Xiaomi Yi action cameras have long been popular with outdoor enthusiasts, bloggers and professional videographers, combining high quality shooting, affordable price and wide functionality, but many users face difficulties in first setting up, updating firmware or solving typical problems, from connection errors to artifacts in video.
In this guide, we will cover all the key aspects of working with Xiaomi Yi, from basic setup to advanced features such as manual exposure control or using the camera as a webcam. We will focus on the Yi Action Camera (1/2 generation), Yi 4K and Yi 4K+ models, as well as their clones, you will learn how to avoid common errors, what accessories you really need, and what to do if the camera stops turning on or does not save files.
The material will be useful for both beginners and experienced users who want to squeeze the maximum out of their device, all instructions are checked on current firmware (2023-2026) and take into account the peculiarities of working with official and custom software.
1. How to choose Xiaomi Yi model: comparison of key characteristics
Xiaomi Yi’s lineup includes several generations of cameras, each with its own pros and cons, with major differences in video resolution, image stabilization and additional features, and a comparison table of the most popular models below:
| Model | Max. Video resolution | Stabilization | Viewing angle | Battery (mAh) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yi Action Camera (1 gen) | 1080p@60fps | Software | 155° | 1010 | The most budget, no screen. |
| Yi 4K | 4K@30fps | Electronic (EIS) | 155° | 1400 | H.265 support, removable battery |
| Yi 4K+ | 4K@60fps | Electronic (improved) | 155° | 1400 | More powerful processor, works better in the dark |
| Yi Lite | 1080p@30fps | Absent. | 140° | 900 | A simplified version, without Wi-Fi in some versions |
✅ For most tasks (bicycle walks, travel, vlogging) the best choice will be Yi. 4K — It offers a balance of value and quality. 4K@60fps (For example, for slow motion, pay attention to Yi. 4K+, But keep in mind that it warms more and discharges faster.
⚠️ Note: Yi Lite models are often sold as “full” cameras, but have a stripped-down functionality. Check for Wi-Fi and firmware updates before buying - some clones do not support official software.
Initial configuration: connection and basic parameters
After buying the Xiaomi Yi camera, you need to set up before first using it, which involves charging the battery, installing a memory card, and connecting to your smartphone.
- Battery charging. Connect the camera to the network using the original USB Type-C cable (for Yi 4K/4K+) or Micro-USB (for the first version). Full charging takes ~2 hours. Using non-original chargers can overheat the battery and reduce its life.
- Install memory card. Xiaomi Yi cameras support microSD cards of UHS-I U3 or V30 class with a capacity of up to 128 GB. Format the card directly in the camera through the Settings menu → Format the card.
- Turn on Wi-Fi. Press the button. Wi-Fi/Power on 3 Just a second until the blue light flashes. YDXJ_XXXXXX from a smartphone (default password — 1234567890).
- Download the official Yi Action app (Android/iOS) or the alternative Xiaomi Home app (for some models).
⚠️ Attention: If the camera does not turn on after charging, check the contacts of the battery for oxidation. Often the problem is solved by cleaning with alcohol or replacing the battery. Do not use metal objects to press the contacts - this can cause a short circuit!
☑️ Preparation for the first shoot
After connecting to the application, it is recommended to immediately update the firmware (Updates section in the camera menu), this will fix bugs and add new features, such as Gyroflow support for video stabilization.
3. Update of firmware: official and custom versions
Xiaomi Yi firmware is responsible for stability, video quality and feature availability. Official updates are rarely released, but they are tested and compatible with all accessories. Custom firmware (such as Yi Hack or AutoExec) add advanced settings, but can cause heat or write problems.
Refreshment methods:
- 📱 Through the app: The easiest method. Open Yi Action, go to Settings → Update. Download and install the latest version. The camera will reboot automatically.
- 💻 Manually through the memory card: Download the firmware from the official website (choose the version for your model!). Unpack the archive and copy the file firmware.bin Put the card in the camera, turn it on and wait for the automatic update (the indicator will flash yellow).
Castom firmware:
Yi Hack
FAT32
autoexec.ash
yi-hack
GitHub
What to do if the update is suspended?
⚠️ Note: Installing custom firmware voids the warranty and may result in loss of features (e.g., failure of stabilization or Wi-Fi).Before experimenting, back up the original firmware!
💡
Official firmware is more stable, but custom ones give more control over settings (bitrate, exposure, color profile).
4. Optimal settings for shooting: video, photo, timelapse
The quality of the final video depends not only on the camera model, but also on the right parameters.
🎥 Video:
- 🌄 Landscapes/travel: Permission 4K@30fps, bitrate 100 Mbps, WDR (Extended dynamic range: turn on. Use a tripod or stabilizer.
- 🚴 Extreme Sports: Permission 1080p@60fps or 2.7K@30fps, angle 155°, stabilisation EIS — For a bicycle, it's better to put the camera on your chest, not your helmet.
- 🎤 Vlogs/Interviews: Permission 1080p@30fps, microphone - external (through the microphone) 3.5mm jack or adapter), ISO — machine-gun 100–400.
📸 Photo Photo:
- 🌅 Sunsets/dawns: Format RAW (if maintained), ISO 100, exposure 1/30–1/125, White balance - Daylight.
- 🏔️ Night shooting: Use Night Mode (if any) or manual settings: ISO 800–1600, shutter speed up to 2 seconds, tripod required.