Yi Action Camera Comparison Top Models Reviewed for 2026

The Yi Action Camera lineup in 2024 delivers exceptional value with top-tier 4K video, advanced stabilization, and budget-friendly pricing across its key models. Our Yi action camera comparison breaks down the Yi 4K+, Yi Lite, and Yi 4K+ Pro to reveal which model best fits your adventure needs—whether you’re a vlogger, cyclist, or weekend explorer. From image quality to battery life and smart features, we spotlight the standout performer in every category.

Key Takeaways

• Choose the Yi 4K+ for pro-grade 4K60fps video and superior stabilization in rough conditions.
• Yi Lite suits budget buyers with solid 4K30fps at half the price of flagship models.
• Yi 360 VR excels in immersive content—ideal for creators needing 5.7K 360-degree footage.
• Prioritize battery life with Yi 4K+—lasts 120 mins, 30% longer than mid-tier rivals.
• All models support AI editing, but Yi Cloud Pro unlocks advanced auto-trim features.
• Yi Lite lacks waterproofing—pair with a housing for underwater use below 3m depth.
• For low-light, pick Yi 4K+—larger sensor reduces noise in 1080p night mode.

Why the Right Action Camera Can Make or Break Your Adventure

Remember that time you hiked to the top of a mountain, heart pounding, wind howling, and pulled out your phone to capture the moment—only to realize your battery was at 3% and the video looked like a watercolor painting? Yeah, been there. That’s when I learned the hard way: not all cameras are built for adventure. Enter the Yi action camera—a brand that’s quietly carved out a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts, vloggers, and everyday explorers who want high-quality footage without breaking the bank.

In this Yi action camera comparison, I’m going to walk you through the top models available in 2024. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, shredding powder, or just documenting your kid’s first bike ride, the right camera can mean the difference between a forgettable clip and a share-worthy masterpiece. I’ve tested these cameras on real trips—from rainy hikes to dusty mountain biking trails—and I’ll share what actually works, what’s overhyped, and which model might be your perfect match.

Yi Action Cameras: The Brand That Grew Up Fast

From Budget Beginnings to Feature-Packed Powerhouses

When Yi first entered the action camera market, it was known as a budget-friendly alternative to GoPro. Fast forward to 2024, and the brand has evolved into a serious contender, offering models with 4K video, advanced stabilization, and even AI-powered features. What sets Yi apart isn’t just price—it’s the smart integration of features that actually matter to users.

Unlike some brands that pack in specs just to impress, Yi focuses on usability. For example, their touchscreens are responsive even with gloves on, and their companion app (Yi Action) is surprisingly intuitive. I once tried setting up a GoPro in the rain, fumbling with tiny buttons—Yi’s one-touch recording saved my shoot when the storm rolled in.

Who Should Consider a Yi Action Camera?

Yi cameras are ideal for:

• Beginners: If you’re new to action cams, Yi’s interface is easier to learn than GoPro’s.
• Mid-tier adventurers: You want 4K and stabilization but don’t need professional-grade cinema features.
• Budget-conscious creators: You get 80% of the performance of high-end models at 60% of the cost.
• Travelers: Compact, lightweight, and durable enough for backpacks and carry-ons.

That said, if you’re a pro filmmaker needing RAW video or advanced color grading, you might still lean toward GoPro or DJI. But for most of us? Yi hits the sweet spot.

Yi Action Camera Comparison: The Top 4 Models of 2024

1. Yi 4K+ (The All-Rounder Champion)

The Yi 4K+ is the flagship of the lineup and my go-to for most trips. It records 4K at 60fps, has a 2.2-inch touchscreen, and uses a 12MP Sony sensor. What really won me over was the HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization—I shot a mountain biking trail with bumpy terrain, and the footage looked like it was on rails.

Best for: Vloggers, hikers, and anyone who wants reliable 4K without fiddling with settings.

Pros:

• 4K/60fps video with excellent dynamic range
• HyperSmooth 2.0 (best-in-class stabilization)
• 2.2-inch touchscreen (responsive in cold/wet conditions)
• Waterproof to 10m (40m with housing)
• Voice control (“Start recording” works 90% of the time)

Cons:

• Battery life is average (~90 mins at 4K/60fps)
• No front-facing screen (annoying for selfie vlogs)
• App can lag occasionally

Real-world tip: Carry a spare battery and use the 1080p/120fps mode for longer shoots. The quality difference isn’t huge, but you’ll get double the recording time.

2. Yi Lite (The Budget Hero)

At under $100, the Yi Lite is the most affordable model in the lineup, but don’t let the price fool you. It shoots 1080p at 60fps with solid stabilization—perfect for casual users or as a secondary camera.

I used it to film my dog’s first swim. The video was clear, colors popped, and the stabilization kept the wobbly dog-cam footage watchable. Not bad for a camera that costs less than my lunch.

Best for: First-time buyers, parents, and budget travelers.

Pros:

• Ultra-affordable price point
• Good 1080p/60fps video quality
• Lightweight (only 65g)
• Simple interface (no learning curve)

Cons:

• No 4K recording
• Small 1.5-inch screen (hard to see in sunlight)
• No touchscreen (button-only controls)
• Battery lasts ~70 mins

Pro tip: Pair the Yi Lite with a chest mount for POV dog walks or kid adventures. It’s light enough they won’t notice it’s there.

3. Yi 4K+ Pro (For the Tech Enthusiast)

The Yi 4K+ Pro is the 4K+’s big brother, adding a front-facing screen, longer battery life (120 mins), and improved low-light performance. It’s the model I reach for when I’m filming at dusk or in dimly lit caves.

The front screen is a game-changer. I shot a sunrise vlog on a foggy mountain—no more guessing if the framing was right. The camera also supports AI scene detection, which automatically adjusts exposure and color balance. It’s not perfect (it once thought a campfire was a sunset), but it’s close.

Best for: Vloggers, content creators, and night owls.

Pros:

• Front-facing screen (perfect for selfies and vlogging)
• 4K/60fps with better low-light performance
• 120-minute battery life
• AI scene detection and HDR
• Waterproof to 10m (40m with housing)

Cons:

• More expensive than the 4K+
• Slightly bulkier
• No 5K recording (unlike some competitors)

Real-world example: I used the 4K+ Pro to film a night kayaking trip. The AI detected the moonlit water and adjusted the exposure so the stars were visible—something my phone camera completely failed at.

4. Yi 4K+ Mini (The Pocket-Sized Powerhouse)

The Yi 4K+ Mini is the smallest 4K camera in Yi’s lineup. At just 85g, it’s perfect for mounting on helmets, bikes, or even drones. It records 4K at 30fps (or 1080p at 60fps) and has basic stabilization.

I mounted it on my kid’s scooter for a “day in the life” video. The footage was crisp, and the camera survived multiple falls (kids, right?). The lack of a screen is a trade-off, but the companion app makes setup easy.

Best for: Mounting on gear, kids’ activities, and travel.

Pros:

• Ultra-compact and lightweight
• 4K/30fps video
• Waterproof to 10m (40m with housing)
• Great for POV shots

Cons:

• No screen (must use app for setup)
• No 60fps in 4K mode
• Basic stabilization (not as smooth as 4K+)

Tip: Use the Yi 4K+ Mini for secondary angles. Pair it with a 4K+ for multi-cam vlogs—it’s a budget-friendly way to get pro-style cuts.

5. Yi 5K (The Newcomer with a Twist)

The Yi 5K (released early 2024) is the brand’s first 5K camera. It records 5K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps, and has a 2.5-inch touchscreen. The standout feature? Dual microphones with noise reduction—ideal for vloggers who hate wind noise.

I tested it on a windy beach. My voice came through clear, even with 20mph gusts. The 5K video is stunning, but most people won’t notice the difference unless they’re cropping heavily or editing for large screens.

Best for: Future-proofing, vloggers, and detail-oriented creators.

Pros:

• 5K/30fps recording
• Dual mics with wind noise reduction
• Large 2.5-inch touchscreen
• HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization

Cons:

• 5K files are huge (1 minute = ~500MB)
• No front-facing screen
• Battery life drops in 5K mode (~60 mins)

Note: The 5K mode is overkill for social media. Use 4K/60fps for most shoots, and 5K only for scenes you plan to zoom into (e.g., wildlife).

Key Features Compared: What Really Matters?

Video Quality & Resolution

All Yi cameras shoot at least 1080p, but here’s how they stack up:

• Yi Lite: 1080p/60fps (good for casual use)
• Yi 4K+ / 4K+ Mini: 4K/60fps (best balance of quality and file size)
• Yi 4K+ Pro / 5K: 4K/60fps + 5K/30fps (for future-proofing)

Reality check: Most phones now shoot 4K, but Yi’s stabilization and rugged design make it better for motion. I’ve seen GoPros struggle with vibration on bikes—Yi’s HyperSmooth handles it effortlessly.

Stabilization: The Unsung Hero

Stabilization is what turns shaky footage into watchable content. Yi’s HyperSmooth tech (v2.0 on 4K+, v3.0 on 5K) is excellent. I tested the 4K+ on a bumpy ATV ride—zero blur. The Lite and Mini use basic stabilization, which is fine for slow walks but not fast action.

Stabilization ranking (best to worst):

1. Yi 5K (HyperSmooth 3.0)
2. Yi 4K+ / 4K+ Pro (HyperSmooth 2.0)
3. Yi 4K+ Mini (basic)
4. Yi Lite (basic)

Battery Life & Charging

Battery life varies widely:

• Yi 4K+ Pro: 120 mins (best in class)
• Yi 4K+: 90 mins
• Yi 5K: 60 mins (5K mode), 90 mins (4K mode)
• Yi 4K+ Mini / Lite: 70 mins

Pro tip: Buy spare batteries. I keep a pack of three for weekend trips. Also, use a power bank with USB-C charging—Yi cameras charge fully in ~2 hours.

App & Connectivity

The Yi Action app (iOS/Android) is a mixed bag. It’s great for:

• Wireless preview and control
• Quick edits (trim, add music)
• Firmware updates

But it has quirks:

• Occasional lag (especially on older phones)
• No advanced editing tools (use DaVinci Resolve or CapCut for that)
• Live streaming only works on 4K+ and up

Workaround: Use the app for setup, then transfer files to your computer for serious editing.

Accessories & Mounts: Getting the Most Out of Your Yi

Must-Have Accessories

Yi’s ecosystem is growing, but some accessories are better than others. Here’s what I recommend:

• Waterproof housing (for diving or extreme weather)
• Spare batteries (at least one per day of filming)
• MicroSD cards (128GB minimum; U3/V30 rated for 4K)
• Chest/helmet mounts (for POV shots)
• Selfie stick (for vlogs—Yi’s is lightweight and extendable)

Pro tip: Buy Yi-branded accessories. Third-party mounts sometimes don’t fit snugly. I learned this the hard way when a cheap chest mount failed mid-ski run.

Creative Mounting Ideas

Action cams shine when mounted creatively:

• Car mount: Film road trips or scenic drives
• Drone mount: Yi 4K+ Mini works with DJI drones (with adapter)
• Pet harness: Yi Lite is light enough for dogs
• Tripod: Use a mini tripod for time-lapses

I once mounted my 4K+ on a fishing rod to film a catch. The underwater footage was surprisingly clear—thanks to the waterproof housing.

Which Yi Action Camera Should You Buy in 2024?

Let’s cut to the chase: your perfect Yi camera depends on your needs and budget. Here’s my quick guide:

For Beginners or Budget Buyers: Yi Lite

At under $100, the Lite is a steal. It’s simple, reliable, and great for casual use. If you’re just dipping your toes into action cams, start here.

For Most Users: Yi 4K+

The 4K+ is the best value in the lineup. It has 4K/60fps, excellent stabilization, and a touchscreen—all for around $180. I’ve used it for everything from hiking to family events.

For Vloggers & Creators: Yi 4K+ Pro

The front-facing screen and AI features make the 4K+ Pro ideal for content creators. It’s worth the extra $50 if you film yourself often.

For Mounting & Travel: Yi 4K+ Mini

If you want a secondary camera or need something ultra-compact, the Mini is perfect. Pair it with a 4K+ for multi-cam setups.

For Future-Proofing: Yi 5K

The 5K is overkill for most, but if you want the highest resolution and dual mics, it’s a solid choice. Just be ready for huge files and shorter battery life.

Final tip: Wait for sales. Yi cameras often drop 20-30% during Black Friday or Amazon Prime Day. I snagged my 4K+ Pro for $199 (normally $249).

Final Verdict: Yi’s Place in the Action Camera World

The Yi action camera lineup has come a long way. What started as a budget option is now a serious player, offering features that rival GoPro at lower prices. No, they’re not perfect—battery life could be better, and the app needs polish—but for most users, the pros far outweigh the cons.

In this Yi action camera comparison, I’ve shared real-world insights from months of testing. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a vlogger, or a parent capturing family memories, there’s a Yi camera that fits your life. The key is matching the right model to your needs: don’t overspend on features you’ll never use, but don’t skimp on stabilization and video quality.

So, which one will you choose? If you’re still unsure, ask yourself: What’s your biggest adventure this year? A mountain climb? A road trip? A kid’s soccer game? Pick the camera that’ll capture it—and then go make some memories.

Model	Video	Stabilization	Battery Life	Screen	Price (USD)
Yi Lite	1080p/60fps	Basic	70 mins	1.5-inch (no touch)	$99
Yi 4K+	4K/60fps	HyperSmooth 2.0	90 mins	2.2-inch touchscreen	$179
Yi 4K+ Pro	4K/60fps	HyperSmooth 2.0	120 mins	2.2-inch + front screen	$249
Yi 4K+ Mini	4K/30fps	Basic	70 mins	None (app control)	$129
Yi 5K	5K/30fps, 4K/60fps	HyperSmooth 3.0	60-90 mins	2.5-inch touchscreen	$299

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Yi 4K+ and Yi Lite action cameras?

The Yi 4K+ offers 4K video at 60fps and a 2.2-inch touchscreen, while the Yi Lite caps at 2.7K/30fps with a smaller 1.5-inch screen. The 4K+ also supports higher-bitrate recording and advanced stabilization, making it better for professional use.

Which Yi action camera is best for low-light performance in 2024?

The Yi 4K Action Camera (2024 edition) excels in low light due to its Sony IMX377 sensor and f/2.8 aperture. Its Night Mode reduces noise in dark environments, outperforming older models like the Yi Lite.

How does the Yi Lite compare to the Yi 4K in terms of battery life?

The Yi Lite lasts up to 130 minutes in 1080p mode, while the Yi 4K averages 90 minutes at 4K/30fps. However, the Yi 4K’s removable battery design allows for quick swaps during extended shoots.

Does the Yi action camera comparison include models with GPS tracking?

Only the flagship Yi 4K+ includes built-in GPS for geotagging and speed/distance tracking. Other models like the Yi Lite require external GPS accessories for similar functionality.

What makes the Yi 4K+ stand out in the 2024 Yi action camera comparison?

The Yi 4K+ leads with 4K/60fps, HyperSmooth stabilization, and a 1.5-hour battery life. Its USB-C charging and waterproof housing (up to 40m) also make it ideal for adventure sports.

Are Yi action cameras compatible with GoPro mounts?

Yes, all Yi action cameras (including the Yi 4K, Lite, and 4K+) use standard 1/4″ mounting threads, ensuring full compatibility with GoPro accessories and mounts.