In a market saturated with high-end action cameras, it’s easy to overlook the classics. But what if one of the most disruptive cameras of its time still holds its ground? The Yi 4k Action Camera burst onto the scene as a true “GoPro killer,” offering premium features at a fraction of the cost. The question is, years after its release, does this budget-friendly powerhouse still deserve a place in your gear bag?
As a professional who has strapped cameras to everything from race cars to drones, I believe in performance above all else. The Yi 4K was a game-changer, and for the right user, it remains an incredibly smart purchase. This in-depth review will explore why.
Unpacking the Hype: What Made the Yi 4K a Giant Slayer?
When the Yi 4K launched, it directly challenged the market leader, GoPro, by matching or exceeding its specs on paper while undercutting it on price. This wasn’t just a cheap alternative; it was a legitimate contender built with impressive hardware.
The Powerhouse Core: Ambarella Chipset and Sony Sensor
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Our Picks for the Best Action Camera in 2026
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo, Waterproof Action Camera with 1/1.3\" Sensor, 4K/120fps Video, Subject Tracking, Stabilization, Dual OLED Touchscreens, Action Camera 4K Ideal for Sports, Vlog |
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| 2 | Apexcam Action Camera 4K with 64G SD Card Sports Cameras 20MP 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera WiFi Cameras with 2.4G Remote Control, 2 Batteries, Mounting Accessories Kits |
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| 3 | Insta360 X5 - Waterproof 8K 360° Action Camera, Leading Low Light, Invisible Selfie Stick Effect, Rugged and Replaceable Lens, 3-Hour Battery, Built-in Wind Guard, Stabilization, Triple AI Chip Design |
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| 4 | ODDV 4K 30MP Waterproof Action Camera with 60FPS & Dual Screens, 132FT Underwater Camera with 64GB Card, EIS Stabilization, 5X Zoom, WiFi Remote Control Action Camera Ideal for Sports, Snorkeling |
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| 5 | DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo, Waterproof Action Camera with 1/1.3\" Sensor, 4K/120fps Video, Subject Tracking, Stabilization, Dual OLED Touchscreens, Action Camera 4K Ideal for Sports, Vlog |
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| 6 | 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2\" Touch Dual Screen Sports 6-Axis Stabilization,2 Batteries Internal Microphone Vlog Camera for Diving Cycling Outdoor |
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| 7 | Mini Action Camera 4K - 128G Thumb Sports Camera with EIS Stabilization, Wearable POV Chest Camera, Waterproof for Running, Cycling, Swimming, Hiking, Outdoor Adventures |
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| 8 | DJI Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo, 4K/120fps Waterproof Action Camera with a 1/1.3-Inch Sensor, Stunning Low-Light Imaging,10-bit & D-Log M Color Performance, Long-Lasting 160 Mins, Outdoor Camera |
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| 9 | DJI Osmo Action 4 Essential Combo, 4K/120fps Waterproof Action Camera with a 1/1.3-Inch Sensor, Stunning Low-Light Imaging,10-bit & D-Log M Color Performance, Long-Lasting 160 Mins, Outdoor Camera |
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| 10 | GoPro HERO13 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Video, 27MP Photo + Compatability with HB-Series Lenses |
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At the heart of the Yi 4K Action Camera lies a formidable combination of technology. It’s powered by the same Ambarella A9SE chipset found in the GoPro HERO5 Black, a processor renowned for its ability to handle high-bitrate 4K video without overheating.
This is paired with a 12MP Sony IMX377 sensor, a component praised for its excellent light-gathering capabilities and image quality. This duo is the reason the camera can deliver crisp, detailed footage that punches well above its price tag.
A Display That Set the Standard
One of the Yi 4K’s most celebrated features was its large, responsive 2.2-inch Gorilla Glass touchscreen. With a 640×360 resolution, it was bright, clear, and made navigating menus an absolute breeze. While touchscreens are standard now, at the time of its release, the Yi’s interface was arguably more intuitive and user-friendly than its more expensive rivals.
“The user experience on the Yi 4K was a revelation. We were used to clunky button-based navigation on other cameras. Yi came in with a smartphone-like UI that was fast and simple, letting us focus on getting the shot instead of fighting with the settings.” – Marco Vettori, Professional FPV Drone Pilot
Real-World Performance: How Does It Hold Up Today?
Specs are one thing, but results are what matter. After putting the Yi 4K through its paces in various lighting conditions and action scenarios, it’s clear that its core performance remains impressive, with a few caveats.
4K Video Quality
The camera’s headline feature is its ability to shoot true 4K video at 30 frames per second (fps). The footage is sharp and detailed, especially in good lighting. Colors are vibrant without being overly saturated, offering a pleasing, natural look. For aspiring creators, YouTubers, or hobbyists, the video quality is more than sufficient for producing professional-looking content.
Where it shows its age is in low-light performance. While the Sony sensor is capable, noise can creep into the shadows. Furthermore, its dynamic range is more limited compared to modern cameras, meaning you might lose some detail in the brightest highlights or darkest parts of your shot.
Still Photography Chops
The 12MP sensor captures clean, sharp photos. The inclusion of a RAW format option is a huge plus for photographers who want maximum flexibility in post-production. You can pull a surprising amount of detail and color information from the DNG files. For quick shots, the JPEG images are bright and ready to share. It also features various shooting modes like time-lapse, burst, and timers, making it a versatile tool for more than just video.
Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)
The Yi 4K uses Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) to smooth out shaky footage, but it works only up to 1080p resolution. It does a decent job of reducing minor jitters and vibrations from walking or handheld movements. However, it’s not on the same level as the advanced HyperSmooth or RockSteady technologies found in newer GoPro and DJI cameras. For intense action sports, you’ll want to use a physical gimbal for the best results.
The Yi 4K Action Camera vs. The Competition
To put its value in perspective, let’s see how it stacks up against its contemporary rival, the GoPro HERO5 Black, and a modern budget camera.
| Feature | Yi 4K Action Camera | GoPro HERO5 Black | Modern Budget Action Cam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Video Resolution | 4K/30fps | 4K/30fps | 4K/60fps (often upscaled) |
| Image Sensor | 12MP Sony IMX377 | 12MP | Varies (often lower quality) |
| Chipset | Ambarella A9SE | Ambarella A9 | Generic |
| Native Waterproofing | No (requires case) | Yes (up to 10m/33ft) | Yes (often up to 10m/33ft) |
| Image Stabilization | EIS (up to 1080p) | EIS (up to 4K) | Advanced EIS (up to 4K) |
| Screen | 2.2″ Touchscreen | 2″ Touchscreen | Dual Screens (front & back) |
| Battery Life (4K/30) | ~120 minutes | ~90 minutes | ~70-90 minutes |
| Unique Selling Point | Price-to-Performance | Brand Ecosystem, GPS | Dual Screens, Low Price |
As you can see, while it lacks native waterproofing and advanced stabilization, its core video quality and exceptional battery life keep it competitive, especially considering its current second-hand market price.
Who Should Buy the Yi 4K Action Camera in 2025?
This camera isn’t for everyone, but it’s the perfect choice for specific users:
- The Beginner: If you’re new to action cameras, the Yi 4K is an affordable, high-quality entry point. Its simple interface makes it easy to learn the fundamentals of framing, settings, and shooting.
- The Budget-Conscious Creator: For YouTubers or hobbyists who need a reliable B-cam, a dashcam, or a static overhead camera, the Yi 4K delivers excellent 4K footage without breaking the bank.
- The FPV Drone Pilot: The camera’s lightweight and compact form factor, combined with its excellent battery life, made it a legend in the FPV community. It remains a fantastic option for strapping to a drone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Yi 4K battery last when recording?
The Yi 4K has an excellent battery. You can expect to get up to 120 minutes of continuous recording time in 4K at 30fps, which is significantly better than many of its competitors, both old and new.
Does the Yi 4K Action Camera have good image stabilization?
It features Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) that works reasonably well for smoothing out small bumps and vibrations. However, it is only available in resolutions of 1080p and below, and it is not as effective as the stabilization on modern high-end cameras.
Is the Yi 4K waterproof on its own?
No, the Yi 4K Action Camera is not waterproof without a housing. You must use the official waterproof case to protect it from water, which typically allows you to take it down to depths of 40 meters (131 feet).
Can the Yi 4K shoot in slow motion?
Yes, it can. The Yi 4K can shoot at 120fps in 1080p and 240fps in 720p, allowing you to create smooth slow-motion effects in your videos.
What is the biggest SD card the Yi 4K can use?
The Yi 4K officially supports microSD cards up to 128GB. For reliable 4K recording, it is crucial to use a fast, high-quality card, specifically one rated U3 or higher.
The Final Verdict
The Yi 4K Action Camera is a testament to great engineering and smart design. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest flagship models—namely native waterproofing and advanced stabilization—its core fundamentals are rock solid. It produces beautiful 4K video, has a fantastic user interface, and boasts incredible battery life.
If you can find one at a good price, it is an absolute steal. It’s a reliable, high-performing tool that serves as a perfect entry into the world of action cinematography or as a valuable addition to a seasoned creator’s toolkit. It’s not just an old camera; it’s a modern classic.
