The best webcams for streaming in 2023
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Written By
Terri Williams
Updated Dec 28, 2022 10:15 AM
Image is everything … especially when you’re about to start a livestream. Sharp, vibrant image quality can make or break your content, whether you’re broadcasting live or recording for VOD (video-on-demand) content, using one of the best webcams can make you look like a consummate professional or a rank amateur. Logitech, master manufacturer of all things office tech, has an unsurprising hold on the webcam market, including options for streaming and content creation. However, with more and more manufacturers getting into streaming gear, the landscape is changing.
- Best overall: Logitech StreamCam
- Best for pros: Elgato Facecam
- Best with pro audio: Poly Studio P15 Personal Video Bar
- Best with ring light: Razer Kiyo Streaming Webcam
- Best budget: Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam
- Best adjustable field-of-view: Anker PowerConf C300
- Best 4K: Logitech Brio
How we selected the best webcams for streaming
As a freelance technology critic for over 10 years, I’ve tested work-from-home gear, including webcams, for publications including Popular Mechanics, Tom’s Guide, The Daily Beast, Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, and Bob Vila. All of the recommendations, except for two, are based on personal testing. The remaining webcams were selected based on the glowing recommendations from my colleagues.
Best webcams for streaming: Reviews & recommendations
Best overall: Logitech StreamCam
Why it made the cut: The Logitech StreamCam offers lots of customization options that are great for all kinds of content creators, including streamers.
Specs
- Max resolution: 1080p
- Framerate: 60fps (all resolutions)
- Field of view: 78 degrees
- Privacy Shutter: No
- Price: $169.99
| Pros | Cons |
| Tilts and pans | Expensive |
| Logitech Capture software | |
| Adjustable landscape and portrait modes |
Though most of Logitech’s modern webcams work perfectly well for video calls, the StreamCam offers some extra little touches that make it the best webcam for streaming for burgeoning content creators.
It’s capable of streaming in 1080p at 60 frames per second, which is perfect for streaming. It features an adjustable mount that lets you manually frame your shot horizontally or vertically, rather than relying solely on software-based adjustments. The software goes above and beyond as well, though, with AI-driven auto-framing that will adjust the camera’s digital framing to keep the camera centered on your face. The StreamCam lets artists get the perfect shot, rather than simply framing up for a video chat or work-from-home meeting.
On the software front, the StreamCam supports Logitech Capture, a usual configuration app that plugs in most video platforms. It’s also optimized to work with XSplit, OBS, and Streamlabs to easily stream to your favorite platforms, like YouTube and Twitch.
Best for pros: Elgato Facecam
Why it made the cut: Uncompressed audio provides smoother video.
Specs
- Max resolution: 1080p
- Framerate: 60fps in 1080p, 60fps in 720p, 60fps in 540p
- Field of view: 82 degrees
- Privacy Shutter: Yes
- Price: $199.
99
| Pros | Cons |
| Uncompressed 1080/60fps video | No microphone |
| Camera Hub app |
Streaming pros will appreciate the Elgato Facecam, which has 1080p resolution at 60fps to smooth video. As the best webcam for streaming pros this webcam also automatically adjusts its settings to balance light and dark colors in any lighting environment. Most importantly for Twitch streamers, the Facecam uses uncompressed YUV video, eliminating the need to re-encode the feed, resulting in higher quality video. The 82-degree field of view is not too close and not too far away that you’ll get lost in the background.
The Facecam is specifically made with hobbyist and professional video game streamers in mind, which makes it great for advanced users, but less so for beginners. It doesn’t have a built-in microphone, which is fine for pros who already plan to use a separate mic, but may be a problem for casual users looking for a one-size-fits-all webcam solution.
It also lacks autofocus (a feature usually found on higher-end webcams), so you may find that you’ll need to maintain your position in frame to avoid technical hiccups.
Best with pro audio: Poly Studio P15 Personal Video Bar
Why it made the cut: You need a dedicated mic for pro-grade sound, but the Poly Studio P15 is a cut above most webcam audio.
Specs
- Max resolution: 4K
- Framerate: 30 fps (all resolutions)
- Field of view: 90 degrees
- Privacy Shutter: Yes
- Price: $599.99
| Pros | Cons |
| 4K resolution | Really, really expensive |
| Excellent audio | 30 fps only |
| Pan, tilt, and zoom | |
| Poly Lens Desktop App |
Most webcams have a built-in microphone, which is usually fine for casual chats but isn’t clear enough for content creators.
Most streamers elevate their audio by buying a separate microphone for streaming. The Poly Studio P15 Personal Video Bar, however, is the rare webcam with professional-grade audio clarity. The P15 uses a three-microphone beamforming array and multiple AI-driven noise-cancelling techniques to ensure the camera only captures the sound it’s supposed to, without any background noise.
While the audio is its most novel quality, the P15 is also an incredible webcam. It can record in up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second, with up to 4X digital zoom. It features a robust selection of image quality customization features through its configuration software, Poly Lens. At 1080p, which you’ll use most often for Twitch, the picture is remarkably clear and accurate.
While it’s great in many ways, it’s worth pointing out that the P15 is the very definition of overkill. The soundbar in the webcam makes it large and heavy. (If pairing with a laptop, be prepared to use a tripod.) It’s also remarkably expensive.
You can probably get a great webcam and a great USB microphone for the same price. But if you have to have it all in one package, the Poly Studio P15 does things that no other webcam can, making it our pick for best webcam with pro audio.
Best with ring light: Razer Kiyo
Why it made the cut: The Razer Kiyo’s built-in ring light is a practical, convenient feature that reduces workspace clutter.
Specs
- Max resolution: 1080p/720p
- Framerate: 30fps in 1080p, 60fps in 720p
- Field of view: 81.6 degrees
- Privacy Shutter: No
- Price: $99.99
| Pros | Cons |
| Integrated ring light | Mediocre microphone |
| Adjustable dial for brightness adjustments | |
| Compatible with most streaming software |
Lighting is critically important when you’re on camera.
Many streamers have adopted the ring light—an affordable LED light that brightens up your face when you look into a webcam or phone. As the best webcam with a ring light, the Razer Kiyo integrates a ring light into your webcam, making it easy to set up and adjust on the fly. Even in low-light environments, the Kiyo gets a very clear picture. And if you want to turn the light off or adjust the brightness mid-stream, you can tweak its power using a physical onboard dial around the camera’s bezel.
Though it’s more than a gimmick, the Kiyo also has some weaknesses in its core functionality. It can record in 1080p at 30fps or 720 at 60fps, but not 1080p at 60fps. And while the Kiyo has a microphone, the audio quality is less than stellar. (Again, though, you should consider investing in a separate microphone to create a professional-grade stream.)
Best budget: Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam
Why it made the cut: It doesn’t have all of the creator-focused features of the StreamCam, but Logitech’s generalist webcam is the best budget webcam for streaming and works well.
Specs
- Max resolution: 1080p
- Framerate: 30fps in 1080p, 60fps in 720p
- Field of view: 78 degrees
- Privacy shutter: No
- Price: $99.99
| Pros | Cons |
| Cheaper than the Logitech StreamCam | Does not have a privacy shutter |
| Zooms, pans, tilts | |
| Includes tripod |
While it isn’t “cheap,” per se, Logitech’s c922x Pro is a great all-around webcam that you can use for streaming and it costs less than many of the best webcams made specifically for streaming. The c922x can stream in 1080p at 30 frames per second, or 720p at 60fps, but not 1080/60, so it’s close to what you want, but not perfect.
The C922x Pro is often compared to (and confused for) the Logitech C920 and C920s, our overall best webcam pick. We picked the C922x for streamers because of its superior light correction capabilities, and offers a 60fps option, albeit at a lower resolution.
Beyond the picture, the 922x Pro does everything reasonably well. Its two omnidirectional microphones do a good job of picking up my voice while minimizing the sound of background noise. And it has one feature that even StreamCam lacks: There’s a tripod right in the box, in case you want to set it up somewhere other than on top of a monitor.
Best adjustable field-of-view: Anker PowerConf C300
Why it made the cut: A 115-degree field of view of unheard of and is ideal in many streaming scenarios.
Specs
- Max resolution: 1080p
- Framerate: 60fps at 1080p
- Field of view: 78/90/115 degrees
- Privacy shutter: Yes
- Price: $129.99
| Pros | Cons |
| Extra wide field of view | Only shoots in wide FOVs |
| 1080p/60fps | |
| AI auto-framing |
The Anker PowerConf C300 is the best adjustable field-of-view and great for streamers who occasionally want to have multiple people on camera.
It has ridiculously wide field-of-view options: 78, 90, or 115 degrees. This allows you to expand and contract the size of the screen when you have co-hosts, guests, or want to incorporate background elements like charts. A 1080p/60fps camera ensures clear, detailed video. It even has AI-controlled auto-framing like the StreamCam, and adjusts settings to offset less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
The PowerConf C300 also features solid audio, a privacy cover, and clear configuration software to adjust its settings, including the field of view. However, if you prefer the standard head and shoulders view (which is recommended for making eye contact) none of the FOVs will allow you to be that close up.
Best 4K: Logitech Brio
Why it made the cut: The Logitech Brio is a powerful webcam with features you won’t find anywhere else, including high-dynamic range (HDR), which makes colors brighter and more vivid.
Specs
- Max resolution: 4K
- Framerate: 30fps at 4K, 60 fps at 1080p, 90fps at 720p
- Field of view: 65/78/90 degrees
- Privacy Shutter: Yes
- Price: $199.
99
| Pros | Cons |
| Adjustable field of view | Very expensive |
| High-dynamic range | |
| Lots of high resolution/framerate combos | |
| Camera panning feature |
The Logitech Brio is the best 4K webcam and my favorite webcam. Its sleek design looks sharp in your setup. It’s also extremely powerful. It can shoot in 4k at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps (aka the sweet spot), and 720p at a very rare 90fps. (Like streaming in 4K, there aren’t many services that actually support 90fps live video, so that’s for offline/VOD projects). The Brio also has three field-of-view presets: 65, 78, and 90 degrees. It has two omnidirectional mics and an attachable privacy shutter. Using the LogiCapture app, it’s easy to control the pan, tilt, and other functions. The webcam is compatible with XSplit, OBS, and Twitch.
The best part, though, is that it supports high-dynamic range (HDR), which enhances the brightness and darkness of high- and low-light elements in your webcam’s picture.
It also features Logitech’s RightLight 3, the company’s most advanced lighting technology designed to create the best lighting in any environment. Logitech reserves both of these features for its most high-powered webcams.
The downside, as you may have noticed, is that some of these hardware features are more powerful than what Twitch and Zoom can handle. You can’t really run a livestream in 4K or 90fps. Between that and its $200 price tag, the Brio is more than you need. It’s a camera lover’s webcam.
What to consider when buying the best webcams for streaming
There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting the right camera for your needs. Some of this information is actually on the back of the box or the website. However, there are also other factors you need to keep in mind.
Resolution and framerate
When choosing the best webcam for streaming, you’ll want the clearest image that you can get. When creating content for a stream, especially while gaming, we recommend targeting recording at 1080p resolution, often called “Full HD,” at 60 frames per second (fps).
This ensures that your picture will be clear and your movements will look smooth. Having a sharper resolution also ensures that any graphics, including on-screen text, will look sharp without pixelated edges.
That said, upload speed plays a role in using this resolution. If you find that your PC struggles to stream at 1080p/60fps, most webcams should offer both 1080p/30fps and 720p/60fps options. When push comes to shove, we would choose a more clear, 1080p resolution over 60fps for a live webcam picture. We would not recommend buying a webcam for making streaming content with a maximum resolution below 1080p.
Do I need 4K for streaming?
Using a 4K webcam can ensure that you always record at the best possible resolution (even if most services don’t let you stream in 4K). In general, we only recommend 4K webcams if you plan to pair them with enterprise streaming software or to shoot and record content for YouTube or other non-live content.
Audio
Crisp, clear audio is something else to consider so viewers can hear you as well as they can see you.
Other factors to think about include compatibility to streaming software, since you want to effortlessly stream to your preferred platform. We reviewed dozens of webcams—and every one of this list, except the Razer Kiyo—to arrive at the best webcams for streaming like a pro.
Software compatibility
We reviewed one camera that appeared to be a strong contender—until we discovered that it didn’t work with any of the three popular streaming software, like XSplit, OBS, and Twitch.
FAQs
Q: What resolution webcam do I need?
For streaming video content like Twitch and YouTube Live, we recommend using a webcam that can output live video in 1080p at 60 frames per second. The framerate is particularly important if your webcam footage sits alongside game footage running at the same rate. For video calls and meetings, we still recommend a 1080p resolution, as it’s sharper and clearer, but 30 frames per second looks fine in most cases.
In a pinch, 720p at 60fps may look slightly rough around the edges, the picture is clear enough. No one’s going to judge you for it. That said, we would only recommend a webcam with a maximum output of 720p/60fps if it were extremely cheap.
Q: Are webcams better than laptop cameras?
Webcams are better than laptop cameras in so many ways. Even my new MacBook Air with the M1 chip maxes out at 720p. Some Windows laptops have 1080p webcams, but without the room for a proper glass lens, the picture still pales in comparison to what you get from an external webcam. They’re also more adjustable: You can affix them to the top of a monitor, like an integrated webcam, but you can slide them to any place on the monitor, or put them on a tripod.
As a streamer, you want to have a crisp, clear picture. All of these webcams will deliver much higher quality video than the camera built into your laptop.
Q: What about those cheap webcams on Amazon or eBay?
As a streamer, you’re generally looking for a higher standard of quality than what you can expect from an ultra-cheap webcam from a mysterious brand with no reputation in the U.
S. In general, we don’t recommend them. At the bare minimum, you should set your expectations low. Don’t expect 1080p or 4K video, or great audio, from a $50 webcam. Plus, many of them won’t work with popular streaming software like XStream and OBS.
Final thoughts on the best webcams for streaming
There are a lot of factors to consider when putting together a streaming video setup. Your webcam is, honestly, one of the easier decisions to make. There’s a specific quality standard to look for: 1080p at 60fps. Remember to keep in mind that your streaming PC and internet connection may not support the best possible stream, though. Buying a webcam that can shoot 1080p live video at 60 frames per second doesn’t mean you’ll actually be able to stream at that resolution and framerate. That said, the right gear opens the door for the best possible stream.
Best webcams for 2022: Perfect for game streaming
The best webcams in 2022
(Image credit: Future)
The best webcam captures you no matter the condition of your room or office.
It should take a dimly-lit office and accurately maintain a good shot of you. It should also have a good microphone that won’t sound like you’re in a tunnel. The best webcams do the heavy lifting for you and make video calls or streaming easy. We’ve went through all the options out there and picked the best ones to grab.
The best streaming webcam might differ from the best webcam for your remote working setup. If you’re simply looking for the best picture quality at a reasonable price, the Logitech C922 HD Pro is a solid 1080p choice. If you’re looking for more, then the Elgato Facecam sits in the number one slot because, while it’s flashy, it’s also incredibly versatile and boasts superb picture quality.
Many of these webcams support HD and 4K up to 60 fps, which adds to the price tag. If you’re perfecting your streaming set-up , you want that extra resolution and higher frame rate capability. Streaming puts the most demand on a webcam to show off your gorgeous makeup in high res, or any swift motions you make (within the constraints of the limited bitrate and resolution of a typical Twitch or YouTube stream, of course).
Many of the webcams below will negate blur, and record at least 1080p.
It’s also worth checking out our guides for the best capture cards and the best microphone for streaming to hit the perfect setup for you. Whether you’re simply recording yourself, streaming on Twitch, or conferencing with friends or colleagues on Zoom, the best webcams will provide a crystal clear picture for all to enjoy. So here are the best options.
Best webcams
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(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Elgato)(Image credit: Elgato)(Image credit: Elgato)
1. Elgato Facecam
The best webcam for streaming
Specifications
Capture resolution: 1080p
Capture speed: 60fps
FOV: 83.2 degrees
Special features: Camera Hub app
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Uncompressed 1080p 60 fps video
+
Fixed focus
+
Easy manual control
+
Camera Hub software
Reasons to avoid
—
Overexposed shots
Elgato’s new webcam positions itself as a premium camera for streamers who aren’t quite ready to invest in more expensive options, such as a DSLR camera, but are still looking for the best picture they can get.
Out of the box, the picture quality of the Facecam is great, though we noticed it seeming a little over-exposed on first impressions. This does feel like a deliberate choice by Elgato, however. It makes the image come off brighter and lighter than your typical webcam, which you could argue is something most streamers want for their main shot.
Thankfully, one of the best parts of the Facecam package is its Camera Hub software. It’s a simple control app that lets you adjust your camera settings in case that’s not the ultra-bright look you want.
The Facecam offers uncompressed video at 1080p/60fps, which is a pretty huge deal and might be the biggest reason streamers will want to pick this thing up. Without getting into a deeper conversation about encoding and compression, the short version is you’ll have a final video output with less artifacting with the Facecam than you would when using most other webcams. And all without needing to bump down your resolution or frame rate in programs such as OBS.
The camera itself uses a Sony STARVIS sensor, a slice of silicon traditionally used in security cameras optimized for low-light environments. I tested the Facecam in a lower light setting to see how it hangs against the Razer Kiyo Pro, itself a webcam that specializes in making places with terrible lighting look better.
The Facecam gets the slight edge when shooting in my dimly lit living room/office when directly comparing the two. The Elgato Facecam also wins out by just looking better overall compared to Kiyo Pro’s odd fisheye effect at higher FOVs. If you’re still torn on the two, let me just say for the record, the Facecam beats out Razer’s offering, hands down.
The Elgato FaceCam is a good first attempt at a webcam, and a fine addition to the Elgato catalog of streaming gear. It’s specially targeted for streamers providing clean, low latency video footage for their broadcasts, so long as they are willing to pay a premium for it. But it sure delivers.
Check out our full Elgato Facecam review .
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(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Logitech)(Image credit: Logitech)(Image credit: Logitech)
2. Logitech StreamCam
The best webcam for content creators
Specifications
Capture resolution: 1080p
Capture speed: 60 fps
FOV: 73 degrees
Special features: Portrait / Landscape Rotation
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Great picture quality
+
Excellent face tracking
+
Good low-light camera
Reasons to avoid
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Short attached USB Type-C cable
The StreamCam was designed for, you guessed it, streamers and other content creators—so much so, you can rotate the StreamCam on its three-axis clip for portrait mode in case you wanted your content more mobile-friendly. Or keep it horizontal. Whatever you choose, the mount can easily be angled face-down up to 90 degrees if you want people to look at your keyboard and mouse movements, or your fingers playing an instrument.
No extra gear is required, but the StremCam does come with an additional mount that can screw onto a tripod for more complex arrangements.
It also shoots in full 1080p at 60fps. That’s better than Logitech’s three-year-old C922 webcam’s 1080p/30fps, which has become a standard in a lot of streamers arsenal due to its competitive price of $80. And it works with major streaming software like OBS and XSplit.
Logitech’s Capture 2.0 software automates a lot of the settings most people don’t bother with, like exposure, white balance, and face-tracking. There’s even a chroma key feature in case you work with a green screen. While this won’t replace something as in-depth like OBS or XSplit, Logitech Capture 2.0 is a quick and dirty option if you need to record videos at a steady pace. It does take multiple sources including your screen but found that using the transitions between different scenes was a bit hinky. The face-tracking is an impressive feature if you move around a lot on camera and can be toggled on/off via that same software.
The StreamCam’s works impressively well in low-light environments. Whether you’re using prosumer-grade key lights or a desk lamp, the StreamCam manages to consistently focus on your face which is tough even for top-tier webcams.
Its microphone is serviceable and supports stereo and mono, but I’d recommend one of these microphones instead of using the built-in one if you plan on doing anything more than a video call.
There are a few gripes I have with the camera itself. While the USB-C cable is a smart choice, the cable itself is on the shorter side at less than five feet. This is limiting in case you had plans to shoot any content outside of a desk environment. The cable is also is built into the webcam, so if you bend or break the cable, you are out of luck and $169. But this is still a way cheaper option than using a DSLR camera as a webcam that you often see popular streamers use, and requires less set up.
Read our full Logitech StreamCam review .
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(Image credit: Logitech)(Image credit: Logitech)(Image credit: Logitech)
3.
Logitech C922 HD Pro
The best webcam for most people
Specifications
Capture resolution: 1080p
Capture speed: 30fps
FOV: 90 degrees
Special features: Dual microphones
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent picture quality
+
Good low-light performance
+
Great Price
Reasons to avoid
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30fps limit
Most readers can stop here. Unless you’re looking for specific features in a webcam, then there is no better value than the Logitech C922 HD Pro. Its sharp 1080p images, paired with a wide field of view and great autofocus, make it a fantastic video conferencing choice. Low-light performance is great; the noise level didn’t shoot through the roof when I turned off a few lights. White balancing was accurate most of the time, too, although the default saturation can make the scene look a little washed out in bright lighting conditions.
Most of the settings can be adjusted through Logitech’s Camera App. Streamers should also appreciate C922’s excellent compatibility with the background replacement app, ChromaCam. All in all, the Logitech C920 performs its core duties exceptionally well and won’t break the bank.
For streamers, the C922 is a perfect webcam to get started since you can track on down for less $100 at most retailers. There’s also the C930e, for the titans of industry among us, but we prefer the cheaper option.
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(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Razer)(Image credit: Razer)(Image credit: Razer)
4. Razer Kiyo Pro
The best webcam for low-light settings
Specifications
Capture resolution: 1080p
Capture speed: 60fps
FOV: 103, 90, 80 degrees
Special features: Adaptive light sensor, HDR-enabled, omnidirectional mic
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Low-light sensor is amazing
+
Inherently boosts saturation
Reasons to avoid
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Color saturation is an issue in low light
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Poor out-of-the-box performance
The new Kiyo Pro improves on Razer’s previous webcams with a slightly different approach to handling lighting in dark spaces.
It ditches the ring light in favor of a sophisticated light sensor to tackle the gloom.
Honestly, getting rid of the ring light was a good move for Razer since it always seemed like a novelty feature on the old Kiyo. Even in darkly lit environments, that ring light never felt bright enough actually to improve your shot, and I often found that the ring light itself was more distracting than useful. Which was why it never quite made it to the top of the our best webcams roundup.
The Kiyo Pro’s other improvements include HDR (off by default), 1080p resolution at 60fps, wide-angle lens, and omnidirectional microphone. It’s a feature-packed webcam for streamers.
The light sensor helps significantly compared to the popular Logitech Stream Cam , its closest competitor specs-wise. During daytime shots, the abundance of light coming from windows can almost completely blow out half of my shot on the Stream Cam while the Kiyo Pro manages to adjust on the fly. Though admittedly, it’s a little heavy on the contrast.
Night-time or darker rooms is where the Kiyo Pro truly shines (pun absolutely intended). You can see how the Pro compensates for low-light environments, and the Kiyo Pro might be the best low-light webcam I’ve used in years. It manages to illuminate me and my background enough to make the camera usable with even a little light.
The wide-angle lens allows for more of your background to show off, but if you look close enough at some of these shots, you can see an almost fish-eye lens effect to them, which I’m not too keen on. Thankfully, you can switch to a lower FOV which looks so much better.
The Kiyo Pro also comes with an omnidirectional microphone. My microphone test script turned up some pretty crisp and clear audio, too, but picked up a ton of background noise like my desktop PC. If you’re serious about streaming, you really should nab yourself a decent microphone to sound your best, and Razer itself makes one of the best cheap microphones right now.
At $200, however, the Kiyo Pro is one of the more expensive non-4K webcams you can find right now.
With enough tweaking, you will be able to make the most of this webcam, but it’s not naturally adept in every situation and the autofocus issue is a real pain. The right choice for anyone who wants the stream but who doesn’t have the room or the luxury of setting up studio lighting for the best shot, perhaps, but not the ultimate webcam solution just yet.
Read our full Razer Kiyo Pro review .
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(Image credit: Dell)(Image credit: Dell)(Image credit: Dell)(Image credit: Dell)(Image credit: Dell)
5. Dell UltraSharp WB7022
The best 4K webcam
Specifications
Capture resolution: 4K
Capture speed: 4K @ 30 fps, 1080p @ 60 fps
FOV: 90, 78, 65 degrees
Special features: Windows Hello support, HDR support, AI Auto-framing, auto white balance, privacy cap,
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
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4K
+
Superb image quality
+
Supports HDR recording
+
Easy to use software
Reasons to avoid
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No mic
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Weird monitor stand
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Gets hot
Best gaming keyboard | Best graphics cards | Best gaming headset
Best controller for PC gaming | Best gaming PC | Best mechanical keyboard
It takes a lot to knock the Logitech BRIO off its 4K throne, but the Dell UltraSharp WB7022 4K webcam does just that.
Dell’s new webcam is one of the best 4K webcams you can buy.
The Dell UltraSharp 4K webcam offers a lot of premium features for only $200. On top of being 4K at 30 fps, you’ve got HDR support and even AI-powered auto framing. As expected, UltraSharp’s support for 4K recording gives it videos and pictures wild impressive detail over your standard 1080p webcam. Its 90-degree field of view can easily capture your entire room and any pets asleep in the corner of your shot.
The UltraSharp works well in poorly lit or overexposed rooms. You should note that if you’re only using this for work calls, the webcam’s picture quality might be nerfed by certain apps like Meet or even Zoom, as you will fall victim to those platforms’ video compression.
Stream machine
(Image credit: Rode, Samson, Blue)
Best microphone for gaming : make sure you’re heard
Best capture cards : lessen the load with a dedicated card
In addition to its excellent capturing resolution, the UltraSharp webcam supports HDR capturing.
This means that viewers who have an HDR-compatible screen will be able to enjoy richer, more vivid colors.
The UltraSharp isn’t perfect, though. Its out-of-box monitor stand doesn’t let you rotate the webcam, you’re limited to just up and down, making for awkward camera angles. There’s also no built-in microphone which could be a deal-breaker for some content creators though most webcam mics are so bad, I doubt you’d miss it. We also noticed the camera itself gets hot after using it for more than 20 minutes. Still, its excellent image quality and easy-to-use software make it a strong contender.
(Image credit: clearone)
6. ClearOne Unite 20 Pro
The best budget wide angle webcam
Specifications
Capture resolution: 1080p
Capture speed: 30fps
FOV: 120 degrees
Special features: Privacy cap, microphone
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Great wide FOV
+
Under $100
Reasons to avoid
—
Only 30 fps
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Poor mic
You might not have heard of ClearOne as the company tends to focus its efforts on office conference rooms.
Outside intense (and expensive) teleconferencing gear, ClearOne also makes a pretty decent 1080p webcam for at-home streaming or video-chatting under $100.
The Unite 20 Pro offers a wide 120-degree field of view, which means you can fit a lot more into your frame than most webcams. Great, if you’re trying to stream a large group for a DnD session or want to fit your entire band for a Twitch performance. Not so great if you’re trying to hide a messy bedroom on your morning video call with your boss.
Best webcams FAQ
How do you test a webcam?
Discord’s video conferencing feature has taken the world by storm. As such, we’ve included it in our testing software suite alongside Skype. In both apps, we test the video quality at the maximum supported resolution. OBS is still our choice go-to app for streaming and video recording, while images are captured in the default Windows Camera app.
We used OBS to stream and record videos from each camera, testing them both fullscreen and scaled down to a «face cam» size.
We also used each manufacturer’s webcam software to take the highest possible resolution pictures with each and manually adjusted settings like white balance, brightness, auto-focus, and others where applicable. Each of these situations was tested with multiple lighting setups, from overhead fluorescent bulbs to nothing but the monitor’s glow in front of me.
The process of selecting the right webcam is much like choosing a good camera. Most of the metrics we use to determine camera quality also apply to webcams. You should pay attention to the image quality, color accuracy, focus speed, and customizable features. Although many of us have dedicated microphones, the onboard microphone can come in handy too.
One of the greatest determiners of image quality is the amount of noise present in an image. When lighting is ample, most webcams have no trouble producing good image quality. The extra quality of the best webcams is more accurately reflected in low light; however, the camera needs to compensate for the lack of light digitally.
Generally speaking, more expensive webcams come with higher quality sensors and usually have less pesky color blots compared to cheaper ones.
The other crucial aspect is the color of the images. Before we even begin to examine the color quality, we should pay attention to the white balance. White balance gauges the temperature of the lighting from your surrounding environment and sets the white point accordingly. If the white point is incorrectly set, the image may be masked with a blue or yellow tint. Unless a tuning utility is included, the white balance is usually automatically adjusted by the webcam’s processor.
Next is exposure, saturation, and contrast—all three are equally important. Exposure is the brightness of the image, saturation is the depth of the colors, and contrast is the difference between black and white. Brightness ensures that you can be seen clearly, while saturation and contrast make your images pop. Again, unless the software is included, these settings are normally adjusted automatically by the webcam’s processor.
More expensive webcams are more adept at replicating the most accurate scene.
Some webcams also have built-in microphones, which we test by recording a short video in our studio or home offices.
Software for webcams is just as critical—if not more so—than other peripherals. Although many streaming and conferencing apps have built-in adjustment options, using the manufacturer’s driver software allows you to adjust the settings globally.
Aside from the video quality, I also took a look at their ease of use. Each manufacturer has a different method of attaching a webcam to the monitor, so I tested them across different monitor shapes and sizes. I considered whether the webcam cord was long enough to reach from the top of a monitor to a case underneath a desk. I tested how easy they were to angle, readjust, and if they would fall off or reposition themselves if I bumped the desk. I tested the plug-n-play nature of them and noted whether the webcams downloaded drivers or software automatically.
Lastly, I recorded audio with their built-in microphones, but this was not a heavily influencing factor as a webcam should be bought with video in mind first.
What resolution webcam do I need?
If you’re planning to record at full screen resolution, you may want to look at a 4K webcam. However, if you’re planning on streaming, or keep your webcam confined to only a small portion of your screen, it’s likely the improved resolution will be lost on you. In that case, you’re probably best investing in improved lighting for a proper glow up.
Round up of today’s best deals
Elgato FaceCam
£139.99
View
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Logitech StreamCam
£99.
99
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Logitech C922
£67.08
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Razer Kiyo Pro
£111.75
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Jorge is a hardware writer from the enchanted lands of New Jersey. When he’s not filling the office with the smell of Pop-Tarts, he’s reviewing all sorts of gaming hardware from laptops with the latest mobile GPUs to gaming chairs with built-in back massagers.
He’s been covering games and tech for nearly ten years and has written for Dualshockers, WCCFtech, and Tom’s Guide.
Broadcasting streaming video from a webcam in a local network (VLC)
Heading: Chips
Somehow I asked myself a question, is it possible to make a webcam of one computer in a local network public, and I was inspired to do this, of course, video surveillance (security video surveillance system).
It is not difficult to solve this using an ip-camera by simply connecting to a local network, such a camera has an ip-address. Our camera cannot have such an address, so we will configure it through a computer. We connect our webcam to the computer, check that all the drivers and the camera itself are installed normally.
Further, in order to watch the webcam on the computer itself, there will be no problems, this is solved using the native camera program or through third-party programs, this is webcamXP Free (for home use), Yawcam and Dorgem .
But all this is not enough for us, we need to make the video from the camera available for viewing by other computers on the local network, so we need a program that can broadcast a video stream to the network. After searching the Internet, I realized that there are not so many programs that implement this feature. For example, in Windows 7, a video stream can be configured and made available without resorting to additional programs, all functions are already included in Windows Media Player, but for Windows XP you will already have to install Windows Media Encoder or broadcast via VLC Media Player , now let’s look at them in more detail.
Windows Media Encoder — first download from the official site WMEncoder.exe and install.
The program is in Russian, so everything is clear here, we start a new session-> Create a live streaming broadcast-> Select a capture tool in our case, we find an item with a web camera, and so on according to the instructions.
If you have an English version, then here is the instruction for choosing options:
Start->All Programs->Windows Media->Windows Media Encoder
New session->Broadcast a live event->Pull from the Encoder->URL for Internet connections (Remember this is our broadcast address), and then it only remains to choose the quality of the video (which already depends on the quality of the camera, the power of the computer and the transmission speed of the local network), and the question will be asked whether it is necessary to save the video to the hard drive and that’s it.
Start Encoding — broadcasting started!
Note : Start the stream when the computer is turned on, create a shortcut to the program and drop it into autorun + write wmenc.exe
On the remote computer in the video player, all that remains is to specify the URL of the stream
VLC Media Player — free program download VLC, then run:
Media->Streaming(Transmit)->Capture device(Capture mode)->WEB-camera->We prescribe the ip address and port.
Now open the stream and watch the broadcast:
Media->Streaming->Network->Enter ip:port
All video stream in the local network is open!
P.S: By the way, I want to note, but on a weak computer (Pentium4, RAM = 1 Gb) in windows xp, the solution with Windows Media Encoder very much slowed down the video stream (periodically even broadcasting disappeared) and loaded the computer itself, I stopped on VLC — it broadcasts without problems and does not load an already weak computer.
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12 Best Live Video Cameras in 2022 for All Budgets — Wave.video Blog: Latest Video Marketing Tips & News
11 min. reading
As the digital age continues to take over the world of marketing in particular, we’re seeing a huge amount of live streaming in our news feeds, and for good reason!
They say, «show, not tell stories «.
Well, that’s exactly what live streaming does.
But what is a live broadcast?
Never heard of streaming before? Let us bring you up to date.
Live streams are videos that are broadcast live on the Internet. It’s like watching a live show, but on social media platforms instead of cable TV. Despite the name, live streams can be pre-recorded, similar to live broadcasts that say «live», but have been recorded, edited and filtered before going on air.
Now that you know what live broadcasting is, let’s look at what to consider when buying a camera that will enhance your live broadcast.
Things to consider when choosing a camera for live broadcasting
Before buying a camera to improve the quality of live video recording, here are a few points to consider:
Image quality — Good camera for live broadcasting and high quality images often go hand in hand. After all, the goal of a live camera is to create content that will impress viewers.
And a high-end camera provides the ability to create high-quality live video. Choose at least 1080p for a sharper picture, but if you’re looking for the ultimate picture quality, go for Full HD.
Frame rate — For streamers who want to quickly capture what’s happening on camera, frame rate matters a lot. This is the frequency at which frames appear every second. The faster you want your camera to capture live action, the higher the frame rate should be. If you want to capture fast action on live TV, aim for 60 fps.
Pure HDMI output — Another important factor to consider when choosing a camera for live production is pure HDMI output. A camera with this characteristic will not show user interface elements (battery remaining, status bar, etc.) on viewers’ screens during a live broadcast.
Charging from the mains — Well, when you go live, you can communicate with your audience for hours. But can your camera battery last that long? Most likely no.
Therefore, invest in a camera that is equipped with a plug-in charging function. It is necessary!
Low light performance — Choose a camera that performs well even in low light conditions. Since, as a streamer, you may not always have the perfect setup around, but a camera with an image sensor will definitely come in handy.
Optical zoom — Purchase a streaming camera with optical zoom to allow the lens to zoom and avoid manual operation. This not only enhances the user experience, but also maintains resolution quality.
Different types of cameras — which one suits you best?
If you just want to chat with childhood friends or surf the Internet, your smartphone’s camera might be enough. The built-in cameras found on laptops, tablets and phones are suitable for informal group discussions or online family gatherings. They’re also great if you’re starting out with live streaming and want to try your hand at it.
However, if live streaming is about generating revenue, attracting members and increasing visibility, investing in an external camera may be the right move for you.
Webcams
When you think of webcams, do you think of low quality, dirty, built-in cameras from the 2000s? One could argue with that, but iPhone cameras aren’t the only technology that has progressed in recent years. Webcams have also undergone significant changes over the years. Zooming, lighting control, the ability to change resolution and frame rate are just some of the features that are now included in webcams.
They are powered by USB, so connecting them to a computer is not particularly difficult. Choose them if you are looking for a decent live streaming camera that comes with plug-and-play functionality.
SLR and mirrorless cameras
Since their invention, SLR cameras have been widely used for video shooting where quality is a priority.
What’s more, with the rise in popularity of live streaming and online video in 2020, almost every camera company has released software updates that allow you to connect mirrorless and SLR cameras to devices such as laptops and computers to stream and upload video to HD (high definition) format.
If you want high quality broadcasts, this is the way to go. You can change different lenses depending on the quality you want, adjust lighting with white balance settings, increase or decrease exposure for outdoor and indoor shooting, and much more with your DSLR.
Camcorders
If your goal is to record long videos, then camcorders are your most faithful and reliable companions for live broadcasts. They offer scalability, a wide range of I/O ports and of course last longer than most other alternatives.
The camcorders are also highly versatile and easy to use thanks to their ergonomic design.
PTZ cameras
Pan.
Incline. zoom. Yes, that’s how the abbreviation stands for. You may have seen these cameras in supermarkets or churches. PTZ cameras are miniature robots: they can be controlled by a remote operator and can pan horizontally, tilt vertically and zoom in on any object without pixel tearing.
Excellent optical and digital zoom and 60fps streaming make them ideal for broadcast sports. What’s more, some PTZ cameras also offer auto-tracking. Thus, they can capture your movements in the room quite well. Choose them if you are broadcasting live with guests and want to capture multiple angles during the broadcast.
Best live cameras in 2022
By now, you’ve probably already decided which camera is right for your live broadcast. Need help choosing the best webcam for streaming? Here are our top picks for every type of camera for just about every budget.
Best Webcams
Best Webcam for Budget Buyers: Razer Kiyo
Max Resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 60 fps | Price of : $79.
00
If you want enough light from your webcam, this is the best budget option. The Razer Kiyo offers built-in lighting and a Full HD display. However, the disadvantage of the webcam is the lack of support for external audio. However, this is a great purchase for the price, especially with the integrated 12 LED light ring!
Best webcam for mid-budget shoppers : Logitech Brio 4k webcam
Maximum resolution : 4K | Maximum video frame rate : 90 fps | price : $169.00
When it comes to live streaming webcams, the Logitech Brio 4K is the preferred choice of brands and content creators alike. With incredible low-light performance and built-in microphones that deliver «better than expected» performance, this webcam remains unbeatable. In addition, Brio also provides 5x digital zoom. So if you love leveling up your live streams with instant zoom shots, this camera is the one for you.
Best Webcam for Budget Buyers : Mevo Start
Max Resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 30 fps | Price : $399.00
Glory Mevo Start is a versatile live broadcast camera. But streamers use it as a webcam, which makes it perfect for this slot. With a 76-degree horizontal field of view, excellent low-light sensitivity, and a built-in microphone, this camera is an unrivaled device.
Best DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras
Best DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras for Budget Buyers : Sony α6000
Max Resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 60 fps | price : $649.99
The Sony α6000 is one of the most fantastic live broadcast cameras out there. Equipped with a 24.2MP 35mm full-frame back-illuminated image sensor with 179 phase detection hybrid autofocuspoints on the focal plane, this amazing camera is a pleasure to use for any live broadcast.
Best DSLR & Mirrorless Camera for Mid Budget Buyers : Canon EOS 80D
Max Resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 60 fps | price : $899.00
With powerful autofocus and exceptional ISO range, the Canon EOS 80D is an impressive SLR camera worth owning. The camera delivers superb image quality with features such as a 24.2-megapixel (APS-C) CMOS sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF. It even comes with an intelligent viewfinder with about 100% coverage. So, go for it if you are looking for one of the best mid-range live streaming cameras.
Best DSLR & Mirrorless Camera for Budget Buyers : Sony a7 III
Max Resolution : 4K | Maximum video frame rate : 240 fps | Price : $1,699.99
So professional streamers, this is for you! If you want to record and stream high-quality video at the same time, the Sony a7 III HD mirrorless camera won’t let you down.
This camera consistently wows streamers with its 24.2MP 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor and back-illumination, and offers fast Hybrid AF with 693 phase detection points and 425 contrast detection points. You see, not just because it has a high price!
Best Camcorders
Best Camcorder for Budget Buyers : Canon VIXIA HF R800
Max Resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 60 fps | Price of : $249.99
If you are looking for a camcorder that is also one of the best live broadcast camcorders, then the VIXIA HF R800 camcorder is a must have. This multifunctional device is equipped with a powerful zoom, Highlight Priority mode with backlight correction, as well as excellent options for slow and fast recording. Reliable and durable, it is easy to carry and just as easy to use.
Best camcorder for mid-budget buyers : Canon XA15
maximum resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 120 fps | Price : $1,699.
00
This professional camcorder from Canon is recommended for event coverage and live broadcasts on the go. Capable of capturing high-definition video with its stunning HD CMOS Pro image sensor and DIGIC DV 4 image processor, this camcorder boasts exceptional performance and an impressive 20x High-Definition optical zoom lens, making it the perfect choice for those looking for advanced capabilities. and Full HD video.
Best camcorder high end budget camcorder : Panasonic AG-UX180
maximum resolution : 4K | Maximum video frame rate : 120 fps | Price : $2,695.00
Looking for a professional camcorder for creating high quality live content? The Panasonic AG-UX180 is our top pick. In addition to the 24mm wide angle and 20x optical zoom, this impressive camera features a high-sensitivity MOS sensor, optical image stabilizer (O.I.S.) and intelligent autofocus, making it worthy of a premium price.
Best PTZ Cameras
Best PTZ Camera for Budget Buyers : SMTAV A3X6U
Max Resolution | Maximum video frame rate : 30 fps | price : $119.00
The SMTAV A3X6U is an excellent entry level PTZ camera. With a superb HD CMOS sensor with a wide 109-degree field of view and 3x lossless optical zoom, this camera is a great choice for those who want to look their best on their live streams without breaking the bank.
Best PTZ camera for mid-budget buyers : Logitech PTZ Pro 2
Max Resolution : 1080p | Maximum video frame rate : 30 fps | Price : $849.99
This camera from Logitech is one of our favorite PTZ cameras, best suited for live conferences and interviews. Choose it for great performance, sleek looks and ease of use and you won’t be disappointed.
You can easily customize settings with presets and get better control over your live broadcasts by downloading a simple application available for Windows® and Mac® computers. The PTZ Pro 2 may not have 4K resolution, but the image quality is still excellent in color and accuracy.
Best PTZ camera for high-end budget buyers : Sony BRC-X400
Maximum resolution : 4K | Maximum video frame rate : 60 fps | price : $5,550.00
Best suited for large venues such as churches or high-end studios, this Sony live PTZ camera features an incredible 1/2.5 format Exmor R™ sensor that captures broadcast quality images. 4K. It also features excellent sensitivity, low noise and natural color reproduction. In addition, the powerful zoom up to 80x in Full HD provides the best value for money.
Ready to buy one of the best live broadcast cameras?
Listen: Choosing a camera for live broadcasts is no longer an impossible task.
