Xiaomi Yi Action Camera SD Card Guide Best Picks and Tips

Choosing the right SD card for your Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is crucial for uninterrupted 4K recording and smooth performance. Opt for UHS-I U3 or V30-rated cards with at least 64GB capacity—like SanDisk Extreme or Samsung EVO Select—to ensure fast write speeds and reliable storage during high-intensity adventures. Avoid cheap, low-end cards to prevent recording errors and data loss.

Key Takeaways

• Choose U3/V30 cards: Ensures smooth 4K video recording without dropped frames.
• Opt for 64GB–128GB: Ideal capacity for extended shooting without frequent swaps.
• Avoid cheap knockoffs: Counterfeit cards risk data loss and camera damage.
• Format in-camera: Maximizes compatibility and prevents file system errors.
• Check write speeds: Minimum 40MB/s for high-bitrate Yi camera modes.
• Use trusted brands: SanDisk, Samsung, or Kingston for reliable performance.

Why Your Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Needs the Right SD Card

Let me tell you a story. A few years ago, I was on a hiking trip in the Pacific Northwest, camera in hand, ready to capture every breathtaking moment. My Xiaomi Yi Action Camera was fully charged, the lens was clean, and the settings were perfect—until I hit record. The camera froze. A red error blinked on the screen: “SD Card Full.” I hadn’t checked my card’s speed or capacity, and the 8GB card I’d used for my old phone just couldn’t keep up with the Yi’s 1080p60 video. I lost a 20-minute clip of a waterfall that I’d waited an hour to shoot. It was a frustrating, preventable mistake.

That day taught me a valuable lesson: the SD card you choose for your Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is just as important as the camera itself. It’s not just about storage space—it’s about speed, reliability, and compatibility. Whether you’re recording a mountain bike ride, a scuba dive, or your kid’s first soccer game, the right card ensures your memories are saved smoothly and safely. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about picking the best SD card for your Xiaomi Yi, with real-world tips and honest recommendations.

Understanding SD Card Basics for the Xiaomi Yi

Capacity: How Much Storage Do You Need?

Let’s start with the basics. The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera supports microSD cards up to 128GB. But how much do you actually need? It depends on your recording habits. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 32GB: Good for casual use (e.g., weekend hikes, short vlogs). Holds about 2 hours of 1080p30 video or 1 hour of 1080p60.

<

• 64GB: Ideal for most users. Stores 4 hours of 1080p30 or 2 hours of 1080p60—perfect for full-day adventures.
• 128GB: Best for professionals or frequent travelers. Holds 8 hours of 1080p30 or 4 hours of 1080p60. Great if you don’t want to swap cards often.

Tip: If you’re recording 4K (Yi 4K+ models), go for 64GB or higher. 4K files are huge—a 10-minute clip can eat up 3GB!

Speed Class: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Speed isn’t just about how fast files transfer to your computer. It’s about whether your camera can record without glitches. The Yi Action Camera needs a card with a minimum write speed of 30MB/s to handle high-bitrate video. Here’s what the speed ratings mean:

• Class 10 / UHS-I: Minimum 10MB/s. Not enough for smooth 1080p60 or 4K. Avoid these.
• U3 (UHS Speed Class 3): Minimum 30MB/s. The sweet spot for Yi cameras. Look for this label.
• V30 (Video Speed Class 30): Minimum 30MB/s sustained. Even better for long recordings.

Real-world example: I once used a “Class 10” card for a sunset timelapse. The Yi kept pausing because the card couldn’t write data fast enough. Switching to a U3 card fixed it instantly.

File System: FAT32 vs. exFAT

The Xiaomi Yi formats cards using FAT32, which has a 4GB file size limit. That means your camera splits long recordings into 4GB chunks. For most users, this isn’t a problem—but if you’re filming a 90-minute movie, you’ll end up with 20+ separate files. exFAT (used by larger cards) doesn’t have this limit, but the Yi doesn’t support it natively. Stick with FAT32-compatible cards unless you’re willing to reformat manually (more on that later).

Top 5 SD Cards for Xiaomi Yi: My Tested Picks

1. SanDisk Extreme Pro U3 64GB – The All-Rounder

This card is my go-to recommendation. It’s fast (90MB/s write speed), reliable, and priced fairly. I’ve used it for everything from surfing in Hawaii to skiing in Colorado. The U3 rating ensures smooth 1080p60 and 4K recordings, and SanDisk’s reputation for durability means it survives drops, water, and extreme temps.

• Pros: Blazing fast, shock-resistant, lifetime warranty.
• Cons: Slightly pricier than budget options.
• Best for: Adventurers who want peace of mind.

2. Samsung EVO Select U3 128GB – Best Value for High Capacity

If you hate swapping cards mid-adventure, this 128GB beast is for you. The Samsung EVO Select has a 60MB/s write speed, which easily handles 4K on the Yi 4K+. I used it during a 3-day camping trip and only filled 70% of the space. Plus, Samsung’s 10-year warranty covers water damage and magnets (yes, really).

• Pros: Massive storage, great price/GB, water/dust resistant.
• Cons: Slower than premium cards (but still U3).
• Best for: Travelers and content creators.

3. Lexar Professional 633x 32GB – Budget Pick

Don’t want to spend $20 on a card? The Lexar 633x is a solid budget option. It hits the U3 minimum (30MB/s write speed) and has never failed me. I keep one as a backup for emergencies. Just don’t expect it to survive a dunk in saltwater—it’s not rated for harsh environments.

• Pros: Affordable, meets speed requirements.
• Cons: No ruggedness claims, shorter warranty (5 years).
• Best for: Casual users or backups.

4. Sony TOUGH-G 64GB – Toughest Card on the Market

For extreme conditions, this card is a tank. It’s waterproof to 16 feet, bend-proof, and works in -13°F to 185°F. I used it while ice fishing in Minnesota, and it handled the cold like a champ. The 90MB/s speed is perfect for 4K, and Sony’s 5-year warranty is generous.

• Pros: Unbreakable, fast, wide temp range.
• Cons: Expensive, overkill for most users.
• Best for: Mountaineers, divers, and extreme athletes.

5. Kingston Canvas React 32GB – Reliable Mid-Tier Option

Kingston isn’t as flashy as SanDisk, but this card delivers. The 45MB/s write speed is plenty for 1080p60, and the price is reasonable. I used it during a rainy bike race, and the Yi never missed a frame. Kingston also offers a lifetime warranty.

• Pros: Good speed, durable, affordable.

<

• Cons: Not as fast as premium cards.
• Best for: Everyday use and moderate adventures.

Common SD Card Issues (And How to Fix Them)

“Card Full” or “Write Error” Warnings

These errors usually mean one of three things:

• Low-quality card: Counterfeit or outdated cards can’t keep up. Always buy from reputable sellers.
• Card is full: Delete old files or use a larger card.
• Corrupted card: Try formatting the card in the Yi (Settings > Format). If that fails, use a PC tool like SD Memory Card Formatter.

Pro tip: Format your card every 2-3 weeks to prevent corruption, even if you’ve deleted files.

Card Not Detected

If your Yi doesn’t recognize the card:

• Clean the card’s gold contacts with a dry cloth.
• Try the card in another device to rule out a camera issue.
• Ensure the card is fully inserted (listen for a click).

I once spent 20 minutes troubleshooting a “card not detected” error—only to realize the card was upside down in the slot. Oops.

Slow Performance or Dropped Frames

This is almost always a speed issue. If you’re using a Class 10 or non-U3 card, upgrade to a U3/V30 card. Also, avoid “high capacity” cards with slow speeds (e.g., 128GB but only 10MB/s write).

Water Damage (Yes, It Happens)

Most SD cards aren’t waterproof. If your card gets wet:

• Remove it immediately and dry with a cloth.
• Let it air-dry for 24 hours before reusing.
• For saltwater exposure, rinse with distilled water first.

I learned this the hard way when my card took a swim in a river. It survived, but the footage was glitchy for a week.

Pro Tips for Managing Your SD Cards

Label Your Cards

Ever pulled a card from your bag and forgotten what’s on it? Label them! Use a permanent marker to note the capacity and primary use (e.g., “64GB – Surfing”). I also color-code mine with nail polish (blue for 32GB, red for 64GB).

Use Multiple Cards (Not Just One)

Carry at least two cards. If one fails, you’re not stuck. I keep a 32GB card for short trips and a 128GB for long adventures. Bonus: This forces you to back up files regularly.

Back Up Immediately After Recording

Don’t wait until you’re home. Use a portable hard drive or cloud storage (like Google Photos) to back up footage every night. I lost a week of travel clips once because I delayed backups—never again.

Format Cards In-Camera

Always format new cards in your Yi, not on a PC. This ensures compatibility and prevents file system errors. To format: Go to Settings > Storage > Format.

Test Cards Before Big Trips

Record a 10-minute video with your chosen card before a major adventure. Check for glitches, dropped frames, or overheating. I once discovered a faulty card this way—just hours before a flight.

SD Card Comparison Table: Quick Reference

Card	Capacity	Write Speed	Speed Class	Best For	Price (64GB)
SanDisk Extreme Pro	32-128GB	90MB/s	U3/V30	All-around use	$25
Samsung EVO Select	32-128GB	60MB/s	U3	High-capacity needs	$22
Lexar Professional 633x	16-64GB	30MB/s	U3	Budget buyers	$18
Sony TOUGH-G	32-64GB	90MB/s	U3/V30	Extreme conditions	$35
Kingston Canvas React	32-64GB	45MB/s	U3	Reliable mid-tier	$20

Final Thoughts: Your SD Card Is an Investment

Choosing the right SD card for your Xiaomi Yi Action Camera isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about trusting your gear with your memories. A $20 card that fails could cost you a once-in-a-lifetime shot. But a $30 card that works flawlessly? That’s a bargain. Whether you pick the rugged Sony TOUGH-G, the budget-friendly Lexar, or the all-around SanDisk Extreme Pro, the key is matching the card to your needs.

Remember my waterfall story? Now I always pack a 64GB SanDisk and a 128GB Samsung as a backup. I format both before trips, label them clearly, and back up footage nightly. It’s a simple routine, but it’s saved me from countless headaches. Your adventures deserve the same care. So next time you’re about to hit record, take a second to check that SD card. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of SD card does the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera support?

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards up to 128GB (or 256GB for newer firmware). Always use Class 10 or UHS-I/UHS-II cards for optimal 4K video recording and smooth performance.

What is the best SD card for the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera?

The SanDisk Extreme, Samsung EVO+, and Lexar 633x are top Xiaomi Yi Action Camera SD card picks due to their high write speeds, reliability, and 4K video support. Avoid cheap, no-name brands to prevent corruption or recording issues.

Can I use a 256GB SD card with my Xiaomi Yi Action Camera?

Yes, but only if your camera has updated firmware. Older models officially support up to 128GB, but newer firmware versions (v2.4+) allow 256GB microSDXC cards. Always format the card in-camera first.

Why does my Xiaomi Yi Action Camera keep saying “SD card error”?

This usually occurs due to a slow, incompatible, or corrupted card. Ensure you’re using a Class 10/UHS-I card, format it in the camera, and avoid reusing cards from other devices without reformatting.

How often should I replace my Xiaomi Yi Action Camera SD card?

Replace your Xiaomi Yi Action Camera SD card every 1–2 years or after heavy use (e.g., 500+ hours of recording). Frequent formatting and extreme conditions degrade card lifespan, increasing corruption risks.

Does the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera support SD card formatting via the app?

Yes, you can format the SD card directly through the Yi Action App (iOS/Android). Navigate to settings > storage > format. However, formatting in-camera is recommended for best compatibility.