Streaming is serious business, and Logitech’s Mevo Core camera is proof. While the majority of photo/video camera manufacturers, Sony and Panasonic in the lead, offer webcam functions in their boxes, Logitech has decided to go even further by launching a mini connected (almost) broadcast camera.
Similar in principle to Blackmagic’s Micro Studio Camera 4K G2, the Mevo Core is a device stripped of all the elements and equipment linked to ergonomic handling: no viewfinder or screen, it is ‘a sleek box intended to be controlled remotely. The heart of the Mevo Core is, as with the Blackmagic camera, its Micro 4/3 sensor (8.2 Mpx) with interchangeable optics.
The Mevo Core should therefore largely dominate classic webcams thanks to its large sensor, on the one hand.
But also thanks to its optics, on the other hand: the Micro 4/3 mount is one of the richest there is, with very many actors. Among them, traditional names in photography, like Olympus or Panasonic, which launched the standard. But you also have to count on the champion of drones DJI, or even Sigma, Samyang, Voigtländer or Venus Optics.
For the needs of studio-type video, Logitech has already verified the correct operation with four models, including three motorized zoom lenses (controllable from the application, read further): Olympus 14-42mm EZ, Lumix 14-42mm PZ, Lumix 45-175mm PZ and a non-motorized fixed focal length, the Sigma 16mm. In addition to the fact that other photo optics without motorization should work, Logitech is in the process of developing a Micro 4/3 adapter to other mounts.
Logitech’s promise here is to allow the control of several of its network cameras – including Mevo Start, a previous model – from a simple application. Enough to transform an iPad into a real broadcast production station by taking advantage of the 6E wifi connection.
Video limits, built-in battery
This is undoubtedly THE disappointment we feel when reading the technical sheet: if 4K30p capture is already a little limited – why ignore the fluidity of 60p in 2024? —, the live broadcast is reduced to 1080p30. Logitech is undoubtedly paying the price here for the restrictions linked to certain electronic components. If this remains acceptable for producing a small show, it remains a shame that Logitech did not go further in terms of broadcasting.
In this area, the speeds range from 6 Mbit/s in 1080p30 and go down to 1 Mbit/s in 360p30 – and no, neither mode goes up to 60 fps. In internal recording (Micro SD card), 4K30p goes up to 40 Mbit/s, and 1080p30 (but also configurable at 20 Mbit/s) and 720p30 at 10 Mbit/s.
On the power side, if the camera benefits from a USB-C socket (and access to the wired network via an expensive PoE Ethernet adapter – €200!), it can also count on an integrated battery promising up to 6 h in 4K30p or 1080p30 broadcast. And, good news, although it is an integrated battery, it remains replaceable in the event of end of life – manufacturers are finally discovering the absurdity of batteries impossible to change, which is an excellent thing.
Three other sockets equip this camera: a second USB-C for direct connection to a PC, an HDMI output and a 3.5 mm microphone input, which can replace the three microphones located on the back.
Freshly announced, the Mevo Core is currently only available in North America (United States & Canada) for €999 excluding tax. Add to this VAT and the possible classic price difference that we often experience in Europe to get an idea of its price potential in our regions.