Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit Review Best Combo for Smooth Shots

The Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit delivers pro-level stabilization and crisp 4K footage at an unbeatable price. Designed for content creators on the move, this lightweight combo ensures buttery-smooth shots even in high-action scenarios. With seamless integration, intuitive controls, and long-lasting battery life, it’s the ultimate tool for capturing dynamic footage without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

• Smooth stabilization: The gimbal eliminates shake for professional-grade video quality.
• Lightweight design: Portable and easy to carry for on-the-go filming.
• Quick setup: Mount the camera in seconds with the intuitive clamp system.
• 4K clarity: Capture ultra-HD footage with the Mi Action Camera’s high-res sensor.
• Battery life: Gimbal lasts 6+ hours, perfect for extended shoots.
• Versatile modes: Use time-lapse, slow-mo, or follow mode for creative shots.
• Value combo: Affordable kit compared to buying camera and gimbal separately.

Why the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit Might Be Your New Favorite Combo

Let’s be real—capturing smooth, cinematic footage used to require a small film crew, a few thousand dollars, and a whole lot of patience. But thanks to tech like the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit, that dream is now within reach of everyday creators. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a vlogger, or someone who just wants to document life’s little moments without shaky hands ruining the shot, this combo promises a lot: stabilization, portability, and surprisingly solid image quality—all at a price that won’t make your wallet cry.

I first tried this setup during a spontaneous road trip to the coast. I was filming a sunset from the edge of a cliff (dramatic, I know), and my old phone footage looked like it was shot during an earthquake. I switched to the Mi Action Camera mounted on its gimbal, and suddenly, the waves crashing below looked like they were in a nature documentary. That’s when I realized: stabilization isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the difference between “meh” and “wow.” And that’s exactly what this kit aims to deliver.

What’s in the Box? Unboxing the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit

First Impressions and Build Quality

When I opened the box, I was immediately struck by how compact and well-organized everything felt. The kit includes the Mi Action Camera (usually the 4K model), the 3-axis handheld gimbal, a USB-C charging cable, a quick-release mount, a small tripod adapter, and a soft carrying pouch. No fluff—just the essentials.

The camera itself is lightweight (about 100g) and has a rugged, rubberized finish. It feels like it could survive a few drops, which is reassuring if you’re filming outdoors. The gimbal, made of aluminum and high-grade plastic, has a solid grip and a smooth, responsive joystick for adjusting angles on the fly. The build quality isn’t quite pro-level, but for the price, it’s impressive. Think of it as the “Goldilocks” of action camera kits—not too bulky, not too flimsy, just right for most users.

Compatibility and Setup

One of the biggest wins here is how easy it is to set up. The camera slides into the gimbal’s cradle with a satisfying click, and the quick-release mount lets you detach it in seconds. I’ve used other gimbals where aligning the camera felt like solving a puzzle, but this one has a foolproof design. Just line up the arrows, push, and you’re done.

The gimbal connects via Bluetooth to your phone, and the Mi Home app (available for iOS and Android) walks you through calibration and firmware updates. It took me about 5 minutes to get everything up and running—no tech headaches. Pro tip: always update the firmware before your first use. It fixes bugs and improves stabilization performance.

Stabilization Performance: How Smooth Are the Shots?

Real-World Testing: From Hiking to City Streets

The main reason you’re buying a gimbal is for stabilization, so let’s cut to the chase: does it work? In short—yes, and it works well. I tested it in a few scenarios:

• Hiking on rocky trails: The gimbal kept the horizon level even as I stumbled over roots. Footage looked smooth, like I was floating.
• Filming in a busy city: Walking through crowds, the gimbal compensated for my steps and turns. No “jello effect” or wobble.
• Running with the camera: This was the real test. I jogged for 10 minutes, and while there was *some* bounce (expected at high speeds), the footage was 80% smoother than without the gimbal.

One thing I loved: the gimbal has a “Follow” mode that locks the camera on your subject. I used this while biking behind a friend, and the camera stayed perfectly centered on them, even as I swerved to avoid potholes.

Gimbal Modes and Customization

The gimbal offers four main modes:

• Follow Mode: The camera follows your hand movements smoothly. Great for vlogging.
• Lock Mode: The camera stays fixed in one direction, no matter how you move. Perfect for tracking a moving subject.
• POV Mode: The camera mimics your hand’s motion, like a first-person view. Ideal for creative angles.
• Portrait Mode: Rotates the gimbal for vertical videos (think TikTok or Instagram Stories).

Switching modes is as simple as pressing the joystick. I used Lock Mode while filming a waterfall from a moving kayak, and the camera stayed perfectly level—no horizon tilt, even as the kayak rocked.

Limitations: When the Gimbal Struggles

No gimbal is perfect. Here’s where this one falls short:

• Fast, jerky movements: If you swing the gimbal suddenly, there’s a slight delay before it catches up. Not ideal for action sports like skiing.
• Low-light wobble: In dim lighting, the gimbal’s motors can make tiny adjustments that cause subtle shake. Stick to well-lit scenes for the best results.
• Battery life: The gimbal lasts about 6 hours, but heavy use drains it faster. Always carry a power bank.

Camera Quality: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Image and Video Specs

The Mi Action Camera shoots 4K video at 30fps and 1080p at 60fps. It has a 145° ultra-wide lens, which is great for capturing landscapes but can distort faces if you’re too close. Photo resolution maxes out at 12MP, which is decent for social media but not for large prints.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the camera’s key specs:

Feature	Specification
Video Resolution	4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 60fps
Photo Resolution	12MP
Lens	145° ultra-wide
Image Stabilization	Electronic (EIS) + Gimbal (3-axis)
Storage	MicroSD card (up to 256GB)
Battery Life	~90 minutes (video), ~2 hours (standby)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C

Real-World Image Quality

In bright daylight, the camera performs admirably. Colors are vibrant, and details are sharp—especially when paired with the gimbal. I filmed a beach scene at noon, and the waves looked crisp, with no overexposure. But in low light, it’s a different story. At dusk, the camera struggles with noise, and colors become muddy. The gimbal helps with shake, but it can’t fix poor lighting.

One standout feature is the electronic image stabilization (EIS). Even if you’re not using the gimbal, EIS helps smooth out handheld shots. I tested this while walking through a forest, and the difference was night and day. Without EIS, the footage was jittery. With it, it was watchable.

Audio Quality: The Forgotten Factor

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: audio. The camera has a built-in mic, but it’s not great. Wind noise is a constant battle, and voices sound distant unless you’re very close. My solution? I used a lavalier mic plugged into my phone and synced the audio in post. If you’re serious about sound, invest in an external mic. The camera has no 3.5mm jack, so you’ll need a USB-C adapter (sold separately).

User Experience: The Little Things That Matter

App Integration and Controls

The Mi Home app is the brain of this operation. It lets you:

• Preview the camera feed on your phone
• Adjust settings (resolution, exposure, white balance)
• Start/stop recording remotely
• Download footage directly to your device

The app is intuitive, but it’s not flawless. Sometimes, the Bluetooth connection drops mid-recording (annoying but rare). And while you can change settings, the options are limited. No manual focus, no RAW photo mode—just the basics. For most users, this is fine. But if you’re a tinkerer, you might crave more control.

Portability and Travel-Friendly Design

This kit shines when you’re on the move. The gimbal folds flat, and the camera is tiny. I fit the entire setup in a small backpack with room to spare. The included pouch protects the gear, and the quick-release mount means you can swap the camera onto a tripod or selfie stick in seconds.

Pro tip: Use the gimbal’s built-in tripod adapter to set it on a table for stable time-lapses. I used this to film a sunset, and the result was stunning—no wobble, no fiddling with tripods.

Battery Life and Charging

The camera’s battery lasts about 90 minutes when shooting 4K. That’s enough for short outings, but not for all-day filming. The gimbal’s battery lasts longer (~6 hours), but it charges separately. I recommend carrying spare camera batteries and a power bank. The USB-C charging is a big plus—no proprietary cables here.

Who Should Buy This Kit? (And Who Shouldn’t)

Ideal Users: The Perfect Match

This kit is a great fit for:

• Beginner creators: If you’re new to videography, the ease of use and stabilization will make your footage look pro.
• Travel vloggers: The portability and smooth shots are perfect for documenting adventures.
• Outdoor enthusiasts: Hikers, bikers, and campers will love the rugged design and stabilization.
• Social media content creators: The 4K video and vertical mode are ideal for Instagram and TikTok.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere

This isn’t for everyone. Consider alternatives if you:

• Shoot in low light: The camera’s performance drops significantly in dim conditions. Look for a camera with a larger sensor.
• Need pro-level stabilization: For extreme sports (e.g., mountain biking, skydiving), a higher-end gimbal like DJI’s Ronin might be better.
• Want advanced audio: The lack of a mic input is a dealbreaker for podcasters or interview-style videos.
• Prefer manual controls: If you love tweaking settings, you’ll find the app limiting.

Final Verdict: Is the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit Worth It?

After weeks of testing, I can confidently say this: the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit is one of the best value-for-money combos for smooth, stabilized footage. It’s not perfect—the audio could be better, the low-light performance is mediocre, and the app has quirks—but for most users, the pros far outweigh the cons.

Here’s what I love most:

• The gimbal delivers truly smooth shots in everyday scenarios.
• The setup is incredibly easy, even for beginners.
• The portability makes it ideal for travel and on-the-go filming.
• The price is a steal compared to competitors with similar features.

And here’s what I’d improve:

• Add a 3.5mm mic jack for better audio.
• Improve low-light performance with a larger sensor.
• Offer more manual controls in the app.

At the end of the day, this kit isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about making great footage accessible. Whether you’re filming a family picnic, a mountain trail, or your latest dance video, the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit gives you the tools to look like you know what you’re doing—even if you don’t. And sometimes, that’s all you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit stand out for smooth video recording?

The Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit combines a 4K-capable action camera with a 3-axis motorized gimbal, delivering ultra-stable footage even during high-motion activities like biking or hiking. This combo is ideal for creators seeking professional-grade stabilization without bulky equipment.

Can the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit be used with other action cameras?

The gimbal in this kit is specifically designed for Xiaomi Mi Action Cameras, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance. Using third-party cameras may not guarantee the same level of stabilization or feature integration.

Is the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit waterproof?

The action camera is waterproof up to 40m with its included housing, making it perfect for water sports and rainy conditions. However, the gimbal itself is not waterproof, so avoid submerging it.

How long does the battery last on the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit?

The gimbal offers up to 6 hours of runtime, while the camera lasts 120 minutes on a single charge during 4K recording. Both batteries are removable, allowing for easy swaps during extended shoots.

Does the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit support live streaming or remote control?

Yes, the kit supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling remote control via the Mi Home app and live streaming to platforms like YouTube and Facebook. This adds flexibility for vloggers and real-time content creators.

What accessories come included with the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit?

The kit includes a waterproof case, multiple mounts (helmet, handlebar), a USB-C charging cable, and a carrying pouch. These accessories make it ready-to-use right out of the box for various shooting scenarios.