Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case Review

The Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case delivers impressive 4K video and rugged durability at an unbeatable value. Its included waterproof housing allows diving up to 40 meters, making it ideal for adventurers who demand performance without breaking the bank. With intuitive controls, solid image stabilization, and reliable low-light performance, this camera punches well above its weight.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Captures sharp, vibrant footage in high resolution.
• Waterproof case included: Dive up to 40m without extra gear.
• Long battery life: Records 120 minutes per charge for extended use.
• Lightweight design: Weighs only 72g, perfect for travel and action.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Easily transfer files and control via smartphone app.
• Wide-angle lens: Shoots 150° FOV for immersive, dynamic perspectives.

Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case Review: A Solid Choice for Adventure Enthusiasts?

Let’s be honest—when you’re chasing the perfect shot while skydiving, snorkeling, or biking down a rugged trail, you don’t want to worry about your camera failing. That’s where action cameras come in. And today, I want to talk about the Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case, a budget-friendly contender that’s been making waves in the adventure community.

I’ve used this little powerhouse during a weekend kayaking trip, a hiking expedition in the rain, and even a spontaneous beach party. It’s been dunked, dropped, and exposed to sand, saltwater, and sweat. So, after weeks of testing, I’m here to share my honest, no-fluff review. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first action cam or a seasoned shooter wanting a lightweight backup, this review will help you decide if the Yi Lite is worth your hard-earned cash.

First Impressions: Unboxing and Build Quality

What’s in the Box?

When the Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by how compact the packaging was. Inside, you’ll find:

• The Yi Lite camera (about the size of a matchbox)
• A waterproof case (rated up to 40 meters/130 feet)
• A rechargeable 900mAh battery
• A USB-C charging cable
• A flat adhesive mount and a curved mount
• A quick start guide

No frills, no extras—just the essentials. While it’s not as loaded as GoPro bundles, the inclusion of the waterproof case right out of the gate is a big win. No need to shell out an extra $30–$50 for a third-party housing.

Design and Durability

The camera itself feels solid. It’s made of matte plastic that resists fingerprints and minor scratches. The buttons are tactile and responsive, even when wearing gloves. The lens is recessed, which helps protect it from direct impacts.

The waterproof case is where this setup truly shines. It’s made of clear polycarbonate with a rubber gasket seal. The buttons on the case line up perfectly with the camera’s controls, and the lens window is flat and distortion-free. I’ve used it in saltwater, freshwater, and even in a downpour—zero leaks. The case also has standard GoPro-style mounting points, so you can use it with any GoPro-compatible gear.

One small gripe: the case is a bit tight to open and close. It’s a trade-off for waterproofing, but it can be frustrating when you’re in a hurry.

Performance and Image Quality: What Can It Capture?

Video and Photo Specs

The Yi Lite records in up to 4K at 30fps, which is impressive for its price range. It also supports:

• 2.7K at 30fps
• 1080p at 60fps and 120fps (great for slow-motion)
• 720p at 240fps (for ultra-slow-motion effects)

Photos are captured at 12MP, and you can shoot in burst mode (up to 30 shots) or use a 2-second or 10-second timer.

I tested 4K footage on a sunny afternoon hike. The colors were vibrant, and the detail was sharp—especially when the sun was behind me. However, in mixed lighting (like a forest with dappled sunlight), the camera occasionally struggled with exposure. It would overexpose bright patches and underexpose shadows. Nothing a quick manual adjustment couldn’t fix, but it’s worth noting.

Low-Light and Night Performance

Let’s be real: no budget action cam excels in low light. The Yi Lite is no exception. In dim environments—like a sunset beach or a campfire at night—the footage becomes grainy. The 12MP sensor just doesn’t have enough light-gathering power.

But here’s a tip: if you’re filming at dusk or dawn, use the 1080p at 60fps setting. It’s less demanding on the sensor, and the motion looks smoother. I captured a beautiful sunset time-lapse this way, and the result was surprisingly usable.

For night shots, stick to well-lit areas. I tried filming a bonfire, and while the flames looked great, the surrounding darkness was just noise. Not a dealbreaker, but keep your expectations realistic.

Stabilization and Audio

The Yi Lite has electronic image stabilization (EIS), which works well for moderate movement. On my bike ride, it smoothed out most of the bumps and vibrations. But on rough trails or during high-speed runs, you’ll still see some jello effect (wobbly, rolling shutter distortion).

Audio is another mixed bag. The built-in mic picks up wind noise like it’s paid to do so. I filmed a windy cliffside hike, and the audio was almost unusable. But indoors or in calm conditions? It’s decent. For vlog-style content, I’d recommend an external mic or at least a windscreen.

Pro tip: If you’re recording voiceovers or interviews, use the camera in a stationary position (like on a tripod) to minimize background noise.

User Experience: Controls, Interface, and App

On-Camera Controls

The Yi Lite has three buttons: power, mode, and shutter. It’s simple, but it works. The mode button cycles through video, photo, time-lapse, and burst modes. The shutter button starts/stops recording or takes a photo.

There’s no touchscreen, which might seem outdated, but it’s actually a plus for action use. No smudges, no accidental taps, and it’s easier to operate with gloves on.

The LED indicators are bright and clear. A blue light means it’s recording; red means it’s charging. Simple and effective.

Yi Action App: The Good and the Not-So-Good

The Yi Action App (available for iOS and Android) is how you adjust settings, preview shots, and transfer files. It connects via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

The good: the app lets you change resolution, adjust exposure, set white balance, and even enable manual focus. You can also use your phone as a remote viewfinder—handy for selfies or tricky angles.

The not-so-good: the app can be sluggish. It takes 5–10 seconds to connect, and sometimes it freezes when switching modes. I had to restart the app twice during a shoot. Also, the Wi-Fi signal drops if you move more than 10 meters away. Not ideal if you’re filming from a distance.

One cool feature: the app has a “Quick Clip” mode that lets you trim and save short clips directly on your phone. Great for sharing on social media without transferring the whole file.

Battery Life and Charging

The 900mAh battery lasts about 90 minutes of continuous 1080p/60fps recording or 75 minutes at 4K. That’s average for this class. I got through a full day of intermittent shooting (about 2 hours total) with a single charge.

Charging is via USB-C, which is fast and convenient. It takes about 2 hours to go from 0% to 100%. The camera charges while turned off, so you can’t record and charge at the same time. A small downside, but expected.

Tip: Carry a spare battery if you’re on a long trip. They’re affordable and easy to swap.

Waterproof Case: A Game-Changer for Underwater and Wet Adventures

How Deep Can It Go?

The included waterproof case is rated for 40 meters (130 feet). That’s more than enough for snorkeling, scuba diving (recreational level), kayaking, and even surfing.

I tested it at a local coral reef. At 10 meters depth, colors were still vibrant, and the camera handled the pressure without issues. The case’s buttons were easy to press underwater, and the viewfinder was clear.

One thing to note: the case doesn’t have a built-in anti-fog coating. I noticed slight fogging on the lens window after a long dive. A drop of anti-fog solution (or even saliva) before sealing the case helps a lot.

Real-World Waterproof Testing

I put the case through the wringer:

• Rainstorm hiking: The camera stayed dry, and the case’s buttons worked fine with wet hands.
• Beach sand and saltwater: After a day of surfing, I rinsed the case with fresh water. No sand in the seals, and no corrosion.
• Hot tub soak: I left it in 40°C (104°F) water for 30 minutes. No leaks, but the case got warm inside (expected).

The case is also shock-resistant. I dropped it from waist height onto a rocky trail—no damage. The camera survived a 1-meter fall onto concrete (with the case on), though I wouldn’t make it a habit.

Limitations of the Waterproof Case

While the case is excellent, it has a few quirks:

• The audio quality drops significantly when the camera is inside the case. The mic is muffled, so it’s not ideal for vlogging underwater.
• The touchscreen on the camera is unusable with the case on. Not a problem since there isn’t one, but worth mentioning.
• The case adds bulk, making the camera less pocketable. It’s not a pocket cam anymore, but that’s the price of waterproofing.

Bottom line: if you’re serious about water-based adventures, this case is a must. Just don’t expect studio-quality audio.

Who Should Buy the Yi Lite Action Camera?

Perfect For:

• Beginners and casual users who want a simple, affordable camera without the learning curve.
• Travelers and backpackers who need a lightweight, durable camera for hiking, biking, and water sports.
• Parents capturing kids’ activities—think soccer games, pool parties, or family vacations. It’s cheap enough to not stress about drops or spills.
• Vloggers on a budget who want 4K footage without breaking the bank.

Not Ideal For:

• Professional filmmakers needing cinematic quality, advanced color grading, or RAW video.
• Low-light videographers who shoot in dark environments regularly.
• Users who need top-tier stabilization (like mountain bikers on extreme trails). A GoPro or DJI Osmo Action might be better.
• Those who want touchscreen controls—this is button-only.

Comparing Value: Is It Worth the Price?

The Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case typically retails for $120–$150. That’s a steal when you consider that the case alone would cost $30–$40 if bought separately.

Compared to the GoPro Hero 11 (which starts at $350), the Yi Lite is a budget-friendly alternative. It lacks GoPro’s HyperSmooth stabilization and 5.3K video, but for most everyday adventures, the Yi Lite delivers solid 4K footage at a fraction of the cost.

It also competes well with the DJI Osmo Action 3, which is pricier but has better stabilization and a front-facing screen. The Yi Lite wins on value and waterproof case inclusion.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy It?

After weeks of real-world testing, I can confidently say the Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a reliable, no-nonsense action cam without spending a fortune.

It’s not perfect—the app can be buggy, low-light performance is average, and the audio in the waterproof case is muffled. But for its price, it delivers where it counts: 4K video, rugged build, and true waterproofing.

I’ve used it to capture:

• A sunrise kayak trip (4K, 30fps—stunning)
• A rainy hike through a forest (1080p/60fps—smooth and clear)
• A snorkeling adventure (underwater, 2.7K—colors popped!)

Each time, the camera performed reliably. It’s not the most advanced tool on the market, but it’s dependable, easy to use, and built for adventure.

If you’re looking for a camera that won’t break the bank but will keep up with your active lifestyle, the Yi Lite is a smart choice. Just pair it with a spare battery, a windscreen, and maybe an external mic for better audio, and you’re good to go.

At the end of the day, it’s not about having the most expensive gear—it’s about capturing the moments that matter. And with the Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case, you can do just that, rain or shine, on land or underwater.

Quick Specs Table

Feature	Specification
Video Resolution	4K/30fps, 2.7K/30fps, 1080p/60fps/120fps, 720p/240fps
Photo Resolution	12MP
Waterproof Depth (with case)	40 meters (130 feet)
Stabilization	Electronic (EIS)
Battery Life	90 min (1080p/60fps), 75 min (4K)
Battery Capacity	900mAh (removable)
Charging	USB-C, 2-hour charge time
App Support	Yi Action App (iOS/Android)
Included Accessories	Waterproof case, mounts, USB-C cable

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case good for underwater filming?

The Yi Lite Action Camera performs well underwater when used with its included waterproof case, which is rated for depths up to 40 meters. It captures clear 4K video and sharp images, making it ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or light diving.

How does the Yi Lite compare to other budget action cameras?

The Yi Lite Action Camera offers excellent value with 4K video, electronic image stabilization, and a durable waterproof case at a competitive price. While it lacks some advanced features of higher-end models, it outperforms most rivals in its price range.

Can I use the Yi Lite without the waterproof case?

Yes, the Yi Lite can be used without the waterproof case for land-based activities like biking or hiking. However, removing the case makes it vulnerable to water, dust, and impacts—so it’s best kept in protective housing for rugged use.

Does the Yi Lite Action Camera support external microphones?

No, the Yi Lite doesn’t have a built-in microphone input, limiting audio to its onboard mic. For better sound quality, consider recording audio separately and syncing it during editing.

What accessories come with the Yi Lite Action Camera with Waterproof Case?

The package includes the Yi Lite camera, a 40m waterproof case, a rechargeable battery, a USB cable, and basic mounts for helmets or handlebars. Additional mounts may need to be purchased separately.

How long does the battery last on the Yi Lite?

The Yi Lite’s battery lasts approximately 90 minutes when recording 4K video, though usage time decreases in cold conditions or with Wi-Fi enabled. Carrying a spare battery is recommended for extended adventures.