Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control Ultimate Guide 2024

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control is a game-changer for hands-free shooting, offering seamless Bluetooth connectivity and intuitive one-touch operation for capturing adventures on the go. With a compact design, 50-meter range, and compatibility across Yi 4K, Yi Lite, and older models, it’s the ultimate tool for vloggers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts in 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Pair instantly: Use Bluetooth to connect the remote in seconds.
• Control from afar: Operate your camera from up to 30 meters away.
• One-touch recording: Start/stop videos or snap photos with a single press.
• Wear it anywhere: Clip or strap the remote for hands-free convenience.
• Check battery life: Monitor remote power via the Yi Action app alerts.
• Customize shortcuts: Assign functions to buttons for faster access.

Introduction: Why the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control Is a Game-Changer

Let’s be honest—capturing the perfect shot with an action camera can feel like chasing lightning in a bottle. You’re hiking up a mountain, biking down a steep trail, or diving into crystal-clear waters, and the last thing you want to do is fumble with your camera. That’s where the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control comes in. It’s not just a remote; it’s your hands-free sidekick for capturing life’s most thrilling moments—without missing a beat.

I’ll never forget the first time I used the Xiaomi Yi remote. I was kayaking through a narrow canyon, the sun glinting off the water, and I wanted to record the entire journey. Instead of stopping every few minutes to press buttons on the camera, I simply tapped the remote clipped to my life vest. The camera started recording, snapped photos, and even switched modes—all without me touching it. That moment sold me on the remote’s convenience and reliability. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a travel vlogger, or just someone who loves documenting adventures, this little device can make a big difference in how you shoot.

What Is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control?

Design and Build Quality

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control is a small, lightweight, and rugged device designed to pair seamlessly with Xiaomi Yi action cameras. Measuring about 5.5 x 3.5 x 1.5 cm, it fits comfortably in your palm or can be clipped onto a strap, belt, or even your helmet. The build is solid—made from high-impact plastic with rubberized buttons for grip and durability. It’s also water-resistant (IP67-rated), meaning it can handle splashes, rain, and even brief submersion, which is a big plus for outdoor use.

One thing I appreciate is the minimalist design. There are only three buttons: power, shutter, and mode toggle. No confusing icons or tiny labels. The buttons are large enough to press with gloves on, which is crucial in cold or wet environments. Plus, the back has a strong clip that holds tight during intense movement—no fear of losing it mid-adventure.

Compatibility and Supported Models

The remote works with a range of Xiaomi Yi cameras, including:

• Xiaomi Yi 4K (2016 and 2017 models)
• Xiaomi Yi 4K+
• Xiaomi Yi Lite
• Xiaomi Yi M1
• Xiaomi Yi 1080p (older models with firmware updates)

It’s worth noting that not all Yi cameras support remote pairing out of the box. For example, the original Yi 4K requires a firmware update (version 1.7.2 or later) to enable remote control. If you’re using an older model, check the firmware first. Xiaomi provides clear update instructions on their website, but it can take a few minutes, so plan ahead.

Pro tip: Always pair your camera and remote in a quiet, interference-free area. I once tried pairing mine near a busy café with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth everywhere, and it took three tries. Once paired, though, the connection is rock-solid.

How It Connects: Wi-Fi vs. Bluetooth

The remote uses a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for communication. Bluetooth handles the initial handshake and low-power standby, while Wi-Fi kicks in for real-time control and preview. This dual-system approach keeps battery drain low when idle but allows fast, responsive commands when you need them.

Here’s how it works in practice: when you press the power button on the remote, it wakes up the camera via Bluetooth. Once active, the camera switches to Wi-Fi mode, allowing you to start/stop recording, take photos, or change settings. The range is about 10 meters (33 feet) in open areas, which is plenty for most scenarios. I’ve used it while mountain biking—remote on my handlebar, camera on my helmet—and it never dropped the signal.

Key Features and Practical Benefits

Hands-Free Control for Dynamic Shots

One of the biggest advantages of the Xiaomi Yi remote is the ability to control your camera without touching it. This is a game-changer for solo adventurers. Imagine:

• You’re rock climbing and want to record your ascent—clip the remote to your harness and press record as you go.
• You’re snowboarding down a slope and want to snap a selfie mid-air—just tap the shutter button.
• You’re filming a group hike—use the remote to start/stop video from the back of the line without shouting.

I’ve used it during sunrise hikes where I’d set up the camera on a tripod and use the remote to start a timelapse. No more creeping up to the camera and disturbing the shot. It’s also great for pets and kids—point the camera, step away, and capture natural moments.

Real-Time Mode Switching

Switching between video, photo, and timelapse modes is as simple as holding the mode button. The camera gives a subtle beep and LED blink to confirm the change. This is incredibly useful when you’re in the middle of an activity and need to adapt quickly.

For example, during a mountain biking trail, I’d record video for most of the ride. But when I reached a scenic overlook, I’d switch to photo mode, snap a few shots, then go back to video—all with one hand. No digging through menus or stopping to fiddle with the camera.

Battery Life and Charging

The remote runs on a built-in 350mAh lithium-polymer battery. Xiaomi claims up to 120 hours of standby time and 8 hours of active use. In real-world testing, I got about 6-7 hours of continuous recording control (with frequent button presses). That’s enough for a full day of hiking or a long mountain bike ride.

Charging is via a standard micro-USB port (yes, not USB-C—still a minor gripe in 2024). It takes about 90 minutes to fully charge. I’ve found that charging it overnight before a trip is the best approach. The battery indicator on the remote is a simple LED: green (full), yellow (medium), red (low). No percentage, but it’s intuitive enough.

Low-Light and Night Use

The remote’s buttons are backlit, which is a lifesaver in low-light conditions. A quick double-press of the power button turns on the backlight for 10 seconds. I’ve used this while camping—setting up a night timelapse with the camera on a tripod and the remote in my hand. The soft blue glow makes it easy to find the buttons without a flashlight.

Note: The backlight doesn’t stay on continuously (to save battery), but it’s plenty bright for brief use. If you’re filming in total darkness, consider clipping the remote to a bright-colored strap for visibility.

Setting Up the Remote: Step-by-Step Guide

Pairing Your Camera and Remote

Pairing is straightforward, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid connection issues:

1. Charge both the camera and remote fully.
2. Turn on the camera and go to Settings > Remote Control > Pair New Device.
3. Press and hold the power button on the remote for 3 seconds until the LED flashes blue.
4. The camera will display “Remote Found” and ask to pair. Confirm.
5. Wait for the camera to show “Remote Connected.” The remote’s LED will turn solid blue.

If it fails, restart both devices and try again. Sometimes a simple reset fixes connection hiccups.

Customizing Remote Settings

The Xiaomi Yi app (available for iOS and Android) lets you customize the remote’s behavior. You can:

• Adjust the shutter button sensitivity (single press for photo, double press for burst).
• Enable/disable the beep sound on button presses.
• Set the backlight timeout (5, 10, or 15 seconds).
• Assign the mode button to switch between specific modes (e.g., video → timelapse → photo).

I recommend turning off the beep sound if you’re filming in quiet environments (e.g., birdwatching). The backlight timeout is also handy—shorter times save battery, longer times help in dark conditions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best devices have quirks. Here are some common issues and fixes:

• Remote won’t pair: Update camera firmware, reset both devices, and try in a low-interference area.
• Connection drops during use: Ensure both devices have >50% battery. Avoid thick walls or metal barriers.
• Buttons unresponsive: Clean the contacts with a dry cloth. Avoid pressing too hard—the buttons are sensitive.
• Backlight not working: Check if the setting is enabled in the app. Sometimes a firmware glitch causes this—restart the remote.

I once had a connection drop during a kayaking trip because the remote got splashed and the micro-USB port got damp. After drying it with a towel, it worked fine. A small silicone cover for the port would’ve prevented this—consider getting one.

Comparing the Xiaomi Yi Remote to Competitors

Vs. GoPro The Remote (for GoPro HERO9/10/11)

The GoPro The Remote is a direct competitor—similar size, price, and functionality. Here’s how they stack up:

Feature	Xiaomi Yi Remote	GoPro The Remote
Compatibility	Yi 4K, 4K+, Lite, M1, 1080p	HERO9, 10, 11, 12
Range	10 meters	10 meters
Battery Life	8 hours active	7 hours active
Water Resistance	IP67	IP68 (deeper submersion)
Charging Port	Micro-USB	USB-C
App Integration	Xiaomi Yi App	GoPro Quik App

The GoPro remote has a slight edge in water resistance and USB-C charging, but the Yi remote wins on price (typically 20-30% cheaper). Both are reliable, but if you’re already in the Xiaomi ecosystem, the Yi remote is the obvious choice.

Vs. Third-Party Bluetooth Remotes

Generic Bluetooth remotes (like those from Aputure or Neewer) are cheaper but lack integration. They often require manual pairing via your phone’s Bluetooth settings, have shorter range, and don’t support mode switching. I tried a $15 third-party remote once—it worked for basic photo/video, but the delay was noticeable, and it couldn’t switch modes. The Xiaomi Yi remote is worth the extra cost for seamless, native control.

Real-World Use Cases and Pro Tips

Adventure Sports: Biking, Skiing, and Climbing

For mountain biking, I clip the remote to my handlebar or chest strap. The large buttons make it easy to press while wearing gloves. For skiing, I attach it to my jacket zipper—no need to unzip. Climbers can clip it to a carabiner for quick access.

Pro tip: Use the remote to start a timelapse of your descent. Set the camera on a rock or tripod, then use the remote to trigger it from a distance. This captures the full journey without you in the frame.

Travel Vlogging and Content Creation

When I’m filming travel vlogs, I use the remote to start/stop video while walking or riding a bike. It’s also great for hands-free selfies—point the camera, step into frame, and tap the shutter. For group shots, I pass the remote to a friend and say, “Press this when I’m in position.” No more awkward “3-2-1” countdowns.

Family and Pet Photography

Kids and pets move fast. With the remote, you can set up the camera on a tripod and capture natural moments without being behind the lens. I’ve used it to film my dog chasing a ball—remote in hand, camera on a low tripod. The results? Pure joy, no staged shots.

Low-Budget Filmmaking

For indie filmmakers, the remote is a budget-friendly tool for solo shoots. Use it to trigger the camera from a distance during dialogue scenes or to start a drone shot. Pair it with a Yi camera on a gimbal for smooth, remote-controlled tracking shots.

Final Thoughts: Is the Xiaomi Yi Remote Worth It?

After months of using the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control in everything from desert hikes to underwater snorkeling, I can confidently say it’s one of the most useful accessories I own. It’s not flashy or high-tech, but it’s reliable, intuitive, and solves a real problem: keeping your hands free while you capture the moment.

Is it perfect? No. The micro-USB port feels outdated, and the battery life could be better. But for the price—usually under $30—it’s a steal. It’s especially valuable if you’re already using a Xiaomi Yi camera. The seamless integration, rugged design, and hands-free control make it a must-have for adventurers, vloggers, and everyday creators.

So, if you’re tired of missing shots because you’re too busy pressing buttons, give the Xiaomi Yi remote a try. It might just be the small upgrade that transforms how you shoot. After all, the best camera is the one you can use—without stopping to think about it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control work?

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control pairs via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allowing you to start/stop recording, adjust settings, and capture photos from up to 10 meters away. It’s compatible with most Yi action camera models, including the Yi 4K+ and Yi Lite.

Is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control waterproof?

Yes, the remote control is IP67-rated, making it resistant to water, dust, and shocks—ideal for outdoor adventures. However, prolonged submersion isn’t recommended.

Can I use the remote with non-Yi action cameras?

No, the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control is designed specifically for Yi cameras and won’t pair with other brands. Always check compatibility with your specific Yi model.

How long does the remote’s battery last?

The built-in rechargeable battery lasts up to 6 months with typical daily use (30 minutes/day). Charging takes about 2 hours via USB-C.

Does the remote support live preview on the Yi app?

Yes, when paired, the remote can trigger the Yi app’s live preview feature on your smartphone for real-time framing and adjustments.

What’s the range of the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Remote Control?

The effective wireless range is approximately 10 meters (33 feet) in open areas, though obstacles like walls may reduce this distance slightly.