Yi Technology 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Kit Review

Let’s be honest: not all of us can afford a GoPro or want to spend over $300 on an action camera. That’s where the Yi Technology 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Kit comes in. I first stumbled upon this camera while planning a weekend kayaking trip. I needed something rugged, capable of shooting crisp 4K footage, and—most importantly—waterproof without breaking the bank. After reading countless reviews and weighing my options, I decided to give the Yi 4K a shot. Spoiler: it exceeded my expectations in ways I didn’t see coming.

This isn’t just another budget action camera trying to imitate the big brands. Yi Technology, a Chinese company with roots in Xiaomi’s ecosystem, has quietly built a reputation for delivering high-quality tech at competitive prices. Their 4K action camera is no exception. With a sleek design, intuitive interface, and a waterproof case that actually works, it’s become my go-to for adventures. Whether I’m hiking in the rain, snorkeling in turquoise waters, or just capturing everyday moments with my kids, this little camera has earned its spot in my backpack. In this review, I’ll walk you through my hands-on experience—what works, what doesn’t, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

Design and Build Quality: Small but Mighty

Compact and Lightweight

The first thing you’ll notice about the Yi Technology 4K Action Camera is how small and light it feels. It measures just 60mm x 42mm x 21mm and weighs only 96 grams (including the waterproof case). That’s lighter than a standard soda can. I’ve carried it on hikes, clipped it to my backpack, and even mounted it on a bike helmet—never once did I feel weighed down. The compact size also makes it perfect for tight spaces, like mounting on a kayak paddle or a drone.

Visual guide about yi technology 4k action camera with waterproof case kit

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Despite its size, the build quality feels solid. The camera body is made of durable plastic with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and minor scratches. The buttons are responsive and have a satisfying click, which is crucial when you’re wearing gloves. The lens is protected by a replaceable glass cover (a nice touch for those of us who tend to bump our gear), and the USB-C and microSD card ports are covered by a snug rubber flap.

Waterproof Case: A Must-Have Accessory

The included waterproof case is a game-changer. It’s rated for depths up to 40 meters (131 feet), making it perfect for snorkeling, diving, and even shallow scuba adventures. I’ve taken it down to 30 meters in the Caribbean, and it held up perfectly—no leaks, no fogging. The case is made of thick, clear polycarbonate with rubber seals that snap securely into place.

One thing I love is the dual-locking mechanism. You close the case, then flip a small lever to create an airtight seal. It’s simple but effective. I’ve accidentally dropped the case in a river, and it survived with zero damage. The only downside? The case makes the camera slightly bulkier, but that’s a fair trade-off for peace of mind underwater.

Mounting Options and Compatibility

The Yi 4K uses the same standard 1/4-inch thread as most action cameras, so it’s compatible with GoPro mounts and accessories. I’ve used it with a chest harness, a head strap, and even a suction cup mount for my car windshield. The mounting system is secure—once it’s locked in, it doesn’t wobble or slip, even during high-impact activities like mountain biking.

Pro tip: If you plan on using it with third-party mounts, double-check the thread size. While most are standard, a few off-brand mounts have slightly different tolerances. I had one that didn’t fit perfectly, but a quick adjustment with a small wrench fixed it.

Video and Photo Quality: 4K That Packs a Punch

4K Resolution: Crisp and Clear

The Yi Technology 4K Action Camera shoots up to 3840 x 2160 at 30fps, which is true 4K. I’ve compared it side-by-side with my friend’s GoPro Hero 7, and the difference in sharpness is minimal. Colors are vibrant, and the dynamic range handles bright skies and shaded forests well. I shot a sunset over the ocean, and the camera captured the gradient of oranges and purples beautifully.

For smoother motion, you can drop down to 1080p at 60fps or 120fps for slow-motion clips. I’ve used the 120fps mode to film my dog chasing a frisbee—the slow-mo effect is buttery smooth, and the details are still sharp. There’s also a 720p 240fps mode for ultra-slow-mo, though the quality is a bit grainy at that resolution.

Low-Light Performance: Room for Improvement

Here’s the catch: the Yi 4K struggles a bit in low light. In dimly lit rooms or at dusk, the footage tends to get noisy and grainy. The sensor isn’t as large as higher-end models, so it can’t capture as much light. I tried filming a campfire at night, and while it was usable, the shadows were muddy, and the fire’s glow looked a bit flat.

That said, for daytime adventures or well-lit environments, it’s fantastic. I shot a waterfall in midday sun, and the water’s movement looked silky and natural. If you’re mostly shooting outdoors in daylight, you’ll have no issues.

Photo Capabilities: Decent, Not Outstanding

The camera takes 12MP still photos, which are great for quick snapshots. I’ve used it to capture landscapes, wildlife, and even close-up shots of flowers. The colors are accurate, and the detail is good—though not as rich as a dedicated DSLR. One handy feature is the burst mode, which lets you take up to 10 photos per second. I used it to capture a hummingbird in flight, and while not all shots were perfect, a few turned out stunning.

For best results, use a fast microSD card (Class 10 or UHS-I) to avoid lag when shooting burst photos. I learned this the hard way when my older card caused delays between shots.

Software and User Experience: Intuitive but Not Perfect

Yi Action App: Seamless Connectivity

The Yi Action app (available for iOS and Android) is a standout feature. It connects to the camera via Wi-Fi and lets you preview footage, adjust settings, and download clips directly to your phone. I use it all the time—whether I’m framing a shot from my kayak or checking if the camera’s still recording after a long hike.

The app is user-friendly with a clean interface. You can toggle between photo, video, and time-lapse modes, adjust resolution and frame rates, and even set a timer. One cool feature is the remote control—I’ve used it to start/stop recording from up to 30 meters away. It’s perfect for group shots or self-filming.

That said, the Wi-Fi connection can be finicky in crowded areas (like a busy beach). It took a few tries to reconnect once, but it’s not a dealbreaker.

On-Camera Interface: Simple and Functional

The camera itself has a 2-inch LCD screen, which is bright and easy to read in sunlight. The menu system is straightforward—three buttons control navigation (up, down, select), and it only takes a minute to get the hang of it. I appreciate that you don’t need the app to change basic settings like resolution or exposure.

However, the screen isn’t touch-sensitive, which might be a downside for some. I got used to it quickly, but if you’re used to touchscreens, it might feel a bit dated.

Battery Life and Charging: Solid Performance

The Yi 4K has a 1400mAh battery that lasts about 1.5 hours of continuous 4K recording. That’s enough for most day trips, but if you’re planning a long hike or a full-day adventure, I’d recommend bringing a spare battery or a portable charger. I’ve used a small power bank to charge the camera mid-hike, and it works great.

Charging is via USB-C, which is fast and convenient. A full charge takes about 2 hours. One thing to note: the battery isn’t removable, so you can’t swap it out on the go. If you’re a serious adventurer, consider buying an extra battery (sold separately).

Audio and Microphone: Good Enough for Most Scenarios

Built-in Microphone: Clear but Limited

The Yi 4K has a single built-in microphone on the front. In quiet environments (like a calm lake or a forest trail), it captures clear audio. I recorded a video of a bird’s song, and the sound was crisp and natural. However, in windy or noisy conditions, the audio gets muffled. I tried filming a bike ride on a windy mountain trail, and the wind noise was almost unbearable.

The good news? The camera supports external microphones via the USB-C port. I bought a cheap shotgun mic for $30 and saw a huge improvement. Now, my voiceovers are clear, and background noise is minimal. If audio is a priority, I’d highly recommend an external mic.

Audio Tips for Better Results

Use a windscreen: Even a simple foam cover helps reduce wind noise.
Keep the camera close: The mic picks up sound best within 1-2 feet.
Record voiceovers separately: For vlogs or tutorials, film first, then add audio in post.

Value for Money: A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse

Price vs. Performance

The Yi Technology 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Kit typically retails for around $120-$150, which is less than half the price of a comparable GoPro. For that price, you get 4K video, a rugged waterproof case, and solid build quality. It’s not perfect, but it’s an incredible value for the money.

I’ve compared it to other budget action cameras (like the Akaso V50 and Campark X30), and the Yi 4K consistently outperforms them in video quality and reliability. The waterproof case alone is worth $30-$40 if bought separately, so getting it in the kit is a steal.

Who Is It For?

This camera is ideal for:

Adventure enthusiasts who want 4K footage without the GoPro price tag.
Travelers who need a compact, waterproof camera for snorkeling or hiking.
Content creators on a budget who want decent video and photo quality.
Parents who want to capture family moments in action (think: kids on bikes, beach days).

It’s not the best choice for low-light videography or professional-grade audio, but for most casual users, it’s more than enough.

Data Table: Key Specifications at a Glance

Feature	Specification
Video Resolution	4K (3840×2160) at 30fps, 1080p at 60/120fps, 720p at 240fps
Photo Resolution	12MP
Battery Life	Up to 1.5 hours (4K recording)
Waterproof Depth	40m (with included case)
Storage	MicroSD card (up to 128GB, Class 10 recommended)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, USB-C
Weight	96g (with case)
App Support	Yi Action (iOS/Android)

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy It?

After months of using the Yi Technology 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Kit, I can confidently say it’s one of the best budget action cameras out there. It delivers sharp 4K video, a rugged waterproof case, and intuitive software—all at a price that won’t make your wallet cry. Sure, it has its flaws: mediocre low-light performance, average built-in audio, and a non-removable battery. But for the price, those are minor trade-offs.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely—especially if you’re a beginner or an occasional adventurer. It’s perfect for capturing memories without the stress of damaging an expensive camera. I’ve taken it on hikes, bike rides, and even underwater, and it’s never let me down. Plus, the waterproof case gives you the freedom to explore without fear.

If you’re on the fence, here’s my advice: go for it. You’ll get a reliable, high-quality action camera that punches way above its weight class. Just remember to invest in a good microSD card, a spare battery, and maybe an external mic if you care about audio. And most importantly—get out there and start filming. Your next adventure is waiting, and the Yi 4K is ready to capture it all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Yi Technology 4K Action Camera stand out from other action cameras?

The Yi Technology 4K Action Camera combines high-quality 4K video recording, a wide 150° field of view, and advanced image stabilization in a compact, affordable package. Its included waterproof case kit allows seamless underwater shooting up to 40 meters, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts.

Is the Yi Technology 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Kit suitable for underwater activities?

Yes, the waterproof case included in the kit makes the camera fully submersible up to 40 meters (131 feet). This makes it perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and even deep-water diving without additional housing.

Does the Yi 4K Action Camera support slow-motion or time-lapse recording?

Absolutely. The Yi Technology 4K Action Camera offers 1080p slow-motion video at 120fps and 720p at 240fps, along with multiple time-lapse modes. These features let you creatively capture fast-paced action or extended scenes.

How long does the battery last on the Yi 4K Action Camera?

The included 1400mAh battery provides up to 120 minutes of continuous 4K/30fps recording. Battery life varies based on settings like resolution, Wi-Fi usage, and temperature conditions.

Can I use the Yi 4K camera without the waterproof case in the rain?

The camera itself is splash-resistant but not fully waterproof. While light rain or splashes won’t damage it, the waterproof case is required for prolonged exposure to water or submersion.

Does the Yi Technology 4K Action Camera have built-in Wi-Fi or app support?

Yes, the camera features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing remote control and live preview via the Yi Action App. The app also enables quick file transfers and firmware updates for enhanced functionality.

Yi Technology 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Case Kit Review

Key Takeaways

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