MGCOOL Explorer 3 and Yi 4K: Which is better?

MGCOOL Explorer 3

Gone are days where you used to handle bulky digital cameras and DSLRs. The launch of several budget-friendly action cameras has created fissures in the conventional digital camera segment. The 4K-enabled action cameras are designed and manufactured in such a way to enable you to shoot high-resolution images and videos. Moreover, they look small, lightweight and can be handled easily under any adverse scenarios. The action cameras are portable because of its size. MGCOOL Explorer 3 is the latest action camera with advanced features such as a touchscreen. The Yi 4K is also a good quality premium 4K-enabled action camera with plenty of new features. In this article, we will compare the specifications of both MGCOOL Explorer 3 and Yi 4K in detail. Towards the end of the article, you will learn which camera to purchase.

Unique price advantage

The big advantage between MGCOOL Explorer 3 and Yi 4K is the price. You can buy Explorer 3 for just $99.99 on Gearbest with new features, advanced specifications, and capabilities. However, you need to shell out $199.99 to buy Yi 4K, which is around $100 more than the MGCOOL Explorer 3. You should note that the Explorer 3 comes with 170-degree wide angle sensor, while the Yi 4K ships with only 155-degree wide angle lens. Moreover, MGCOOL has embedded drawing technology in Explorer 3, which enhances the appearance of the action camera coupled with adequate grip.

Display

MGCOOL Explorer 3 is equipped with a 2-inch touch display, which helps you to work with the various functions easily. The advantage of Yi 4K camera is the integration of a 2.19-inch retina touchscreen with a resolution of 640×360 pixels.

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Performance

While MGCOOL Explorer 3 is equipped with an iCatch V50 processor, the YI 4K runs on Ambarella A9SE processor. Designed using a 28nm manufacturing process, the YI 4K includes an enhanced cooling mechanism for trouble-free recording during extended shooting. Moreover, the camera provides support for Native 4K images and videos, which is first in the world of action camera segment.

MGCOOL Explorer 3 features a Panasonic 34112 sensor with 7G Sharp Lens. You will be able to capture images up to 14MP. However, the Yi 4K includes a Sony IMX377 sensor capable of capturing up to 12MP photos. The Explorer 3 helps you to snap images with increased size when compared to Yi 4K.

The YI 4K can shoot 4K videos at 30fps but it only provides a 155-degree wide angle sensor. However, the Explorer 3 can shoot 4K videos at 30fps with support for 170-degree wide angle technology, which enables you to capture wide images. Moreover, you can shoot FHD and HD videos at 60fps and 120fps respectively.

Battery

MGCOOL Explorer 3 is powered by a 1100mAh battery with the capability to shoot 4K videos at 30fps for 75 minutes. You can also shoot FHD videos at 60fps for about 120 minutes. It is possible to charge within two hours using 5V/1A ac adapter. The Yi 4K includes a 1400mAh battery, which enables you to shoot 4K videos at 30fps for a period of 110 minutes, which is higher than the Explorer 3.

Advanced Functions

MGCOOL Explorer 3 is water-resistant up to 30m and also provides support for Native 4K at 30fps, EIS, gyroscope, dual-channel stereo audio, self-timer, slow motion including car mode. The Yi 4K also provides support for Lens Distortion Correction (LDC), Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, timer and slow motion. The car mode in the Explorer 3 helps you to shoot road while driving without causing any disturbance to driving. The integration of drawing technology is a big bonus since it provides adequate grip during usage.

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Verdict

The MGCOOL Explorer 3 will be useful for users who carve to work with all the latest features at a budget price. You can experience premium 4K photography with the Explorer 3 for under $99.99. Even though the Yi 4K ships with an enhanced display and battery, the additional cost of around $100 doesn’t make sense. The 2-inch touch display is sufficient for normal operations and the improved battery will not be a big deal since you can charge the Explorer 3 quickly using the bundled cable. Hence, you should try MGCOOL Explorer 3 because it offers all the latest features at a price you can resist. Did you like the features included with the Explorer 3? Please share your feedback.

Anand Narayanaswamy is the editor-in-chief of Netans. He was recognized as a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) for 9 years (2002 to 2011) and again as a Microsoft MVP in Surface under Windows and Devices in January 2024. He worked as a Chief Technical Editor with ASPAlliance and was part of ASPInsider program. Anand has published several articles and reviews related to various software and hardware products for various software and technology related websites. He is also active on social media and also participates as an Influencer for various brands. Anand can be reached at admin@netans.com