The Mevo Plus and Mevo Start from Livestream are both pocket-sized cameras built specifically for wirelessly live streaming events to popular platforms. They allow a single person to shoot full HD video and switch between multiple angles with just a smartphone.
While the Mevo Plus is the newer, upgraded model, the original Mevo Start still holds up as a compelling option.
This comprehensive comparison looks at the specs, features, strengths and weaknesses of the Mevo Plus Vs. Mevo Start to help you decide which live event camera is better suited for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Features | Mevo Plus | Mevo Start |
| Sensor Resolution | 12MP | 8MP |
| Lens Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Zoom | 4K digital | No zoom |
| Stabilization | Electronic image stabilization | No stabilization |
| Maximum ISO | 1600 | 1600 |
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| HDR Capability | Yes | No |
| Maximum Bitrate | 18Mbps | 12Mbps |
| Live Streaming Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
| Inputs | Microphone jack | No external inputs |
| Wireless Connectivity | WiFi 802.11ac | WiFi 802.11n |
| Supported Platforms | YouTube, Facebook, etc | YouTube, Facebook, etc |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hrs | Up to 6 hrs |
| Weather Sealing | No | No |
| Dimensions | 4.1 x 1.9 in | 3.5 x 3.5 x 1 in |
| Weight | 4.1 oz | 3.7 oz |
| Price | $299 | $199 |
Overview of Mevo Plus
The Mevo Plus is the updated version of the original Mevo Start. It features an improved 12MP sensor capable of 4K digital zoom and higher bitrates up to 18Mbps. Electronic image stabilization provides smoother shots when holding the Mevo Plus by hand.
It also adds HDR for dealing with challenging lighting conditions. An external mic jack allows connecting better microphones. It uses faster WiFi 802.11ac and has a micro USB port for wired streaming. The Mevo Plus is controlled wirelessly via the Mevo app on iOS or Android devices.
It allows switching between angles and subjects easily from your phone during recording and streaming. Setup is simple with no extras needed beyond the Mevo Plus itself and a smartphone to operate it.
Overview of Mevo Start
The original Mevo Start pioneered the concept of a pocket-sized live event camera controlled entirely via a smartphone app. It features a 3-axis stabilized 8MP sensor capable of shooting 1080p video at up to 30fps with a 146 degree field of view.
Its small form factor makes it highly portable and discreet for streaming from anywhere. The Mevo Start connects directly to smartphones or tablets via WiFi 802.11n.
Using the Mevo app, you can switch between angles and subjects on the fly or preset shots before recording.
It streams smoothly right to popular platforms like YouTube, Facebook and more. The Mevo Start introduced live event streaming from anywhere by a single user with a pocket camera and phone.
Also Read: Comparison Between Logitech 4K Pro Webcam And BRIO
Key Differences Between the Mevo Plus and Mevo Start
While the Mevo Plus and Mevo Start share the same overall concept of smartphone-controlled pocket live streaming cameras, the Plus model brings some key hardware improvements.
Image Sensor:
The Mevo Plus uses an upgraded 12MP sensor compared to 8MP on the Mevo Start. This allows for crisper, more detailed 1080p video, especially when zooming in. It also enables 4K digital zoom on the Plus that isn’t available on the Start model.
Stabilization:
A major new addition to the Mevo Plus is electronic image stabilization (EIS). This helps smooth out shaky footage when holding the camera by hand and moving around. The original Mevo Start lacked any form of built-in stabilization, so shots could end up looking jerky at times.
Low Light Performance:
With its higher resolution sensor, the Mevo Plus can capture more light and handles low light and high contrast scenes a bit better than the Start. It also adds HDR capabilities to balance shadows and highlights. This gives the Mevo Plus an edge for live streaming in challenging lighting.
External Microphone:
The Plus model introduces the ability to plug in an external 3.5mm microphone for improved audio quality. The original Mevo Start lacked external mic support.
Wireless Connectivity:
While both cameras connect wirelessly to smartphones and tablets to control recordings and streaming, the Mevo Plus upgrades from 802.11n to faster 802.11ac WiFi. This helps ensure a more reliable, lower latency connection.
Bitrates:
Thanks to its improved hardware, the Mevo Plus can handle higher video bitrates up to 18Mbps. The Mevo Start tops out at 12Mbps. Higher bitrates allow capturing additional detail in fast motion and complex scenes.
Zoom:
As mentioned, the higher resolution 12MP sensor on the Mevo Plus enables smooth 4K digital zoom. This lets you punch in on subjects and still maintain Full HD 1080p output. The Mevo Start has no zoom capabilities.
Wired Streaming:
The Micro USB port on the Mevo Plus allows for wired streaming which can provide even more reliable connections in challenging WiFi environments. This kind of wired streaming isn’t offered on the Start.
Design:
While both cameras are quite compact, the Mevo Plus uses a rectangular shape compared to the perfect cube design of the Mevo Start. It’s also a bit lighter at 4.1oz Vs. 3.7oz. But overall portability is still excellent on both models.
Mevo Plus brings some significant hardware improvements while retaining the same mobile-controlled live streaming concept of the original Mevo Start.
Better low light capabilities, electronic stabilization, 4K zoom, higher bitrates, improved mics, faster WiFi, and wired streaming options make the Plus a marked upgrade over the Start model. But these improvements come at a $100 premium.
Also Watch This Review Video:
Pros and Cons of Mevo Plus
Pros:
- Upgraded 12MP sensor enables 4K digital zoom
- Electronic image stabilization for smoother handheld shots
- Improved low light performance and HDR
- External mic jack for better audio quality
- Faster 802.11ac WiFi connectivity
- Higher 18Mbps max bitrate for detail in complex scenes
- Micro USB port allows wired streaming option
- Rectangular shape provides bit more grip when handling
- Intuitive smartphone app for switching angles and streaming
Cons:
- More expensive at $299 MSRP
- Still no weatherproofing for outdoor streams
- 4K zoom introduces some image degradation
- App can be buggy at times
- Occasional WiFi latency issues during streaming
- No HDMI output for external monitors/switchers
Pros and Cons of Mevo Start
Pros:
- Very affordable at just $199 MSRP
- Compact cubic body easy to grip and position
- Simple operation from smartphone app
- Smooth 1080p streaming to major platforms
- Intuitive angle switching with the mobile app
- Reliable WiFi 802.11n connectivity
- Good 2-3 hour battery life when streaming
- All-in-one solution requires no extra gear
- Streams right to Facebook, YouTube, etc
- Decent image quality in good lighting
Cons:
- Max bitrate of just 12Mbps limits detail
- No stabilization leads to shaky shots
- Can struggle in low light conditions
- No zoom capabilities
- No external mic input
- 802.11n WiFi can be slow for streaming
- Highest ISO of just 1600
- Image quality not as good as pricier cameras
- App is only for iOS and Android
Also Read: Comparison Between the Max and Hero 9
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, neither the Mevo Plus or Mevo Start are weatherproofed or water resistant. They are designed for indoor use. To live stream outdoors in rainy conditions, you would need an action camera with weather sealing like the GoPro Hero 11 or a waterproof case. Extended outdoor use is not recommended for the Mevo models.
The Mevo Plus and Start compete most directly against purpose-built sports and action cameras like the GoPro Hero series when it comes to mobile-controlled live streaming. The Mevo cameras offer simpler operation optimized for streaming rather than recording. Other competitors include smartphones with pro camera features like the latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxies. Dedicated camcorders like the Sony ZV-1 can also offer higher quality in a still portable form factor.
No, the original Mevo Start does not have any water resistance rating and should be kept away from moisture. It is designed for indoor use and dry conditions. Any water damage would likely not be covered by the warranty. For wet weather streaming, look to a rugged action camera like the GoPro Max.
To get the best quality when streaming with a Mevo Plus or Mevo Start, first make sure lighting conditions are optimal. Supplement with external lighting if needed. Keep the camera stationary on a tripod or surface rather than handholding. Stay within the recommended distance range of subjects. Use the mobile app to fine tune shot framing and switch between angles smoothly. For the Plus, use an external mic for better audio. Enable HDR mode when dealing with high contrast lighting.
Final Thoughts
The Mevo Start pioneered ultra-portable live event streaming from a smartphone-controlled pocket camera. The Mevo Plus refines the concept with hardware improvements for stabilizing shots, zooming in, and enhancing detail and lighting. While the Start remains a compelling budget option, the Plus delivers meaningful upgrades for serious mobile live streamers.