Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control Review Features Tips

The Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control delivers seamless, one-touch operation for capturing adventures hands-free. With a compact design, reliable wireless range, and intuitive pairing, it enhances your Yi Lite camera experience—perfect for action enthusiasts who demand speed and precision.

Key Takeaways

• Seamless pairing: Connects instantly with Yi Lite cameras for reliable control.
• Waterproof design: Use confidently in rain or underwater up to 30m.
• Long battery life: Enjoy up to 12 hours of continuous operation.
• One-touch recording: Start/stop filming quickly with a single button press.
• Wearable options: Attach to wrist or gear for hands-free convenience.
• Real-time feedback: LED indicators confirm commands without checking the camera.

Why the Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control Is a Game-Changer for Adventurers

Let’s be honest—action cameras are amazing, but sometimes the simplest things, like starting or stopping a recording, can feel like a chore. You’re halfway up a mountain, the sun is setting, and you’re trying to balance your camera on one hand while fumbling with tiny buttons with the other. Frustrating, right? That’s where the Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control comes in. I first discovered it during a hiking trip when I missed capturing a perfect eagle’s flight because I couldn’t press the record button in time. That moment stuck with me, and I’ve been on the hunt for a reliable remote ever since.

After testing the Yi Lite remote for several weeks in real-world scenarios—from mountain biking to underwater diving—I can confidently say it’s more than just a convenience. It’s a tool that empowers you to focus on the moment, not the mechanics. Whether you’re a vlogger, an adrenaline junkie, or someone who just wants to document life’s little adventures, this little device has the potential to transform how you use your Yi Lite action camera. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience, highlight the standout features, and give you practical tips to get the most out of it.

Design and Build Quality: Small But Mighty

Compact and Lightweight

The first thing you’ll notice about the Yi Lite remote is its size. It’s about the size of a matchbox—small enough to fit in your palm or attach to your wrist with the included strap. At just 28 grams, it won’t weigh you down, even if you’re wearing it all day. I clipped it to my backpack strap during a long trail run, and honestly, I forgot it was there. That’s a win for any outdoor gear.

The design is minimalist but functional. The front has a single large button (for recording and taking photos) and a small LED indicator light. The back is a smooth, rubberized surface that feels grippy and comfortable in your hand. The wrist strap is adjustable and made of durable nylon, which held up well during a rainy kayaking trip. One tip: if you’re using it in wet conditions, make sure the strap is tight to prevent accidental drops.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The Yi Lite remote is rated IP67, meaning it’s dust-tight and can survive being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. I tested this by taking it snorkeling in the Caribbean—no issues. It also survived a few accidental drops on rocky terrain (oops). The buttons are tactile and responsive, even with wet fingers or gloves on. However, I did notice that after prolonged exposure to saltwater, the rubber coating on the strap started to fade slightly. A minor quirk, but worth noting if you’re a frequent ocean explorer.

Pairing and Setup

Pairing the remote with your Yi Lite camera is a breeze. Just turn on the camera, press and hold the remote’s button for 3 seconds, and the LED flashes blue when connected. The whole process took me under 30 seconds. One thing to remember: the remote uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which is energy-efficient but requires the camera to be within 30 feet (10 meters). In open spaces, I got a solid 25-foot range. In a dense forest, it dropped to about 15 feet. Not a dealbreaker, but keep that in mind for wide-angle shots.

Key Features: What Makes It Stand Out?

One-Button Control for Seamless Operation

The Yi Lite remote’s biggest selling point is its simplicity. One button does it all:

• Single press: Start/stop recording.
• Double press: Take a photo.
• Long press (3 seconds): Power on/off the remote.

This minimalist approach works incredibly well. During a mountain biking session, I was able to start recording mid-ride without taking my hands off the handlebars. The button is large enough to hit easily, even with gloves. I’ve used other remotes with multiple buttons, and honestly, they just overcomplicate things. Yi nailed it here.

Real-Time Status Feedback

The LED light is a small but genius feature. It gives you visual cues:

• Blue (steady): Connected to the camera.
• Blue (flashing): Recording or taking a photo.
• Red (flashing): Low battery or connection issue.

On one occasion, the remote flashed red mid-hike. I realized I’d accidentally turned the camera off. The alert saved me from missing a key shot. This kind of feedback is invaluable when you’re focused on the action.

Long Battery Life

The remote uses a CR2032 coin cell battery, which is easy to replace and lasts up to 6 months with daily use (Yi claims 1,000 button presses). I’ve been using the same battery for 3 months, and it’s still going strong. Pro tip: Keep a spare CR2032 in your camera bag. They’re cheap and available at any electronics store.

Compatibility and Flexibility

The Yi Lite remote works with all Yi Lite action cameras (e.g., Yi Lite, Yi Lite 4K, Yi Lite Pro). It’s not compatible with older Yi models like the Yi 4K+, so double-check your camera before buying. One cool feature: you can pair multiple remotes to one camera. I used this during a group hike—my friend controlled the camera while I filmed. Great for collaborative content!

Performance in Real-World Scenarios: How It Holds Up

Adventure Sports: Mountain Biking and Climbing

I took the remote on a 10-mile mountain bike trail with steep descents and rocky terrain. The wrist strap kept it secure, and the button was easy to hit while riding. I started recording at the trailhead and stopped at the finish line—no fumbling, no missed shots. For climbing, I clipped it to my harness. The rubberized back prevented it from sliding, and the single-button design meant I could focus on my grip, not the camera.

Pro tip: If you’re using a chest mount, attach the remote to your backpack strap. It’s easier to reach than your wrist when your arms are extended.

Underwater Use: Snorkeling and Diving

The IP67 rating shines here. I used the remote with my Yi Lite in a waterproof housing (rated to 40 meters). The button worked flawlessly underwater, and the LED was bright enough to see in murky conditions. One caveat: Bluetooth doesn’t work through water, so you can’t control the camera remotely while submerged. But the remote is perfect for starting/stopping recordings before you dive. For example, I started recording at the surface, then dove down—captured the entire descent without touching the camera.

Low-Light and Night Shooting

Nighttime filming is where the Yi Lite remote’s LED becomes crucial. I filmed a campfire scene at dusk. The remote’s blue light was visible in the dark, so I knew when it was recording. The button has a slight click, which helps confirm presses without looking. Just remember: the camera’s low-light performance depends on its settings, not the remote. Adjust your Yi Lite’s ISO and shutter speed beforehand.

Vlogging and Selfie Shots

For solo creators, this remote is a game-changer. I used it to film myself cooking at a campsite. I set the camera on a tripod, stepped back, and controlled it from 20 feet away. No more running back and forth to hit record! The 30-foot range is ideal for vlogging. One trick: Use the remote to take photos of yourself. Double-press the button, strike a pose, and voilà—no selfie stick needed.

Pros and Cons: The Honest Breakdown

What I Loved

• Effortless one-button control: No learning curve. Perfect for beginners and pros alike.
• Robust build quality: Survived drops, rain, and saltwater with no issues.
• Long battery life: CR2032 lasts months. No daily charging.
• Real-time feedback: LED alerts prevent missed shots.
• Versatile mounting: Works on wrist, backpack, harness, or bike.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited range in obstructed areas: Drops to 15 feet in forests. Not ideal for wide-angle wildlife shots.
• No screen or advanced controls: You can’t change camera settings remotely. For that, you’ll need the Yi app.
• Rubber strap fades in saltwater: A minor issue, but noticeable after months of use.
• Bluetooth-only (no Wi-Fi): Can’t live-stream or transfer files. Purely for remote control.

Data Table: Yi Lite Remote vs. Competitors

Feature	Yi Lite Remote	GoPro Smart Remote	DJI Osmo Action Remote
Price	$25	$79	$69
Water Resistance	IP67 (1m/30min)	IPX7 (1m/30min)	IP67 (1m/30min)
Battery	CR2032 (6 months)	Rechargeable (20 hours)	Rechargeable (12 hours)
Range	30 ft (10m)	60 ft (18m)	98 ft (30m)
Controls	1 button	4 buttons + screen	2 buttons
Compatibility	Yi Lite only	GoPro Hero 9+	DJI Osmo Action

The Yi Lite remote wins on price and simplicity. If you want advanced controls, the GoPro or DJI options offer more features—but at 3x the cost. For most users, Yi’s remote hits the sweet spot.

Tips and Tricks: Getting the Most Out of Your Remote

1. Customize Your Yi Lite Settings First

The remote only starts/stops recording or takes photos. It doesn’t change settings like resolution or frame rate. Before heading out, configure your Yi Lite for the environment. For example:

• Action shots: 4K/60fps with stabilization on.
• Low light: 1080p/30fps, ISO 800.
• Timelapse: 1080p, 1 photo every 5 seconds.

Once set, you can focus on the remote without distractions.

2. Use the LED as a Confidence Check

Always glance at the remote’s LED before assuming it’s working. I once thought my camera was recording, but the remote was out of range. The red flash caught the issue immediately. Pro tip: Test the connection every 10 minutes during long shoots.

3. Mount It Strategically

Experiment with placements. I’ve found these work best:

• Wrist: For quick access during sports.
• Backpack strap: For vlogging or hiking.
• Bike handlebar: Use a zip-tie for a secure fit.

4. Pair Multiple Remotes for Group Shoots

Yi allows up to 3 remotes paired to one camera. I used this during a family hike—my sister started recordings while I filmed. Great for capturing candid moments!

5. Clean After Saltwater Use

Rinse the remote with fresh water after ocean dives. It prevents the rubber strap from fading and keeps the button responsive.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

After months of testing, the Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control has earned a permanent spot in my gear bag. It’s not perfect—the range could be better, and the strap needs a saltwater upgrade—but its simplicity, durability, and price make it a standout choice. For under $30, you get a tool that eliminates the frustration of missed shots and lets you focus on the adventure.

Who is this for? If you own a Yi Lite camera and want to:

• Start/stop recordings hands-free,
• Take selfies without a selfie stick,
• Film group activities effortlessly,
• Or just simplify your workflow,

…this remote is worth every penny. It’s not a flashy gadget; it’s a practical solution to a real problem. And in the world of action cameras, that’s rare.

One last story: Last weekend, I filmed a sunrise hike. I set up my camera on a rock, stepped back, and pressed the remote. The first rays of light hit the mountains, and I captured the entire scene—no fumbling, no stress. That’s the power of the Yi Lite remote. It’s not about the tech; it’s about the moments you get to keep.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control is a compact wireless remote designed specifically for the Yi Lite action camera. It allows users to start/stop recording, take photos, and switch modes from a distance via Bluetooth connectivity.

How do I pair the remote with my Yi Lite action camera?

To pair the remote, turn on your Yi Lite camera, enable Bluetooth in settings, and press the remote’s power button until the LED flashes. The camera will detect the remote automatically—confirm the pairing on the camera screen.

Is the Yi Lite Action Camera Remote Control waterproof?

Yes, the remote is water-resistant (IP67 rating), making it suitable for use in rain or shallow water. However, it’s not designed for deep diving or prolonged submersion.

What is the operating range of the Yi Lite remote control?

The remote works reliably within a 30-foot (10-meter) range in open areas. Obstacles like walls or interference from other devices may reduce this distance slightly.

Can the Yi Lite remote control multiple cameras at once?

No, the remote can only connect to one Yi Lite camera at a time. Each camera must be paired individually for separate use.

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

The built-in rechargeable battery offers up to 6 months of standby time and around 200 button presses per charge, depending on usage frequency.