Yi 4k Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black Review

The Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case (Night Black) delivers stunning 4K video and rugged, waterproof durability up to 40 meters, making it a top-tier choice for adventure seekers. With its intuitive touchscreen, advanced image stabilization, and sleek low-light performance, this camera captures professional-grade footage in any environment—day or night.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Captures crisp, detailed footage in daylight and low-light conditions.
• Waterproof case included: Dive up to 40m without extra gear for underwater adventures.
• Long battery life: Record up to 120 minutes of 4K video on a single charge.
• Intuitive touchscreen: Navigate settings easily with the responsive 2-inch display.
• Stable performance: Built-in EIS reduces shake for smoother action shots.
• Night mode excels: Enhanced low-light performance delivers clear, noise-free night footage.

Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black Review: A Gadget That Keeps Up With You

Let’s face it—when you’re chasing sunsets, scaling cliffs, or just trying to capture your kid’s first bike ride without training wheels, you need a camera that’s as adventurous as you are. That’s where the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black steps in. I first stumbled upon this little black beauty during a weekend kayaking trip when my phone decided to take an unplanned swim (RIP, screen). I needed something rugged, reliable, and—most importantly—capable of capturing 4K footage without breaking the bank. After testing it across beaches, trails, and even a spontaneous midnight stargazing session, I’ve got thoughts. Spoiler: it’s not just another GoPro wannabe.

What makes this camera stand out isn’t just its sleek night-black finish or the included waterproof case (though those are nice). It’s the balance of performance, durability, and user-friendly features that actually make sense for real-world use. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a travel vlogger, or a parent documenting life’s messy, beautiful moments, this camera promises to be your sidekick. But does it deliver? Let’s dive in—figuratively, of course (unless you’re using it underwater, in which case, go wild).

Design & Build Quality: Rugged Meets Stylish

The Look and Feel

First impressions matter. The Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black has a minimalist, almost stealthy design. The matte black finish resists fingerprints (a win for anyone who’s ever smudged a phone screen mid-adventure), and the compact 2.4 x 1.6 x 1.3-inch frame fits snugly in your palm. At just 2.8 ounces, it’s lighter than a deck of cards—perfect for strapping to a helmet, bike, or even your dog’s backpack (yes, I tried it).

The camera body feels solid, with a rubberized texture that adds grip. Unlike cheaper action cams that feel like they’ll crack if you sneeze too hard, this one has a reassuring heft. The buttons (power, mode, and shutter) are tactile and responsive, even with gloves on—a detail I appreciated during a rainy mountain bike ride.

Waterproof Case: Built for Adventure

The included waterproof case is a game-changer. Rated to 131 feet (40 meters), it’s ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, or even deep-sea diving if you’re brave enough. I tested it in a murky river, and the case stayed watertight, with no fogging or leaks. The case’s transparent back lets you use the touchscreen, though I found myself using the physical buttons more often—they’re easier to press with wet fingers.

Pro tip: Always check the O-ring seal before submerging. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth ensures no sand or grit compromises the waterproofing. Also, avoid pressing the case’s buttons too hard; they’re designed for gentle use.

Mounting Options: Flexibility Matters

The camera comes with a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount, making it compatible with most action camera accessories. I used it with a chest harness for hiking and a suction cup mount for my car’s windshield (great for road trips). The included adhesive mounts held strong on my bike’s handlebars—even on bumpy trails. Just remember: clean the surface thoroughly before sticking the mount on. A single grain of sand can ruin adhesion.

Performance & Image Quality: 4K That Doesn’t Disappoint

4K Video: Crisp, But With Quirks

The Yi 4K’s headline feature is its 4K video at 30fps. In ideal conditions (bright daylight, steady hands), the footage is sharp, vibrant, and detailed. I recorded a sunset hike, and the camera captured the golden-hour glow beautifully, with accurate colors and minimal noise. The 150-degree wide-angle lens adds drama to landscapes, though it can distort close-up subjects (e.g., your face if you’re vlogging too close).

But here’s the catch: 4K at 60fps isn’t available. This means fast-moving action (think: downhill skiing or skateboarding) might look slightly choppy compared to higher-end models. The camera’s 1080p/60fps mode is smoother, but it’s a trade-off between resolution and fluidity. For most users, 4K/30fps is more than enough—just don’t expect GoPro-level slow-motion.

Low-Light and Night Performance

Night shooting is where the camera surprises. The Yi 4K uses a Sony IMX377 sensor, which handles low light better than many competitors. I tested it during a moonless night hike, and while the footage isn’t *bright*, it’s usable. The built-in “Night Mode” reduces noise and brightens shadows, though it can introduce a slight graininess. Pair it with a small LED light (like a headlamp), and you’ll get surprisingly clear night videos.

Example: I recorded a campfire scene with friends. Without extra light, the flames and faces were visible but dark. With a 100-lumen headlamp, the details popped—no professional setup needed.

Photo Quality: Good, Not Great

The camera takes 12MP stills, which are fine for social media but lack the dynamic range of a DSLR. In daylight, photos are sharp with accurate colors. In low light, they get grainy. The “Super Photo” mode (HDR) helps in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark forest, but it’s slower to process. If you’re a photographer, you’ll want to use it for snapshots, not art.

Features & Usability: Smart, But Not Overcomplicated

Touchscreen & Interface

The 2-inch touchscreen is responsive and bright, even in direct sunlight. The menu is intuitive: swipe to switch modes (video, photo, burst, etc.), tap to adjust settings. I loved the “Quick Settings” panel—swipe down to access resolution, exposure, and Wi-Fi. No digging through submenus!

That said, the screen isn’t *super* large. If you have big fingers (or are wearing gloves), you might accidentally tap the wrong option. The physical buttons help here—they’re a lifesaver in cold or wet conditions.

Wi-Fi & App Integration

The Yi app (iOS/Android) lets you control the camera remotely, preview footage, and transfer files. Pairing is easy: enable Wi-Fi on the camera, connect via the app, and you’re good to go. I used it to frame shots while mounted on my helmet—no more guesswork. The app also supports live preview, though it lags slightly (about 1–2 seconds).

Tip: Use the app to download videos to your phone for quick edits. The transfer speed is decent (about 30 seconds for a 1-minute 4K clip), but it drains the camera’s battery faster.

Battery Life: The Achilles’ Heel?

The 1400mAh battery lasts about 90 minutes in 4K mode. That’s enough for most adventures, but if you’re filming a full-day hike or event, you’ll need extras. I carry two spares in a small case (the camera uses standard GoPro-style batteries, so third-party options work). Charging is via micro-USB, which feels outdated—USB-C would’ve been a welcome upgrade.

Stabilization & Audio

The camera has electronic image stabilization (EIS), which smooths out shakes in 1080p/4K modes. It’s effective for walking or biking, but not magic—extreme motion (like a motocross jump) still looks bumpy. For smoother footage, pair it with a gimbal or use the “Horizon Leveling” mode (keeps the horizon straight even if you tilt the camera).

Audio quality is… okay. The built-in mic picks up clear voice in quiet environments, but it struggles in windy or noisy settings. I recorded a bike ride, and the mic mostly captured wind noise. For vlogging, use an external mic (via the 3.5mm jack) or edit the audio later.

Accessories & Value: What’s Included?

What You Get in the Box

• Yi 4K Action Camera (Night Black)
• Waterproof case (rated to 131 ft)
• 1400mAh battery
• Micro-USB charging cable
• Quick-release frame mount
• Adhesive mounts (2x)
• User manual (short and sweet)

Compared to pricier rivals, the Yi 4K offers solid value. The waterproof case alone saves you $30–$50. The included mounts are sturdy, and the battery life is on par with competitors. However, if you want advanced features (like GPS or voice control), you’ll need to look elsewhere—or buy third-party add-ons.

Third-Party Compatibility

Since the Yi 4K uses standard GoPro mounts, you can use most GoPro accessories. I tested it with a Joby GorillaPod (great for tabletop shots) and a DJI Osmo Action 2 grip (for handheld stability). The camera even fits in some GoPro cases, though the Yi’s button placement is slightly different, so check compatibility.

Budget tip: Skip expensive branded mounts. Generic ones from Amazon work just as well—I’ve used a $10 suction cup for months with zero issues.

Real-World Testing: How It Handles Adventures

Water Sports: Kayaking & Snorkeling

I took the camera kayaking in a choppy lake and snorkeling in a coral reef. The waterproof case held up perfectly. The 4K footage captured the underwater world in vivid detail—I even spotted a sea turtle! Just remember: underwater colors get muted. Use the “Dive Mode” (white balance preset) to restore blues and greens.

Hiking & Mountain Biking

Strapped to my chest, the camera survived a 10-mile hike with steep climbs. The EIS kept footage smooth, and the wide-angle lens captured sweeping vistas. On a mountain bike, the camera handled bumpy trails well, though I recommend using the waterproof case for extra protection.

Everyday Use: Family & Travel

For casual use, the Yi 4K shines. I recorded my niece’s birthday party (with 10 kids running around), and the camera kept up. The 12MP photos are great for sharing on Instagram, and the 1080p/60fps mode is perfect for fast-moving scenes. It’s also compact enough to toss in a purse or backpack.

Night & Low-Light Scenarios

As mentioned, the camera struggles in total darkness. But with a light source (e.g., a streetlamp or flashlight), it performs well. I recorded a nighttime bonfire, and the footage was surprisingly clear—no need for a professional setup.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This?

The Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black isn’t perfect, but it’s a fantastic choice for:

• Adventure seekers who want 4K quality without GoPro prices
• Travel vloggers needing a rugged, portable camera
• Parents documenting family moments (it’s kid-proof!)
• Beginners intimidated by complex settings (the interface is simple)

It’s not for you if:

• You need 60fps 4K for professional sports
• You prioritize audio quality over visuals
• You want GPS or advanced editing features baked in

After weeks of testing, I’m keeping this camera. It’s not flawless—the battery life and low-light performance have room to improve—but it’s reliable, affordable, and fun to use. Whether you’re scaling mountains or chasing your toddler around the backyard, the Yi 4K captures life’s chaos with style. And honestly, isn’t that what matters most?

Quick Specs Comparison

Feature	Yi 4K Action Camera	GoPro Hero9 Black	DJI Osmo Action 3
Video Resolution	4K/30fps, 1080p/60fps	5K/30fps, 4K/60fps	4K/60fps
Waterproof Depth	131 ft (with case)	33 ft (without case)	33 ft (without case)
Battery Life (4K)	90 mins	120 mins	150 mins
Stabilization	EIS	HyperSmooth 3.0	RockSteady 3.0
Price (USD)	$199	$349	$329

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a capable, no-nonsense action camera that won’t empty your wallet, the Yi 4K is a solid pick. It’s not the fanciest, but it’s dependable—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black good for low-light conditions?

The Yi 4K Action Camera performs decently in low-light environments thanks to its 16MP Sony sensor and f/2.8 aperture. However, for optimal night performance, stable lighting or external light sources are recommended.

Can the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case be used underwater without additional accessories?

Yes, the included waterproof case allows the Yi 4K Action Camera to be used at depths of up to 40 meters (131 feet) without extra protection. This makes it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and water sports.

What video resolutions and frame rates does the Yi 4K Action Camera support?

The Yi 4K Action Camera records in 4K at 30fps, 1080p at up to 120fps for slow motion, and 720p at 240fps. These options provide flexibility for high-quality action and cinematic footage.

Does the Yi 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Night Black have image stabilization?

It features electronic image stabilization (EIS) that helps reduce shakiness during movement, especially in 1080p mode. While not as smooth as gimbal-level stabilization, it works well for most action scenarios.

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

The 1400mAh battery provides approximately 90 minutes of continuous 4K video recording. Battery life may vary based on settings like resolution, frame rate, and Wi-Fi usage.

Is the Yi 4K Action Camera compatible with GoPro mounts?

Yes, the Yi 4K Action Camera is designed with a standard mounting interface, making it compatible with most GoPro mounts and accessories. This simplifies integration into existing action camera setups.