Is the second generation of the Flightscope Mevo a good golf launch monitor or is the original still king? In this comparison guide, I’ll compare the Flightscope Mevo Gen 2 vs Gen 1 in detail to help you decide what to buy!
If you have any other questions, make sure to comment below and we will use our expertise to help you out!
Related: Check out the best golf launch monitors!
Flightscope Mevo Gen 2 Overview
The FlightScope’s Mevo Gen2 is the latest evolution of the most popular personal launch monitor of all time, delivering more advanced data tracking, improved accuracy, and a better user experience over the original Mevo Gen 1. The new FlightScope Mevo Gen2 is a significant update to the original, offering features that bridge the gap between the original Mevo and the Mevo Plus at a more accessible price point.
One of its standout features is the integration of fusion tracking technology, which combines Doppler radar with synchronized image processing to provide highly accurate ball and club data. This hybrid approach enhances measurement reliability and sets the device apart from simpler tracking systems.
Compact and portable, the Gen 2 is built for golfers who want pro-level feedback, whether practicing at the driving range, playing simulator golf at home, or fine-tuning their swing mechanics.
FlightScope has made the Mevo Gen2 a versatile tool for golfers at all skill levels looking to make meaningful improvements in their game.
Buy Now
The Mevo Gen 2 can be purchased from the official website, as well as other certified golf simulator stores. I’ve compiled a list of links where you can buy the Mevo below!
Data Points Tracked
One of the most significant upgrades with the Mevo Gen2 is its expanded and more precise data tracking capabilities. The device captures a wide range of ball and club metrics, giving golfers a complete view of their performance.
The Mevo Gen2 provides comprehensive ball data and club data for in-depth analysis.
- Ball Speed: Measures how fast the ball is traveling immediately after impact.
- Club Head Speed: Shows how quickly the club is moving through the hitting zone.
- Smash Factor: Calculates your strike efficiency by comparing ball speed to club head speed.
- Carry Distance: Gives you an accurate reading of how far the ball travels in the air.
- Total Distance: Estimates the full distance, including rollout after landing.
- Launch Angle: Tracks how high you launch the ball relative to the ground.
- Launch Direction: Identifies your ball’s initial aim point.
- Spin Rate: Helps you control shot trajectory and stopping power on the greens.
- Spin Axis: Reveals the curve or tilt of your ball’s spin, influencing shot shape.
- Apex Height: Shows the maximum height of your shot for trajectory analysis.
- Flight Time: Measures the total hang time of your ball in the air.
- Launch Speed: Measures the initial speed of the ball as it leaves the clubface.
- Ball Direction: Tracks the initial direction of the ball flight relative to the target line.
- Lateral Landing: Indicates where the ball lands laterally about the target, helping analyze shot accuracy.
Flightscope Mevo Gen 1 Overview
The original FlightScope Mevo quickly became a favorite among golfers looking for an affordable, portable launch monitor that still delivered professional-grade data. Designed with a focus on essential shot data, the Mevo Gen 1 primarily provides core ball data, such as ball speed, launch angle, and carry distance, but does not offer detailed club data metrics like club path or face angle.
While not as feature-rich as the Gen 2, it remains a reliable tool for practice and game improvement. It’s price point, at less than $500, is perfect for golfers who want swing information without needing to pay for a full golf simulator experience.
Data Points Tracked
The Mevo Gen 1 was built to provide the core measurements golfers need to understand their performance.
It focuses on accurate, easy-to-read feedback.
- Ball Speed: Shows how fast the ball leaves the clubface.
- Club Head Speed: Displays your swing speed through impact.
- Smash Factor: Calculates strike efficiency by comparing ball speed to club speed.
- Carry Distance: Tells you how far the ball travels in the air before landing.
- Total Distance: Estimates the complete shot distance, including rollout.
- Launch Angle: Reveals how high you launch the ball at impact.
- Spin Rate: Helps assess shot control and stopping power.
- Apex Height: Tracks the maximum height your ball reaches.
Note: The Mevo Gen 1 does not track ‘impact location’ or ‘face impact location’, features available on higher-end models for more detailed club and shot analysis.
Mevo Gen 2 vs Gen 1 Price Comparison
Price is a significant factor when deciding between the two FlightScope Mevo launch monitors. While both devices deliver valuable data, their cost differences reflect how much extra capability you’re getting.
Compared to more expensive units on the market, such as those from Bushnell or Foresight, the Mevo models provide many of the same essential features at a much lower price. The Mevo Gen2 and Gen 1 offer a cost-effective alternative to expensive units, delivering similar core functionality without the premium price tag.
Pricing Breakdown
- Mevo Gen2: $1,199
- Mevo Gen 1: $499
Value Proposition
- Mevo Gen2: Delivers pro-grade performance with 18 ball and club metrics, integrated simulator access with 8 E6 Connect included courses, shot-tracer video overlays, and no subscription fee required for access to these features. Premium courses like Pebble Beach and Kiawah Ocean are available as optional upgrades, allowing users to expand their simulation experience.
- Mevo Gen 1: Offers the core metrics (ball speed, club head speed, smash factor, carry distance, launch angle, spin rate, apex, and flight time) in a compact, entry-level package.
Target Audience
- Mevo Gen2: Ideal for golfers who want simulator-ready capabilities, detailed metrics, and modern technology. It stands out as one of the best launch monitor options for value and versatility, offering comprehensive data without subscription fees. The Mevo Gen 2 is also compatible with the stack system, making it an excellent choice for users seeking advanced swing training alongside their launch monitors and simulation software.
- Mevo Gen 1: Best suited for budget-conscious golfers, beginners, or those focused on basic performance data who don’t need advanced simulation or video integration.
Mevo Gen 2 vs Gen 1 Design and Portability
When it comes to design and portability, both the Mevo Gen2 and Mevo Gen 1 are built with compact, travel-friendly form factors and are suitable for indoor use as well as outdoor practice. However, the Gen 2 introduces some notable refinements in size, build quality, and setup convenience.
The Gen 2 also features a USB-C charging port for faster charging and improved convenience, along with improved battery life for longer practice sessions.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
Mevo Gen2 features a sleeker, slightly more modern design with a stable base. It is still small enough to fit in a golf bag pocket or carry case.
The Mevo Gen 1 is slightly smaller and lighter than the Gen 2, making it extremely easy to carry anywhere.
Ease of Transport and Setup
The Mevo Gen 2 has an updated design with an integrated stand and improved stability for both indoor and outdoor use. Quick setup with minimal alignment needed.
The Mevo Gen 1 is straightforward to set up and transport, though its older stand and positioning system require a bit more manual adjustment.
Durability and Build Quality
The Mevo Gen2 has upgraded materials and sturdier housing, designed to handle frequent transport and varying weather conditions.
With a solid construction for its size, the Gen 1 is usable, though not as robust or weather-resistant as the Gen 2.
Mevo Gen 2 vs Gen 1 Display and User Interface
One of the main differences between the Flightscope Mevo Gen 2 and Mevo Gen 1 is the display and user interface. Neither device has a built-in screen, so both rely on the FS Golf app as the primary software for displaying and analyzing data. For added convenience, users can also view golf ball data on an Apple Watch, making it easy to access information directly on their wrist.
The Mevo Gen2 offers a more modern, streamlined app experience and enhanced in-app features.
Built-in Display vs. App-Based Interface
- Mevo Gen2: No built-in display, but pairs with the updated FlightScope Golf app for expanded functionality, including data overlay on swing video recordings. Users can review their videos with integrated performance metrics, video clipping with data overlays, improved simulation integration, and quick access to all 18 tracked metrics.
- Mevo Gen 1: Also relies on the FlightScope app, but with a more straightforward interface and fewer integrated features.
User Experience and Ease of Navigation
- Mevo Gen2: The upgraded app layout is more intuitive, with improved navigation, customizable data views, and smoother transitions between practice modes and simulation.
- Mevo Gen 1: Straightforward to use but more basic, which is ideal for quick range sessions but less advanced in terms of customization and data visualization.
Visibility in Various Lighting Conditions
- Mevo Gen 2: Dependent on your phone or tablet’s display, but the app’s enhanced contrast and color coding improve readability in both bright sunlight and low-light conditions.
- Mevo Gen 1: Also reliant on your mobile device’s brightness settings, though the older app design may be slightly more complex to read in strong sunlight.
Mevo Gen 2 vs Gen 1 Setup and Ease of Use
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Mevo Gen 2:
- Power on the device using the single-button control.
- Open the FlightScope Golf app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Connect to the Mevo Gen 2 via Bluetooth.
- Position the device at the recommended distance behind the ball (indoors or outdoors).
- Use the app’s alignment tools and video overlay setup (if desired).
- Start hitting shots and view live data in the app.
Mevo Gen 1:
- Download and open the FlightScope app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Pair the Mevo Gen 1 via Bluetooth.
- Place the device at the recommended distance behind the ball.
- Manually adjust alignment using the app’s visual guide.
- Begin hitting shots and review data in the app.
Time Required for Initial Configuration
- Mevo Gen 2: Typically under 3 minutes, thanks to a faster Bluetooth connection and improved app interface.
- Mevo Gen 1: Around 4–5 minutes, as pairing and alignment take slightly longer.
Learning Curve for New Users
- Mevo Gen 2: Very beginner-friendly with a more intuitive app layout, integrated video capture, and more precise alignment guidance. The app also helps users understand advanced concepts like ‘swing plane‘ for better swing analysis.
- Mevo Gen 1: Simple enough for first-time users but with a more basic interface that lacks some of the visual aids found in the Gen 2 app.
Is the Mevo Gen 2 Worth the Upgrade?
Features That Justify the Higher Price
- Expanded Data Tracking: The Mevo Gen 2 now measures 18 total ball and club metrics, up from the Gen 1’s eight metrics, including spin axis, club path, club speed, face angle, and attack angle for a more complete picture of your swing. Unlock even more advanced metrics such as club path, face angle, swing plane, and low point with the optional Pro Package, providing comprehensive swing analysis for serious golfers.
- Integrated Video and Data Overlays: Built-in video capture via the FlightScope app allows you to see your swing paired with real-time data, making analysis more visual.
- Improved Accuracy: Enhanced radar technology provides tighter tolerances for spin rate, carry distance, and launch direction compared to the original Mevo.
- Simulator-Ready with No Subscription Fees: Comes with access to 8 E6 Connect courses and additional simulation modes without requiring ongoing subscription costs.
- Refined App Experience: A more intuitive interface makes navigation faster, with customizable layouts and better visual feedback during practice sessions. FlightScope continues to develop and improve new features and updates, ensuring the app evolves to meet user needs.
- Better Indoor and Outdoor Versatility: Upgraded hardware and software enhance performance in limited spaces indoors while maintaining strong outdoor tracking.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
If you’re a golfer who wants deeper swing insights, integrated simulation, and pro-level video feedback, the Mevo Gen 2 is worth the upgrade and an awesome golf launch monitor. Its expanded metrics, improved accuracy, and simulator-ready setup make it a versatile tool one of the best launch monitors on the market.
However, suppose you mainly want basic launch data for the driving range and don’t need advanced metrics or simulation features. In that case, the original Mevo remains a cost-effective choice that still delivers solid performance.
