Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit Ultimate Review for Stabilized Shots

The Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit delivers professional-grade stabilization and crisp 4K footage at an unbeatable value. Seamlessly pairing the compact Mi Action Camera with a responsive 3-axis gimbal, this kit eliminates shaky footage and excels in dynamic, on-the-go shooting scenarios. Perfect for vloggers and adventurers, it combines portability, ease of use, and reliable performance in one affordable package.

Key Takeaways

• Smooth stabilization: Gimbal ensures ultra-stable footage even in motion.
• 4K clarity: Capture sharp, vibrant videos with the action camera.
• Quick setup: Mount and pair devices in under 60 seconds.
• Long battery life: Record up to 2 hours on a single charge.
• Portable design: Lightweight kit for easy travel and on-the-go use.

Why I Chose the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit for My Adventures

I’ve always loved capturing life’s moments—whether it’s hiking a mountain trail, riding my bike through city streets, or just hanging out with friends at the beach. But no matter how good my smartphone camera was, I kept running into one frustrating problem: shaky footage. You know the feeling—when you watch a video later and it looks like it was shot during an earthquake. It’s not exactly the cinematic memory you were hoping for.

That’s when I started looking into action cameras and stabilization gear. I wanted something affordable but reliable, compact but powerful. After reading countless reviews and watching YouTube comparisons, I landed on the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit. It promised smooth, stabilized footage, 4K video, and a lightweight design—all at a price that didn’t make my wallet cry. So, I took the plunge. After using it for several months across different scenarios, I’m ready to share my honest thoughts. This isn’t a sponsored post or a sales pitch. It’s my real experience, the good, the bad, and the “huh, didn’t expect that” moments.

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

When my package arrived, I was excited to see what Xiaomi had packed. The box is sleek, minimalist, and feels premium—nothing flimsy here. Inside, everything is neatly arranged, and I appreciated that there were no unnecessary plastic wraps. It felt eco-friendly, which is always a plus.

Included Components

• Mi Action Camera (12MP): The main unit is small, lightweight, and has a rubberized finish for better grip. It’s IP68-rated, meaning it’s dustproof and waterproof up to 40 meters—perfect for snorkeling or rainy hikes.
• 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal: This is the star of the show. Compact, foldable, and made of aluminum alloy, it feels sturdy without being heavy. It connects to the camera via a quick-release plate.
• USB-C Charging Cable: Used for both the camera and gimbal. I love that it’s USB-C—no more fumbling with micro-USB in the dark.
• Spare Battery (for camera): A nice touch. The camera uses a 1100mAh battery, and having a backup is great for long days out.
• Mounting Accessories: Includes a standard tripod mount, a curved adhesive mount (for helmets or curved surfaces), and a flat adhesive mount.
• Carrying Pouch: Soft, padded, and fits everything. It’s not waterproof, but it protects against scratches and light rain.
• User Manual (in English and Chinese): Clear diagrams, though the English translation is a bit stiff in places.

First Impressions

The build quality is impressive for the price. The camera feels solid, and the gimbal’s motorized arms move smoothly with no jerky resistance. I was a little nervous about how the quick-release plate would hold up, but after snapping it in and out several times, it felt secure. The gimbal’s foldable design makes it easy to slip into a backpack. I took it on a weekend trip and barely noticed it was there.

One thing I noticed right away: the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit doesn’t come with a screen. You’ll need to use your phone via the Mi Home app (or Xiaomi Action app, depending on your region) to frame shots, change settings, and review footage. At first, I missed having a flip-up screen like on some GoPro models, but once I got used to the app, it wasn’t a big deal.

Performance in Action: How It Handles Real-World Use

Let’s talk about what really matters: how this kit performs when you’re actually using it. I tested it in a variety of settings—urban walking, mountain biking, beachside vlogging, and even a rainy forest hike. Here’s what stood out.

Video Quality and Stabilization

The camera shoots up to 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps, and 720p at 120fps for slow motion. In daylight, the 4K footage is sharp, with good color accuracy and dynamic range. I compared it side-by-side with my iPhone 13, and honestly, the Mi camera held its own—especially in well-lit scenes.

But the real magic happens when you mount it on the gimbal. The 3-axis stabilization is fantastic. I walked through a busy city with uneven pavement, and the footage looked like it was shot on a dolly. I even tried jogging with the gimbal, and the horizon stayed perfectly level. No wobble, no jello effect—just buttery smooth motion.

One practical example: I filmed a sunset walk along the beach. The gimbal kept the horizon steady even as I moved over rocks and wet sand. When I played it back, it felt cinematic. I didn’t have to stabilize it in post—something I used to spend hours doing in DaVinci Resolve.

Low-light performance is… okay. At night or in dim interiors, the 4K video gets grainy. The camera doesn’t have a large sensor, so it struggles with noise in low light. But if you’re shooting in a well-lit bar or during twilight, it’s still usable. I wouldn’t use it for professional night shoots, but for casual content? Totally fine.

Audio Quality: A Weak Spot

The built-in microphone is decent in quiet environments. I recorded a short voiceover while sitting at a café, and my voice came through clearly. But in windy or noisy places—like a busy street or near waves—the audio gets drowned out or distorted.

Tip: If you’re vlogging or doing interviews, I’d recommend using an external mic. The camera doesn’t have a mic input, but you can use a Bluetooth mic connected to your phone and sync the audio in editing. Or, if you’re using the gimbal, you can clip a small lavalier mic to your shirt and record separately. It’s a workaround, but it works.

One cool feature: the gimbal has a cold shoe mount on top. You can attach a small LED light or even a compact microphone (like the Rode VideoMicro) if you don’t mind the extra bulk.

Battery Life: How Long Does It Last?

The camera battery lasts about 90 minutes when recording 4K continuously. With mixed use (some 4K, some 1080p, and occasional stills), I got around 2 hours. The gimbal’s battery lasts about 4 hours—plenty for a full day of shooting.

I used the kit on a 6-hour hiking trip. I brought both camera batteries and charged the gimbal the night before. I swapped the camera battery after 1.5 hours and kept going. The gimbal didn’t need a recharge. That’s solid performance for a budget kit.

Pro tip: Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not using the app. It saves a surprising amount of battery. Also, avoid leaving the camera on the gimbal with the motors powered when not in use—it drains both batteries faster.

Ease of Use: Setting Up and Operating the Kit

One of my biggest concerns was how complicated this setup would be. I’m not a tech newbie, but I don’t want to spend 30 minutes fiddling with settings before I can start filming. Good news: the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit is surprisingly user-friendly.

Connecting to the App

Download the Xiaomi Action app (available on iOS and Android). Turn on the camera and gimbal, and they connect automatically via Wi-Fi. Pairing took less than a minute. The app interface is clean and intuitive. You can:

• Switch between photo, video, and time-lapse modes
• Adjust resolution, frame rate, and white balance
• Start/stop recording remotely
• View a live preview from the camera
• Download footage directly to your phone

The live preview is a game-changer. I used it to frame shots while holding the gimbal at arm’s length or mounting it on a selfie stick. No more guessing if the subject is in frame.

One small gripe: the app occasionally disconnects when I walk more than 10 meters from the camera. Not a dealbreaker, but it means you can’t use it for long-range remote control. For close-up vlogging or handheld use, it’s perfect.

Mounting and Handling

The quick-release plate on the gimbal is easy to use. Just slide the camera in and press the lock button. It clicks into place securely. To remove it, press the release lever—no tools needed.

The gimbal has three modes:

• Follow Mode: The camera follows your hand movements smoothly. Great for walking shots.
• Lock Mode: The camera stays fixed on a subject, even if you move the gimbal. Useful for tracking a moving object.
• FPV Mode: The camera tilts and rolls with the gimbal, giving a “first-person” feel. Fun for dynamic action shots.

I used Follow Mode 90% of the time. It felt natural and required minimal adjustment. Lock Mode came in handy when I was filming a friend riding a skateboard—the camera stayed locked on them while I walked alongside.

Tip: Calibrate the gimbal before each use. The app has a simple calibration tool. It takes 30 seconds and ensures the motors are balanced. I skipped it once, and the camera kept drifting to the left—annoying, but easy to fix.

Comparing the Mi Kit to the Competition

You might be wondering: “How does this stack up against GoPro, DJI, or Insta360?” Let’s break it down. I’ve used a GoPro Hero 9 and a DJI Osmo Action, so I can give you a real comparison.

Price and Value

The Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit costs around $150–$180, depending on where you buy it. That’s less than half the price of a GoPro Hero 12 with a DJI Osmo Mobile gimbal (which can cost $500+).

For that price, you’re getting 4K video, 3-axis stabilization, waterproofing, and a spare battery. The GoPro and DJI offer better image processing and more advanced features (like HyperSmooth 5.0 or 10-bit color), but they’re also significantly more expensive.

If you’re on a budget or just starting out, the Mi kit is a fantastic value. It’s not as polished as premium brands, but it delivers where it counts—smooth, stabilized footage.

Features and Limitations

Feature	Mi Action Camera + Gimbal	GoPro Hero 12 + DJI Osmo Mobile	DJI Osmo Action 4
Video Resolution	4K@30fps	5.3K@60fps	4K@120fps
Stabilization	3-axis gimbal	HyperSmooth 5.0 (in-camera)	RockSteady 3.0 (in-camera)
Waterproof	40m (with housing)	10m (10m without housing)	18m (without housing)
Battery Life	90 min (camera), 4h (gimbal)	100 min (Hero 12)	160 min
Screen	None (app required)	Front and rear screens	Front and rear screens
Price (approx.)	$160	$550	$330

As you can see, the Mi kit holds its own in key areas. The gimbal stabilization is more effective than in-camera stabilization for walking or handheld shots. But it lacks a screen, which some users might find limiting. The GoPro and DJI models are more versatile for solo vlogging or selfies.

One advantage of the Mi kit: the gimbal is detachable. You can use the camera alone for helmet or bike mounts, then attach the gimbal when you need smooth handheld shots. It’s modular in a way that GoPro’s gimbal add-ons aren’t.

Who Should Buy This Kit?

This is ideal for:

• Beginner content creators who want stabilized footage without breaking the bank
• Outdoor enthusiasts who need a rugged, portable setup
• Travel vloggers who want smooth walking shots and don’t need a flip-up screen
• Families capturing vacations or kids’ activities

It’s not the best choice for:

• Professional filmmakers needing high dynamic range or 10-bit color
• Low-light shooters who need clean night footage
• Users who hate apps—you can’t operate the camera without a phone

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

After months of use, I can confidently say: yes, this kit is worth it—for the right person. It’s not perfect, but it delivers on its core promise: stabilized, high-quality footage at an affordable price.

The Good

• Outstanding stabilization: The gimbal makes a huge difference in handheld and walking shots.
• 4K video is sharp and vibrant in good light.
• Lightweight and portable: Easy to carry on hikes or trips.
• Great value: You get a lot for under $200.
• Waterproof and durable: Survived rain, sand, and drops.

The Not-So-Good

• No screen: Requires a phone for framing and settings.
• App connectivity issues: Occasional disconnections at range.
• Mediocre low-light performance: Grainy in dim environments.
• Audio limitations: Built-in mic struggles in windy or noisy places.

My Personal Experience

I used this kit to film a weekend trip to a national park. I mounted the camera on my backpack for POV hiking shots, used the gimbal for smooth walking footage of waterfalls, and even recorded a time-lapse of sunset. The stabilized shots looked so professional that my friends thought I’d hired a videographer.

I also used it for casual vlogging at home. My cat chasing a laser pointer? Smooth, fun, and shareable. A cooking video? The gimbal kept my hands steady while I chopped veggies.

The only time I regretted not having a screen was when I was filming a friend’s birthday party. I had to keep checking my phone to make sure the camera was recording. A flip-up screen would’ve been easier.

Overall, the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit is a smart choice for anyone who wants to level up their video game without spending a fortune. It’s not the most advanced kit out there, but it’s reliable, easy to use, and delivers smooth footage that will make your memories look amazing. If you’re tired of shaky videos and want to capture your adventures with confidence, give this kit a try. You might just fall in love with filming all over again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit stand out for stabilized shots?

The Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit combines 4K video resolution with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal, delivering ultra-smooth footage even during high-motion activities. Its lightweight design and intuitive controls make it ideal for vloggers, travelers, and adventure enthusiasts seeking professional-quality stabilization.

Is the Mi Action Camera compatible with third-party gimbals?

The Mi Action Camera is optimized for use with its dedicated gimbal in the kit, ensuring seamless stabilization and full feature support. While it may physically fit third-party gimbals, performance and compatibility aren’t guaranteed, so using the included gimbal is recommended.

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

The camera’s 1200mAh battery delivers up to 120 minutes of 4K recording, while the gimbal adds roughly 100 minutes of stabilization time. For extended shoots, carrying spare batteries is a smart move.

Can the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit shoot in low light?

Yes, it features a Sony IMX317 sensor and f/2.8 aperture for decent low-light performance, though results are best in well-lit environments. For night shots, consider using its Night Mode, which reduces noise but may limit frame rates.

Does the kit include accessories for mounting or travel?

The Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit includes a basic handle, USB-C cable, and protective case, but most mounts (e.g., chest, helmet) must be purchased separately. Xiaomi offers a range of optional accessories for diverse shooting scenarios.

How does the Mi Action Camera and Gimbal Kit compare to GoPro?

The Mi kit offers similar stabilization and 4K quality at a lower price point, making it a budget-friendly alternative. However, GoPro’s ecosystem (e.g., app features, mount compatibility) remains more robust for advanced users.