Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black Review Best Budget Pick

The Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black delivers exceptional value as the best budget-friendly action cam on the market. With crisp 4K video, reliable image stabilization, and a durable, included waterproof case rated to 40 meters, it outperforms competitors at twice the price. Ideal for adventurers and content creators alike, this compact powerhouse proves premium performance doesn’t require a premium price tag.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable performance: Delivers 4K video at a budget-friendly price point.
• Waterproof case included: Ready for underwater adventures up to 40m depth.
• Compact and lightweight: Ideal for travel, sports, and vlogging on the go.
• Long battery life: Record up to 120 minutes on a single charge.
• Intuitive touchscreen: Easy navigation and quick setting adjustments mid-action.
• Versatile mounting options: Compatible with most action cam accessories and tripods.

Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black Review: Best Budget Pick

Remember that time I took my phone to the beach and nearly lost it to a rogue wave? Or when I tried recording my nephew’s first bike ride without training wheels, only to realize my phone couldn’t handle the bumps? We’ve all been there. We’ve all wished for a small, tough camera that could keep up with life’s messy, exciting moments—without breaking the bank. That’s where the Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black enters the picture. It’s not the most flashy name in the action cam world, but after weeks of testing it on hikes, bike rides, and even a rainy-day dog walk, I can confidently say it punches way above its price tag.

I’m not a pro vlogger or an extreme sports athlete. I’m just someone who wants to capture real life—kids laughing, waves crashing, trails winding—without spending a fortune or lugging around heavy gear. The Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black caught my eye because it promised 4K video, solid battery life, and full waterproof protection—all for under $100. That’s less than half the price of some big-name competitors. But does it really deliver? Or is it just another budget gadget that looks good on paper? I put it through its paces, and what I found might surprise you.

First Impressions & Unboxing: What’s in the Box?

When my Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black arrived, I was immediately struck by how compact the box was. No flashy marketing, no oversized packaging—just a simple black box with a clear image of the camera and its waterproof case. Inside, everything was neatly packed and surprisingly complete.

What You Get Out of the Box

• Yi Action Camera (Black): The main unit is small—about the size of a matchbox—with a matte black finish that feels grippy and durable.
• Waterproof Case (Included): This isn’t an optional accessory. It comes in the box, which is a huge win. The case is clear polycarbonate, rated to 40 meters (130 feet), and has a secure latch system.
• Rechargeable Battery: A 1050mAh battery that slots into the side of the camera.
• USB-C Charging Cable: Modern and convenient. No proprietary connectors.
• Quick Start Guide & Mounts: Includes a basic adhesive mount, a flat base, and a curved base—perfect for helmets, bikes, or surfboards.
• Lens Cleaning Cloth: A small but appreciated touch.

I loved that the waterproof case was included. So many budget cameras make you buy it separately, which can add $20–$30 to the cost. Not here. From day one, I could take the camera into the rain, pool, or even the shower (yes, I tested that).

Design & Build Quality

The camera feels solid. The buttons are tactile and responsive—no mushy clicks. The back has a 2-inch LCD screen, which is small but surprisingly bright and clear, even in sunlight. The lens sticks out slightly, but it’s protected by a raised bezel, so you don’t have to worry about scratching it on a table.

The waterproof case is well-designed. It’s easy to open and close, and the O-ring seal feels tight. I submerged it in a bucket for 10 minutes (with a paper towel inside to test for leaks), and everything stayed dry. The case also has a built-in speaker and microphone cutouts, so audio quality isn’t completely muffled underwater or in heavy rain.

One thing I noticed: the case adds bulk. The camera alone is pocket-friendly, but with the case, it’s more like a small hockey puck. That’s a trade-off for waterproofing, but for most outdoor activities, it’s worth it.

Video & Image Quality: How Does It Perform in Real Life?

This is where most budget cameras stumble. They promise 4K but deliver grainy, shaky, or washed-out footage. The Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black doesn’t fall into that trap. It’s not perfect, but it’s impressively capable for the price.

4K Video: Sharp, Not Flawless

The camera shoots up to 4K at 30fps, which is standard for mid-range action cams. I tested it on a sunny day biking through a forest trail. The footage was sharp, with good color reproduction. Trees, leaves, and sunlight filtering through the canopy looked natural—no oversaturation or weird color shifts.

However, I did notice some noise in low-light conditions. When I recorded a sunset walk on the beach, shadows were a bit grainy, and highlights were slightly blown out. But for daytime use—hiking, biking, kayaking—it’s excellent.

One standout feature: **EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization)**. It’s not as smooth as GoPro’s HyperSmooth, but it’s effective. I recorded a bumpy mountain bike ride, and while the footage wasn’t buttery smooth, it was watchable and not nauseating. For casual use, that’s more than enough.

1080p at 60fps: The Sweet Spot

If you want smoother motion (like for fast action or sports), switch to 1080p at 60fps. The stabilization works better here, and the file sizes are smaller—great for sharing on social media. I used this setting for my nephew’s soccer game, and the footage was clear, with minimal motion blur.

Pro tip: Use 1080p/60fps if you’re planning to edit or slow down footage. It gives you more flexibility in post.

Photo Mode: Good for Snapshots, Not Portraits

The camera takes 12MP photos. They’re decent for quick snapshots—like capturing a waterfall or a mountain vista—but don’t expect DSLR quality. In bright light, photos are sharp with good detail. In low light, they get noisy and lack depth.

I wouldn’t use this as my main camera for portraits or close-ups, but for action shots (a dog leaping into a lake, a skateboard trick), it works well. The burst mode (3 photos per second) is handy for catching fast moments.

Audio Quality: Clear, But Not Studio-Grade

With the waterproof case on, audio is muffled but still intelligible. I recorded a conversation while walking in light rain, and voices came through clearly, though with a slight underwater effect. Without the case, audio is much better—crisp and natural.

If you’re vlogging or doing interviews, I’d recommend removing the case or using an external mic (via the USB-C port). For ambient sound—waves, wind, bike gears—the built-in mic is fine.

User Experience: Controls, App, and Everyday Use

Let’s be honest: a camera is only as good as it is easy to use. If you’re fumbling with tiny buttons or a confusing menu, you’ll miss the shot. The Yi Action Camera shines here.

Physical Controls: Simple and Intuitive

The camera has three buttons:

• Top Button: Power and shutter (press to take a photo, hold to start/stop recording).
• Front Button: Mode selector (cycle through video, photo, burst, etc.).
• Side Button: Menu and settings.

It’s a minimalist design, but it works. I never got confused, even with the case on. The buttons are large enough to press with gloves or wet hands—perfect for outdoor use.

LCD Screen: Small but Bright

The 2-inch screen isn’t huge, but it’s bright and responsive. You can see it in direct sunlight, and the interface is clean. You get basic info: battery, recording time, mode, and settings. No touchscreen, but that’s fine—touch doesn’t work well with wet fingers anyway.

Yi Action App: A Mixed Bag

The free Yi Action app (iOS and Android) lets you control the camera remotely, view live preview, and transfer files. It connects via Wi-Fi, which is easy to set up.

Pros:

• Live preview is useful for framing shots (like mounting the camera on a helmet or bike).
• You can change settings remotely (resolution, stabilization, etc.).
• Files transfer quickly to your phone—great for sharing on the go.

Cons:

• The app can be slow to connect, especially in crowded Wi-Fi areas.
• Live preview drains the battery fast. I lost 20% in 10 minutes once.
• Occasional crashes (though updates have improved stability).

Tip: Use the app for setup and transfers, but rely on the physical buttons for actual shooting. It’s faster and more reliable.

Battery Life: Solid, Not Stellar

The 1050mAh battery lasts about 90 minutes of 4K recording or 2 hours of 1080p. That’s decent, but not class-leading. I carried a spare battery on longer hikes (sold separately), which gave me peace of mind.

Charging is via USB-C, which is fast and convenient. A full charge takes about 2 hours. You can also use a power bank to top it up on the go.

Waterproof Case & Durability: Built for Adventure

The included waterproof case is one of the biggest selling points of this kit. It’s not an add-on—it’s part of the package, and it’s well-made.

Waterproof Rating: 40 Meters (130 Feet)

The case is rated to 40 meters, which means it’s safe for snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and even shallow scuba diving. I tested it:

• Pool Test: Recorded underwater for 30 minutes. No leaks. Audio was muffled but clear.
• Rain Test: Walked in a downpour for 20 minutes. The case kept the camera dry, and the screen was still usable.
• Shower Test: Yes, I did it. The camera survived a full shower, though steam made the screen foggy.

Note: The case isn’t designed for extreme pressure (like deep diving), but for most water activities, it’s more than adequate.

Durability & Drop Resistance

The camera itself is plastic, but it feels tough. I accidentally dropped it from waist height onto concrete (oops), and it survived with just a small scratch. The case adds extra protection—it’s impact-resistant and has a shock-absorbing seal.

For biking, hiking, or kayaking, this camera can take a beating. Just avoid direct hits to the lens or screen.

Mounting Options: Versatile and Secure

The included mounts are basic but effective:

• Adhesive Mount: Sticks to helmets, bikes, or surfboards. I used it on my mountain bike, and it held tight through rough trails.
• Flat and Curved Bases: Great for attaching to flat surfaces (like a car hood) or curved ones (like a kayak).

You can also buy third-party mounts (like chest straps or suction cups) that use the standard GoPro-style interface. The camera is compatible with most GoPro accessories, which is a huge plus.

Value & Competition: Why This Is the Best Budget Pick

Let’s talk money. The Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black typically retails for $70–$90, depending on sales. That’s a steal when you consider what you get.

Comparison Table: Yi vs. Competitors

Feature	Yi Action Camera (Black)	GoPro HERO8 (Budget)	Akaso Brave 7 LE	Insta360 Go 2
Price (with case)	$80	$200+	$130	$200
Video Quality	4K/30fps, EIS	4K/30fps, HyperSmooth	4K/30fps, EIS	1440p/50fps, FlowState
Waterproof (without case)	1.5m (5ft)	10m (33ft)	1.5m (5ft)	1m (3.3ft)
Included Waterproof Case	✅ (40m)	❌ (sold separately)	✅ (40m)	❌
Battery Life (4K)	90 min	100 min	90 min	30 min
App & Connectivity	Wi-Fi, USB-C	Wi-Fi, USB-C	Wi-Fi, USB-C	Wi-Fi, USB-C
GoPro Mount Compatible	✅	✅	✅	❌

As you can see, the Yi wins on price and value. The GoPro has better stabilization and a more polished app, but it costs over twice as much—and you still need to buy a case. The Akaso is a close competitor, but the Yi has a slightly brighter screen and better battery efficiency. The Insta360 Go 2 is tiny and great for vlogging, but it’s not truly waterproof and has poor battery life.

Who Is This Camera For?

• Casual Adventurers: Hikers, bikers, beachgoers who want to capture memories without breaking the bank.
• Parents: Great for recording kids’ sports, birthday parties, or family trips.
• Budget-Conscious Creators: YouTubers or vloggers who need a secondary camera for B-roll or POV shots.
• Travelers: Lightweight, durable, and versatile for any trip.

It’s not for:

• Professional filmmakers needing 4K/60fps or advanced stabilization.
• Deep-sea divers (though it’s fine for snorkeling).
• Someone who wants a touchscreen or advanced editing features.

Final Thoughts: A No-Brainer for Budget Buyers

After weeks of real-world testing, I can say this: the Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black is the best budget action camera I’ve used. It’s not perfect—battery life could be longer, the app could be smoother, and low-light performance isn’t amazing—but for under $100, it delivers where it counts.

You get 4K video, solid stabilization, full waterproof protection (with the case), and compatibility with a huge ecosystem of mounts and accessories. It’s tough, easy to use, and captures life’s moments with surprising clarity. I’ve used it for everything from mountain biking to poolside fun, and it’s never let me down.

Is it a GoPro? No. But it doesn’t need to be. For most people, this camera does everything they need—and does it at a price that makes sense. If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable way to capture your adventures, this is it. Just don’t expect it to replace your phone’s main camera or win film festivals. It’s a tool for real life, not Hollywood.

So, should you buy it? If you want a no-fuss, waterproof action camera that won’t break the bank—yes, absolutely. The Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black earns its title as the best budget pick. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, versatile, and fun to use. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black truly waterproof?

Yes, the Yi Action Camera comes with an included IP68-rated waterproof case that allows submersion up to 40 meters (130 feet), making it ideal for snorkeling, surfing, and rainy-day adventures. The camera itself is splash-resistant, but the case ensures full protection in deep water.

What makes the Yi Action Camera a great budget pick?

The Yi Action Camera delivers 4K video, electronic image stabilization, and a long-lasting battery at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. Combined with the included waterproof case, it offers exceptional value for entry-level and casual users.

Does the Yi Action Camera support external microphones?

Unfortunately, the Yi Action Camera with Waterproof Case Black does not support external microphones due to its compact design and sealed case. However, the built-in mic performs well in quiet to moderately noisy environments.

How long does the battery last on the Yi Action Camera?

The 1400mAh battery provides up to 120 minutes of 1080p recording or 90 minutes at 4K resolution. For extended use, carrying a spare battery is recommended, especially during long outdoor shoots.

Can I use the Yi Action Camera without the waterproof case?

Yes, you can remove the waterproof case for lighter, more compact use in dry or mildly wet conditions. Just avoid submerging it or exposing it to heavy rain, as the body isn’t fully waterproof on its own.

Does the Yi Action Camera have image stabilization?

Yes, the Yi Action Camera features built-in electronic image stabilization (EIS) to reduce shakiness during high-motion activities. While not as advanced as gimbal-level stabilization, it significantly improves video smoothness for a budget-friendly action camera.