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Xiaomi Yi Action Camera (Basic Edition) Review: GoPro Killer

The tech world is buzzing about the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera.

This is the first brainchild in the video camera niche of the Chinese smartphone manufacturer.

The nickname most often used in these rumors is the GoPro killer, but is it justified?

For a long time, this niche was occupied by only a few manufacturers proven over the years, including Olympus and Sony.

But it's time for a change. Xiaomi have released their device in this segment.

Camera on a budget

Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is a low budget .

By purchasing it, the user gets the opportunity to record video in 2K format and create 16 mega pixel photos.

The inevitable popularity of this instance was preceded by massive advertising, paid press releases and publications of bloggers.

Many noted that for such a brand the price is simply minimal.

Xiaomi Yi Action Camera is a lightweight camcorder that records Full HD video at 30 and 60 fps.

In addition, it can take 16 megapixel photos.

Its biggest advantage is its price.

Yi cameras come in two different versions:

• Standard (Basic edition)
• For travelers (Travel)

The only difference between these revisions is that in the Travel package, the user gets a very neat .

It does not creak, does not fall apart, looks very stylish.

Specifications

• Lens: 16MP CMOS F2.8 155° wide angle
• Sensor: Sony Exmor R BSI CMOS 16 million pixels
• Dimensions: 6 x 2.1 x 4.2 cm / 2.36 x 0.83 x 1.65 inches
• Memory: Micro SD, cards up to 64GB supported
• Video system: PAL, NTSC
• Video format: MP4
• Sound: 96KHz 2 channels, 92dBA noise reduction
• Battery 1010mAh
• Charger: USB when connected to a PC or via the supplied AV adapter
• Modules: Bluetooth 4.0 WiFi
• Photo Format: JPEG
• Selfie Timer: 1-15 sec
• Time interval: 0.5/1/2/5/10/30/60 sec

Even at first glance, we can say that the characteristics look impressive.

And the developer offers all this to its potential buyers for only $89.

Equipment

Once you open the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera box, this is what you get:

• 1x Xiaomi Yi Action Camera
• 1x USB to microUSB cable (used for charging and syncing with PC)
• 1x 1100 mAh battery

Design

Many adherents of this gadget often call Xiaomi Yi Action Camera "Chinese Apple".

Their directors are called next. The same pedantry, the same attention to detail.

Parallels are often drawn between these two personalities.

The minimalistic approach is visible even in a simple cardboard box.

In an inconspicuous compartment, the USB cable for connecting to and the battery are neatly packed.

When it comes to choosing a color, the device comes in three colors:

• Green
• White
• Black

It's a pity, but I would like the choice of colors to be more diverse.

The brightest among them is green.

White looks simple, it will suit those who prefer minimalism.

But it’s worth saying right away that this is a very easily soiled color, so get ready to wipe your pet often.

And connoisseurs of strict forms and classics will certainly choose a black set.

It is fairly solid and feels like it is built with quality materials both inside and out.

This sets it apart from cheaper counterparts.

Main disadvantage

The company sacrificed functionality by ditching the LCD screen.

Yes, for many this is a significant drawback, but it is worth noting that such a detail can significantly increase the cost of the camera.

Now there is a solution for connecting external LCD displays.

In addition, you can connect an external battery, which will double the recording time.

All settings in the camera can only be changed when connected to a computer.

So before you start using it, you need to download it, connect the camera to your PC and set it up.

You can, of course, use the camera in this way, but all the functionality will not be available.

Dimensions and weight

The device measures 60.4mm x 21.2mm x 42mm and weighs only 72 grams when fully assembled.

They are slightly heavier than similar camcorders, especially when compared to the SJ4000 and SJCAM M10.

Lens and sensors

Ambarella A7LS is responsible for photo processing, in the kit for it the user receives a Sony Exmor R BSI CMOS 16 MEGA Pixels sensor and an ST 3-Axis G-sensor.

Buttons and ports

The camera does not have many buttons and ports, you can disassemble them in the first 10-15 minutes.

Buttons, ports and LED indicators

• The front button is a power on/off button. Allows you to turn the camera on or off, as well as switch modes.
• The button on top is the shutter button, when pressed, it will take a photo or start/stop video recording.
• On the side is a button that turns WiFi on/off.

• 1/4″ tripod port
• Micro SD card slot
• USB port (charging, PC connection)
• HDMI port (for transferring images and videos to TV)
• Battery clip (push to open battery compartment)

Indicators

• LED indicators (indicate whether recording is in progress) this moment or not. The round indicator changes color as the battery draws down)

Video

The colors look quite natural. The images are decent and much sharper than the video. Even when the camera is turned on directly in the sun, the colors do not darken.

Sony's 16-megapixel CMOS sensor ensures that you get high-quality images even on a bright sunny day.

Many analogues produce a darker image. In Xiaomi Yi Action Camera, the colors are very natural brightness.

Time-lapse photography

The camcorder has a single-frame shooting mode. This setting can be set via the app.

Basically, it allows your machine to continuously take photos at the interval you set. You can set the time interval to 0.5/1/2/5/10/30/60 seconds.

For example, you can set the time span to 5 seconds (this is the time that is used most often).

I wish the camera itself would take a frame-by-frame of your photos, but unfortunately this option is not provided.

If you understand technically, you can set the indicator to 2 hours (10800 seconds) and set the shooting interval to 10 seconds.

At 1080p 60 fps, you get 18 seconds of time lapse video. It's not as difficult as it sounds, you can see a lot of YouTube video tutorials on how to create this kind of video.

Self-timer

Single shooting and self-timer are different functions. Frame-by-frame is a constant number of photos.

The camera will work without interruption for a set period of time, and the self-timer takes just one photo after a certain period of time.

The timer allows you to set a delay before a single photo.

This is a useful option for group photos where you can put the Yi Action Camera on a stand and it will automatically take a photo.

Timer can be set to 3, 5, 10 and 15 seconds

snapshot

Snapshot is probably the least useful feature for any photographer.

With the Snapshot function, you can create a short animation with a ridiculous resolution of 640 x 480 / 4:3 / 30p.

If you use a Xiaomi Yi action camera, then you will definitely need accessories for it. These are small and inexpensive, but very useful devices. Thanks to them, you will discover much more possibilities for using the device. Using it will give you even more pleasure, and with the created videos you will surprise not only friends and acquaintances, but the entire Internet.

No need to search in third-party stores - everything is already in Xiaomi Store

The developer of the popular Yi action camera, the Chinese company Xiaomi, also creates additional devices and accessories. There is no need for you to turn to third-party manufacturers: hardly any of them can offer something better than Xiaomi, which created the camera and knows its features thoroughly.

Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Accessories for All Occasions

In this section, you can pick up products, thanks to which you will use the capabilities of the device to the fullest. Products are grouped in the catalog, equipped with short descriptions with photo and price. To learn more about a product, click on it and go to the corresponding page.

To make your search even faster, select only the categories that interest you. To do this, use the filter, which is located on the left side of the screen. For you, the Xiaomi Store offers:

• aquaboxes for safe underwater shooting;
• batteries and chargers to shoot video in any conditions and in any area, even far from civilization;
• mounts and holders, including universal clamps and functional tripods, mounts and adapters for all kinds of situations, holders for animals and so on - now you can capture absolutely any process on video;
• ultraviolet filters, image stabilizers, lighting, thanks to which shooting will become more convenient and safer, and the video itself will look better;
• remote controls, panoramic timers, LCD displays - find out what else your action camera is capable of;

Among other things, ready-made sets of tools, fasteners and other accessories for servicing Xiaomi Yi are offered. The manufacturer not only created one of the most versatile action cameras - he also made sure that you can choose everything you need from the available assortment.

In the catalog you will find accessories that will allow you to shoot hiking and sports competitions, cycling or scuba diving. Shoot through the eyes of your growing children or pets, let your imagination run wild, come up with the most incredible angles and ways of shooting.

Quality and compatibility warranties are provided on behalf of the manufacturer

A distinctive feature of the Xiaomi Store is that we cooperate directly with the Xiaomi company, which produces gadgets and products for them. Therefore, we have every reason to guarantee the quality and performance of the presented products. You can also be sure that the products sold here are fully compatible with the device - you will not have any problems using them.

Extreme sports are a new fashion trend, which is preferred by a large number of people of different age categories. Such an adventure is often accompanied by colorful photographs, which depict an impressive jump from a height, a skiing or snowboarding trip, an original trick on a skateboard. Today there is no need to carry bulky cameras - it is enough to have Xiaomi Yi. Action camera allows you to take a picture in any, even the most extreme conditions!

More about the device

Xiaomi Yi Action offers quality gadgets with excellent features. The device is capable of operating in the following modes:

• Professional shooting, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects;
• Shooting for every day;
• Sports mode;
• Shooting in slow motion for fast moving subjects.

The user has the option remote control Xiaomi Yi Action Camera. To interact with the gadget, you can use the remote control that works via Bluetooth technology.

K e xiaomi yi xen camerayou can additionally purchase accessories that make the operation of the device as comfortable as possible. The novelty from the Chinese manufacturer is not afraid of dirt, moisture, temperature changes, so it is suitable for shooting in the summer and winter seasons, giving a lot of pleasant minutes! The unique body material reliably protects all components of the camera from overheating. Shoot videos by yourself or with friends and share interesting shots in in social networks! The Xiaomi Yi camera is able to meet the needs of the most demanding and demanding users!

Who will like Xiaomi Yi Camera

Anyone can buy Xiaomi Yi. It will be a useful gift in honor of solemn event and without it. The presentation will not go unclaimed. The Xiaomi action camera will appeal to those users who lead a sedentary lifestyle - a great motivation for the owner to try cycling, swimming and other sports. The manufacturer has done everything necessary - the consumer receives a high-quality Xiaomi Yi Action for relatively little money and can comfortably use a device of this type.

show in full

Let's omit the history of Xiaomi itself, although it is quite interesting. We are talking about the Xiaomi Yi action camera, this is the first experience of a Chinese manufacturer in the manufacture of such products.

When buying a gadget, the first thing we pay attention to is the packaging. Let's face it, a box of a Chinese gadget made of unpainted cardboard with the Yi logo introduces certain doubts into the soul of a Russian person. Manufacturers do not provide any additional protective cases made of plastic. The safety of the camera long-term storage or transportation is a big question.

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Contents of delivery

The basic configuration of the Xiaomi Yi Basic Edition action camera will baffle even such recognized supporters of minimalism as GoPro. In the cardboard box, we will find only a usb cable, battery, instructions.

However, the manufacturer corrected itself by assembling a kit for the Xiaomi Yi Travel Edition camera: it is supplemented with a control panel and a metal tripod.

Xiaomi Yi Camera Package

However, it cannot be said that this is some kind of achievement. This is a normal set, which should be supplied with the gadget. A protective case included in the package would have been much more useful, but there is none. It is assumed that the operator will acquire it if necessary. Xiaomi is not alone in this regard, and Apple and GoPro are following the same path.

Appearance

The shape of the camera resembles a similar gadget from GoPro i.e. it is a small rectangle with a protruding lens. The Chinese manufacturer offers its action cameras in white and green. However, the front plate is removable and can be replaced without much difficulty. On sale there are front plates of very unusual colors, and their prices are quite democratic. The case is made of rough plastic, while the side face has a ribbed surface, which makes it easier to fix the camera by hand.

Xiaomi Yi Action Camera

There is a large button on the front of the camera, next to the lens. It turns on / off the gadget and switches shooting modes. Neither monochrome nor color display is observed. Therefore, you will have to control the camera through mobile application, which will definitely have to be installed on a smartphone or tablet.

Indicators

The camera is equipped with three LEDs that inform the operator about the status of the camera. The first of them surrounds the power key and informs the user about the battery charge level. The indicator can light up in three colors: blue (charge level 50-100%), purple (15-49%) and red (less than 15%).

Blue light on

On the top of the gadget, there is a key responsible for starting shooting, next to which there is a round indicator. Similar control sensors are located on the bottom plane and on the back of the gadget. They burn exclusively in red, but in a different mode. The off indicator indicates that the camera is in camera mode, blinking indicates recording is on, and a steady glow indicates that the video mode is on. This method of control cannot be called intuitive, but it is quite possible to master it.

On the right side of the action camera, there is a Wi-Fi key, next to it is another indicator, its blue glow indicates that the wireless connection is on.

Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Features

Unlike, the Chinese manufacturer has provided for the possibility of standard tripod attachment to the camera. In the lower plane of the device, there is a thread that allows you to attach to it different kinds fasteners. However, it should be noted that only a regular monopod is ideal for this thread, you will have to try to fix other accessories.

On the reverse side The device has two covers. One of them closes the connectors for connecting a usb cable, miniHDMI and a slot for a memory card. The battery is hidden behind the second one (1010 mAh battery). Unfortunately, there is no additional attachment of the covers to the case, which increases the risk of losing them.

Working with the camera

The camera is turned on with a large button located on its front plate. By default, the gadget starts in camera mode. However, this can be changed in the settings.

Xiaomi Yi is equipped with an Ambarella A7LS processor and a 1/2.3-inch Sony Exmor R matrix. The camera has a "power" of 16 megapixels, which is superior to that of fourth-generation GoPro gadgets. Image stabilization is provided by the accelerometer.

In principle, the declared characteristics make it possible to shoot in 4K mode, but the manufacturer decided to limit itself to Full HD, at which the frame rate is 60 per second. It is also possible to record video in 480p and 720p (200 and 100 frames per second, respectively).

The use of large-format optics makes its own adjustments to the quality of photo and video images - a fish-eye effect is created, which, however, is easily corrected using software. However, do not be surprised, after the correction, the quality of the images will be reduced.

The main purpose of the camera is to shoot dynamic videos. Despite this, the gadget is not equipped with either software or optical stabilization. There are no special claims to the quality of the images. However, there are certain shortcomings in video recording, and it is stupid to deny them.

With photography, things are much better. The photos taken with the Xiaomi Yi Basic Edition Action Camera are highly detailed. The quality of the pictures is practically unremarkable, there are small problems with white color, but they are completely solvable. The camera allows you to take continuous or interval shooting. The received photos can be converted to GIF or MP4 format immediately in the application.

Working hours

The regular battery of the device has a capacity of 1010 mAh, with the wireless connection turned off, it allows you to shoot for two hours. Disabled Wi-Fi does not allow you to use the viewfinder and control the camera using the mobile app. Wi-Fi enabled in Full HD mode will reduce the gadget's operating time to one hour. This is a little more than similar cameras from other manufacturers, but still not that much. However, the solution to this problem has long been found, it is the use of an external battery to recharge the batteries or their replaceable set.

Sound

It will be possible to record your voice on camera only in the calmest weather. Connected, this is with excessive protection of the microphone from the wind. You can solve the problem only by disassembling the camera and removing the protective fabric from the microphone. However, the real need for such actions is questionable.

Soft

The lack of full mechanical control of the camera makes the installation of a mobile application on a smartphone a necessity. Software allows you to view images from your gadget in real time, adjust settings and switch shooting modes. The interface of the application is not complicated, and it will not be difficult to deal with it.

Summarizing

Of course, the camera is not perfect, but you need to consider its price category. For example, prices for such cameras from GoPro do not fall below 25,000 rubles. The Chinese counterpart will cost you a maximum of 10,000 rubles, moreover, the cost of a protective case is already included here.

The shortcomings revealed during the test are offset by the positive features of the camera. Controlling the device only with the help of a mobile application is, of course, a negative point. The disadvantages are the quality of the soundtrack and some features of the video. However, it is worth taking into account that the camera costs at least half as much as a similar gadget from GoPro. At the same time, photos and videos are of quite decent quality, the device is quite nice in appearance and has acceptable dimensions.

You should not position the Chinese action camera as a full-fledged competitor to GoPro. Especially if the user is focused on processing videos in high quality. However, the bulk of users immediately send their videos to the Internet, not really thinking about their processing.

The scope of Xiaomi Yi Basic Edition is not only shooting tricks, it is quite appropriate when walking, partying, etc. By and large, the camera was created for taking photos or videos in extreme conditions, and it copes with the tasks set. Most of the shortcomings still relate not to the quality of filming, but to the comfortable use of the camera.

Gone are the days when Chinese products caused a smile. Today, goods from the Middle Kingdom make up the lion's share in any market. You can talk as much as you like about the non-compliance of the goods with some mythical norms and requirements. The main indicator is demand, and as practice shows, it is only growing for Xiaomi products.

Testing the Xiaomi Yi action camera - the camera was fixed on the Syma x8w quadrocopter. Let's see what came of it: