How to Fix Pixelated or Blurry Video on Your Yi Camera
A security camera is only as good as the video it produces. If the footage from your Yi Home Camera is pixelated, blurry, or grainy, it can be difficult to see important details. This issue is almost always solvable by addressing one of a few common causes related to your network, camera settings, or physical environment.
This guide will walk you through the troubleshooting steps to restore a clear, sharp image.
## Step 1: Check Your Wi-Fi Connection
Your Wi-Fi network is the foundation of your camera's performance. A weak or unstable signal is the number one cause of poor video quality. The camera automatically lowers the video bitrate to prevent the stream from disconnecting, which results in pixelation.
### How to Test and Improve Your Signal
- Check Signal Strength: While not always shown in the Yi app, a general rule is to check the Wi-Fi bars on your phone when standing next to the camera. If your phone has a weak signal, your camera does too.
- Move Your Router: The simplest solution is often to move your Wi-Fi router closer to the camera. Even a few feet can make a significant difference.
- Reduce Obstructions: Thick walls, especially those made of concrete or brick, can severely block Wi-Fi signals. The more walls between your router and camera, the weaker the signal will be.
- Use a Wi-Fi Extender: If you cannot move your router, a Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh Wi-Fi system can be used to boost the signal in the area where your camera is located.
- Minimise Interference: Keep your router and camera away from other electronic devices like microwave ovens, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices, which can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal.
## Step 2: Adjust In-App Video Quality Settings
Ensure your camera is set to record at the highest possible quality.
- Open the Yi Home App: Select the camera you want to adjust.
- Go to Settings: Tap the gear icon to open the camera's settings menu.
- Find Video Settings: Look for an option like 'Camera Settings' or 'Video Quality'.
- Select High Definition: You will likely see options for Standard Definition (SD) and High Definition (HD). Make sure you have HD selected for the best possible resolution. Keep in mind that streaming in HD requires a stronger Wi-Fi connection.
## Step 3: Clean the Camera Lens
It may sound simple, but a dirty lens is a very common cause of blurry or hazy video.
- Power Down the Camera: It's good practice to unplug the camera before cleaning.
- Use a Microfibre Cloth: Gently wipe the lens with a clean, dry microfibre cloth (the kind used for cleaning eyeglasses).
- Avoid Abrasives: Do not use paper towels, tissues, or harsh cleaning chemicals, as these can permanently scratch the lens coating.
- Check for Protective Film: If your camera is new, double-check that you have removed the thin layer of protective plastic film from the lens.
## Step 4: Check Lighting and Night Vision
- Daytime Video: For the best quality, ensure the area your camera is monitoring is well-lit. Poor lighting can force the camera to use a slower shutter speed, which can make moving objects appear blurry.
- Night Vision: When night vision is active, the video will be in black and white. Graininess is normal in very low light. Ensure the infrared (IR) LEDs on the front of the camera are not obstructed. Also, check that the camera isn't positioned too close to a wall or surface, as the IR light can reflect off it and cause a white glare, reducing overall image clarity.
By working through these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the pixelated video and restore a clear, useful image from your Yi camera.