The small camera on your laptop has likely been used more in the past few years than ever before. Even if you occasionally go back to the office for meetings, it’s likely that, regular video conference calls have become a permanent part of your work life.
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Your computer’s webcam, which used to be unimportant, has now become one of its most crucial parts. However, it’s important to note that most built-in webcams cannot consistently deliver high-quality videos for chatting.
External webcams are a great option for those who spend a lot of time on video conferences or enjoy streaming on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. However, finding the right webcam can be challenging with so many choices available. We tested several webcams to determine which ones are worth your money.
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What to look for in a webcam
Resolution and field of view
While some newer computers have 1080p webcams, most built-in cameras only offer 720p resolution. Therefore, it’s best to look for an external webcam that surpasses this quality. Opting for a Full HD (FHD) webcam will significantly enhance your video’s sharpness.
Ideally, you should aim for a webcam that can handle 1080p at either 60 fps or 30 fps. If you’re considering a cheaper 720p webcam, ensure that it supports at least 30 fps (most do), or even better, 60 fps. However, if your main concern is better picture quality during video calls, go for a 1080p webcam.
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Although some webcams can shoot in 4K resolution, it’s usually unnecessary for most people. Moreover, popular video conferencing services like Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype don’t even support 4K video. Twitch allows a maximum of 1080p video, while YouTube has supported 4K live streaming since 2016. Generally, a reliable 1080p camera will suffice for the majority of users.
The field of view (FOV) determines how much can be captured within the frame when recording. Most webcams we tested had a default FOV of around 78 degrees, capturing both the user and a portion of the background.
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Cheaper webcams tend to have narrower FOVs (around 60 degrees), which limits the background, but also restricts the number of people that can fit into the frame during Zoom birthday parties. On the other hand, more expensive webcams may allow you to adjust the FOV to be wider than average.
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Autofocus and other “auto” features
Some webcams have autofocus, meaning they can keep the image sharp without requiring manual adjustments. This allows you to move around while staying in focus. Certain webcams also offer auto framing, where the camera automatically keeps you centered in the frame as you move. These features were once limited to high-end webcams but are now available in more affordable options.
Another useful feature is auto light correction, which adjusts the camera settings to compensate for dimly lit environments. This is beneficial if you don’t have bright lighting or frequently take calls in places with limited control over lighting conditions.
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Microphones
Many webcams come with built-in microphones, which can be closer to you than your computer’s own mic. Check if the webcam has stereo mics, as they provide better audio quality. Some webcams also have noise-reduction technology to ensure clear voice capture. Unless you’re an audiophile or streamer, the built-in microphone on a webcam is usually sufficient.
Design
In terms of design, most external webcams are round or rectangular and can be clipped onto a monitor or laptop screen. Some can swivel or attach to a tripod stand, while others sit on your desk. It’s recommended to clip the webcam to your monitor at or slightly above eye level to avoid unflattering angles.
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Price
Webcams that offer a slight upgrade from your built-in camera typically range from $60 to $150. If the resolution matches your laptop’s internal webcam, consider looking for other features like auto light correction, a wider field of view, or a longer connecting cable for improved quality or convenience.
Spending $150 or more may give you advanced features such as 4K resolution, vertical/horizontal recording options, stereo mics, or customizable video settings. However, if you don’t spend extensive time on video calls or frequent streaming, a budget webcam should suffice, and you can safely skip most high-end options.
Best overall: Logitech Brio 500
The Logitech Bio 500 is an upgraded version of the popular C920s HD Pro webcam. It offers the same video quality of up to 1080p at 30fps but comes with several improvements. These include a wider field of view, better zoom capabilities, enhanced auto-light correction, an improved microphone array, and a USB-C connecting cable. In testing, the Bio 500’s standout feature was its superior light correction, which effectively brightens the image in dim or dark environments.
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The Bio 500 is compatible with Logitech’s LogiTune software, allowing customization of camera settings such as field of view, autofocus, contrast, brightness, and more. It also offers features like Show Mode, which lets you present objects on your desk by tilting the camera down, and RightSight, which automatically keeps you in frame during calls even if you move around.
RightSight functions similarly to Apple’s Center Stage feature on iOS devices. The webcam’s design has been updated, featuring recycled plastic construction, three color options to match, Logitech peripherals, a magnetic attachment to its base, easy swiveling, and a built-in lens cover for privacy when not in use. Overall, it offers a great combination of essential features and useful extras.
However, at $130, the Bio 500 may be expensive for some. For budget-conscious individuals, there is a cheaper alternative: the Logitech Brio 300. It shares many core features with the Bio 500, including 1080p resolution, auto-light correction, a built-in privacy shutter, and USB-C connectivity. However, it lacks HDR support, adjustable field of view, Show Mode, and omnidirectional microphones (although it does have its own noise-reducing microphone). The Brio 300 is a more basic version of the Bio 500 and is available for $70.
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Runner Up: Anker PowerConf C200
Anker’s PowerConf C200 webcam offers similar advantages to our top pick, with a few additional features. Setup is easy, just plug it in and start using it. The AnkerWork software allows customization of settings such as brightness, sharpness, and contrast ratio, although the default settings work well.
You can control the camera’s resolution and field of view with the software. The C200 defaults to 2K resolution, but can be adjusted to 1080p, 720p, or 360p. The default field of view is 95 degrees, but it can be changed to 78 degrees for a narrower view.
The C200 impressed with its video quality, offering sharpness and clarity, although 1080p resolution is usually sufficient. The autofocus is fast, and the larger aperture captures more light, ensuring good visibility even in darker environments.
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The webcam has a built-in lens cover for privacy and dual stereo microphones that capture clear audio. The AnkerWork settings allow you to choose between directional or omnidirectional vocal pickup, with omnidirectional being suitable for multiple speakers.
One drawback is that adjusting the C200’s angle can be a bit cumbersome, as it lacks an adjustable neck and requires using both hands. Additionally, the included USB cable is shorter than others, which may limit flexibility for setups that require longer cables.
Overall, the Anker PowerConf C200 webcam offers great video quality and audio capture, but it may be less convenient to adjust and has a shorter USB cable.
Best webcam for streaming: Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra
The Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra webcam is designed specifically for streaming and offers impressive features. It has a large circular frame measuring three inches in diameter and two inches thick. With the largest sensor (1/1.2 inches) of any Kiyo webcam and an F/1.7 aperture lens, it captures a super crisp image and delivers the best quality among the webcams tested. It can record raw 4K/30fps or 1080p/60fps footage.
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The webcam’s HDR support, tasteful background blurring, and face-tracking autofocus will be appreciated by streamers. For customization, Razer’s Synapse software is compatible with it; however, Synapse is only offered for Windows-based devices. The Kiyo Pro Ultra is compatible with popular streaming software like OBS and XSplit. It also features a physical lens shutter for added privacy when needed.
While the Kiyo Pro Ultra may be overkill for new streamers, serious and professional content creators will appreciate its video quality and customization options. For Mac users seeking similar quality and customization on macOS, the Elgato Facecam Pro is a good alternative with the same price, 4K/60fps video recording, and compatible Camera Hub software for both macOS and Windows.
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Runner up: Logitech Streamcam
The video quality is excellent, with sharp 1080p/60 fps resolution and impressive color reproduction. Even in low-light conditions, the Streamcam’s auto-exposure feature compensates well. The autofocus is seamless and unnoticeable.
The Streamcam’s dual omnidirectional microphones deliver clear and loud voice capture during video calls. If you’re a frequent streamer and don’t have an external microphone, the built-in mics will suffice, especially with noise reduction technology to maintain clear audio.
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In terms of design, the Streamcam is slightly larger than standard webcams, with a chunky square shape. It can be easily positioned on a monitor or tripod. Notably, it offers the unique ability to shoot both vertically and horizontally, catering to content creators and streamers who often post on Instagram and TikTok. Logitech optimized the Streamcam for popular streaming software like OBS, XSplit, and Streamlabs, making it ready to use right out of the box for your next live session.
