Yi Action Camera Remote Review Best Features and Tips

The Yi Action Camera Remote delivers seamless wireless control for capturing hands-free shots with precision and ease, making it a must-have for adventure enthusiasts. With a 50-meter range, one-touch recording, and compatibility across Yi camera models, it enhances versatility while ensuring you never miss the perfect moment. Ideal for vlogging, sports, or group shots, this compact remote simplifies filming with reliable performance.

Key Takeaways

• Pair instantly: Sync the remote with your Yi camera in seconds via Bluetooth.
• Long-range control: Operate your camera from up to 30 feet away.
• One-touch recording: Start/stop videos or snap photos with a single button press.
• Wear it anywhere: Use the wrist strap or clip for hands-free convenience.
• Battery-saving mode: Remote auto-sleeps after inactivity to conserve power.
• Check compatibility: Confirm your Yi camera model works with this remote before buying.

Why the Yi Action Camera Remote Might Be Your New Best Friend

Let’s face it: action cameras are amazing, but they’re not always easy to use when you’re in the middle of a wild adventure. Whether you’re skiing down a mountain, surfing a massive wave, or hiking a steep trail, reaching your camera to start or stop recording can be a real hassle. That’s where the Yi Action Camera Remote comes in. It’s not just another gadget—it’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to capture their moments without missing a beat.

I remember the first time I tried to film myself mountain biking. I had my Yi action camera mounted on my helmet, ready to capture every twist and turn. But halfway through the ride, I realized I’d forgotten to start recording. By the time I fumbled with the camera, the best part was already over. Frustrated, I started looking for a solution—and that’s when I discovered the Yi remote. It promised to make filming easier, and after using it for months, I can say it delivers on that promise. In this review, I’ll walk you through the best features, how it works, and some practical tips to get the most out of it.

What Is the Yi Action Camera Remote?

A Simple, Wireless Solution for Your Action Camera

The Yi Action Camera Remote is a small, lightweight device that lets you control your Yi action camera from a distance. It connects via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (depending on your camera model), so you can start and stop recordings, switch modes, and even take photos—all without touching the camera itself. Think of it as a TV remote, but for your adventure footage.

It’s designed to work with a range of Yi cameras, including the Yi 4K+, Yi Lite, and older models like the Yi 4K. The remote itself is about the size of a car key fob, making it easy to clip onto your backpack, jacket, or even your bike handlebars. It’s waterproof (up to 3 meters), so you don’t have to worry about rain or splashes ruining your control.

How It Works: The Tech Behind the Convenience

Setting up the remote is surprisingly simple. First, you pair it with your camera using the Yi app (available for iOS and Android). Once connected, the remote uses Bluetooth for basic controls like starting/stopping recordings and switching modes. For more advanced functions (like live preview or changing settings), it switches to Wi-Fi, which has a slightly shorter range but offers more flexibility.

One thing I love is that the remote has a small OLED screen. It shows your camera’s status (recording, standby, etc.), battery level, and even the mode you’re in. This is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry and don’t want to check your camera’s tiny screen every time.

• Bluetooth Range: Up to 30 feet (ideal for quick controls)
• Wi-Fi Range: Up to 15 feet (great for live preview)
• Battery Life: Around 3-4 hours of continuous use
• Water Resistance: IP67 (survives rain, splashes, and short dips)

Key Features That Make the Yi Remote Stand Out

1. One-Touch Controls for Quick Filming

The biggest selling point of the Yi remote is its simplicity. The main button lets you start and stop recordings with a single press. There’s also a secondary button for taking photos or switching modes. No menus, no fuss—just press and go. This is perfect for situations where you need to react fast, like catching a wave or filming a surprise jump.

For example, I used the remote while kayaking last summer. I clipped it to my life vest and set my camera on a chest mount. When I spotted a heron taking off from the water, I pressed the button—and captured the entire flight in 4K. Without the remote, I would’ve missed it while fumbling with my camera.

2. Multi-Mode Support for Flexible Shooting

The Yi remote isn’t just for recording video. It supports multiple modes, including:

• Video Mode: Start/stop recordings, switch between resolutions (1080p, 4K, etc.)
• Photo Mode: Take single shots or burst photos
• Time-Lapse: Set up interval shots without touching the camera
• Slow Motion: Switch to high-speed recording (if your camera supports it)

This flexibility is great for content creators. I often switch between modes while hiking—recording video for my vlog, then switching to time-lapse for sunset shots. The remote makes it seamless.

3. OLED Display: A Small but Mighty Addition

The OLED screen might seem like a minor detail, but it’s a huge help. It shows real-time info like:

• Recording time
• Battery level (for both the remote and camera)
• Current mode
• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth status

I’ve lost count of how many times this saved me. Once, I thought my camera was recording, but the screen showed it was in standby. Without the remote, I would’ve realized it too late. Now, I always check the OLED before I start filming.

4. Waterproof Design for All-Weather Use

The remote is IP67-rated, meaning it can survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. I’ve used it in heavy rain, snow, and even while snorkeling. The buttons are sealed, so they still work when wet. Just don’t try to use it as a diving watch—3 meters is the limit!

Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know Before Buying

The Good: Why the Yi Remote Shines

After months of using the Yi Action Camera Remote, here are the things I love:

• Convenience: No more fumbling with your camera mid-adventure.
• Durability: Survives drops, rain, and rough handling.
• Battery Efficiency: Lasts through a full day of intermittent use.
• Compatibility: Works with most Yi cameras, old and new.
• Compact Size: Fits in your pocket or clips onto gear.

One of my favorite moments was using the remote during a winter hike. I had my camera mounted on a tripod at the top of a hill, and I wanted to film myself skiing down. With the remote, I could start recording, ski, and stop it all from the bottom. No need to climb back up!

The Not-So-Good: A Few Limitations to Consider

No product is perfect, and the Yi remote has a few drawbacks:

• Short Wi-Fi Range: You need to stay within 15 feet for live preview.
• Battery Life: 3-4 hours is decent, but heavy users might need a backup.
• Setup Time: Pairing can be finicky if your camera’s firmware is outdated.
• No Audio Controls: You can’t adjust microphone volume remotely.

For example, I once tried to use the remote while paragliding. The Wi-Fi range wasn’t enough—I lost connection as I flew farther from my camera. Bluetooth still worked for basic controls, but I couldn’t preview my shots. Lesson learned: stick to Bluetooth for extreme distances.

Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Yi Remote

1. Pair It Right: Avoid Connection Issues

Pairing the remote can be tricky if you’re new to Yi cameras. Here’s how to do it smoothly:

• Update Your Camera’s Firmware: Older versions can cause pairing problems.
• Use the Yi App: Open the app, go to “Remote Control,” and follow the steps.
• Reset if Needed: If it won’t connect, hold the remote’s button for 10 seconds to reset it.

I learned this the hard way. My first remote wouldn’t pair until I updated my camera’s firmware. Now, I always check for updates before using new gear.

2. Mount It Smartly: Find the Perfect Spot

Where you clip the remote makes a big difference. Some of my favorite spots:

• Backpack Strap: Easy to reach while hiking or biking.
• Chest Harness: Great for skiing or running.
• Bike Handlebars: Perfect for road trips or mountain biking.

Pro tip: Use a lanyard if you’re worried about losing it. I’ve seen too many remotes fall into rivers or snowbanks!

3. Extend Battery Life: Save Power on Long Trips

The remote’s battery isn’t huge, but you can stretch it:

• Turn Off Wi-Fi: Use Bluetooth only when you don’t need live preview.
• Charge Overnight: The remote charges via USB-C (takes about 2 hours).
• Carry a Power Bank: Useful for multi-day adventures.

On a 3-day backpacking trip, I used Bluetooth for most controls and only switched to Wi-Fi when I wanted to check my shots. The remote lasted the whole trip!

4. Master the Modes: Switch Like a Pro

Switching modes on the fly takes practice. Here’s how I do it:

• Hold the Mode Button: The OLED will show available modes.
• Press to Cycle: Tap the button to switch between video, photo, etc.
• Double-Click for Quick Access: Set your favorite mode as the default.

I use this all the time when filming wildlife. One minute I’m recording video, the next I’m taking photos of a bird—all with the remote.

Yi Action Camera Remote: At a Glance

Here’s a quick look at the key specs and features:

Feature	Details
Compatibility	Yi 4K+, Yi 4K, Yi Lite, Yi M1, and older models
Connection	Bluetooth (30 ft), Wi-Fi (15 ft)
Battery Life	3-4 hours (Bluetooth), 2-3 hours (Wi-Fi)
Water Resistance	IP67 (up to 3 meters)
Display	OLED (status, battery, mode)
Controls	Start/stop recording, photo, mode switch
Charging	USB-C (2 hours)
Dimensions	2.2 x 1.4 x 0.6 inches
Weight	1.1 oz (31g)

Final Thoughts: Is the Yi Action Camera Remote Worth It?

After months of using the Yi Action Camera Remote, I can confidently say it’s one of the best accessories for action camera users. It solves a real problem: how to control your camera when you can’t touch it. The one-touch controls, OLED display, and waterproof design make it a must-have for adventurers, vloggers, and even casual filmmakers.

Sure, it has a few limitations—like the short Wi-Fi range and average battery life—but the pros far outweigh the cons. For under $50, it’s a small investment that can save you hours of frustration and help you capture moments you’d otherwise miss.

My advice? If you own a Yi camera, get the remote. Clip it to your gear, pair it once, and forget about it—until you need it. Because when that perfect moment happens, you’ll be ready to press the button and capture it all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Yi Action Camera Remote and how does it work?

The Yi Action Camera Remote is a wireless wrist-mounted controller for Yi action cameras, allowing you to capture photos and videos remotely. It connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, enabling seamless control of recording, zoom, and mode settings within a 30-foot range.

Is the Yi Action Camera Remote compatible with all Yi camera models?

The remote is designed for most Yi 4K, Yi Lite, and Yi 1080p action cameras, but may not support older or third-party models. Always check your camera’s compatibility list before purchasing the Yi Action Camera Remote.

How long does the battery last on the Yi Action Camera Remote?

The built-in rechargeable battery offers up to 6 hours of continuous use on a single charge. For extended adventures, keep a power bank handy to recharge via its USB-C port.

Can I use the Yi Action Camera Remote underwater or in extreme weather?

The remote is water-resistant (IP67 rating), making it suitable for light rain or splashes, but not for diving. Extreme temperatures below -10°C or above 45°C may affect performance.

How do I pair the Yi Action Camera Remote with my camera?

Enable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth on your camera, then press and hold the remote’s power button until it flashes. Select the remote in your camera’s settings to complete pairing—usually takes under a minute.

What are the best tips for maximizing the Yi Action Camera Remote’s features?

Use the remote’s burst mode for action shots and customize button functions via the Yi app. Always ensure both devices are fully charged and within range to avoid signal drops during recording.