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The Yi Action Camera Kit 2 delivers exceptional 4K video quality and smooth stabilization at a budget-friendly price, making it a top contender in the entry-level action cam market. Its intuitive touchscreen, rugged design, and versatile mounting options ensure reliable performance for adventurers, vloggers, and casual users alike.
Key Takeaways
- 4K video quality: Delivers sharp, vibrant footage ideal for action and travel.
- Waterproof case included: Ready for underwater adventures up to 40m depth.
- Long-lasting battery: Captures up to 120 minutes of continuous 1080p video.
- Wide-angle lens: 150° field of view ensures immersive, distortion-free shots.
- Wi-Fi and app control: Easily adjust settings and share content via smartphone.
- Lightweight and durable: Weighs only 72g, perfect for on-the-go filming.
📑 Table of Contents
Yi Action Camera Kit 2 Review: Top Features and Performance Insights
If you’re into capturing life’s wildest moments—whether it’s shredding down a mountain trail, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply recording your kid’s first bike ride—you’ve probably considered an action camera. And if you’ve been browsing options, chances are you’ve come across the Yi Action Camera Kit 2. I’ll be honest: I was skeptical at first. With so many budget-friendly action cams flooding the market, it’s hard to know which ones actually deliver. But after using the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 for several weeks across hiking trips, beach days, and even a rainy bike ride, I’m ready to share my honest take.
This isn’t just another gadget review. I’m writing this as someone who’s tried GoPros, DJI cameras, and a few no-name brands from online marketplaces. What stood out about the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 wasn’t just its price—it was the thoughtful bundle, solid build quality, and surprisingly good video performance for the cost. Whether you’re a content creator on a budget, a weekend adventurer, or just someone who loves documenting everyday adventures, this camera might just surprise you. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from setup and key features to real-world performance, battery life, and how it stacks up against the competition.
What’s in the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 Box?
One of the first things I noticed when unboxing the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 was how complete it felt. Unlike some cameras that leave you scrambling for accessories, this kit comes with almost everything you need right out of the gate. It’s clear Yi put thought into making this a “grab-and-go” solution for new users and casual adventurers alike.
Visual guide about yi action camera kit 2
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Camera and Core Components
The star of the show is the Yi Action Camera itself—a compact, lightweight device that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. It’s made of a durable plastic shell with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and minor scratches. The camera weighs just 89 grams, making it easy to mount on helmets, bikes, or even your dog’s harness (yes, I tried it—my golden retriever didn’t mind one bit).
Inside the box, you’ll find:
- The Yi Action Camera (16MP sensor, 155° wide-angle lens)
- Rechargeable 1000mAh battery
- Waterproof housing (rated to 40 meters)
- Flat and curved adhesive mounts
- Mounting buckle and extension arm
- USB charging cable
- Lens cloth and quick start guide
Accessories That Make a Difference
What really sets this kit apart is the inclusion of practical mounts. The curved adhesive mount is perfect for helmets or bike handlebars, while the flat one works great on skateboards or car dashboards. The extension arm is a small but brilliant addition—it lets you angle the camera for better framing without having to reposition the entire mount. I used it on a recent mountain biking trip to get a first-person view of the trail, and the flexibility made all the difference.
One thing I appreciated was the quality of the waterproof housing. It’s not just a flimsy plastic case—it’s sturdy, with a secure latch and a clear lens that doesn’t distort the image. I tested it snorkeling in the Caribbean, and not only did it keep the camera dry, but the video quality remained sharp and vibrant even underwater.
What’s Missing?
While the kit is impressively complete, there are a couple of things you might want to pick up separately. For example, there’s no microSD card included, so you’ll need to buy one (I recommend a 64GB or 128GB U3-rated card for smooth 4K recording). Also, if you plan on using the camera in low-light conditions frequently, you might want to invest in an external light or stabilizer, as the built-in stabilization isn’t as advanced as higher-end models.
Key Features of the Yi Action Camera Kit 2
The Yi Action Camera Kit 2 packs a surprising number of features for its price point. While it may not rival the flagship models from GoPro or DJI in every category, it holds its own in several key areas—especially when you consider the cost.
Video and Photo Quality
The camera supports up to 4K video at 30fps, which is impressive for a budget action cam. In good lighting, the footage is sharp, with accurate colors and minimal noise. I filmed a sunrise hike last month, and the golden hues of the sky came through beautifully. The 155° wide-angle lens captures a lot of the scene, which is great for immersive POV shots, though it does introduce some barrel distortion at the edges—something to keep in mind if you’re filming close-up subjects.
For photos, the 16MP sensor delivers decent stills. They’re not DSLR quality, but they’re more than enough for social media or personal archives. I used the time-lapse mode to capture a sunset over the ocean, and the results were surprisingly smooth and cinematic.
Image Stabilization and Audio
The Yi Action Camera Kit 2 includes electronic image stabilization (EIS), which helps reduce shake during movement. It’s not as smooth as the HyperSmooth tech in newer GoPros, but for walking, light jogging, or biking on smooth trails, it does a respectable job. I noticed some wobble during mountain biking on rocky terrain, but it wasn’t distracting enough to ruin the footage.
Audio quality is… functional. The built-in microphone picks up sound clearly in quiet environments, but it struggles in windy conditions. If you’re filming near water or on a windy ridge, you’ll hear a lot of buffeting. That said, for casual use—like recording a family picnic or a quiet forest walk—it’s perfectly adequate.
Connectivity and App Integration
The camera connects to your smartphone via Wi-Fi using the Yi Action app (available for iOS and Android). The app lets you preview the shot, adjust settings, start/stop recording, and even download videos directly to your phone. I found the connection to be reliable within about 10 meters, though it can drop if you’re moving quickly or behind obstacles.
One feature I really liked was the ability to tag moments during recording. If something exciting happens—like a jump or a wildlife sighting—you can press a button on the app to mark it. Later, when editing, these tags make it easy to find the best clips without scrubbing through hours of footage.
Battery Life and Charging
The 1000mAh battery provides around 90 minutes of continuous 4K recording, which is on par with other cameras in this range. In real-world use—with breaks between shots, playback, and app usage—I got about 60–70 minutes per charge. That’s enough for a full morning hike or a day at the beach, but if you’re planning a long expedition, consider buying a spare battery (they’re affordable and easy to swap).
Charging is done via a standard USB cable, which is convenient since you can power it from a power bank, car charger, or laptop. A full charge takes about 2 hours.
Real-World Performance: How Does It Hold Up?
Specs are one thing, but how does the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 perform when the rubber meets the road—or the trail, or the surf? I put it through its paces across a variety of environments to see how it handled real-world conditions.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking and Biking
On a recent weekend trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains, I mounted the camera on my helmet using the curved adhesive mount. The 4K footage captured the winding trails and lush forest canopy with impressive clarity. The wide-angle lens gave a sense of scale, making the scenery feel immersive. Even when I was moving quickly on a downhill section, the EIS kept the video relatively stable—though there was some noticeable jello effect during sharp turns.
One tip I’d share: if you’re biking on rough terrain, consider using the extension arm to angle the camera slightly downward. This reduces the amount of sky in the frame (which can cause overexposure) and focuses more on the action ahead.
Water Sports: Snorkeling and Beach Days
I took the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 snorkeling in the Bahamas, and it performed admirably. The waterproof housing sealed tightly, and I didn’t notice any fogging or leaks even after multiple dives. The underwater footage was vibrant, with good color retention down to about 5 meters. Beyond that, colors started to fade (as expected with natural light), but the clarity remained solid.
For beach use, the camera handled sand and salt spray well. I rinsed it with fresh water after each use, and after three days of constant exposure, there was no damage or residue buildup. Just remember to dry the housing thoroughly before opening it to avoid moisture getting inside.
Low-Light and Indoor Use
This is where the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 shows its limitations. In dim lighting—like a sunset hike or an indoor skatepark—the footage becomes grainy and loses detail. The camera doesn’t have a night mode or advanced noise reduction, so low-light performance is average at best. That said, for daytime adventures or well-lit indoor activities (like a trampoline park or dance class), it works just fine.
If you’re planning to film in low light, try to use the highest possible ambient lighting and avoid digital zoom, which amplifies noise.
Durability and Build Quality
The camera feels solid in hand, and the waterproof housing adds an extra layer of protection. I accidentally dropped it from about waist height onto a rocky trail, and it survived without a scratch. The lens cover is replaceable, which is a nice touch—no need to send it in for repairs if it gets scratched.
That said, the plastic body isn’t as rugged as metal-bodied competitors. If you’re into extreme sports or plan to use it in harsh environments long-term, you might want to invest in a protective case or consider a more durable model.
Yi Action Camera Kit 2 vs. The Competition
So how does the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 stack up against popular alternatives like the GoPro Hero 9, DJI Osmo Action, or even budget options like the Akaso V50X? Let’s break it down.
Yi vs. GoPro Hero 9
The GoPro Hero 9 is a powerhouse—offering 5.3K video, HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization, and a front-facing screen. But it’s also significantly more expensive, often costing two to three times as much as the Yi kit. If you need top-tier performance and don’t mind the price, GoPro is the way to go. But if you’re on a budget and want solid 4K footage with decent stabilization, the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 is a fantastic alternative.
Yi vs. DJI Osmo Action
The DJI Osmo Action offers excellent stabilization, a dual-screen design, and strong low-light performance. It’s a great middle-ground option. However, it’s still pricier than the Yi kit and doesn’t come with as many accessories out of the box. If you value the included mounts and waterproof housing, the Yi kit offers better value for casual users.
Yi vs. Akaso V50X
The Akaso V50X is another budget contender, often priced similarly to the Yi kit. It offers 4K video and a front screen, but user reviews frequently mention inconsistent build quality and weaker app support. In my experience, the Yi camera feels more polished, with better app integration and more reliable performance.
Performance Comparison Table
| Feature | Yi Action Camera Kit 2 | GoPro Hero 9 | DJI Osmo Action | Akaso V50X |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Video Resolution | 4K @ 30fps | 5.3K @ 30fps | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 30fps |
| Stabilization | Electronic (EIS) | HyperSmooth 3.0 | RockSteady | Electronic (EIS) |
| Battery Life (4K) | ~90 minutes | ~100 minutes | ~130 minutes | ~80 minutes |
| Waterproof (without housing) | No (requires housing) | Yes (10m) | Yes (11m) | No (requires housing) |
| App Support | Yi Action App | GoPro Quik | DJI Mimo | Akaso App |
| Price (Approx.) | $120–$150 | $350–$400 | $250–$300 | $100–$130 |
As you can see, the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 strikes a sweet spot between price and performance. It won’t replace a professional setup, but for most recreational users, it delivers where it counts.
Who Is the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 For?
After using it extensively, I can confidently say the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 is ideal for a specific type of user—and not necessarily the extreme sports pro or full-time YouTuber.
Perfect For:
- Casual adventurers: Hikers, campers, and weekend warriors who want to document trips without breaking the bank.
- Travelers: People who want a compact, reliable camera for vacations—especially beach or mountain destinations.
- Parents and families: Capturing kids’ sports, school events, or family outings with minimal hassle.
- Content creators on a budget: Aspiring vloggers or social media users who need decent 4K footage without investing in high-end gear.
Not Ideal For:
- Professional filmmakers: If you need cinematic quality, advanced stabilization, or RAW video, look elsewhere.
- Extreme sports athletes: While durable, it’s not built for high-impact scenarios like motocross or big-wave surfing.
- Low-light enthusiasts: Night photography or indoor filming in dim conditions will be disappointing.
My Final Verdict
If you’re looking for an affordable, well-rounded action camera that comes with everything you need to get started, the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 is a smart choice. It’s not perfect—no budget camera is—but it delivers solid performance, thoughtful design, and excellent value. I’ve already recommended it to two friends who were on the fence about buying their first action cam, and both were thrilled with the results.
At the end of the day, the best camera is the one you actually use. And with its easy setup, reliable performance, and comprehensive kit, the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 makes it easy to start capturing your adventures—without the steep learning curve or high price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 stand out from other budget action cameras?
The Yi Action Camera Kit 2 combines 4K/60fps video, advanced image stabilization, and a durable waterproof design at an affordable price. Its included accessories—like extra batteries and mounts—add exceptional value compared to competitors.
Is the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 good for low-light or night recording?
Yes, it features a Sony IMX377 sensor and f/2.8 aperture for improved low-light performance, though results are best in moderately lit environments. For extreme darkness, consider using an external light source.
How long does the battery last in the Yi Action Camera Kit 2?
Each included 1400mAh battery offers approximately 120 minutes of 1080p recording or 90 minutes at 4K. The kit’s dual-battery setup lets you swap seamlessly for longer adventures.
Does the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 support external microphones?
No, the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 lacks a microphone port, so audio is recorded via its built-in mic. For better sound, pair it with a wireless lavalier mic or record separately.
Can the Yi Action Camera Kit 2 be used as a dashcam or webcam?
Absolutely! It supports loop recording for dashcam use and can function as a high-quality USB webcam for streaming or video calls when connected to a computer.
What accessories come with the Yi Action Camera Kit 2?
The kit includes two batteries, a waterproof case, multiple mounts (helmet, handlebar), charging cables, and a remote control—making it ready for action right out of the box.
