-Fi Range and Interference

While the Wi-Fi connection is reliable, it has limitations. The 30-foot range works fine for most setups, but if you’re trying to film from a distance (like a drone shot), you might lose signal. I’ve had issues in areas with lots of Wi-Fi networks (cities, festivals), where interference causes lag or disconnections.

One workaround: use the app to set up your shot, then disconnect and let the camera record on its own. The camera has physical buttons, so you can still control it manually if needed.

App Bugs and Updates

The app is stable overall, but it’s not perfect. I’ve had occasional crashes, especially when switching between modes quickly. Xiaomi releases updates regularly, though, and most bugs get fixed within a few months.

Another quirk: the app sometimes fails to reconnect after a disconnection. A quick restart usually fixes it, but it can be frustrating mid-shoot.

Advanced Features Missing

If you’re a pro filmmaker, you might miss features like manual focus, RAW photo support, or advanced audio controls. The app is designed for casual users, so it prioritizes simplicity over complexity. That’s a good thing for most people, but power users might want more.

Also, there’s no GPS tagging or live streaming—features found in higher-end cameras. But for the price, the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera delivers more than enough for most adventurers.

Final Thoughts: Is the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Worth It?

After months of real-world use, I can confidently say: yes, the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is worth every penny. It’s not perfect—no tech is—but it strikes a brilliant balance between price, performance, and ease of use. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a parent capturing family moments, or a budding YouTuber, this app and camera combo will make your life easier.

What I love most is how it removes the barriers to great footage. No more awkward button presses, no more guessing if your shot is framed right. The live view, remote control, and editing tools put professional-grade power in your hands—without the steep learning curve.

The camera delivers crisp, vibrant video and photos, and the app makes managing and sharing them a joy. Sure, it has limitations—shorter Wi-Fi range, occasional bugs, fewer pro features—but for under $100, it’s hard to beat.

So if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable action camera that’s backed by a smart, user-friendly app, give the Xiaomi Yi a try. Just don’t be surprised if you end up using it every weekend—I know I do.

Feature	Details
Max Video Resolution	4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps, 720p at 120/240fps
Photo Resolution	16MP
Battery Life	Up to 90 minutes (1080p recording)
Wi-Fi Range	Up to 30 feet (ideal conditions)
Supported SD Cards	Up to 64GB (Class 10 recommended)
App Compatibility	iOS and Android
Editing Tools	Trim, speed control, filters, text overlay, stabilization
Weight	72g (camera only)

Frequently Asked Questions

What features does the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera offer?

The App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera provides high-resolution video recording (up to 4K), image stabilization, slow-motion capture, and built-in Wi-Fi for seamless smartphone connectivity. Its companion app enhances functionality with remote control, live preview, and easy media sharing.

How does the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app improve usability?

The app simplifies camera operation by allowing users to adjust settings, preview shots, and transfer files wirelessly via Wi-Fi. It also supports firmware updates and offers editing tools for quick on-the-go adjustments.

Is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera compatible with third-party accessories?

Yes, the camera uses a standard mounting system compatible with most GoPro-style accessories. The app further extends compatibility by enabling custom settings for attached lenses or external microphones.

What video quality can I expect from the App Xiaomi Yi Action Camera?

The camera delivers crisp 4K/30fps or 1080p/60fps video with good dynamic range. The app’s real-time adjustments help optimize exposure and color balance for varying environments.

Does the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app drain smartphone battery quickly?

While Wi-Fi usage can impact battery life, the app is optimized for efficiency. Using airplane mode or limiting live preview duration helps conserve your phone’s charge during sessions.

Can I edit and share videos directly from the Xiaomi Yi app?

Absolutely. The app includes basic trimming, filters, and speed adjustments, plus direct sharing to social platforms like Instagram or YouTube—ideal for content creators.