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amazon Xiaoyi Yi Camera reviews
Xiaomi is a company very much caught up trend. The company is very sensitive to gaps in the market potential of technology such as smartphones, home entertainment devices and offer the products with good quality but much cheaper. Xiaomi Yi continues to be an example of their philosophy.
Yi is a camera action (action cam) is Xiaomi introduced last month, with attractive parameters such use Sony Exmor R CMOS sensor, 16-megapixel resolution and 1080p recording at speeds of 60fps (720p at 120fps and 480p at 240fps). The important thing is the price of this product is only 64 USD (in the Chinese market), while the products of the firm’s reputation as GoPro Hero or Sony POV cost between 300-500 dollars.
Yi also looks a lot like GoPro Hero line, with large clusters on the front camera and the other is the power button. The machine is quite hard plastics but not to look, the accessories we have only included a MicroUSB cable connection and use guidebooks.
Machine with two hard buttons as shutter button in the upper and WiFi button on the left side. At the back there are two lids, one to remove the battery cover and a cap to replace the memory card, and MicroHDMI MicroUSB connection. Monday quite small cap risk missing when using, so you will need to use quite frequently MicroUSB port. At the bottom is a slot for attaching a tripod.
You only need to charge the battery and MicroSD card is mounted can start taking pictures, filming, but to have in-depth features, you need application called Camera Yi, has links with QR code right in the leaflet. This app allows you to preview images from the camera, and custom controls.
Yi Camera app, image preview images are often late than real, this most clearly in the movie mode. Phone and Yi connected together by WiFi Direct, however inconvenient each time the camera is powered off, then when you turn up you will have to repeat the connection operations, but do not identify the two devices.
Yi only takes about 2 seconds to start up, but as mentioned above, if you use your phone to connect to each boot. This connection process takes at least 30 seconds. Thus, if you just open the camera and take the Yi always pretty fast, but when used with the phone is inconvenient.
Yi shutter speed is quite slow, each photo from the machine while pressing the shutter button to take the next image retention finished almost 5 seconds. For movies, the time from when you press the stop button to save the finished movie moment also lost nearly 5 seconds. When you press the power button, the machine will switch between recording mode / shooting (with lights), conversion rate approximately 2 seconds.
According to the angle of 155 degrees Yi, and the actual angle of the machine is very wide, not to take a selfie sticks can take around 10 people. The quality of photos taken quite stable, highly detailed and broad band light. Since there is only a fixed focus camera near the object is not sharp. The quality of the video but also sound fairly small vapor.
where can you get a Xiaoyi Yi Camera online
Xiaoyi Yi Action Camera with Wi-Fi, Green – International Version: Buy it now
Xiaoyi Yi Action Camera with Wi-Fi, White – International Version: Buy it now
Original XiaoMi Yi Ambarella A7LS BSI CMOS WIFI Sports Action Camera #Color:White: Buy it now
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic and Ergonomics
The Yi Camera sports a sleek and minimalist design, with a compact form factor that makes it easy to carry and mount on various surfaces. The camera is available in several colors, allowing users to choose a style that suits their preference. Its rectangular body with rounded edges fits comfortably in hand, and its lightweight construction ensures that it can be easily transported or mounted without adding significant bulk.
The front of the camera features the lens, a power/mode button, and an LED indicator, while the back houses a high-resolution touchscreen display for live view and settings adjustment. The sides of the camera include ports for micro-USB, micro-HDMI, and a microSD card slot. The overall design is intuitive, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
Durability
Despite its lightweight and compact design, the Yi Camera boasts a robust build quality. The camera body is made from durable materials that can withstand minor drops and bumps, making it suitable for outdoor and action-packed activities. For more extreme conditions, such as underwater filming, the camera can be paired with an optional waterproof case, which provides protection up to a depth of 40 meters.
Features and Specifications
Image and Video Quality
The Yi Camera is equipped with a high-resolution sensor capable of capturing stunning photos and videos. It supports 1080p Full HD video recording at 60 frames per second (fps) and 720p HD video at up to 120 fps, allowing for smooth and detailed footage. The camera also offers a wide-angle lens with a 155-degree field of view, enabling users to capture expansive scenes and dynamic action shots.
For still photography, the Yi Camera features a 16-megapixel sensor, delivering sharp and vibrant images. The camera includes various shooting modes, such as burst mode, time-lapse, and slow-motion, providing creative flexibility for capturing different types of scenes.
Connectivity and Storage
Connectivity is a strong suit of the Yi Camera, with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. These features allow users to connect the camera to their smartphones or tablets via the Yi Camera app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Through the app, users can control the camera remotely, preview and download footage, and adjust settings. The Wi-Fi connection is stable and offers a decent range, making it convenient for real-time monitoring and sharing content on social media.
The camera supports microSD cards up to 128GB, providing ample storage space for extended recording sessions. The combination of high storage capacity and wireless connectivity ensures that users can capture and manage their footage efficiently.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for action cameras, and the Yi Camera performs admirably in this regard. It is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers approximately 90 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p/60fps. While this battery life is decent for most activities, it is recommended to carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions, especially when access to charging facilities is limited.
User Interface and Controls
The Yi Camera features a user-friendly interface, primarily navigated through the responsive touchscreen display. The touchscreen is intuitive, with clear icons and menus that make it easy to access various settings and modes. The physical buttons on the camera, including the power/mode button and the shutter button, are well-placed and provide tactile feedback, ensuring ease of use even in challenging conditions.
Performance
Video Performance
In terms of video performance, the Yi Camera delivers impressive results for its price range. The 1080p footage is sharp and detailed, with accurate colors and good dynamic range. The wide-angle lens captures expansive scenes without significant distortion, making it ideal for action shots and landscapes. The camera’s ability to shoot at 60fps ensures smooth motion, while the 120fps option at 720p allows for dramatic slow-motion effects.
Low-light performance is respectable, although not on par with higher-end action cameras. The camera performs best in well-lit conditions, where it can capture vibrant and clear footage. In darker environments, noise becomes more noticeable, but the overall quality remains usable for most casual purposes.
Photo Performance
The Yi Camera’s 16-megapixel sensor produces high-quality still images with good detail and color reproduction. The various shooting modes, including burst mode and time-lapse, provide versatility for capturing different types of scenes. The camera’s wide-angle lens is particularly useful for group shots and landscapes, ensuring that users can fit more into the frame.
As with video, the camera performs best in well-lit conditions. In low-light scenarios, the image quality can suffer from increased noise and reduced detail. However, the overall photo performance is commendable for an action camera in this price range.
Stabilization
The Yi Camera includes electronic image stabilization (EIS) to help reduce camera shake and produce smoother footage. While not as effective as optical image stabilization (OIS), the EIS does a decent job of minimizing minor jitters and vibrations, particularly when shooting handheld or during activities like biking or running. For more extreme activities, a gimbal or other stabilization accessory may be necessary to achieve the best results.
Usability
Setup and Installation
Setting up the Yi Camera is straightforward and hassle-free. Upon unboxing, users can quickly insert a microSD card, charge the battery, and power on the camera. The initial setup process involves connecting the camera to the Yi Camera app via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which guides users through the necessary steps for pairing and configuration.
The app interface is user-friendly, with clear instructions and a well-organized layout. Users can easily navigate through the settings, adjust camera parameters, and access various shooting modes. The app also allows for firmware updates, ensuring that the camera remains up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
Mounting Options
The Yi Camera is compatible with a wide range of mounts and accessories, making it versatile for different activities and environments. Standard mounts include adhesive mounts, handlebar mounts, and helmet mounts, all of which provide secure attachment points for the camera. The optional waterproof case further extends the camera’s usability, allowing for underwater filming and protection in harsh conditions.
The availability of third-party accessories and mounts also enhances the camera’s versatility, providing users with numerous options for customizing their setup based on their specific needs.
User Experience
The overall user experience with the Yi Camera is positive, thanks to its intuitive design, responsive touchscreen, and comprehensive app integration. The camera’s compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry and mount, while the straightforward controls ensure that users can quickly capture their desired shots.
The wireless connectivity and app functionality are standout features, offering convenient remote control and seamless content management. The ability to preview and download footage directly to a smartphone or tablet enhances the workflow, making it easy to share content on social media or edit on the go.
Comparison to Competitors
When comparing the Yi Camera to its competitors, such as the GoPro Hero series, it becomes evident that the Yi Camera offers a compelling value proposition. While it may not match the top-tier performance and feature set of higher-end models like the GoPro Hero 9 or 10, the Yi Camera provides a highly capable alternative at a fraction of the price.
Key advantages of the Yi Camera include its affordability, user-friendly design, and robust feature set. For budget-conscious consumers or those seeking a reliable secondary camera, the Yi Camera is an attractive option that delivers solid performance without the premium price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Yi Camera offers excellent value for its price, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- High-Quality Imaging: The camera delivers impressive video and photo quality, with sharp details and accurate colors.
- Wide-Angle Lens: The 155-degree wide-angle lens captures expansive scenes, ideal for action shots and landscapes.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive touchscreen and app integration make the camera easy to use and configure.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Compatibility with various mounts and accessories enhances the camera’s usability in different environments.
- Good Battery Life: The camera provides approximately 90 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p/60fps, suitable for most activities.
- Electronic Image Stabilization: EIS helps reduce camera shake, producing smoother footage in many situations.
Cons
- Low-Light Performance: The camera’s performance in low-light conditions is not as strong, with increased noise and reduced detail.
- Limited Stabilization: While EIS is helpful, it is not as effective as optical stabilization, and a gimbal may be needed for extreme activities.
- Basic Waterproofing: The camera requires an optional waterproof case for underwater filming, which adds to the cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Xiaoyi Yi Camera stands out as a versatile and affordable action camera that delivers impressive performance across various scenarios. Its high-quality video and photo capabilities, combined with user-friendly design and robust connectivity features, make it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. Whether capturing extreme sports, travel adventures, or everyday moments, the Yi Camera provides a reliable and budget-friendly solution.
Its strong price-to-performance ratio, extensive accessory compatibility, and supportive user community further enhance its appeal. While there are areas for improvement, the Yi Camera remains a highly recommended option for those seeking a capable and cost-effective action camera. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a beginner looking to explore the world of action photography and videography, the Yi Camera offers a compelling package that is hard to beat.