REVIEWED: Yi 4K Action Camera
With 12-megapixel photos and 4K video, this diminutive action cam is a great value alternative to a GoPro HERO5
It has no voice control. So what? In all other regard, this tiny POV action cam is at least equal of the market leaders – the GoPro HERO5 – and most probably its better.
Half the price
Its low price is the first attraction (it’s just over half the price of a GoPro HERO5), sure, but during our test in La Palma in the Canary Islands, the Yi 4K proved itself a worthy travel cam. It’s actually got a bigger touchscreen than the GoPro HERO5 (at 2.19-inches), and its 155°, ultra-wide f/2. 8 aperture lens impresses, too.
Twice the battery
Weighing a mere 94g, the Yi 4K is packed with features. There’s WiFi Direct for control by any phone sporting the free Yi Action app, around 20 different video format choices right up to 4K at 30 frames-per-second – and for an impressive two hours (battery life is its biggest plus when compared to its rival). However, I found that the most impressive video resolution was 1080p Full HD at 120 frames per second, which was much smoother and more comfortable to watch. 4K time-lapses, loop recording for a specified time, and slow-mo sequences are all possible.
Some criticisms
There are few minor quibbles aside from its lack of voice activation; it’s incapable of automatic upload of photos and videos, there is no option to shoot RAW format photos, and the button placement on its top makes it all too easy to switch on and off accidentally, while it’s in your pocket. Cue a flat battery when you get to the start of your adventure. However, in all other regard the hugely enjoyable, versatile and impressive Yi 4K proves a great value alternative to the GoPro HERO5.