Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control Review Features Tips

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control delivers seamless, wrist-mounted control for effortless photo and video capture on the go. With one-touch operation and reliable Bluetooth connectivity, it eliminates the need to handle your camera directly—ideal for action shots, vlogging, and hands-free adventures. Compact, intuitive, and surprisingly affordable, it’s a must-have accessory for Yi camera users seeking convenience and precision.

Key Takeaways

• Seamless control: Use the watch to start/stop recording remotely.
• Compact design: Lightweight and wearable for hands-free operation.
• Long battery life: Enjoy up to 10 hours of continuous use.
• Quick pairing: Syncs instantly with Xiaomi Yi cameras via Bluetooth.
• Real-time preview: Check shots directly on the watch display.
• Weather-resistant: Durable for outdoor adventures in all conditions.

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

Let me paint a picture: You’re hiking up a steep mountain trail, the sun is setting, and you want to capture that golden-hour moment without fumbling with your action camera. You reach for your phone—too slow. You try to press the tiny button on your camera—awkward. Then, you glance at your wrist. Boom. One tap, and the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control captures the shot. No stress, no missed moments.

This little gadget has become my go-to for hands-free action camera control. As someone who’s tested everything from bulky remotes to voice-activated triggers, I’ve found that the Xiaomi Yi watch remote strikes a rare balance between simplicity, functionality, and reliability. Whether you’re into vlogging, extreme sports, or just documenting family adventures, this remote can make your life easier. But is it perfect? Let’s dig in.

What Is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control?

Design and First Impressions

When I first unboxed the Xiaomi Yi watch remote, I was surprised by how compact and lightweight it felt. It’s not a smartwatch—it’s more like a minimalist fitness band with a single button. The band is made of soft silicone, which feels comfortable even after hours of wear. It’s water-resistant (IP67-rated), so a quick splash from a kayak paddle or a sweaty hike won’t damage it.

The design is intentionally simple. There’s no screen, no apps, no notifications. Just a button and a vibration motor. This minimalism is actually a strength. It means the battery lasts longer, and you’re less distracted by notifications. Think of it as a “dumb” remote with smart functionality.

Compatibility and Setup

The watch remote connects to your Xiaomi Yi Action Camera via Bluetooth. Setup is straightforward:

• Turn on the camera.
• Enable Bluetooth pairing mode (usually by holding the Wi-Fi button).
• Press the button on the watch remote. It vibrates and pairs instantly.

I tested it with the Yi 4K+ and the Yi Lite, and both paired in under 10 seconds. One tip: Keep the camera within 10 meters (33 feet) for reliable connection. Beyond that, you might experience lag or dropouts—especially in crowded areas with lots of Bluetooth signals.

Note: This remote is exclusive to Xiaomi Yi cameras. It won’t work with GoPro, DJI Osmo, or other brands. If you’re a multi-camera user, this is a limitation.

Key Features That Make It Stand Out

One-Touch Control for All Camera Functions

The single button does a lot. Here’s what it can do with different press patterns:

• Single press: Take a photo.
• Double press: Start/stop video recording.
• Long press (3 seconds): Toggle between photo, video, and time-lapse modes.
• Triple press: Turn the camera on/off (if it’s in standby).

I love this setup. For example, while biking downhill, I can double-press to start recording without taking my hands off the handlebars. Later, a single press captures a still of a cool trail feature. The vibration feedback confirms the action—no guessing if the command went through.

Real-World Use Cases

Let’s talk about practical scenarios:

• Surfing: Strap the remote to your ankle. When you catch a wave, double-press to record. No need to reach for the camera.
• Family hikes: Wear it on your wrist. When your kid points at a deer, tap the button. You’re not fumbling with a phone or camera.
• Pet videos: Attach the camera to your dog’s harness. Use the remote to capture playful moments from a distance.

One time, I forgot my phone while skiing. The watch remote saved my day. I used it to record runs, take selfies with friends, and even switch to time-lapse mode for a sunset. It’s a true “set it and forget it” tool.

Battery Life and Charging

The battery lasts about 30 days on standby or 500 button presses. That’s impressive for such a tiny device. When it does run low, charging is simple: Use the included magnetic USB cable. A 30-minute charge gives you roughly a week of use.

Pro tip: Charge it while you’re editing footage. The magnetic cable is easy to lose, so I keep a spare in my camera bag.

Pros and Cons: The Honest Breakdown

What We Love

• Hands-free convenience: The biggest win. No more awkward selfies or missed shots.
• Reliable connection: Bluetooth 4.0 is stable within 10 meters. I’ve never had it disconnect mid-recording.
• Long battery life: 30 days is rare for a remote. No daily charging hassles.
• Water-resistant: Survives rain, sweat, and splashes. Not for diving, though.
• Affordable: Priced around $25–$35, it’s a no-brainer upgrade.

Where It Falls Short

• Limited range: 10 meters isn’t far if you’re using the camera on a drone or pole. For long-distance control, you’ll need the Yi app.
• No screen: You can’t check battery levels or settings. You have to guess when it’s time to charge.
• No audio feedback: The vibration motor works, but a beep or voice confirmation would help in noisy environments.
• Yi-only compatibility: If you switch to another camera brand, this remote becomes useless.
• Button sensitivity: Sometimes, a light tap doesn’t register. You need to press firmly.

One nitpick: The silicone band can get dirty over time. I’ve had to scrub mine with soapy water after muddy hikes. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

Tips and Tricks to Get the Most Out of Your Remote

Customize Your Workflow

The remote’s button functions are fixed, but you can adapt how you use them:

• For vloggers: Set your camera to “video mode” by default. Use double-press to start recording, then long-press to switch to time-lapse for B-roll.
• For photographers: Keep the camera in “photo mode.” Use single presses for quick snaps and triple-press to power on before a shoot.
• For action sports: Wear the remote on your non-dominant hand. This way, you’re not blocking your grip or stance.

Pairing and Troubleshooting

If the remote won’t connect, try these steps:

• Reset the connection: Turn off the camera, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. Press the remote button immediately.
• Clear paired devices: In the Yi app, go to Bluetooth settings and “forget” the remote. Pair it again.
• Check battery: A low battery can cause pairing issues. Charge it fully before troubleshooting.

I once spent 20 minutes trying to pair the remote while camping. Turns out, my camera’s Bluetooth was disabled. The Yi app showed a warning, but I missed it. Now, I always check the app first.

Creative Mounting Ideas

The remote isn’t just for wrists. Get creative:

• Bike handlebars: Use a rubber band to attach it to the grip. Instant control while riding.
• Kayak paddle: Tape it near the shaft. Press it with your palm while paddling.
• Pet collar: Secure it with a zip tie. Capture your dog’s perspective.

Warning: Don’t attach it to anything you’ll lose if it breaks. The remote isn’t indestructible.

How It Compares to Other Remotes and Alternatives

Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote vs. GoPro The Remote

GoPro’s remote is a full smartwatch with a screen, touch controls, and app integration. It’s more powerful but also more expensive (~$80) and bulkier. The Yi remote wins on simplicity and battery life. Choose GoPro’s if you want a screen; go Yi if you want minimalism.

Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote vs. Smartphone App

The Yi app lets you control the camera via phone, but it has drawbacks:

• Lag: The app can be slow, especially in low-light.
• Distraction: You’re staring at a phone, not the scene.
• Battery drain: Streaming video to your phone eats battery fast.

The watch remote is faster and more intuitive. Use the app for complex settings; use the remote for quick actions.

Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote vs. Third-Party Remotes

Generic Bluetooth remotes (~$15) are cheaper but often lack Yi-specific features. They might not support long-press mode switching or camera power control. The Yi remote is optimized for Yi cameras—stick with it for reliability.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Feature	Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote	GoPro The Remote	Yi Smartphone App	Generic Bluetooth Remote
Price	$25–$35	$70–$80	Free	$10–$20
Battery Life	30 days	7 days	N/A (uses phone)	14–30 days
Range	10 meters	60 meters	10 meters	5–10 meters
Water Resistance	IP67	IPX8 (dive-rated)	N/A	Varies (often IPX4)
Camera Power Control	Yes	Yes	Yes	Rare
Mode Switching	Yes (long-press)	Yes (screen)	Yes (app)	No
Best For	Hands-free, simple use	Advanced control, long range	Settings, framing	Budget users

Final Verdict: Is the Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote Worth It?

After months of testing, I can confidently say: Yes, if you own a Xiaomi Yi camera. It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly practical. The one-touch controls, long battery life, and water resistance make it a must-have for action shooters, vloggers, and casual users alike.

It’s not perfect. The 10-meter range limits long-distance use, and the lack of a screen means you’re flying blind on battery status. But for everyday adventures, it’s a game-changer. I’ve missed fewer shots, captured more candid moments, and spent less time fiddling with my camera—all because of this tiny wristband.

Who should buy it?

• Adventure seekers who want hands-free control.
• Parents who need quick access to capture kid moments.
• Content creators who value reliability over bells and whistles.

Who should skip it?

• Multi-camera users (GoPro, DJI, etc.).
• Long-range shooters (e.g., drone pilots).
• Tech enthusiasts who want app integration and screens.

At $25–$35, the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control is a small investment for big convenience. It’s not just a remote—it’s a tool that helps you focus on the moment, not the gear. And in a world of overcomplicated tech, that’s a rare and valuable thing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control?

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control is a wearable wristwatch-style remote designed to control Yi action cameras wirelessly. It allows users to start/stop recording, capture photos, and switch modes from up to 10 meters away, making it ideal for hands-free operation during outdoor activities.

How do I pair the Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote with my action camera?

To pair the remote, ensure your Yi camera is powered on and in Wi-Fi mode. Press and hold the remote’s power button until the LED flashes, then follow the camera’s on-screen pairing prompts. The process typically takes less than a minute.

Can the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote Control work with other brands?

No, the remote is specifically designed for Xiaomi Yi action cameras and is not officially compatible with other brands like GoPro or DJI. It uses proprietary Wi-Fi protocols optimized for Yi cameras only.

What are the key features of the Yi Watch Remote?

The remote features a water-resistant design, one-touch recording, photo capture, and mode switching. It also has an LCD screen to display battery life and connection status, ensuring seamless control during adventures.

How long does the battery last on the Xiaomi Yi Watch Remote?

The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of continuous use on a single charge. Charging takes approximately 1.5 hours via USB, making it convenient for extended outdoor use.

Is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Watch Remote worth buying?

If you own a Xiaomi Yi camera, the remote is a worthwhile investment for hands-free control during sports or travel. Its durability, ease of use, and reliable connection justify the price for active users seeking convenience.