Xiaomi action camera instead of DVR: a real alternative or a temporary solution?

Xiaomi action cameras are popular among extreme sports enthusiasts and travelers, but many car owners are wondering whether they can be used as a full-fledged DVR? At first glance, their compact size, wide viewing angle and 4K recording capability make them an attractive alternative to traditional DVRs.

In this article, we will discuss which Xiaomi models are suitable for recording trips, how to install them correctly in the car, what shortcomings should be considered and how to avoid typical problems. You will learn whether to save on a specialized recorder or it is better to limit yourself to an action camera only for temporary needs.

What Xiaomi action cameras are suitable for use in the car

Not all brand devices are equally good at DVR. Three key parameters are important for continuous recording in the car: automatic start-up when power is applied, cyclic recording and resistance to overheating.

• 🔹 Xiaomi MiJia 4K — One of the first cameras of the brand 4K@30fps, It's not automatic, it's only for manual control.
• 🔹 Xiaomi Yi 4K+ — Improved version with cyclic recording and external microphone, but requires improvements for auto-run.
• 🔹 Xiaomi Mi Action Camera 4K (2020 — supports EIS (electronic stabilization), but overheats with prolonged recording in the heat.
• 🔹 Xiaomi Yi Lite 2 – budget version with a viewing angle of 145°, but with a weak battery (maximum 90 minutes of battery life).
• 🔹 Xiaomi Mi Sphere Camera – dual-lens camera (360)°), but excessive for the registrar and requiring special fastening.

Best choice for a car – Xiaomi Yi 4K+ Mi Action Camera 4K, But even they lose out to specialized DVR They don't have a built-in G-sensor (for detecting impacts) and GPS-module (for reference coordinates).

Advantages of action camera over classic video recorder

Despite the obvious drawbacks, action cameras have several significant advantages that make them attractive for temporary use:

• 💰 Price: even flagship Xiaomi models are cheaper than the average DVR with similar resolution.
• 🔄 Universality: one camera can be used for trips, sports events, and blogging.
• 📱 Easy management: all settings are available through the Mi Home or Yi Action mobile app, whereas many of them have a mobile app. DVR effacing.
• 🎥 Video quality: Action cameras often outperform recorders in detail, especially in the video game. 4K (For example, Mi Action Camera. 4K drop-in 3840×2160 against 2560×1440 most DVR).
• 🔋 Possibility of external power: you can connect to the lighter through the USB-Type-C adapter and record at least a day away.

Another plus is compactness: it's easier to hide from thieves or move it from the windshield to the back, and if you already have a Xiaomi device, why not try using it in your car instead of buying a separate recorder?

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If you plan to use an action camera as a recorder, buy a U3 memory card (for example, SanDisk Extreme) – it can withstand long recording without failure.

Why an action camera won’t replace a full DVR

Despite the advantages, there are critical points that cause action cameras to lose to specialized devices:

1. No automatic powering when starting the engine: Most Xiaomi models require manual recording start, which is inconvenient in everyday use, solved by buying a separate voltage relay or firmware custom software (but this voids the warranty).
2. There is no cycling out of the box. Video files are not segmented, and when you fill the memory card, the camera just stops the recording. In some models (for example, Yi 4K+), you can turn on the function in the settings, but it works unstable.
3. Problems with overheating. With prolonged recording in the heat (from +25°C) the cameras start to brake or shut down. 4K — The radiator is not efficient enough to work in the summer.
4. There's no G-sensor or GPS. DVRs automatically save files in accidents and tie coordinates. Action cameras can't do that without additional accessories.
5. Weak microphone: In the car, the camera records more engine and wind noise than conversations. An external microphone (like Yi Microphone) solves the problem, but requires a separate purchase.

⚠️ Warning: If you live in a hot climate, the action camera can shut down after 30 to 40 minutes of continuous recording, in which case you have to use an external fan or take breaks.

How to set up Xiaomi action camera for use in a car

To bring the action camera as close as possible to the functionality of the DVR, follow the following steps:

Install the latest version of the firmware through Mi Home

Disable screen auto-disconnection in settings

Enable cycling (if supported)

Set up 1080p@60fps resolution or 4K@30fps

Connect an external battery or power adapter from the lighter

Hold the camera on the windshield with a suction cup or 3M-scotch

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Additional recommendations:

• 🔧 Use a memory card with a capacity of at least 64 GB (preferably 128 GB), as the video in the video 4K borrower ~1GB for 3 minutes.
• 🔌 For constant nutrition is suitable for anyone USB-adapter 5V/2A Type-C connector: It is important that the cable is short. 1 m), otherwise voltage loss is possible.
• 📐 The optimal position of the camera is behind the rear-view mirror, so as not to close the view and avoid glare from the sun.
• 🔊 If your model supports voice control (e.g. Mi Action Camera) 4K), Set up the commands "Start recording" and "Stop recording" for convenience.

For models without automatic switching on, you can use a voltage relay that will supply power to the camera when the engine starts. The cost of such a device is from 500 rubles, and any auto electrician connects it in 10-15 minutes.

Comparison of Xiaomi action camera and budget video recorder

To objectively assess what is better – an action camera or a specialized DVR, compare them on key parameters:

The action camera only wins in video resolution and versatility, but it loses in all the key features of the DVR. If you want a reliable DVR for constant use, you better buy a specialized device, even if it is cheaper.

Life hacks: how to improve the work of the action camera in the car

If you still decide to use the action camera Xiaomi as a recorder, these tips will help to make the experience more comfortable:

• 🛠️ Use an external microphone (e.g. Yi Microphone or Boya) BY-M1), It's connected through 3.5 mm or better to record sound. USB-C (model-wise).
• ☀️ Plug a polarizing filter on the lens – this will reduce glare from the windshield and improve the contrast of the video.
• 🔄 Set up automatic deletion of old files through the application so as not to waste time cleaning the memory card.
• 📡 Connect the camera to the Wi-Fi router in the car (if any) to stream live video to the phone.

⚠️ Note: If you use an action camera as a taxi or car sharing recorder, make sure that the recording is in a format accepted as evidence by insurance companies. Some services (e.g. Yandex.Taxi) require video with a binding by the car sharing service. GPS, What is impossible without additional equipment.

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Xiaomi’s action camera is suitable for temporary use as a recorder, but will not replace a dedicated device in the long run.

Alternatives: What video recorders from Xiaomi should be considered

If you are disappointed in the idea of using an action camera and want to buy a full-fledged DVR, pay attention to the models from Xiaomi and its sub-brands:

• 📹 70mai Pro Plus+ — budgetary 1920×1080@60fps, G-sensor and GPS. Price: ~4 000 ₽.

All of these devices are devoid of the downsides of action cameras: they automatically turn on when the engine starts, support cycling and have built-in shock sensors. If the budget allows, it is better to buy one of these recorders right away than to suffer from adapting the action camera.

FAQ: Frequent questions about using Xiaomi action cameras in the car