To compare the two cameras that are currently leading the sports camera market requires a quick glance at your bank balance. If money is no object you’re clearly better off with the Hero 5, but at $150 less than GoPro’s offering the Yi 4k might be the simple solution that provides all you need if you’re only just starting to film your adrenaline fueled escapades.
GoPro Hero 5 is feature filled but might be a bit steep for many at $399
While both cameras are relished for their durability, it should be noted that each could easily be placed in an upper corner of your kitchen to film your cooking podcast. But, let’s face it, these two cameras are designed for showcasing your daredevil nature and desire to share your adventures. All said and done, the technical specifications of the two cameras lead us to a near draw when it comes to the camera itself. While the Hero 5 is head and shoulders above GoPro’s flagship Hero 4, the upstart Yi 4k action camera stands right there with it.
Each of the two boasts a 12-megapixel camera with GoPro’s boasting sublime stabilization thanks to its Snapdragon 800 chipset. The Yi model includes a Sony IMX377 12-megapixel camera capable of shooting 4k video at 30 to 120 frames per second with the ability to capture time-lapse videos for those who are so inclined. GoPro also offers 4k video with the potential to boost it to 8k, but only shoots from 30 to 60 frames per second.
In theory, the 1400mAh battery in the Yi 4K from Xiaomi compared to GoPro Hero 5’s 1160 mAh should give you a bit more battery life.
Features and Pricing
As far as features go, this is where the GoPro Hero 5 shines in comparing the two models. The Hero 5 boasts electronic stabilization, a first for the leader in action cameras. This stabilization feature shines as you make your way down the bumpy trail or ski slope. There is little question that the Hero 5 takes a better video on the move which, at the end of the day, is the realm of the action camera.
Additionally, the Hero 5 offers voice control which is handy especially if you’re in the middle of some death-defying stunt. Death defying stunts have a tendency to work out better when you have both hands available to you, and you’re not fiddling about with tiny little buttons when racing at breakneck speeds. As far as features go, the Hero 5 takes this round easily.
However, that victory for the Hero 5 when it comes to features begs the question is it worth the extra $150 for electronic stabilization and the ability to command the camera with your voice? The Xiaomi action camera is a very good camera with a price tag of $250 while the Hero 5 will set you back $399.
Just as we started, it comes down to price given the competing specs that essentially end in a tie between the two. Now, if you’re planning on using the camera over bumpy terrain the electronic stabilization of the Hero 5 is likely worth the extra cost. Additionally, while the Yi Action Camera does have a more powerful battery, this is quickly offset by the voice activation features of the GoPro offering as you’re not burning battery when you’re simply telling the camera when to start and stop filming.
