Mevo Core Camera Review: A Versatile, but Expensive Solution for Streamers

The Mevo Core is purpose-built for streamers who want to elevate their production quality without diving into the complexities of professional camera systems. Its compact design, along with the MFT lens system, makes it a strong choice for users who need adaptability. The camera bridges the gap between simple webcams and more advanced mirrorless cameras, offering a range of features aimed at live content creators.

The cube-shaped body allows for multiple mounting configurations, while the ports and mounts are strategically placed for flexibility. The camera system is particularly well-suited for multi-cam setups, with Mevo Core cameras integrating seamlessly through the Mevo Multicam App.

The camera shoots in 4K for local recordings and can simulate multiple camera angles by cropping into specific parts of the frame, a feature that allows for dynamic live streaming without needing multiple physical cameras.

What I Love

Micro Four Thirds Lens System

One of the standout features of the Mevo Core camera is its use of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lens system. Unlike traditional webcams, which have fixed lenses, the Mevo Core's interchangeable lens system allows for significant customization and flexibility. This means that users can swap out lenses depending on their shooting environment, giving them control over the look and feel of their streams. The MFT system is ideal for streamers who are serious about building professional-grade camera rigs, as it offers adaptability that’s typically only found in higher-end cameras.

Cube Body Design

The Mevo Core features a cube-shaped body that is both compact and versatile. Its cube design offers multiple ¼-inch 20-thread mounts on all four sides (top, bottom, and both sides), allowing for diverse mounting options. This makes it easy to position the camera in various orientations depending on the shooting angle or mounting location. Whether you're attaching the camera to a tripod, mounting it on a ceiling rig, or positioning it in unconventional setups, the Mevo Core’s design has you covered.

Mevo Multicam App

The Mevo Core shines with its companion app, the Mevo Multicam App. This app is designed with ease of use in mind, particularly for streamers looking to manage multiple camera feeds. Setting up multi-cam systems can often be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with traditional production software. However, the Mevo Multicam App provides a simple interface for switching between camera angles, allowing users to set up multiple camera frames from a single camera source. The app also offers features like picture-in-picture, graphic overlays, and lower-thirds, streamlining the live production process.

While the Mevo is expensive, it gets really good when you have multiple units which communicate with each other through the app.

Battery Life

Another strong feature is the camera’s internal rechargeable battery, which supports up to 6 hours of continuous streaming or recording on a single charge. For streamers or content creators who need to shoot on the go, this makes the Mevo Core highly portable and reduces the need for frequent recharges during longer sessions.

Connectivity Options

The Mevo Core is equipped with a wide range of connectivity options, adding to its versatility. It includes two USB-C ports, which can be used for charging or as a wired webcam. There’s also an HDMI port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm audio output, giving users multiple ways to integrate the camera into their setups. This flexibility makes the camera more appealing for those who need different configurations, whether for live streaming or local recording.

Local 4k Recording

While the Mevo Core can record locally in 4K, its streaming capabilities are limited to 1080p over Wi-Fi 6E. Despite this limitation, 1080p streaming offers a crisp and clear image for most content creators, and the local 4K recording provides the flexibility to upload higher-quality content after the fact. This allows streamers to balance between live streaming performance and post-production editing. There is an HDMI out, so you will be able to use that in a way that allows for higher quality streaming. You can also attach a screen if you're on the move.

Negatives

Price

At $1,000, the Mevo Core is on the expensive side for a streaming camera, especially when compared to its competitors. For example, the Nikon Z 30 costs around $700 and comes with a built-in lens, making the Mevo Core a pricier option, particularly when considering the additional cost of purchasing lenses.

No Lens Included

Adding to the high price tag, the Mevo Core does not come with a lens out of the box. This means that users will need to purchase a separate lens to get started, further increasing the initial investment.

Limited to 1080p Streaming

While the camera supports 4K local recording, it’s limited to 1080p when streaming. For some creators who are seeking to future-proof their content with 4K streaming, this may be a downside. Although 1080p is generally sufficient for most streaming platforms, the limitation could deter those who want the highest possible streaming resolution.

Subscription Requirement

To add additional camera feeds, like using phone cameras within the Mevo Multicam App, users are required to purchase a Mevo Pro subscription. This can be frustrating for users who want to expand their multi-cam setups without being tied to a subscription service, adding yet another expense to an already costly investment.

Performance

Video Quality

The Mevo Core captures decent picture quality for 1080p streaming, although it struggles slightly in low-light conditions. However, it performs well in brightly lit environments, making it suitable for streamers with good lighting setups.

Audio Management

The Mevo Multicam App also simplifies audio management, allowing users to adjust audio levels for each camera. This is a valuable feature for those who need to manage sound during live productions.

Gesture Controls

One of the user-friendly aspects of the camera is its support for gesture controls on the app like pinch-to-zoom and tap-to-crop, which make it easy to manipulate the video feed on the fly.

Conclusion

Overall, the Mevo Core is a solid camera system for streamers looking to improve their production quality. While the $1,000 price tag and 1080p streaming limitation may deter some, the camera’s flexibility, ease of use, and multi-cam capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for those who need more than a basic webcam but don’t want the complexity of a full mirrorless system. With its interchangeable lens system, compact design, and powerful app integration, the Mevo Core offers a versatile solution for content creators looking to take their streams to the next level.