Your Yi Action Camera is a fantastic piece of kit, perfect for capturing all those thrilling moments, whether you’re shredding trails, diving into crystal-clear waters, or just documenting a family vacation. But what good is a great camera if you don’t have the right storage to keep all those high-definition memories safe and sound? That’s where a top-notch microSD card comes in!
Choosing the best SD card for Yi Action Camera can feel a bit overwhelming with all the technical jargon out there. You need a card that’s fast enough to handle 4K video recording, durable enough to withstand the elements, and reliable enough not to fail when you’re in the middle of an epic shot. Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve rounded up five excellent options that are perfectly suited for your Yi camera, ensuring you get the performance and peace of mind you need.
Let’s dive into our top picks for the best SD card for Yi Action Camera and find the perfect match for your adventures!
1. TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB Micro SDXC UHS-I U3 V30 4K
The TEAMGROUP GO Card is built for adventurers who demand both speed and resilience. This card doesn’t just promise high-speed performance; it delivers, making it an excellent choice for recording crisp 4K footage without a hitch. What truly sets it apart is its robust durability, offering four distinct protections against common hazards. If you’re constantly pushing boundaries and exposing your gear to challenging conditions, this card is designed to keep up, reliably storing your precious moments.
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Key Features:
- Outstanding preserve & transfer performance: read/write speed up to 100MB/s and 50MB/s.
- UHS-I U3 V30 rating, ideal for 4K video recording.
- Built to last in extreme environments with 4 trustworthy protections: waterproof, dustproof, x-ray proof, and cold resistant.
- Adopting new printing technology to fulfill the goal of being an eco-friendly product.
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Pros:
- Excellent read and write speeds for smooth 4K recording.
- Highly durable and reliable in harsh conditions.
- Large 256GB capacity for extended shooting sessions.
- Environmentally conscious manufacturing process.
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Cons:
- May be a slightly higher price point compared to basic cards.
- 50MB/s write speed, while good, isn’t the absolute fastest on the market.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this card for its consistent performance, especially when recording high-resolution videos. Many appreciate its rugged build, giving them confidence that their data is safe, even after accidental drops or exposure to water. It’s often cited as a go-to for demanding action camera users.
2. GIGASTONE 64GB Micro SD Card 2-Pack, 4K UHD Video
Sometimes, two is better than one, especially when you’re looking for value and versatility. The GIGASTONE 64GB Micro SD Card 2-Pack offers exactly that, giving you double the storage for your Yi Action Camera at a competitive price. It’s a solid choice for those who need reliable performance for Full HD video and perhaps occasional 4K, all while having a backup or a card for another device. Plus, the included SD adapter and mini case are thoughtful additions that add to its overall convenience and value.
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Key Features:
- Comes as a convenient 2-pack.
- Read/Write speeds up to 90/30 MB/s, suitable for Full HD video.
- Includes an SD adapter and mini case for secure storage and broad compatibility.
- Wide compatibility with various devices including action cameras, smartphones, and drones.
- Environmentally resistant: waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof, and X-Ray proof.
- Backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Excellent value with two cards in one pack.
- Included accessories (adapter, case) are a nice bonus.
- Robust durability for outdoor use.
- Decent speeds for Full HD recording.
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Cons:
- 64GB might fill up quickly with continuous 4K recording.
- 30MB/s write speed might struggle with the highest bitrate 4K videos on some Yi models.
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User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight the fantastic value this 2-pack provides, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious users or those with multiple devices. They find the cards reliable for everyday recording and appreciate the added protection of the included case.
3. Micro SDXC Memory Card 128GB-Speederlash Camera Plus TF
The Speederlash Micro SDXC Memory Card aims to be your all-in-one storage solution, not just for your Yi Action Camera but for a wide array of devices. What truly stands out here is its emphasis on broad compatibility and the robust 5-year warranty coupled with 24/7 US-based customer support. This card is built tough with multiple protections, offering peace of mind that your data is safe whether you’re recording a high-octane adventure or simply everyday moments. The A1 app performance rating is a bonus for those who might also use it in a smartphone or tablet.
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Key Features:
- High-Speed Transfer Performance: up to 90MB/s read speed, A1 app performance.
- Wide Compatibility: works with smartphones, tablets, laptops, drones, action cameras, Nintendo Switch, etc. (SD adapter included).
- Reliable and Durable: waterproof, shockproof, X-ray-proof, temperature-resistant, and magnetic-resistant properties.
- Versatile Storage Options: 128GB (can store 6 hours of 4K video, 20 hours of 1080P video, 37,600 photos, or 19,440 songs).
- Rapid Response After-sales Service: 5-year warranty and 24/7 US-based customer support.
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Pros:
- Excellent compatibility across many devices.
- Superior durability with 5 protection types.
- A1 rating for faster app loading (if used in phones/tablets).
- Strong warranty and customer support provide great assurance.
- Generous 128GB capacity.
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Cons:
- Specific write speed is not explicitly listed, which can be a concern for very demanding 4K.
- While compatible, some premium Yi models might benefit from higher write speeds.
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User Impressions: Customers love the versatility of this card, often using it across multiple devices without issues. The reliable customer support and the card’s ability to withstand tough conditions are frequently highlighted as major positives, ensuring users feel their investment is well-protected.
4. SanDisk 128GB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter
When it comes to memory cards, SanDisk is a name that often comes to mind, and for good reason. The SanDisk Extreme microSDXC card lives up to its name, offering some of the fastest speeds available in a consumer-grade card, especially with its proprietary QuickFlow Technology. This card is engineered for maximum performance, making it an ideal candidate for professional-grade 4K and even 5K UHD recording with your Yi camera. If you’re looking for uncompromised speed and reliability from a trusted brand, the SanDisk Extreme is tough to beat and truly one of the best SD card for Yi Action Camera options.
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Key Features:
- Blazing fast read speeds of up to 190MB/s (with SanDisk QuickFlow Technology).
- Fast write speeds of up to 90MB/s for rapid continuous shooting and fast offload.
- UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) for 4K and 5K UHD video recording.
- Rated A2 for faster loading and in-app performance.
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch.
- Durable design (though specific protections aren’t listed as prominently as others, SanDisk cards are generally very robust).
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Pros:
- Exceptional read and write speeds, perfect for high-bitrate video.
- Reliable brand with a long-standing reputation for quality.
- A2 rating is great for general app performance.
- Excellent for professional-level 4K/5K video capture.
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Cons:
- QuickFlow speeds require compatible devices to achieve maximum potential.
- Typically comes with a higher price tag.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the SanDisk Extreme for its superior speed and reliability. It’s a favorite among videographers and drone pilots who need consistent performance for high-resolution footage. Many find it to be a dependable workhorse that rarely disappoints, making it a smart investment for serious content creators.
5. KEXIN 64GB Micro SD Card 10 Pack with SD Adapter
If your main goal is sheer quantity and fantastic value, the KEXIN 64GB Micro SD Card 10 Pack is an absolute game-changer. Imagine having ten reliable 64GB cards at your disposal – perfect for managing different projects, devices, or simply having plenty of backups. While its individual speeds are geared more towards Full HD than demanding 4K, the sheer volume and versatility make this pack incredibly appealing. It’s an ideal choice for households with multiple action cameras, dash cams, or security systems, ensuring you’re never short on storage.
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Key Features:
- Massive 10-pack of 64GB Micro SD cards.
- UHS-I standard with up to 80MB/s read speed and 12MB/s write speed (C10, U1).
- Wide Compatibility: works with game consoles, surveillance systems, dashcams, action cameras, smartphones, etc.
- Reliable and Secure: reinforced resistance to water, shock, X-ray, and temperature extremes.
- Includes two bonus SD adapters for enhanced versatility.
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Pros:
- Unbeatable value per card.
- Great for multiple devices or organizing different types of files.
- Reliable for Full HD video recording and high-resolution photos.
- Durable with multiple protections.
- Includes useful SD adapters.
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Cons:
- 12MB/s write speed is not optimal for continuous, high-bitrate 4K video recording.
- Individual card capacity is smaller, requiring more frequent swaps for large files.
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User Impressions: Users who purchase this pack are typically thrilled with the incredible value and convenience of having so many cards. They find them perfectly adequate for everyday recording, dash cams, and security cameras, where constant writing speed isn’t as critical as consistent performance and ample storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What capacity SD card should I get for my Yi Action Camera?
A: The ideal capacity depends on your recording resolution and how long you plan to shoot. For 1080p (Full HD), a 64GB card is often sufficient for a few hours of footage. If you’re regularly shooting in 4K, especially at higher frame rates, a 128GB or 256GB card is highly recommended. 4K video consumes storage much faster, so larger capacities mean less frequent offloading.
Q2: What do U3, V30, and A2 ratings mean for SD cards?
A: These ratings indicate the card’s speed and performance capabilities:
* U3 (UHS Speed Class 3): Guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s, essential for 4K video recording.
* V30 (Video Speed Class 30): Also guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s, specifically designed for smooth video recording, including 4K.
* A2 (App Performance Class 2): Defines minimum random read and write speeds (4000 IOPS read, 2000 IOPS write) and a minimum sustained sequential write speed of 10MB/s, making it suitable for running apps directly from the card (useful if you also use the card in a smartphone).
For your Yi Action Camera’s 4K capabilities, look for U3 and V30 ratings.
Q3: Is a 64GB SD card enough for 4K video on a Yi camera?
A: While a 64GB card can certainly record 4K video, it won’t last very long. Depending on the bitrate of your Yi camera’s 4K footage, 64GB might only store around 1 to 2 hours of 4K video. For longer shooting sessions or multiple adventures, a 128GB or 256GB card will give you much more recording time without needing to offload data.
Q4: Why is a fast write speed important for action cameras?
A: Action cameras, especially when recording in 4K or high frame rates, generate a massive amount of data very quickly. A fast write speed ensures that the camera can save this data to the SD card as fast as it’s generated, preventing dropped frames, corrupted files, or the camera stopping recording prematurely. A slow card can bottleneck your camera’s performance.
Q5: Do I need a specific brand of SD card for Yi cameras?
A: No, you don’t need a specific brand. What’s crucial is that the card meets the necessary speed and capacity requirements for your Yi camera’s recording modes (especially U3/V30 for 4K). Reputable brands like SanDisk, TEAMGROUP, Gigastone, and Kexin generally offer reliable performance. Focusing on the technical specifications (speed class, capacity) is more important than brand loyalty.
Q6: How do I format my SD card for my Yi Action Camera?
A: It’s always recommended to format your new SD card inside your Yi Action Camera. This ensures the card is properly configured for your camera’s file system. To do this, insert the card into your Yi camera, power it on, navigate to the camera’s settings menu (often indicated by a gear icon), find the “Format SD Card” or “Format Storage” option, and confirm. This will erase all data on the card, so back up anything important first.
Q7: What features should I look for in a durable SD card for outdoor use?
A: For action camera use, durability is key. Look for cards that specify resistance to:
* Waterproof: To protect against splashes, rain, or accidental submersion.
* Shockproof: To withstand drops and impacts.
* Temperature-proof: To perform reliably in extreme hot or cold conditions.
* X-ray proof: To protect data from airport X-ray scanners.
* Magnetic-proof: To shield against magnetic interference.
These protections offer peace of mind when taking your Yi camera on adventurous outings.
