Yi 4k Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black Review

The Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case (Black) delivers stunning 4K video quality and reliable durability at an unbeatable price. With its included waterproof case, it’s ready for underwater adventures up to 40 meters, making it a top choice for divers, surfers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Smooth stabilization, intuitive controls, and long battery life seal its spot as a premium budget-friendly action cam.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Captures sharp, vibrant footage for professional-grade results.
• Waterproof case included: Dive up to 40m without extra gear.
• Long battery life: Record up to 120 minutes on a single charge.
• Intuitive touchscreen: Navigate settings quickly with responsive display.
• Wi-Fi & app support: Easily share and edit videos via smartphone.
• Compact and lightweight: Perfect for action shots without added bulk.

Yi 4k Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

Let’s be honest—choosing an action camera these days is like picking a favorite flavor at an ice cream shop with 100 options. There are so many brands, specs, and price points that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re on the hunt for a solid 4K action camera that won’t break the bank, you’ve probably come across the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black. I’ve spent the last few months testing it during hikes, beach trips, and even a rainy mountain biking session, and I’m here to tell you exactly what it’s like to use—no fluff, just real talk.

Now, before you assume this is just another “me too” product trying to ride GoPro’s coattails, hear me out. The Yi 4K Action Camera isn’t trying to be a GoPro killer. Instead, it’s carving out its own niche: delivering high-quality 4K video, solid stabilization, and impressive battery life at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a vlogger, or just someone who wants to capture memories without worrying about the elements, this little black box might surprise you. But it’s not perfect. And that’s what this review is about—helping you decide if it’s the right fit for *your* lifestyle, not just what the box says.

Design and Build Quality: Tough, Compact, and Ready for Adventure

First Impressions: Sleek, Sturdy, and Minimalist

Out of the box, the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black feels surprisingly premium for its price. The camera itself is small—about the size of a matchbox—with a matte black finish that resists fingerprints and looks sleek. The included waterproof case adds a bit of bulk, but it’s well-designed and doesn’t feel clunky. The case locks securely with two latches, and the rubber gaskets create a tight seal that gives you confidence when you’re near water.

I took it on a snorkeling trip in Hawaii, and even after 45 minutes underwater at around 15 feet, not a single drop of moisture got inside. That’s a big win. The case also has a built-in screen protector, so you can still navigate the menu while it’s sealed. Just be aware: the touchscreen is *much* less responsive when it’s inside the case. You’ll need to use the physical buttons (which are well-placed and easy to press with gloves).

Durability That Handles Real-World Abuse

I’ve dropped this camera more times than I’d like to admit—once off a kayak into a river, another time from waist height onto concrete. The camera survived both with only minor scuffs. The waterproof case took the brunt of the impact, and the lens remained scratch-free. The camera’s body is made of a durable polycarbonate, and the lens is protected by a replaceable cover (sold separately, unfortunately).

One thing I love? The mounting system. It uses the same standard GoPro-style mounts, so if you already have accessories, they’ll work seamlessly. I attached it to my bike helmet, a chest strap, and even a suction cup mount on my car’s windshield with no issues. The quick-release mechanism is smooth and secure.

What’s Missing: A Few Quirks to Note

While the build is solid, there are a couple of design choices that feel like cost-cutting. First, the battery compartment door is a bit flimsy and can pop open if you’re not careful. Second, the micro-USB port (yes, *not* USB-C) is tucked behind a rubber flap that’s annoying to open and close. It’s functional, but not elegant. And while the waterproof case is great, it’s not rated for diving below 40 meters (130 feet), so deep-sea divers should look elsewhere.

Video and Image Quality: 4K That Packs a Punch

4K Resolution That’s Crisp (Most of the Time)

The headline feature of the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black is its 4K video at 30fps. And honestly? It delivers. In good lighting—think sunny days, bright mornings, or even well-lit indoor scenes—the footage is sharp, vibrant, and full of detail. I filmed a sunrise hike in the Rockies, and the camera captured the golden light filtering through the trees with stunning clarity. The colors are natural, not oversaturated, which is great if you plan to edit your footage later.

But here’s the catch: in low light, the quality drops noticeably. At dusk or in shaded areas, the video gets grainy, and the dynamic range isn’t as wide as more premium cameras. I filmed a bonfire at night, and while the flames looked good, the surrounding shadows were muddy. If you’re shooting in mixed lighting (like a sunset), the camera sometimes struggles to balance exposure. It’s not terrible, but it’s not GoPro-level either.

Stabilization: Good, But Not Gimbal-Good

The Yi 4K uses electronic image stabilization (EIS), not a mechanical gimbal. In most cases, it works well. I filmed a mountain biking trail with lots of bumps, and the footage was smooth enough to watch without getting nauseous. But during fast turns or sudden jolts, you’ll notice a bit of wobble—especially if you’re using the camera without a mount (handheld). For most casual use, it’s totally fine. But if you’re into high-speed sports like downhill skiing or motocross, you might want to invest in a gimbal or a more advanced stabilization system.

Pro tip: Use the “High” stabilization setting for bumpy terrain, but be aware it crops the frame slightly. The “Low” setting gives you a wider field of view but less smoothing.

Photo Mode: Decent for Snapshots, Not for Pros

The Yi 4K takes 12MP still photos, which is fine for social media or quick snapshots. I took some photos during a beach day, and they turned out bright and colorful. But if you’re into serious photography, you’ll notice the limitations. The autofocus is slow, and the camera doesn’t handle motion blur well. I tried capturing a surfer riding a wave, and the subject was blurry unless they were almost still. For action shots, stick to video and extract frames later.

Battery Life and Charging: A Real-World Test

How Long Does It Actually Last?

Yi claims up to 120 minutes of 1080p video on a single charge. In my testing, the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black lasted about 90 minutes when shooting 4K at 30fps—which is still impressive for a camera this size. I filmed a full day at the beach (mixed 4K and 1080p), and the battery died after about 3 hours. If you’re planning a long hike or a full day of filming, bring a spare battery or a portable charger.

One thing I love: the battery is removable. That means you can swap in a fresh one mid-adventure without missing a beat. The battery life indicator on the screen is accurate, and you’ll get a low-battery warning with plenty of time to save your footage.

Charging Speed and Compatibility

Charging takes about 2 hours via micro-USB. It’s not the fastest, but it’s reliable. I charged it overnight and was ready to go in the morning. The downside? You can’t charge *and* record at the same time unless you use a USB-C power bank with pass-through charging (and even then, it’s finicky). Most power banks with micro-USB ports won’t support this feature.

Tip: If you’re filming for hours, use a power bank with a USB-C input and a micro-USB cable. Just make sure the power bank supports “pass-through charging” (check the manual). I used a 10,000mAh Anker power bank, and it kept the camera running for an extra 2 hours.

User Experience: Menu, App, and Everyday Use

Menu Navigation: Simple, But a Bit Clunky

The Yi 4K has a 2-inch touchscreen that’s responsive—when it’s *not* in the waterproof case. The menu is straightforward, with icons for video, photo, and settings. But navigating through nested menus can be frustrating. For example, changing the resolution from 4K to 1080p requires three taps, and there’s no quick-access shortcut.

The physical buttons (power, shutter, and mode) are well-placed and easy to press with gloves. But if you’re using the camera in the waterproof case, you’ll rely on these buttons more than the touchscreen, which can be a hassle.

Yi Action App: Functional, But Not Flawless

The Yi Action app (available for iOS and Android) lets you control the camera remotely, preview footage, and transfer files. It’s useful, but it has some quirks. The connection is reliable, but it takes 10-15 seconds to pair, and the preview feed is delayed by about 2 seconds. Not a dealbreaker, but it’s annoying if you’re framing a shot.

The app also lets you edit clips, add music, and share directly to social media. The editing tools are basic but functional—great for quick edits on the go. However, the app occasionally crashes on older phones, so make sure your device meets the minimum requirements.

Storage and File Management

The Yi 4K supports microSD cards up to 128GB (UHS-I, Class 10 recommended). A 64GB card holds about 90 minutes of 4K video, which is plenty for most adventures. The camera formats the card automatically, but it’s a good idea to back up your footage regularly. The file names are generic (like “YI00001.MP4”), so you’ll want to rename them after transferring to your computer.

Accessories and Compatibility: Expand Your Setup

Included Accessories: What You Get in the Box

The Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black comes with:

• Camera body
• Waterproof case (rated to 40m)
• Battery (1400mAh)
• USB charging cable (micro-USB)
• Quick-release mount
• Flat and curved adhesive mounts

It’s a solid starter kit, but you’ll probably want to add more accessories for serious use.

Recommended Add-Ons

• Extra battery: $15-20. A must for long shoots.
• External microphone: The built-in mic is okay, but wind noise can be a problem. A lavalier mic (like the Rode Wireless Go II) improves audio quality.
• Tripod mount: For vlogging or time-lapses.
• Lens cover: The included cover scratches easily. A spare costs $5.

Compatibility with GoPro Accessories

Since it uses the same mounting system, you can use almost any GoPro accessory. I tested it with a chest strap, a headband, and a suction cup mount—all worked perfectly. This is a huge plus if you’re upgrading from a GoPro or already have mounts lying around.

Performance Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?

Yi 4K vs. GoPro Hero 9/10

The GoPro Hero 9 and 10 offer better stabilization, higher frame rates (5K, 120fps), and a more polished app. But they cost $200-$400 more. For casual users, the Yi 4K is a great budget alternative.

Yi 4K vs. DJI Osmo Action

The DJI Osmo Action has a front-facing screen and slightly better low-light performance. But the Yi 4K has longer battery life and a lower price point. If you don’t need a front screen, the Yi wins on value.

Yi 4K vs. Akaso Brave 7

The Akaso Brave 7 is even cheaper and has a front screen, but the video quality and stabilization aren’t as good. The Yi 4K feels more polished and reliable.

Feature	Yi 4K	GoPro Hero 10	DJI Osmo Action	Akaso Brave 7
Max Resolution	4K @ 30fps	5.3K @ 60fps	4K @ 60fps	4K @ 30fps
Battery Life (4K)	~90 minutes	~70 minutes	~80 minutes	~60 minutes
Stabilization	EIS	HyperSmooth 4.0	RockSteady	EIS
Front Screen	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Price (USD)	$150-$180	$350-$400	$200-$250	$100-$120

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Yi 4K Action Camera?

After months of real-world use, I can confidently say the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black is one of the best budget action cameras out there. It’s not perfect—the low-light performance could be better, the micro-USB port feels outdated, and the app has its quirks. But for under $200, you get 4K video, solid stabilization, long battery life, and compatibility with GoPro accessories. That’s a lot of value.

Who is it for? If you’re a casual adventurer, a vlogger on a budget, or someone who wants a reliable secondary camera, this is a fantastic choice. It’s great for:

• Hiking, biking, and camping
• Beach and water activities (snorkeling, kayaking)
• Vlogging and social media content
• Family trips and vacations

Who should skip it? If you’re a professional content creator, a deep-sea diver, or someone who needs top-tier stabilization and low-light performance, you’ll want to invest in a GoPro or DJI Osmo Action. But for 90% of users, the Yi 4K delivers where it counts—crisp 4K footage, rugged durability, and hassle-free operation.

At the end of the day, this camera isn’t about chasing specs or competing with the big brands. It’s about capturing the moments that matter—without breaking the bank. And in that mission, the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black succeeds. So if you’re ready to start filming your next adventure, this little black box might just be the perfect companion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black suitable for underwater filming?

Yes, the Yi 4K Action Camera comes with a waterproof case that allows you to film underwater up to 40 meters deep, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. The case ensures your camera stays protected and fully functional in wet environments.

How does the Yi 4K Action Camera compare to other action cameras in terms of video quality?

The Yi 4K Action Camera delivers high-quality 4K video at 30fps and 1080p at up to 120fps, offering crisp and smooth footage. Its Ambarella A12S75 processor and Sony IMX377 sensor ensure excellent image clarity and vibrant colors, making it competitive with other leading action cameras.

Can the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black be used for vlogging?

Absolutely! The Yi 4K Action Camera’s lightweight design, high-resolution video, and wide-angle lens make it great for vlogging. The waterproof case adds versatility, letting you capture content in diverse environments, from hiking trails to beach days.

Does the Yi 4K Action Camera support external microphones?

Yes, the Yi 4K Action Camera has a built-in micro-USB port that supports external microphones, enhancing audio quality for vlogs or interviews. This feature is especially useful for content creators who need clear, professional-grade sound.

What accessories come with the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black?

The package includes the Yi 4K Action Camera, a waterproof case, a rechargeable battery, a USB cable, and basic mounts for helmets and handlebars. Additional accessories like adhesive mounts and a lens cover are also provided for immediate use.

How long does the battery last on the Yi 4K Action Camera?

The Yi 4K Action Camera’s 1400mAh battery provides up to 120 minutes of continuous 4K video recording. Battery life may vary depending on settings, but it’s sufficient for most outdoor activities and can be extended with spare batteries.