Yi Action Camera 1080p Specs Unveiled Top Features Revealed

The Yi Action Camera 1080p delivers stunning Full HD video at 60fps, combining crisp image quality with smooth performance for adrenaline-packed adventures. Packed with a 16MP Sony sensor and advanced image stabilization, it ensures sharp, vibrant footage even in fast-paced environments—all at an unbeatable value.

Key Takeaways

• 1080p Full HD: Capture crisp, clear footage at 60fps for smooth action shots.
• 16MP sensor: High-resolution photos with vibrant colors and fine detail in any lighting.
• Wide 150° lens: Expand your field of view to capture immersive, dynamic scenes effortlessly.
• Wi-Fi & app control: Easily manage settings and transfer files via smartphone integration.
• Lightweight & compact: Weighs just 72g—ideal for on-the-go adventures and mounting versatility.
• Waterproof housing: Dive up to 40m with included case for underwater exploration.

Yi Action Camera 1080p Specs Unveiled: Why It’s More Than Just a Budget Pick

Remember that time you hiked to the top of a mountain, heart pounding, only to realize your phone couldn’t handle the cold, and your old action cam died halfway through filming the sunrise? Yeah, we’ve all been there. That’s why choosing the right action camera matters—not just for capturing epic moments, but for ensuring they’re actually *recorded* without glitches, blurry footage, or a dead battery.

Enter the Yi Action Camera 1080p. It’s not the flashiest name in the action cam world, but it’s quietly built a reputation as a solid, no-nonsense performer—especially for folks who want reliable 1080p video without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a weekend warrior, or just someone who loves documenting life’s little adventures (think: kids’ soccer games, backyard BBQs, or even your dog’s first swim), this little camera might surprise you. In this post, we’re diving deep into the Yi Action Camera 1080p specs, unpacking what’s under the hood, how it stacks up in real life, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

Core Specs Breakdown: What the Yi 1080p Brings to the Table

Let’s start with the basics. The Yi Action Camera 1080p (also known as the Yi 4K Action Camera Lite or Yi 1080p HD Action Camera, depending on the version) is designed for simplicity, durability, and solid performance. It’s not trying to be a GoPro Hero—and that’s actually a good thing. It’s focused on doing one thing really well: shooting crisp, stable 1080p video at a price that won’t make you wince.

Video and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The camera shoots 1080p Full HD video at 60 frames per second (fps), with options for 30fps as well. That 60fps is a game-changer for smooth motion—perfect for capturing fast-moving action like biking, skateboarding, or even just your dog chasing a ball. It also supports 720p at 120fps, which is great for slow-motion effects (more on that later).

For photos, it captures 12MP stills—not the highest resolution out there, but more than enough for social media, prints, or sharing with family. The lens is a wide-angle 150° f/2.8, which means you get a lot in the frame without needing to step back. That’s ideal for tight spaces or group selfies.

Pro tip: If you’re shooting in bright sunlight, the wide aperture (f/2.8) helps with exposure, but be careful in low light—the camera doesn’t have a night mode, so dim environments can get grainy. Stick to daylight or well-lit scenes for best results.

Battery Life: How Long Can You Go?

The included 1050mAh rechargeable battery gives you about 90 minutes of continuous 1080p/60fps recording. That’s solid for most day trips or weekend outings. But here’s the catch: if you’re using Wi-Fi (more on that below), battery life drops to around 60–70 minutes. So, if you’re planning a long hike or a day at the beach, bring a spare battery or a power bank.

Real-world example: I once took it on a 4-hour bike trail. With Wi-Fi off and recording in bursts (not nonstop), I got about 3 hours of usable footage. Not perfect, but manageable if you plan your shots.

Storage and Expandability

The camera uses a microSD card (up to 128GB, UHS-I Class 3 recommended). A 32GB card will hold roughly 2 hours of 1080p/60fps footage, which is plenty for most adventures. I’ve used SanDisk Ultra and Samsung EVO cards without issues—just make sure it’s Class 10 or UHS-I for smooth recording.

One thing I love: the microSD slot is easily accessible, even when the camera’s in its protective case. No fumbling with tiny doors or tools.

Design and Durability: Built for the Wild (and Your Backpack)

The Yi Action Camera 1080p is small—about the size of a matchbox—and surprisingly lightweight (just 72g without the case). It feels sturdy, not flimsy, and the matte finish gives it a premium look despite the budget price.

Waterproof and Shockproof: Ready for Anything?

The camera itself isn’t waterproof, but it comes with a waterproof housing rated to 40 meters (130 feet). That’s deep enough for snorkeling, swimming, or even light scuba diving. I’ve used it in heavy rain, splashed it with waves, and even dropped it (once, by accident) from waist height onto concrete—no damage. The housing seals tight, and the buttons are easy to press, even with gloves on.

Tip: Always check the O-ring seal before going underwater. A little sand or debris can compromise the waterproofing. Rinse the case with fresh water after saltwater use to prevent corrosion.

Mounting and Accessories

The camera uses a standard GoPro-style mounting system, which is a *huge* plus. That means you can use almost any GoPro mount, adhesive pad, or tripod adapter. I’ve used mine with a chest strap, helmet mount, and even a suction cup on my car’s windshield. The flexibility is amazing.

Included in the box: the waterproof case, a flat adhesive mount, a curved adhesive mount, a quick-release buckle, and a USB charging cable. No extra mounts or batteries, but you can buy them separately—and they’re cheap.

User Interface: Simple, Not Fancy

The Yi has three buttons: power, mode, and shutter. It’s intuitive. Press mode to switch between video, photo, and burst modes. Press shutter to start/stop recording. A small LCD screen shows battery, recording time, and mode—no touchscreen, no fancy menus. It’s refreshingly simple, especially if you’re tired of navigating complex UIs on other cameras.

Note: The screen isn’t backlit, so it’s hard to see in bright sunlight. I usually rely on the LED indicators (red for recording, blue for Wi-Fi) instead.

Smart Features and Connectivity: Wi-Fi, App, and More

This is where the Yi 1080p starts to shine beyond its specs. It’s not just a dumb camera—it’s smart, with features that make sharing and controlling it a breeze.

Yi Action App: Your Phone’s New Best Friend

The free Yi Action app (iOS and Android) lets you control the camera remotely, preview shots, change settings, and even edit videos right on your phone. It connects via Wi-Fi (2.4GHz only, no 5GHz), and the range is about 30 feet—enough for most situations.

I use it all the time for selfies, group shots, or when I’m mounting the camera on my bike. No more guessing if the shot’s framed right. The app also lets you download clips directly to your phone for instant sharing—perfect for social media.

Limitation: The app can be slow to connect, especially in crowded Wi-Fi areas (like festivals or parks). I’ve had it take up to 30 seconds to pair. Once it’s connected, though, it’s reliable.

Live Preview and Remote Control

The app gives you a live preview of what the camera sees—huge for tricky shots. Want to mount it on your helmet? Just open the app, frame your shot, and press record. No need to guess or re-mount.

You can also adjust settings remotely: switch from 1080p/60fps to 720p/120fps for slow-mo, change the field of view (wide, medium, narrow), or even set a timer for photos. It’s like having a mini production studio in your pocket.

Voice Control (Yes, Really)

Some versions of the Yi 1080p support voice commands like “Start recording,” “Take photo,” or “Stop.” It works surprisingly well, even in windy conditions. I’ve used it while biking—just shout “Start!” and keep pedaling. No fumbling with buttons.

Note: Voice control isn’t available on all firmware versions. Check the Yi website to see if your model supports it.

Performance in Real Life: Where It Shines (and Where It Doesn’t)

Specs are one thing, but how does the Yi 1080p actually perform in the wild? Let’s break it down with real-world examples.

Video Quality: Crisp, But Not Perfect

In good light, the 1080p/60fps video is sharp and vibrant. Colors pop, details are clear, and motion is smooth. I’ve used it for hiking videos, bike rides, and even a family picnic—everything looked great on my 4K TV.

But in low light? It struggles. The f/2.8 aperture helps, but without image stabilization or a larger sensor, shadows get noisy, and fast-moving objects can blur. It’s not a night camera. Stick to daylight or well-lit indoor scenes.

Pro tip: Use the “medium” field of view (instead of wide) in low light. It crops the image slightly but improves sharpness and reduces noise.

Stabilization: Good, Not Great

The Yi 1080p has basic electronic image stabilization (EIS), which helps with minor shakes and vibrations. It’s not as smooth as GoPro’s HyperSmooth, but it’s decent for casual use. I’ve used it on bumpy trails and city streets—no major wobbles, just a little jitter in extreme cases.

If you’re doing intense action (like mountain biking or skiing), consider a gimbal or a third-party stabilizer. But for most people, the built-in EIS is enough.

Audio Quality: Acceptable, But Bring a Mic

The built-in mic is okay—clear enough for voiceovers or ambient sounds, but it picks up wind noise easily. I’ve had to re-record videos because of loud wind gusts. If you’re doing interviews or vlogging, use an external mic (the camera has a mic input, but you’ll need a 3.5mm adapter).

Workaround: Record audio separately (on your phone, for example) and sync it in post. It’s extra work, but the results are worth it.

Comparisons and Alternatives: How Does It Stack Up?

The Yi 1080p isn’t alone in the budget action cam market. Let’s see how it compares to similar models.

Yi 1080p vs. GoPro Hero 10 Black

• Price: Yi 1080p is ~$100; GoPro Hero 10 is ~$300. Big difference.
• Video: GoPro wins with 5.3K, HyperSmooth, and better low-light performance. But if you only need 1080p, the Yi holds its own.
• Durability: Both are tough, but GoPro’s built-in waterproofing (no housing needed) is a plus.
• App: GoPro’s app is more polished, but Yi’s is simpler and faster for basic tasks.

Verdict: If you’re serious about pro-level video, go GoPro. If you want solid 1080p at a fraction of the price, the Yi is a steal.

Yi 1080p vs. Akaso V50X

• Video: Akaso shoots 4K, but the Yi’s 1080p is sharper and more consistent.
• Build: Yi feels more durable; Akaso’s plastic housing is cheaper.
• App: Yi’s app is more reliable and easier to use.
• Battery: Both are similar, but Yi’s battery life is more predictable.

Verdict: The Yi wins for build quality and user experience. Akaso is cheaper, but you get what you pay for.

Yi 1080p vs. DJI Osmo Action 3

• Price: DJI is ~$200—double the Yi’s price.
• Video: DJI has better stabilization, 4K, and superior low-light performance.
• Design: DJI’s magnetic mounting system is genius, but Yi’s GoPro compatibility is more flexible.
• Battery: DJI’s battery is removable and swappable—huge for long shoots.

Verdict: DJI is better overall, but the Yi is a great budget alternative if you don’t need 4K or pro features.

Data Table: Yi Action Camera 1080p Key Specs

Feature	Specification
Video Resolution	1080p at 60fps, 30fps; 720p at 120fps
Photo Resolution	12MP
Lens	150° wide-angle, f/2.8
Battery Life	~90 minutes (1080p/60fps, Wi-Fi off)
Storage	microSD (up to 128GB, Class 10 or UHS-I)
Waterproof	40m with included housing
Connectivity	Wi-Fi (2.4GHz), USB 2.0
App Support	Yi Action (iOS/Android)
Mounting	GoPro-compatible
Weight	72g (without case)

Final Thoughts: Is the Yi Action Camera 1080p Right for You?

After months of using the Yi Action Camera 1080p, I can say this: it’s not perfect, but it’s darn close for the price. The Yi Action Camera 1080p specs deliver where it counts—crisp video, solid battery life, and rugged durability—without the premium price tag of bigger brands.

It’s ideal for:

• Beginners who want to learn action cam basics
• Budget-conscious adventurers who need reliable 1080p
• Families capturing everyday moments (sports, vacations, pets)
• Anyone who hates complex tech and wants something simple

But it’s not for:

• Low-light videographers (stick to daylight)
• 4K purists (this is 1080p only)
• Professional content creators needing top-tier stabilization

The bottom line? If you’re looking for a no-frills, dependable action camera that nails the basics, the Yi 1080p is a fantastic choice. It won’t replace your DSLR, but it’ll capture your adventures without fuss—and that’s what matters most. After all, the best camera is the one you actually use. And this one? It’s always ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key Yi Action Camera 1080p specs?

The Yi Action Camera 1080p features a 16MP Sony IMX206 sensor, 150° wide-angle lens, and 2.19″ LCD screen. It records 1080p at 60fps and 720p at 120fps, with built-in Wi-Fi and electronic image stabilization for smooth footage.

Can the Yi Action Camera 1080p shoot in low light?

Yes, thanks to its f/2.8 aperture and Sony sensor, the Yi 1080p performs well in low-light conditions. However, for optimal results, use it in well-lit environments or pair it with an external light source.

Does the Yi Action Camera 1080p have image stabilization?

Yes, it includes electronic image stabilization (EIS) to reduce shake during fast movements. This makes it ideal for action sports like biking, hiking, or skiing without a gimbal.

How long does the Yi Action Camera 1080p battery last?

The 1010mAh removable battery delivers up to 90 minutes of continuous 1080p recording. For longer use, carry spare batteries or power it via a USB power bank.

Is the Yi Action Camera 1080p waterproof?

It’s splash-resistant but not fully waterproof. Use the included waterproof case (rated to 40m) for underwater or extreme weather activities to protect the camera.

What accessories are compatible with the Yi 1080p action camera?

The Yi 1080p supports standard action cam mounts, including chest straps, helmet mounts, and tripods. It also works with Yi’s proprietary accessories like the touchscreen remote and external mic adapter.