Elgato Facecam MK.2 Guide: Uncompressed Video Picked Over DSLRs in Most Creator Comparisons
Researched with AI · Being re-checked by the Operator
Researched pick · Researched with AI · not a hands-on review
Uncompressed video and full manual controls, for less than a typical DSLR-and-capture-card setup — this is Elgato's second-generation streaming webcam, and reviewers rate it a strong 1080p60 option for creators who don't want a DSLR setup.
A 1080p/60fps webcam built specifically for streaming and content creation, addressing the feature gaps reviewers flagged on the original Facecam.
Specs
- Resolution/frame rates: 1080p60, 1080p30, 720p120, 720p60, 720p30, 540p120, 540p60, 540p30
- Sensor: Sony STARVIS CMOS
- Optics: Elgato Prime Lens, fixed focus (30–120cm), f/2.4 aperture, 24mm full-frame equivalent focal length
- Field of view: 84°
- Connection: USB-C (USB 3.0 required for uncompressed capture; works over USB 2.0 in MJPEG format instead)
- Build: Onboard flash memory for saving settings directly to the camera, integrated privacy shutter, 4x digital zoom
- Software: Elgato Camera Hub for output tuning
Why it's the pick
PC Gamer's review called it an outright improvement on an already-loved predecessor, with the new HDR mode as a genuine step forward rather than a marketing checkbox. Tom's Hardware's testing confirmed it fills a genuine gap in the market — real 60fps without paying 4K prices.
Where it falls short
The recurring knock across nearly every review is the same one: no built-in microphone. PCWorld was blunt about it. It's also a fixed-focus, 1080p-ceiling camera — PCWorld notes that if 1080p is limiting for your needs, stepping up means Elgato's pricier 4K "Pro" version, which also lacks a mic.
Who it's for
Streamers and creators who want DSLR-competitive image quality without DSLR complexity or cost, and who already have a separate microphone in their setup (like the Shure MV7+) rather than needing one built into the camera. Pairs naturally in this loadout with the Elgato Key Light for a matched on-camera setup.
Sources
- Trusted Reviews — Elgato Facecam MK.2 Review
- PC Gamer — Elgato Facecam MK.2 webcam review
- PCWorld — Elgato Facecam Mk. 2 review
- Tom's Hardware — Elgato Facecam MK.2 Review
- GamesRadar+ — Elgato Facecam MK2 review
Guides are researched with AI and checked by the Operator. How KYRA.GG works →