Abstract: Grouted sleeve connection is the most widely used connection method for precast concrete (PC) structures, and the insufficient grouting is considered as the main factor affecting the seismic performance of PC columns using such connection. To investigate the influence of different defect ratios on the seismic performance of such columns, three PC columns with no defect, with defect ratios of 45% and, with defect ratios 60% were designed, manufactured and tested under the low-cyclic load. Through the comparison with the specimen without defect, the influences of defect ratios on the failure mode, on the hysteretic characteristics, and on the ductility were analyzed. The results indicated that the specimens with defects exhibited a bar-slip failure mode and hysteretic curves with pinching phenomenon, which is significant different from the flexural failure mode and ideal energy dissipation capacity of the specimen without defect. The coefficients of ductility range from 2.8 to 3.5 for the specimens with defect, which is much lower than that (i.e., 5.8) of the specimen without defect. Before the bar slip occurred, the insufficient grouting has a certain extent of influence on the yield load and peak load. The research outcome can provide a reference for the investigation on the seismic performance of PC structures using grouted sleeve.