If you want to look crisp on video calls and in meetings, you need to check out the current discount on the Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K. The webcam offers excellent image quality and low-light performance, meaning you can look your best in less-than-ideal conditions.

A $30 discount on the Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K cuts its price to the lowest we've ever seen, at least when referring to the "Graphite" model. The "Pale Gray" model briefly dropped to $161.99 in May, but this is the most affordable it's been in months.

The Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K tops our list of the best webcams. Its image quality and low-light performance make it a solid choice for those who sit at a desk that lacks perfect lighting. Logitech has made webcams for a long time and makes two of the best ones available in 2025.

In our Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K review, Zachary Boddy said of the camera:

"I'm confident the Logitech MX Brio will neatly replace its predecessor, the Brio 4K, as the go-to recommendation for anyone who asks, "Which webcam should I buy?" and just wants the best webcam without thinking about it. It's a very good, straightforward webcam that exceeds the image quality and construction you can expect at $200, with a simple setup and easy-to-use software. Its lowlight performance is especially impressive and is perfect for anyone lacking great lighting in their setup."

While the Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K excels in image quality and low-light performance, it lacks some advanced features, such as built-in background blur and auto framing.

If you need Windows Hello, you'll have to look elsewhere. The Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K does not support the feature, meaning you cannot use the webcam for biometric login or authentication.

Its predecessor, the Logitech Brio 4K, supports Windows Hello. The newer model has superior image quality and low-light performance, but the original is still a nice webcam and supports Windows Hello. The Logitech Brio 4K is on sale for $169.99 at Best Buy.

Overall, the Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K is an excellent choice for those that value ease of use, image quality, and low-light performance.

Alternative discounted configurations

The Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K is available in two colors. The models are otherwise identical:

• Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K (Pale Gray) — $169.99 at Amazon (was $199.99 at Amazon).
• Logitech Brio 4K (older model with Windows Hello support) — $169.99 at Best Buy (was $199.99)

Alternative retailers with discounts

Another retailer has discounted the Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K as well:

• $169.99 at Best Buy (was $199.99).

FAQ

Black Friday deals are still ongoing this weekend, which means now is a great time to upgrade your Windows 11 PC with a Windows Hello-compatible webcam. The Lenovo Performance FHD Webcam is now just $45 on Amazon for Black Friday, which will net you a great 1080p webcam that has built-in IR sensors for Windows Hello face unlock!

I've always said that once you switch to Windows Hello face unlock, you'll never want to go back to a PC without it. Windows Hello is just like Face ID on the iPhone and iPad, which is to say it's incredibly secure and pretty much automatic. You don't even think about signing into your iPhone and iPad, and Windows Hello does the same on a Windows PC.

With a Windows Hello-equipped webcam, whenever you turn on your PC, you'll find yourself automatically logged in as soon as Windows reaches the usual sign-in screen. The webcam will wake up, check for your face, and show you the desktop without you needing to lift a finger. It's fast and secure, and works almost like magic.

I've been using Windows Hello for a decade, and I don't think I'd ever go back to using a PC without it. Typing in a password or passcode every time I want to log in is so annoying; I would much rather use my face to do it, as it's not something I actively need to partake in.

The Lenovo Performance FHD Webcam is also just a great all-around webcam, even if you don't intend to use it for Windows Hello. It has a 1080p sensor, which is plenty sharp for video calls and streaming, and that sensor is also wide at 95 degrees, meaning you can fit multiple people in shot comfortably.

It also has a built-in privacy shutter, which is also handy for when you want to ensure nobody can see you through your camera lens. Ultimately, there's no reason not to upgrade your Windows 11 PC with this Windows Hello-equipped Lenovo webcam this Black Friday weekend.

FAQs

More Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025 — Quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Black Friday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Black Friday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Razer is known for a lot of PC and gaming accessories, but "webcams" are rarely the first thing that comes to mind. The company is apparently taking the segment seriously, though, as we now have a Razer Kiyo V2 to assess.

I've been using this as my primary webcam for weeks now, and I'm honestly shocked by how good it is. At $150, the new Razer Kiyo V2 manages to undercut some of the most popular premium 4K webcams, but doesn't disappoint when it comes to image or microphone quality.

The best part? The Kiyo V2 comes with a lifetime subscription to Camo Studio Pro, a popular multi-platform software that enables a wide range of webcam features. That's a $100 value on its own, and helps Razer's latest webcam compete with more established players.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

A quality webcam designed for everyone

With the Kiyo V2, Razer has officially moved away from the chunky circle of its previous webcams and adopted a design we've seen a lot, like with the Logitech MX Brio I reviewed, which moves the webcam internals into a horizontal bar (which also has the side effect of spreading out the stereo microphones).

As such, the Kiyo V2 is not a compact webcam, if that matters to you, but it's still a clean, matte black design with excellent build quality. Razer's build quality has steadily improved over the years, and I see those efforts reflected here.

This isn't an "ultra-premium" webcam like Razer's previous Kiyo Pro Ultra or something like the OBSBOT Tiny 2 I reviewed (which is still my favorite webcam of all time), but the Kiyo V2 feels every bit as smartly designed and tightly constructed as the plethora of ~$200+ webcams on the market.

That includes a sturdy, permanently attached stand with a built-in pivot, support for standard 1/4-inch mounts, a detachable USB Type-C cable, and a clearly visible physical privacy shutter that you can open and close by spinning the rim around the sensor. Yes, there's also a white LED that shows when the camera is on — but only the camera, so the microphones can still be active while the light is off (I think Razer should change that).

Speaking of microphones, the Kiyo V2 punches above its weight here. My colleagues at Windows Central expressed surprise at the quality of these webcam mics, and I share their praise. Make no mistake — this is still a webcam, so you'll always be better off with a good headset or (even better) a dedicated microphone.

That being said, the Kiyo V2 does better than most webcams at filtering out background noise and focusing on your voice, keeping it clear and full. Any change in the distance between you and the Kiyo V2 has a huge impact on quality, though, which isn't good for someone as twitchy as me.

The surrounding hardware is top-notch, but it's the sensor at the core that makes or breaks a webcam.

A solid sensor supported by super software

At the center of the Razer Kiyo V2 is an 8.3MP Sony STARVIS sensor of decent size, although it's not as impressively vast as the Kiyo Pro Ultra that precedes it. This sensor is capable of recording at 4K and 30 frames per second (FPS), or 1080p and 60 FPS.

Strangely, the more affordable Kiyo V2 X caps out at 1440p and 60 FPS, while the Kiyo V2 is limited to 30 FPS at the same resolution. I'm not sure why that is, honestly, but in all other respects, the more expensive webcam's sensor is dramatically superior, with a much wider 93-degree field-of-view (FoV), High Dynamic Range (HDR) support, and wider compatibility with various formats and features.

As far as sheer image quality is concerned, the Razer Kiyo V2 is capable of going toe-to-toe with those aforementioned $200 webcams; color reproduction is spot on, low-light performance is respectable, and auto-focus is accurate (if a little slow at times). This webcam's one weakness seems to be with auto-exposure, as the Kiyo V2 has a tendency to blow out lighter skin tones (I definitely fall into that category).

At face value, the Razer Kiyo V2's sensor is good enough to play with the biggest players in this price range, but it doesn't outright beat them in any specific area. What sets this webcam apart is the software that supports it and the attractive price tag tying it all together.

Let's clear the air — when I say software helps make the Kiyo V2 great, I am not talking about Razer Synapse. In this case, Synapse does the absolute bare minimum; it gives you basic settings and is functional, but it simply can't compete with the mature platforms of more established webcam brands.

Razer clearly knows this, though, so it partnered with one of the most popular third-party solutions for upgrading your streaming and video conference setup across Windows and macOS: Camo Studio.

Every single Kiyo V2 (not the more affordable V2 X) comes with a lifetime license for Camo Studio's "Pro" license, and includes a variety of exclusive Razer themes and presets.

Suddenly, the Razer Kiyo V2 has all the software features you could want from the absolute best webcams, including more granular image adjustments, AI-assisted backgrounds and privacy filters, automatic face tracking, and more. Camo may be partially known for transforming your phone into a high-quality webcam, but it's genuinely a powerful and intuitive webcam software suite — and the Razer Kiyo V2 gives you access to all of it without a subscription fee.

Honestly, I'm really impressed by how responsive and intuitive Camo Studio is. The Razer Kiyo V2 doesn't boast gimbal tracking, yet Camo's auto-framing feature easily makes full use of the wide-angle lens to keep me in frame. It's a great experience... but Razer Synapse is essentially useless outside of obtaining your lifetime license, so keep that in mind if you're especially mindful of new applications eating into your system resources.

Razer Kiyo V2 review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You need a high-quality 4K webcam without spending $200+.
• You already know the value of Camo Studio and its features.
• You want a great webcam with a physical privacy shutter you can see.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You really don't want to install a new app just for your webcam.
• You really value hardware features like gimbal tracking.

Look, I'll be returning to the OBSBOT Tiny 2; the gimbal tracking, the superior image quality, and the all-in-one software suite objectively make it the better webcam. It also costs literally twice as much, though.

When judged for what it is, the Razer Kiyo V2 is truly excellent. It's only $149.99 at Razer.com, and it's genuinely not often I can look at a Razer product and remark, "that's a really good deal." This is a good deal, especially if you take advantage of the included Camo Studio Pro license, which unlocks a ton of extra software features.

It's good enough that — despite costing 33% less — I can't really recommend the Razer Kiyo V2 X for $99.99 at Razer.com (get the OBSBOT Tiny SE I reviewed instead). The Razer Kiyo V2 is a fantastic value for frequent attendees of video conferences and streamers alike, and definitively gives the more expensive Logitech MX Brio a run for its money.

Elgato has officially unveiled the Facecam 4K, a new addition to its webcam lineup and a direct successor, it seems, to their Facecam Pro released in 2022, which we previously reviewed. This marks a long-awaited upgrade.

Similar to how the Facecam Pro was touted as the first webcam to do 4K60, the Facecam 4K also supports 4K60 but boasts a better sensor, a 49mm lens, improved control, and more.

Key features at a glance

The Facecam 4K supports 4K60 video capture (MJPG only), along with uncompressed 4K30 output for those using USB 3.0. This ensures smooth, high-resolution footage with minimal latency, whether you’re streaming or recording.

Another standout is the Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, which delivers sharp, color-accurate video with a wide 90-degree field of view.

Elgato has also included onboard flash memory, allowing users to save settings directly to the device. It’s a useful feature for creators who travel or switch between multiple setups, as there’s no need to reconfigure everything each time.

However, 4K60 is not available when shooting with HDR, with only 4K30 (MPJG only) being the highest support resolution when recording in HDR. If you’re yet to have USB 3.0, you’ll also be restricted to just 1080p60, but the improved sensor should still be noticeable.

Camera Hub 2.1 brings DSLR-like control

Elgato’s Camera Hub software helps unlock the full potential of the Facecam 4K, offering creators DSLR-like control over their image. Users can manually adjust ISO, shutter speed, white balance, and more to dial in a professional look that suits their setup.

The app also includes PTZ controls, letting you pan, tilt, and zoom across your scene while maintaining impressive sharpness. This can be especially handy for streamers who want to present and frame their shot without physically moving the camera.

There’s built-in LUT support too for color grading, along with optional background blur powered by NVIDIA RTX GPUs. This enables a soft, depth-of-field style effect typically reserved for DSLR cameras.

To access these features, as well as the latest firmware updates, you’ll need Camera Hub version 2.1, currently only in beta through Elgato’s website.

49mm lens, filters and more with the Facecam 4K

According to Elgato, the Facecam 4K is the first webcam to support 49mm lens filters, a standard size commonly used in photography and film. This allows users to screw filters directly onto the webcam, just like they would with a DSLR camera.

Among the supported options is a CPL (Circular Polarizer) filter, which helps reduce glare and reflections, particularly on screens. Elgato is including a free CPL filter or a privacy cap with purchases made through their webstore at launch.

The Facecam compatible filters include diffusion, star, black mist, and macro, with a wide range of additional 49mm filters also supported, as long as they can use the standard 49mm size.

Launch notes and availability

If this kind of product excites you, the Facecam 4K is available to order now (July 29th 2025) via Elgato’s store. As part of the launch, buyers can choose between a free CPL filter or a privacy cap at checkout.

Here’s the regional price breakdown:

• United States - USD: $199.99
• Canada - CAD: 259.99
• Europe - EUR: €199.99
• United Kingdom - GBP: £179.99
• Sweden - SEK 2,390
• Poland - PLN 870
• Australia - AUD 289
• Japan - JPY 29,980

It’s worth noting that Low Light Mode is currently disabled due to a last-minute bug. The toggle will appear within Camera Hub 2.1, but it doesn’t function just yet. A future update will restore this feature.

Inside the box, you’ll find the Facecam 4K, a ¼ inch thread mount, and a detachable USB-C to USB 3.0 cable measuring 200cm (79 inches).

For those using the Elgato Prompter, a new backplate is required for compatibility with the Facecam 4K. You can 3D print one yourself, or purchase it separately, though all future Elgato Prompters will ship with the updated backplate by default, replacing the version designed for the Facecam Pro.

Personally, I’ve got quite a few Elgato products already, but I’m still using a Logitech Brio 4K. This definitely looks like a tempting upgrade — especially with the Nintendo Switch 2 compatibility, making it one of the better camera options available for the console.

More people than ever before need a good webcam on their desk, and webcams that can intelligently keep you in frame are especially popular options. But what about a gimbal-tracking webcam with two cameras?

That's the idea of the EMEET PIXY, a new premium webcam that combines its primary 4K camera with a secondary, AI-assisted sensor aiming to improve focus, tracking, and image quality.

It's an interesting idea, and EMEET is delivering its vision at a surprisingly accessible price point. This is a lot of webcam for $160, and EMEET's software offers a ton of features — including for setups with multiple cameras and microphones.

All of that is great, but I still have some concerns about the stability of this software and the camera's firmware, as well as a potential privacy issue that may immediately drive some people away.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by EMEET. EMEET had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

EMEET PIXY review: Pricing and specifications

I wouldn't describe the EMEET PIXY as a budget webcam by any means, but the price is competitive for a premium, 4K webcam with AI-assisted gimbal tracking — and that's before you consider the unique dual-camera design.

You can pick up the EMEET PIXY for $159.99 at Amazon, which includes the detachable mount.

This webcam should work with most modern devices that support, well, webcams, but the EMEET STUDIO software is only available on Windows and macOS.

In the box, you'll find the EMEET PIXY dual-camera webcam, the detachable and adjustable mount, a 1.5m USB Type-C to USB Type-C 2.0 cable, and a USB Type-C to USB Type-A adapter.

EMEET PIXY review: What I like

There are only so many ways to design a gimbal-tracking webcam in a way that makes sense, so it's no surprise the EMEET PIXEL isn't a drastic departure from what I consider the peak of the category, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 webcam I reviewed.

You get a "squircle" base containing all the crucial components, capped by the mechanism that manipulates the camera housing. It's a clean look, and EMEET used premium materials and achieved some fine build quality.

It's that camera housing where the PIXY deviates from the norm, though, thanks to its dual cameras. Both utilize the same large 12MP sensor, but only one is actually used for imaging — the other is only for assistance, collecting additional information with AI to support the primary camera.

I can't say for certain exactly how effective this is, but we'll get into that later. The EMEET PIXY only needs USB 2.0 to function, so it's compatible with a wide range of devices. It's obviously designed with Windows and macOS in mind, though, as that's where you'll find the EMEET STUDIO software.

As a final note, the detachable mount provides a solid amount of adjustability and works great, and it uses a standard 1/4-inch thread to make it easy to incorporate the PIXY into your custom setup (or use a tripod).

EMEET really did nail the fundamental hardware here, which makes the pricing all the more impressive. The gimbal tracking is smooth and relatively quick, with a good range of motion and support for manually disabling the camera by pointing it down.

When the PIXY is active, you can expect good image quality. The 4K sensor is actually at its best when pared down to 1080p and 30 FPS (where it can employ digital zoom to further keep you in frame), but it always boasts good detail retention, color reproduction, automatic white balance and exposure adjustment, and fast autofocus.

It's certainly not the best, but I do believe the PIXY punches above its weight for image quality, with solid low-light performance to boot. EMEET claims that the secondary camera is dramatically improving autofocus and tracking speeds, while also improving the image quality for facial data; I'm still not certain it's worth all the fuss, but the PIXY does look good.

Supporting the EMEET PIXY is a triple-array microphone, which is far better than most competing microphones (at least on paper). In practice, the PIXY's mics are good. They didn't blow my mind by any means, but these microphones do a fair job of capturing your voice and mostly mitigating unwanted background noise, and there are different recording modes to adjust the noise cancellation to your environment.

One of the PIXY's major selling points (beyond the dual camera) is its software, though, which admittedly does provide quite a lot of functionality.

The EMEET STUDIO isn't just an app to manage the PIXY; it also wants to be your hub that ties together your entire recording setup, including supporting multiple cameras and audio sources.

In addition to the image quality settings, filters, and various presenting modes for the PIXY, there's also an audio mixer and even an AI-powered storyboarder that aims to provide some direction and insight into how to create using your setup. It's a lot, but it's clear EMEET did think about how to provide additional value beyond the hardware alone.

At least right now, though, that software may also be the PIXY's downfall...

EMEET PIXY review: What I don't like

The EMEET STUDIO software's abundance of features leads to a messy interface with unclear navigation at times, but it's mostly fine. Performance is also mostly fine, with some instability leading to stutters, freezes, and even a handful of crashes during my testing period.

For all the features this app offers, it's also missing some basics, like custom backgrounds and blurring — most modern video conferencing software can do this itself, but 1) native solutions are almost always better, and the PIXY may even be more capable with its second sensor, and 2) EMEET STUDIO isn't just designed for video conferencing alone, so you can't always rely on another app to offer those features.

There's no IR sensor for Windows Hello facial recognition, either, which is always disappointing. Oh, High Dynamic Range (HDR) is missing, too.

The PIXY's firmware is also rough around the edges. The STUDIO's overly aggressive update notifications are annoying, the firmware updates themselves constantly fail (even if you're careful to close any app that'd ever use your webcam), and the PIXY itself is prone to randomly losing you and drifting off to the side, refusing to enter privacy mode and turn off, and more.

My greatest concern, though? After one failed firmware update, the PIXY stopped responding entirely, stubbornly remaining upright... but with its LED indicator inactive, which should mean it's turned off.

The problem is that the PIXY was constantly recording (I could see the video in STUDIO and other apps) and refused to turn off or enter privacy mode until I unplugged it and restarted my computer. That's clearly a bug, but the main issue is that it proves the LED indicator isn't hardwired to the camera — meaning the PIXY could theoretically be on without you knowing.

That's a major privacy concern, and while pre-release software and firmware updates did noticeably improve the PIXY's experience during my testing period, I'm not certain that's a problem that can ever be totally fixed on the firmware side.

EMEET PIXY review: Also consider

EMEET PIXY review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a gimbal-tracking webcam for way less than $200.
• You want reliable quality at 4K with fast autofocus and tracking.
• You have a multi-camera setup and want software that can manage them.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You're easily annoyed by minor software issues.
• You're particularly concerned about protecting your privacy.

On the hardware front, the EMEET PIXY is an almost unbeatable deal for a 4K, gimbal-tracking, AI-assisted webcam. You can see where EMEET cut some corners to dip so far below the $200 barrier, but the PIXY really is a great option that might earn a spot among the best webcams.

Most of my issues can and likely will be resolved over time through continuous software and firmware updates (I saw multiple versions of each during my testing period), but I always advise buying a product for what it is now, not what it could be, so bear that in mind.

I can recommend the PIXY, especially if you know you want 4K recording and smart gimbal tracking, but don't want to break the bank. That recommendation does come with a caveat, though: privacy.

I'm not saying the PIXY can be exploited by any means, and the privacy mode is as effective as it gets, but a bug proved that the PIXY can be on without its indicator LED reflecting that state, and that's concerning enough to merit a warning to the privacy-conscious among us.

If you can accept that shadow of doubt, the EMEET PIXY offers a lot of bang for your buck, and you can pick it up now for $159.99 at Amazon.

Webcams have become pivotal to our online social activities, allowing us to connect with remote coworkers via Zoom meetings and changing the digital content landscape of the web with live streams. Choosing a high-quality webcam shouldn’t be difficult, but with so many options on the market, it can be hard to pick a camera that can suit all of your content creation needs. The OBSBOT Tiny 2 offers the AI-enhanced features you need to level up your video content, whether you’re making moves during business hours over Zoom meetings or playing hard live-streaming your gaming sessions after hours. The best part? You can save up to 18% on this tiny little powerhouse of a webcam during Prime Day.

AI-enhanced features level up your content

When we think of webcams, we normally consider features like image quality and capture resolution. Those are important, don’t get me wrong, but there doesn’t seem to be room for improvement in the webcam space. OBSBOT has created a small, multipurpose webcam with the Tiny 2 that is absolutely jam-packed with unique features that are—dare I say it?—underutilized in this type of tech. Designed with a unique 2-axis gimbal mount and harnessing AI technology, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 webcam features auto-tracking, gesture control, and voice control alongside its high-quality video capabilities.

Those may all sound like buzzwords on the surface, but they’re meaningful additions that can genuinely enhance your live-streaming and video content creation capabilities. How often are we sitting at our desks giving boring presentations over Zoom? What if you could punch up your lectures by moving around your recording space and presenting information with diagrams or tangible products? The OBSBOT Tiny 2 makes that a possibility with AI-powered auto-tracking. The gimbal mount of the camera allows it to move and stay focused on you as you move. Not only can the webcam maintain focus, but you can also freely control additional features like zoom with simple hand gestures.

Auto-tracking and gesture controls aren’t just useful during long Zoom meetings, either. You’ve kicked off your shoes after a long day at the virtual office, and you’re ready to relax by streaming your favorite game for your online community. The OBSBOT Tiny 2 is great for live-streaming your gaming sessions, as well. Standard, stationary webcams can limit your motion while gaming, leaving you to sit stationary in your chair and staring straight ahead. That’s neither a fun way to play, nor is it the best content to watch. Everybody knows leaning forward in your chair while playing a game is how you get better, after all. The auto-tracking feature of the OBSBOT Tiny 2 gives you the freedom to lean in your seat as you take those hairpin curves in your favorite racing game, and still stay in focus for your audience.

The Magical Gesture Control 2.0 feature on the OBSBOT Tiny 2 webcam, paired with auto-tracking and Hands-Free Voice Control, gives you creative freedom to enhance your live streams and recorded videos.

Cutting-edge AI meets high-quality video

OBSBOT’s parent company, Remo Tech, has been at the forefront of AI-powered imaging since its inception in April 2016. The first PTZ AI webcam was introduced by OBSBOT in 2019, and the Tiny 2 builds upon the technological achievements of its predecessor. With its slate of unique, AI-powered features, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 is an advanced camera option for anybody who utilizes a webcam for creative or social activities online. An ultra-large 1.5-inch CMOS powers this tiny workhorse camera so that its AI features, including hands-free voice control, gesture support, and auto-tracking with auto zoom and 4x faster focusing meet the needs of modern webcam users.

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 webcam is available now from the official OBSBOT website. During Prime Day, you can level up your content and save up to 18% at the same time by picking up the OBSBOT Tiny 2 webcam for just $269.

In established markets, emerging companies have to strive to stand apart from the crowd in order to find success. That means experimenting with new designs and features, investing in burgeoning technologies, and targeting specific niches. If you're the long-running leader of that market, though, none of that concerns you; when it comes to webcams, that's exactly what Logitech is.

The company has quietly been among the top webcams from any reputable critic for many years, with its Brio line of webcams especially dominating conversation. These webcams aren't pushing boundaries or innovating — Logitech only occasionally releases new hardware at all. Now, Logitech has finally ended a nearly six-year silence by releasing a brand-new premium 4K webcam... And brought in another brand that fills a similar role in its respective categories. This is the Logitech MX Brio, and it sets a new benchmark for other companies to innovate around.

This review was made possible with a review unit provided by Logitech. The company did not see the contents of the review before publishing.

MX Brio review: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

• The Logitech MX Brio follows in its predecessor's footsteps with a retail price of $199.99.
• That firmly places it in the "premium" category but still well below the $300+ of some of the best webcams out there.
• Considering the consistent quality and ease of use, $200 feels very reasonable for the MX Brio.

You can find a very solid webcam for less than $100 if you need something basic, but quality 4K webcams tend to start at around the $200 mark, and the Logitech MX Brio is no exception. It follows in the footsteps of the Logitech Brio 4K when it launched, arriving with a $199.99 retail price tag. For that price, you're getting Logitech's guarantee of image and build quality that you don't necessarily get in more affordable competitors.

In the box, you're getting the 4K Logitech MX Brio webcam with its built-in physical privacy shutter and dual microphone array, a 1.5m USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable, and the simple magnetic mount. Logitech isn't innovating or breaking new ground with the MX Brio, but it is a very straightforward, easy-to-use webcam with excellent overall quality, making it a fantastic entryway to premium webcams that doesn't require much consideration.

For businesses, there is an enterprise version of the MX Brio that is practically identical but includes integration with Logi Tune for remote fleet management.

• Back to the top ⤴

MX Brio review: Design and build quality

Design highlights

• The MX Brio is your standard "candy bar" webcam with a wide rectangular body only broken by the circular camera lens protrusion.
• The webcam overall feels extremely refined and polished with fantastic build quality and a stable, easy-to-setup mount.
• It's also certified carbon neutral like Logitech's other products and uses up to 82% post-consumer recycled plastics.

The Logitech MX Brio doesn't capture your attention; it wouldn't even stand out in a lineup of any miscellaneous webcams. It blends into the background, leaving your focus on your monitor and the video conferences you're presumably in for much of the work week. That's by design, of course. What matters here is overall construction, and Logitech did a fantastic job ensuring the MX Brio feels like a polished, refined, and long-lasting product with an intelligent design.

The webcam magnetically attaches to a foldable mount that's not only extremely easy to set up but also features a sticky pad (which Logitech assures me is very reusable) that helps keep the webcam secured to the back of your monitor. It's simple and effective. The MX Brio also boasts a built-in privacy shutter that you toggle by spinning the plastic rim of the camera lens. It opens and shuts with an oh-so-satisfying click that's almost addictive; at the very least, it's reassuring.

The MX Brio continues Logitech's commitment to carbon neutrality, too. Everything down to its packaging is constructed of materials obtained from sustainable sources, including the body being made of up to 82% post-consumer recycled plastic. I like to see that from every company, and Logitech is definitely doing a good job here. To wrap things up, there's a front-facing LED indicator light that lets you know if the camera or microphone is active.

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MX Brio review: Camera and video quality

Camera highlights

• The Logitech MX Brio wields an 8.5MP 4K sensor with 70% larger pixels than Logitech's last flagship webcam.
• This translates to vastly superior lowlight performance, as well as improvements to clarity, dynamic range, and more.
• The MX Brio isn't going to compete with dedicated cameras like DSLRs, but the image quality is consistently great in a wide variety of lighting conditions.

The Logitech Brio 4K has remained a go-to recommendation for as long as it has because of its reliable image quality, and the MX Brio focuses on offering massive improvements over it. That means Logitech's most advanced camera sensor yet, an 8.5MP affair that records at up to 4K and 30 FPS, with 70% larger pixels than the Brio 4K.

Those larger pixels and other improvements lead to huge gains in lowlight performance and up to 2x the clarity and detail in faces. Seeing the two webcams used side-by-side, I can attest to that jump in quality. The MX Brio is an impressive performer in a wide range of difficult lighting conditions, with noticeably superior detail in darker settings, fast autofocus, and more reliable white balance and exposure (the MX Brio can occasionally take a few seconds too long to adjust white balance, though).

The Logitech MX Brio isn't the best-looking webcam ever made and still isn't going to be the best dedicated, high-end camera, but this level of performance is frankly excellent at $200. Logitech has clearly put a lot of work into the color science to ensure that the camera's automatic settings can respond favorably to whatever lighting you may have, and it works well.

Unfortunately, the MX Brio does not include a dedicated IR sensor, meaning it's actually missing one major feature over the six-year-old Brio 4K. There's no Windows Hello facial recognition support here, so the Brio 4K can't double as your biometric login. It's relegated to webcam duties, and that's it.

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MX Brio review: Microphone and audio quality

Mic highlights

• The MX Brio has a pretty standard dual array of beamforming mics with AI-powered noise cancellation.
• Quality is aggressively average — the MX Brio does a great job picking up your voice, but you're guaranteed to sound hollow and tinny.
• The noise reduction is also decidedly standard, doing alright with consistent background noise like air conditioning but doing next to nothing with more irregular noises like keyboard typing.

The MX Brio does not impress in the audio department anywhere near to the same degree as it does video. Admittedly, most of the people shelling out for a premium webcam like the Logitech MX Brio likely already have a solid microphone, but the fact remains that this dual-array microphone setup can't be described as anything more than average.

The one thing these mics do very well is pick up your voice from a comfortable distance away and at a good volume, but you're not going to sound great. Audio quality out of these mics is hollow, tinny, and has a tendency to peak easily. On top of that, the AI-powered noise reduction does very little beyond softening consistent background noise like air conditioning. Even typing on the quiet Logitech MX Keys S keyboard reflected boldly in my recordings.

They'll do in a pinch, but you probably don't want to rely on the MX Brio's mics full-time. It's worth picking up a good dedicated microphone like the AVerMedia Live Streamer MIC 350.

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MX Brio review: Software and other features

Software highlights

• Logitech has integrated the MX Brio into Logi Options+ (for managing MX products), G Hub (for gamers and streamers), and Logi Tune (for large businesses.
• The feature set between Options+ and G Hub is identical, so it's really about what's more convenient for your setup as a whole.
• All in all, though, the MX Brio is very light on extra features compared to other premium webcams, and even a basic feature like auto-frame is restricted to the enterprise version.

You have the choice of using Logi Options+ or Logitech G Hub to manage the MX Brio. There's little difference between them apart from the other products they manage — if you're a professional using multiple Logitech MX products, then Options+ is the way to go. If you're a gamer or content creator using Logitech's more gaming-focused gear, then G Hub is the way to go. Either way, the MX Brio's features will be the same.

You have basic manual controls for the MX Brio's image quality, including color toning and exposure, as well as very simple options for framing (this is a wide-angle lens, and you can cut in to focus on your face). That's where it ends, however; the MX Brio doesn't bake in extra features like other premium webcams, so there are no advanced image quality features (such as composite exposure), filters, auto zooming, or background blur. Of course, that also means there's no virtual camera for video conferences and streaming since the MX Brio doesn't support any features that would require that. You're reliant on apps like Google Meet and Zoom to help you there.

NVIDIA Broadcast is always an option to give you some of these features, but I had trouble getting the MX Brio to reliably work with NVIDIA's AI-powered app (it may need to be updated to officially support the MX Brio). Another basic feature, auto framing, is also missing here... But only for consumers. The enterprise version of the MX Brio (the Brio 705) will boast auto framing. Logitech told me its reasoning was that most consumers didn't use that feature, but it's still an odd omission as it has nothing to do with hardware.

The business-focused MX Brio 705 will support Logi Tune, which makes it easy for companies to manage fleets of Logitech hardware. All things considered, the software is the major weakness of the MX Brio — there are exactly zero options for managing the mic array, for example. It's an area Logitech could improve upon moving forward, but right now, the MX Brio is good at the basics and little else.

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MX Brio review: Competition

One of the most direct competitors for the Logitech MX Brio is the aging Logitech Brio 4K. The reigning webcam champion may have a replacement from Logitech now, but that webcam costs a fair bit less than the MX Brio and boasts Windows Hello support. The Brio 4K doesn't look nearly as good as the MX Brio, though, especially in lowlight situations.

Another very strong competitor is the Lumina AI Webcam. It also retails for $200 and has similar hardware and design. This webcam may not have the consistent image quality of the MX Brio, but it does pack in a ton of AI-powered features and advanced options. The one downside is that the software needs to be licensed, sadly.

• Recommended microphone: AVerMedia Live Streamer MIC 350 for $179.99 at Amazon
• Recommended light: Logitech Litra Beam for $99.99 at Amazon

If you don't need 4K and are simply looking for a solid all-in-one option, the AnkerWork B600 Video Bar is the definition of "everything but the kitchen sink." It's your webcam, mic, lighting, and speakers all in one peripheral, and it costs the same as MX Brio. It's a jack of all trades, but it masters being a webcam nearly to the same degree as the MX Brio. Finally, those willing to splurge extra can consider the OBSBOT Tiny 2, an absolutely incredibly hyper-premium webcam packed with features and gorgeously smooth gimbal tracking.

Of course, you can skip all the decision-making entirely and simply use your smartphone as your Windows 11 webcam.

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MX Brio review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

You should not buy this if ...

I'm confident the Logitech MX Brio will neatly replace its predecessor, the Brio 4K, as the go-to recommendation for anyone who asks, "Which webcam should I buy?" and just wants the best webcam without thinking about it. It's a very good, straightforward webcam that exceeds the image quality and construction you can expect at $200, with a simple setup and easy-to-use software. Its lowlight performance is especially impressive and is perfect for anyone lacking great lighting in their setup.

While the MX Brio excels at the basics, it lacks heavily many of the advanced features that other premium webcams are toting. Software options are limited, and you'll be reliant on your video conferencing hardware like Google Meet and Zoom for basic options like background blur (and those backgrounds are never as good as native options). The MX Brio also misses Windows Hello support, something that its six-year-old predecessor retains; it's one omission that prevents this webcam from being the unanimous best in Logitech's webcam lineup.

Logitech has designed the MX Brio to carry the company through the next six years at a time when other companies like OBSBOT, Razer, and Elgato are innovating and evolving in the category. The MX Brio is a truly excellent webcam that nails the fundamentals, but it'll be interesting to see if its software features expand over time to come closer to the competition.

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Webcams went from a fun accessory for the hobbyist to a workplace necessity as many of us moved to work from home, and virtual meetings became a mainstay. It's still the case in 2025, as Microsoft Teams and Zoom still stand as popular platforms alongside Google Meet and others, and "turning on our cameras" is standard practice. Unfortunately, thousands of laptops come with a lackluster built-in webcam that leaves us looking fuzzy and overexposed, but there's a solution.

All webcams designed for desktop PCs are compatible with laptops if they feature the necessary USB ports, and Windows 11 will allow you to choose which device you want to use in video calls. So, which webcam is best for calls, and do you really need a 4K sensor or face tracking and Windows Hello support? I'm rounding up my favorite picks, which have been tried and tested by my colleagues, and ranking them under separate categories to help you choose the best webcam for your situation.

The quick list

The best webcam to buy in 2025

Best webcam for most users

The Logitech MX Brio, reviewed by Zachary Boddy, easily takes the top place for anyone asking, "Which webcam should I buy?" Priced at $200, which will come as a shock to some, it offers excellent image quality and sturdy construction to last a lifetime, along with a straightforward setup and user-friendly software; its low-light performance is particularly impressive, making it an excellent choice for dim environments.

However, the MX Brio does lack support for Windows Hello, which its six-year-old predecessor, the original Brio, includes. While it excels at the basics, it could be even better if Logitech improves its software suite to compete with competing brands listed here.

• Read our full Logitech MX Brio review

Best gimbal webcam for face tracking

Our Insta360 Link 2 review proved it a worthy successor to the original model that Zachary Boddy called "the best webcam you can buy today," now offers various enhancements like a virtual camera for compatibility with more apps and an overall improved design with superior image quality, all at a price that's $100 less than its predecessor at launch.

While I would still opt for the high-scoring OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K if you can afford it at the 50% higher price, the Insta360 Link 2 is hard to beat at $199.99 for anyone seeking a versatile webcam with top-notch tracking capabilities, and for those who don't require gimbal features, the Insta360 Link 2C is available for $149.99 at Best Buy instead.

• Read our full Insta360 Link 2 review

Best webcam for Windows Hello

Since our Logitech BRIO 4K webcam review, it remains a premium option that offers 4K resolution, HDR support, Windows Hello facial recognition, and background replacement features. It's a future-proof webcam that works well with any video meeting service, livestreaming platforms, and Windows 11 apps. However, it's still relatively expensive, moderately bulky for some laptops, and somewhat overkill for casual users who may not need 4K or HDR support.

Still, we'll always praise the BRIO for its excellent image and video quality, fast and straightforward Windows Hello setup, customizable field of view, and brightness settings. There is a mild issue of mediocre audio quality, inconsistent background replacement, and limited 4K support on some web services, but that's likely to change as the resolution becomes more common. The BRIO is a beast of a webcam from Logitech, recommended for anyone looking for a future-proof option with Windows Hello support.

• Read our full Logitech Brio 4K review

Best webcam for streaming

Some minor gripes include a taut cable and awkward privacy shutter, but they're hardly deal breakers. Plus, while HDR is standard for this price range, finding a better option for game streamers will be challenging. Elgato has addressed plenty of issues from its MK.1 predecessor, namely significantly improving the software, finally integrating a privacy shutter, and reducing the overall chassis footprint for better weight distribution.

It represents a massive step forward for Elgato, which challenges established gaming accessory brands like Razer in the streaming sector, making the Elgato Facecam MK.2 Jez Corden's preferred choice for mic interfacing, stream control, lighting, and now visuals; which is hard to disagree with.

• Read our full Elgato Facecam MK.2 review

How to choose the best webcam

Choosing a webcam, thankfully, isn't as complex as it used to be, as the technology has reached a point where image quality doesn't vary as wildly as it did a few years ago. There are plenty of 4K cameras to choose from and webcams double up as a replacement for any built-in laptop option that doesn't make the grade for creating video content.

Budget is undoubtedly a critical factor, and it's tempting to search for the cheapest webcam you can find with '4K' in its name, but that doesn't guarantee a high-quality lens and sensor.

High resolutions don't go hand-in-hand with accurate color representation and reliable performance in low-light scenarios. So, my picks bring something more to the table than a gimmick of UHD images. For a no-nonsense pick, go with the Logitech Brio MX or spring for the original Brio for face-recognition logins with Windows Hello.

Each week, I attend several virtual meetings with both colleagues and professionals from other companies. With this being the case, it's important to me that I have a good webcam that can display me with good picture quality. Thankfully, when it comes to choosing the best webcam for PC and laptop, we really aren't starved for options. But there are also so many choices that it can be hard to know which ones to go with. 

I've spent the last week using the EPOS S6 4K webcam and in that time I've found that while it isn't perfect it does offer several perks that make it a great option for most people. 

EPOS S6: Price and specs

The EPOS S6 has an MSRP of $199 and can be purchased at both Amazon and the EPOS website. It's still a relatively new product to the market, so it hasn't seen any serious sales or discounts thus far, but that could change as time goes on. 4K webcams typically range from $60 to $300+ depending on the features and conveniences they offer. As such, the EPOS S6 is relatively expensive when compared to other 4K webcams, but it also functions more reliably than cheaper options.

As a company, EPOS is best known for its audio devices — specifically gaming headsets. So seeing it produce a 4K webcam is a little bit of a change of tack from what is usual. However, the company has a good reputation and produces quality devices, so seeing it expand its products doesn't give me pause. If anything, a webcam makes sense as a stepping out point since it still utilizes audio features. 

EPOS S6: Design

Something I love about the EPOS S6 is that it looks professional and doesn't look strange or distracting like some other webcams out there. Rather than being wide and squat, it has more of a compact cube shape, and the large lens almost gives it the look of a tiny projector. 

It conveniently comes with both a USB-A to USB-C cable and a USB-A 3.0 to USB-C cable, making it work with a wider variety of devices. The thing I was surprised to find in the box was the hard shell carrying case. It is padded inside to securely hold the EPOS S6 without damaging it. Plus, there is a mesh pocket that's large enough to hold the cable necessary for plugging it into a laptop or PC tower. 

Physical privacy shutters are a must for me, when it comes to webcam peace of mind, so I was happy to find that the EPOS S6 has a dial on top that opens or closes the shutter over the lens depending on which way I turn it. Additionally, a simple white light turns on to the left of the lens whenever the camera is capturing video, so I can easily tell if I might be in someone's view.

I didn't have to prep anything before using the EPOS S6, since set up is as simple as plug-and-play, with no software or divers needed for functionality. There are two means by which to mount the webcam. It features a built-in adjustable clip that allows it to be placed on top of a monitor and adjusted based on the angle of the mount.

Additionally, a 1/4-inch mounting thread on the bottom makes it compatible with most mounting arm screws. My only problem with this setup was that I was in the middle of testing a monitor when I received the EPOS S6. It fit on the flat monitor well enough, but when I swapped to an ultrawide curved monitor, I found that the EPOS S6's mounting clamp couldn't open wide enough to hold itself up on the top middle of the thick display casing. Fortunately, I was able to get around this centering issue thanks to EPOS' free software, which I'll discuss in the next section.

EPOS S6: Picture quality

The EPOS S6 4K webcam offers great picture quality with crisp details and good color. It automatically adjusts lighting when it detects dark imagery to show me off better. Additionally, everything is shown in correct proportions with no fisheye or other distortions.

However, as with most webcams, if it gets too dark, there isn't much that the EPOS S6 can do to help the situation. In dimmer lighting, it was very easy to see motion blur and even trails following my motions. But in order to get the best picture quality of any webcam, you really ought to be in a well-lit area anyway. 

You'll recall that I said earlier that I couldn't get the EPOS S6 to hold itself on the top middle of my 49-inch ultrawide curved monitor. In fact, I had to place it five inches in from the end of the monitor, which initially put me at a skewed angle. However, by downloading the free companion software, EPOS Connect, I was able to zoom in and adjust the focus of the capture so that the camera showed me as centered. 

This helpful program has three default zoom options Wide View, Default, or Close Up and in each of these options, I can use the Pan & Tilt buttons to adjust exactly where the camera focuses. EPOS Connect also has a few other simple settings for adjusting lighting and the temperature of captures, but the Advanced settings area gives more manual control for adjusting brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, sharpness, exposure, white balance, and zoom. From here, I can even choose whether Anti Flicker is disabled, at 50 Hz or at 60 Hz. 

It's not the most sophisticated program, but EPOS Connect easily allows me to make enough adjustments to improve how I look on camera.

EPOS S6: Microphone

There are two microphones, one on either side of the EPOS S6 lens. I tested out how well these dual mics capture sound by getting feedback from virtual meeting attendees and by recording my voice and listening to how it sounded. As I'd expect from a gaming headset manufacturer, the microphones are really good as long as they are somewhat close to my face. However, when the camera is situated on top of my monitor (about a foot from my face) there is a distinct echo from my voice bouncing around the room. So, ideally, it's best to use the microphone close up, but that's might not be conducive to all monitor or laptop setups.

Since these are noise-canceling microphones, I specifically made it so my robot vacuum was running in my office while recording myself and then listened to the audio. However, the microphone either did not block out any of the distracting noises, or at least didn't do enough to improve the situation. 

Of course, webcam microphones are meant to be more utilitarian rather than being the optimal audio solution. If you want your voice to be carried to others in the best way possible, then you'll want to purchase one of the best microphones for PC and use it as a companion to your webcam.

EPOS S6: Competition

As Zac Bowden stated in his Logitech BRIO 4K webcam review, this camera supports a crisp and clear image. It's by no means a new product, but it's still a great choice for anyone wanting a 4K webcam with HDR technology. The built-in mount clip opens wider than the EPOS S6's and can thus work with more monitors and laptops. Plus, this webcam comes with a tripod, USB-C to USB-A cable, and a carrying bag for easy toting. When brand new it had an MSRP of $229, but since it's no longer the latest product it can often be found selling for around $150 on Amazon. 

Now if you're specifically looking for a good streaming webcam then why not go with Elgato, the company that's known for its capture cards. As Miles Dompier said in our Elgato FaceCam Pro review, this webcam's "robust resolution options with 60fps support make this a fantastic pick for rookie and professional content creators alike." It is very expensive, however, and will set you back $299.99 at Elgato's website.

EPOS S6: Should you buy it?

You should buy it if...

You should not buy it if...

Anyone who frequently attends virtual meetings will appreciate the excellent picture quality of the EPOS S6. Colors display accurately, details come through crisply, there is no fisheye distortion, and the webcam automatically reduces background noise. What's more, you can have more control over how you are displayed via the free EPOS Connect app, which provides quick and advanced settings options. As an added perk, anyone who regularly travels but still needs to attend virtual calls will appreciate the secure carrying case which features a hard shell, mesh pocket for the cable, and form-fitting padding for the camera. 

Really, the only reasons for pause are the webcam's somewhat high pricing and the limited adjustability of the built-in mount. There are definitely less expensive options out there, but this is reliable and will work well. However, if your monitor casing is thicker than usual, then you might not be able to get the camera to sit where you want it. 

Designed to help business professionals shine during their virtual meetings, Anker’s AnkerWork B600 Video Bar is an integrated video conferencing solution that incorporates a high-resolution camera sensor coupled witha. flip-up light bar, speakers, and microphone. Anker is bringing the light and the camera to the B600, which means that all that is left for you is to bring the action to your video conference. 

If you’re on a work team, standardizing on the AnkerWork B600 Video Bar will elevate your video experience with better image quality that's bolstered by good lighting, solid speakers for you to hear other participants, and a noise-canceling microphone array that will help reduce any distracting background noise on your end. And having a built-in light bar up top eliminates the need to buy separate, costly, and bulky lighting solutions.

AnkerWork B600 Video Bar: Specifications

Though AnkerWork B600 delivers on its promise of delivering better audio and visual quality to video conferences and streams, mobile users should evaluate their needs carefully before purchasing this device. 

For starters, the $220 B600 costs more than standard webcams, and at that price, you're competing with cameras with higher resolution sensors. Additionally, you'll also run into the problem with bulk. The B600 adds a bit of weight and heft to a travel bag, given that it's around the size of a compact portable Bluetooth speaker. If you can live with these trade-offs, you'll be rewarded with all the capabilities of the B600. 

If you're working at a stationary desktop, the B600's size and weight won't matter as much. 

AnkerWork B600 Video Bar: Design

As a relatively late-comer to the enterprise webcam market, Anker found a niche for the AnkerWork B600 Video Bar by studying what rival Poly – formerly known as Polycom, a company that’s been synonymous with enterprise communication solutions, and now a part of HP – has done and carving a space out for itself. 

Rather than hopping on the 4K trend with premium webcams, the B600 is a contrarian product. On one hand, it bucks the premium norm by sticking to a 2K, rather than 4K, image sensor, but on the other hand, its all-in-one design makes it a compelling business solution, delivering solid image quality, including a sensible light bar, producing good sound output, and equipping microphones with software A.I. that can cancel distracting background audio. 

Both solutions have Video Bar in their names, and for good reason – both Anker’s and Poly’s solution is based on a bar-shaped design that places the webcam at the center and is flanked on either side by speakers and microphones. Naming similarities and inspired design aside, the similarities largely end here.

Anker’s design comes with a flip-up lid at the front, which serves two purposes. If you’re a frequent traveler and need to take the AnkerWork B600 with you, the lid serves as a lens cover and physical privacy shield for your webcam. And when flipped up, it gives you a video light that can be used to add illumination to your face when you’re taking calls in darkened rooms. The integrated light bar should help mitigate the need for standalone lighting solutions, like Logi’s Litra Beam. 

Once the cover is up, you’ll find the star of the show in the center of the video bar: Anker’s large webcam with a 2K 1/2.8-inch image sensor. Surrounding the camera lens, you’ll find plastic with aperture blades that mimic what you’d find on a DSLR if you stared down the lens barrel. Sadly, though, these “blades” are just design flourishes and don’t play any functional part in the camera’s operation. 

And inside the fabric sheath that surrounds the speaker bar are a four-array microphone and dual 2W speakers. The speakers are aimed out toward the sides and not the front, so audio quality isn’t as rich or loud as I’d have liked. Bass is lacking, so you likely won't want to use the B600's integrated speakers for dedicated music listening. 

The biggest downside with Anker integrating all the components of a video conferencing system that’s designed to snap onto the lid of a laptop is that it is very heavy. At 10.6 ounces, the top-heavy design means that you’ll need to play around with the dual-stage mounting bracket to get the proper angle without either topping your laptop backward or inadvertently shutting your lid, especially if you have a lighter notebook. 

The mounting bracket comes with two hinges for getting the right adjustments, and it also allows for swiveling. Additionally, you can also mount the B600 onto a tripod. 

At 7.09 x 1.81 x 1.5 inches, the B600 is definitely not the most compact webcam that’s come across our desk. Though the B600 can be used on notebooks for travel, the design seems more well suited for stationary use on top of a monitor. If you’re transporting the B600, just be careful to keep it away from sharp objects in a bag to not damage the fabric covering on the speakers. 

Adding to the complexity of the B600 for travel is that this device requires two cables for your PC. One wire will connect the B600 to your PC for data, allowing the B600 to receive audio output from your laptop and also send video and captured audio from the microphone to the PC, while a second wire will be used to power the B600. 

Anker provides a USB-C cord in the box for data and a USB-C cable with a multi-country adapter for power, though I opted to use two USB-C cables and connected the B600 to my laptop for both power and data. This setup worked for me, but owners of older laptops with a limited number of USB-C ports, Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 users, and creatives who max out the ports on their laptops with additional peripherals may need to rely on a USB-C hub to connect the B600. 

AnkerWork B600 Video Light Bar: Performance

With its robust list of features, Anker offers plenty of controls for the B600. You’ll be able to adjust the basic settings – like muting the microphone and turning on and off the lightbar – through touch-sensitive buttons on the body of the B600 Video Bar, but you’ll need to dive into Anker’s free downloadable desktop software to make more granular adjustments. 

Like most other advanced webcams on the market, you’ll be able to make fine adjustments to the image settings in Anker’s software by tuning the color temperature and contrast. The software also has a tab that allows you to adjust the light intensity and take the color temperature of the light for a cool glow or a warm hue. If you don’t want to make the adjustments yourself, there is a software control that will call on A.I. to tune the lighting based on conditions around you. 

And finally, you’ll be able to adjust both the field-of-view and the zoom levels in the software. 

With a 2K sensor, the AnkerWork B600 Video Bar is able to get crisp shots, albeit capped at just 30 frames per second.

So just how well does the B600 perform?

In darkened environments, the light bar works extremely well. In my pitch-black dining room, even the lowest light setting gave me enough illumination to not look like a muddled mess, which was how I appeared with the built-in webcam on the Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 and the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M1 processor. Increasing the light intensity added even more details to my mugshot, and at the highest brightness setting, my face was properly illuminated to show well-rounded details. 

Adjusting the color temperature helps with showing more natural skin tone. 

Even in bright environments, the light bar was a surprisingly good feature. Sure, you won’t notice any difference in how illuminated your face is if you use the light bar under sunny skies outside, but when I was backlit sitting in front of a bright window in my office, having the light on – at full brightness – added a bit of details to my face and softened some of the harsher shadows. The same is true if I was front-lit indoor facing the window, as the light bar, but you’ll need to turn up the lighting intensity to maximum to get any perceivable results. 

For professional meetings, virtual job interviews, and digital presentations, I found  the feature extremely useful. Streamers, YouTubers, and beauty influencers will likely appreciate how compact the entire solution is, especially since you won’t need to carry around a separate light bar or ring light, and the result really is great.

Image quality with the B600 is good, but could be better. In typical use – if you’re not using the 4x zoom – the 2K image sensor does a great job. And sized at 1/2.8 inches, it’s not as big as some recent competitors in the space, like Insta360’s superb Link webcam with a 0.5-inch sensor size or that company's 1-inch sensor on the One RS, but it doesn’t need to be.

Given that the Link’s large image sensor was designed to capture more light, making it useful in darker environments, Anker’s approach to poor lighting isn’t to compensate with a larger sensor but to fix the lighting with a light bar. In general, even in semi-dark rooms, I found the sensor to be adequate, and with the light bar enabled, I can’t find anything to complain about with image noise or quality. In many ways, fixing poor ambient lighting by adding in artificial light is a better fix than having a larger sensor.

Where things get tricky with the B600 is with zooming. At 2K resolution, recording at the standard field of view is fine and provides plenty of clarity and details, but if you use the digital zoom to crop in on the picture, you’ll notice that you’ll quickly approach FHD 1080p webcam quality. Competing 4K webcams, like the Insta360 Link and Lumina 4K A.I. Webcam, suffer less of an image degradation with their digital zoom, resulting in better overall details in the zoomed shot. Unfortunately, none of the standard webcams on the market come with optical zoom, and you’ll have to resort to using a DSLR if this is your preference or Apple’s Continuity Camera feature that leverages the iPhone’s rear cameras as webcams for the Mac. 

Still, even if we’re approaching 1080p resolution at more zoomed in shots, I found the image quality in general to be better than the standard webcam that ships on most laptops today. But at $220, expectations are much higher for the B600. 

If you don’t want to fiddle with the zoom controls, you can choose from any one of four pre-set fields of view in software, which would give you a similar result to digital zoom. 

Thanks to software, Anker also claims some advanced A.I. processing, like a lot of its premium competitors. Subject tracking and autofocus works well, but unlike gimbal-based solutions like the Insta360 Link and Obsbot Tiny 4K, the tracking range is a lot more limited. If you’re moving your head or shifting your body in a relatively narrow space, the B600 should be able to follow you. If you’re pacing around a lot and giving a presentation, a PTZ camera will be a better option.

The B600 also relies on A.I. to help suppress background noise, and I found that it works well for reducing echoes in calls as well as canceling out the sound from my keyboard when I am typing and taking notes during a meeting. 

AnkerWork B600 Video Light Bar: The competition

Even though the AnkerWork B600 checks off a lot of boxes for what a solid webcam should offer, there is plenty of competition in this space. Some, like Dell's UltraSharp Webcam, offer better 4K resolution, while others, like Razer's Kiyo camera matches the AnkerWork B600's integrated lighting feature at a lower price point that will appeal to budget-oriented streamers.  

Still, none of these solutions come with the smarts and other integrated hardware components that Anker has managed to squeeze into the AnkerWork B600's boxy body. These include smart software that can track you to pan and zoom into your face while you're moving around in the frame, better speakers than what' available on the average laptop, and a noise-canceling microphone array that helps to reduce distracting background noise to keep your audience focused on the content that you're presenting. 

To get these features, you'll need to step up into the professional segment, but cameras like Poly's P15 Personal Video Bar are much more expensive and that particular model doesn't come with an integrated light source.  

And depending on your needs, more niche solutions, like the gimbal-mounted Insta360 Link, may be a better fit. The Insta360 Link's sole focus is on the camera experience, eliminating some of the bells and whistles of AnkerWork's all-in-one design in favor of a larger, more detailed 4K image sensor, a gimbal mount that can rotate and pan more freely to capture your presence on a wider stage without requiring as much digital zoom, and a more compact design for travel. 

AnkerWork B600 Video Light Bar: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You're a streamer or YouTube creator and need a webcam with a solid integrated light source.
• You are a professional taking a lot of virtual calls and video meetings.
• You are a hybrid or remote worker who needs to look your best all the time for virtual meetings. 
• You need better microphones and/or speakers for your video calls.

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You need a simple webcam solution without all the bells and whistles, bulk, and cost.
• You don't care about having an integrated light solution with your webcam.
• You don't need resolution over 1080p (FHD) for your webcam.

On paper, the specs of the B600 are on the mid-range of the premium segment – other than the light bar, nothing really stands out as best-in-class – but the results show that the sum of the parts are greater than any individual component. We would have loved to see Anker release a follow-up to the B600 with better components, including an upgraded camera with either a larger sensor or more resolution, better microphones, and speakers with greater fidelity. 

But at $220, it’s roughly half the cost of its closest competitor, the professional Poly P15 Personal Video Bar. And despite its rather large heft, the AnkerWork B600 is still more compact than adding the individual integrated components to your mobile or desktop setup. The more affordable price of the B600 compared to professional solutions and the integrated light bar are stand out features of this webcam if you need a more professional camera setup. 

Be ready for your next business meeting or just look your best when streaming on Twitch with the Razer Kiyo X webcam on sale for $49.99 during the Prime Early Access sale. This webcam has regularly sold for around $80 since it was released in 2021, and we have not seen a lot of great deals on it. The lowest direct price drop on Amazon outside of sales like this was just to around $65, so you're getting a huge bargain today.

Great price and great in low light!

We reviewed the webcam when it first came out late last year. Jez Corden gave it 4.5 stars out of 5. He said the Kiyo X "is a great all-round product that feels like it offers value for money." One of its key features is that it "performs excellently in bad lighting setups like mine, blocking back lighting from bleeding across the subject in focus with minimal noise patterns."

Join video calls, stream your beautiful mug, or just record yourself with this webcam. It supports resolutions up to 1080p at 30 fps, and it can do 720p at 60fps. It is also equipped with an Auto Focus so it's smart enough to stay focused on you at all times, even as you move around or switch positions. You can choose Manual Focus if you prefer, though, and mess with various other settings like the brightness, contrast, saturation, and more. 

As a webcam, the Kiyo X can use its built-in stable webcam mount to attach itself to your monitor quickly and easily. However, you can also detach it from that mount and put it onto a tripod for a more personalized experience, too, if you want.

Like most Razer gear, the webcam works with Razer's free Synapse 3 software and can be customized that way. 

Check out all the Prime Day deals happening during the Prime Early Access sale today and tomorrow in our live blog.

Move over, Center Stage. Insta360, a company that has staked its reputation on 360-degree cams, is revolutionizing the humble office webcam market with its latest addition, the Link. Like the Apple-branded Center Stage, Insta360’s Link aims to put creators, professionals, and streamers at center stage with features never seen before on personal video conferencing cameras, like a large 4K image sensor and three-axis gimbal. 

Insta360’s foray into the webcam space overcomes the limitations of today’s webcams by taking inspiration from both action and larger conference room cams. Hardware is only part of the equation for the Link. Insta360’s newest webcam challenges the rule of physics with A.I.-driven software to bring HDR video, smooth object tracking, quick focusing, and noise cancelation tech to keep you looking sharp and sounding your best. This delightful balance of advanced software algorithms combined with the best-in-class hardware propels newcomer Insta360 to the forefront of the webcam space with the Link. 

Insta360 Link: Pricing and availability

Insta360 Link is available through Insta360’s web store for $299. Given that the Link is geared towards creators and professionals, the webcam’s color option is limited to a lone black hue, unlike other consumer-oriented webcams like the Lumina. 

Insta360 also sells a tabletop tripod accessory for the Link on its website, which could come in handy if you're using some of this camera's more advanced modes. 

Insta360 Link: What's good

Insta360’s Link does miniaturization right. Hardware features such as the three-axis gimbal were once the exclusive domain of much larger and significantly more expensive conference room cameras. But by taking inspiration from action cameras, like rival DJI’s Osmo Pocket 2, Insta360 was able to democratize complex PZT (pan-zoom-tilt) conference room cams and bring this technology to everyone in a package that costs just $299. 

This focus on advanced features, like a three-axis gimbal, means that the Insta360 Link isn't as compact or as minimalist in its design when compared to the Lumina A.I. 4K webcam or Dell's UltraSharp 4K camera. Still, it packs in a lot of features in a package that measures just 2.71 x 1.61 x 1.77 inches (69mm x 41mm x 45mm). And at just 106 grams, the Link feels solid, and the camera's dense weight makes it feel premium despite the heavy use of plastic compared to the Lumina AI camera's all-metal housing. 

At $299, the Link comes in at a $100 premium compared to standard 4K webcams, like the Lumina A.I. webcam, which is considered one of the best options on the market today. That camera, however, lacks the PZT mechanism of the Link. Logitech’s PZT 2 conference solution comes in at $849, making the Link appear like a bargain for what you’re getting.

The gimbal-mounted PZT package on the Link allows this camera to pan, tilt, and zoom into your face as you move around. While this may be overkill for standard video calls; for creators, it’s like having your own AI-powered cameraman. When object tracking is enabled and the Link can lock onto your face, the camera will swivel and follow you around as you move out of the frame.

If this sounds familiar, it’s because hardware manufacturers like Apple, HP, and Lumina have been doing this with software. Apple’s Center Stage, for example, relies on a wide-angle camera on the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro to track and follow you around. Unlike the Link’s PZT camera, the built-in Apple camera hardware is stationary, which means that software is utilized to crop in to your face as you move around, resulting in some image compression.

On the other hand, by relying on a PZT camera, the Insta360 Link can effortlessly track you, with the camera swiveling smoothly on the three-axis gimbal to deliver stunning image quality.

“During our research into webcams, we saw a lot of benefits of a gimbal design to provide better stability, a wider range of motion for AI tracking, and more diverse viewing modes,” Insta360’s team informed Windows Central. “We think the future for the webcam industry lies in AI technology and versatile designs like our 3-axis gimbal.”

While both Apple and Insta360 rely on AI to help drive the camera, the Link’s hardware-based approach means you’re going to get a clearer, less compressed image, as the camera doesn’t have to digitally crop into your face.

To use the camera, you’ll need to download and install the companion Insta360 Link Controller on your PC or Mac, and the software provides plenty of customization options. The Link is compatible with major video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and Google Meet, and Insta360 claims that even more are supported. A single USB-C port is located on the rear and a tripod screw is found on the underside of the monitor clip for flexible mounting options.

Tracking on the Link works exceptionally well, and the camera will pan as you move around. I was in the kitchen over the weekend, demonstrating to a friend on the opposite coast how to prepare a dish over Google Meet. The Link panned around and followed me as I traversed my galley kitchen, grabbing ingredients, and prepping dinner. My friend was impressed with how accurately the Link could track my movement as I moved forward and back, side to side, and as I stood up and bent down to find supplies and ingredients stored in cabinets.

With the Link, you can change the speed of tracking — how quickly the camera will respond and pan around as you move outside of the frame — with three settings: normal, slow, and fast. In my cooking tutorial, I used normal, which resulted in responsive but smooth tracking. Cranking it to fast was also impressive, as the camera speedily kept up with me like a robotic sidekick. But if you’re moving around too much, the results could be jerky and nausea-inducing. Slow was perhaps the smoothest experience, though it could appear to the viewer on the other end of the stream that there is lag.

With the Link, the camera can pan around (side to side) and tilt (up and down) to frame you when you have tracking enabled. Additionally, if you need to zoom in, the camera can apply digital zoom to crop in to your head, your upper body (head and chest), or keep your whole body in frame. The last one could be great for yoga and fitness instructors who need to demonstrate specific whole-body poses.

For more advanced users, the Link Controller software gives granular controls to features like image setting, AI zoom, manual focusing, HDR, and other settings. For example, you can rely entirely on the software’s intelligent AI chops for exposure, white balance settings, brightness, contrast, saturation, and sharpness, or you can dial up or down any of those settings to your liking. In my test under LED light bulbs and in more harsh lighting conditions while working in front of a bright window, I had no problems with the automatic AI adjustments. Users can also turn on HDR mode as well when working under more challenging lighting conditions, as I do, but the feature is not supported at 4K resolution or with 60 FPS.

The HDR limitations aren’t so worrisome at present. Most video conferencing platforms still limit upload feeds for videos at 1080p to conserve bandwidth and deliver a stutter-free experience when ISP speeds may be poor. As such, dialing down to 1080p to gain HDR isn’t a compromise, at least at this time, but it does make the Insta360 feel a little less futureproof than I’d like, given that the rest of this camera’s specifications are so bleeding edge.

But given how advanced the Link’s camera hardware is, HDR and some of the image processing seem superfluous to the experience. Because Insta360 uses a significantly larger 0.5-inch image sensor on the Link — compared to a smaller 0.3-inch sensor on traditional webcams — the camera can capture more light. This is particularly beneficial when you’re trying to take a video call in a dimly lit room.

“When it comes to using a bigger sensor, we believe that a flagship webcam should be able to deliver superior image quality, which requires a larger size sensor to achieve,” Insta360’s team communicated to me via email about the camera’s unique features. “Link's industry-leading 1/2" sensor offers best-in-class 4K Ultra HD resolution at 30fps. The larger sensor size means it captures far more details, has a better dynamic range, and has stronger low light capabilities. This ensures a consistently perfect image in any room or environment.”

I found low-light capabilities on the Link superb. I escaped to the laundry room, which was only lit by some light coming through the door at one end and my MacBook Pro’s display on the other end, and the Link was still able to keep my face brightly lit. In dimmer conditions, you’ll notice some skin softening — akin to Beauty Mode on Samsung smartphones — and additional sharpening to minimize noise. The result is that your face will look slightly artificial — a bit of texture was lost in favor of skin smoothening and noise reduction — but the overall result is very much usable. My face was still bright and lit in frame, and my meeting audience didn’t even realize I was in a darkened laundry room without my disclosure at the end of the call.

In general, I’d say that low light aesthetic is very similar to images captured with Night Mode enabled on some modern smartphones. The low light image quality is night and day apart when compared with my Dell Latitude 5420 work computer under the same challenging conditions. The potato cam image on the Latitude was full of noise and was extremely pixelated. For reference, the Latitude 5420 is a fairly recent laptop, as it was equipped with Intel’s 11th Gen processor.

It should be noted that with the Link, you’ll want to turn off HDR when you’re using the camera in dimmer environments. The sensor is very capable without requiring HDR processing, and with HDR enabled the Link’s image was darker and noisier — but it was still nowhere near as bad as that captured by the Latitude’s built-in webcam.

I appreciated the level of fine-tuning that the Link Controller software provided, including the ability to manually focus if needed. I never really had to use manual focusing, as the camera’s phase detection autofocus (PDAF) was very fast. It could quickly focus into an object I bring into the frame and then switch to focusing on my face as I remove the object from the frame.

But appearing present on camera is only part of collaboration. Sharing documents, brainstorming on whiteboards, and outlining plans all help contribute to a productive, dynamic meeting experience, and the Link will help you do that and more with three smart modes.

The first mode is called Whiteboard mode. The Link comes with four corner stickers that you can attach to a large notepad mounted on an easel or a whiteboard, and the corners help guide the camera’s focus on the content, delivering a cleaner, crisper view of your board to all remote meeting participants.

Desk View is the second mode, and it’s similar to the software feature that Apple introduced on macOS Ventura, which is still in beta. With Ventura, you’ll mount your iPhone to the top of your monitor, and your Mac will use your phone’s ultra-wide camera lens to focus on what’s on your desk. For creators, this could allow you to, for example, record a masterclass on sketching and drawing without having to buy expensive camera equipment or tripods and stands.

On the Link, Desk View mode works similarly to Apple’s implementation, but the camera requires a small tripod stand instead of a monitor mount. The accessory is not bundled with the Link, but it’s available as an optional add-on. Desk View angles the camera downward 45 degrees, and like the Continuity Camera method of Apple’s device, it uses AI software to correct distortion given the viewing angle.

The result is good, and the software corrected the angle so i didn’t have any awkwardly long or fat fingers in the brief testing I performed with this mode. It’s great for creators, and for YouTubers who film unboxing videos, this could be a great setup.

The third mode works in a similar way to Desk View and it’s called Overhead mode. Instead of a 45-degree tilt, the camera is angled 90 degrees so it is now facing completely downward. It’s like old overhead projectors of yore, and this could be a great tool for modern educators. Math teachers, for example, could use Overhead mode to focus down on a piece of paper as they show distance learning students how to solve complex mathematical equations.

Like Obsbot's competing Tiny cam, many of these features can be activated via gesture, so you don't have to click around in the Link Controller software. For example, you can hold your thumb and pointer fingers up to form an "L." The camera will alert you that it recognized the gesture by switching the LED color on the base to blue from green, and you can move your hand up or down to zoom in or out, respectively. Similarly, Whiteboard mode can be activated by forming a "V" with your pointer and middle fingers.

For privacy-obsessed users, the Link will automatically go into privacy mode when it isn’t active for about 10 minutes. This means that the camera will swivel and angle itself downward.

Insta360 Link: What's not good

The Insta360 is a solidly built camera, and there’s little to complain about in terms of its software and function. Out of the box, a quick firmware update on the camera helped to improve image quality and HDR processing, so you’ll want to update the Link Controller’s software and the camera’s firmware whenever new updates are available to get the best experience. 

That said, for such a premium camera, we wish that the Link shipped with some more protective accessories out of the box.

Since the pandemic has vastly changed where we work — homes and hotels are now the new conference rooms — it would be nice to have a lens cover, for instance, for the camera. That’s not to say that any part of the Link’s construction felt inadequate, but more of a compliment to the fact that I’d want to take this portable camera everywhere I go, and I’d like to have it protected. A padded, molded protective carrying case would also be an excellent addition for those who may be rougher on their gear, and this would keep the Link safely protected inside a stuffed laptop bag. 

Elsewhere, the Link has checked off the essential qualities a webcam should have: Superb image quality, responsive tracking, and outstanding audio capture. Thanks to a combination of intelligent software with bleeding edge hardware, the Link delivers. 

Insta360 Link: The competition

Insta360’s Link not only has to compete against other 1080p and 4K webcams on the market but also against very agile built-in cameras that ship with most laptops and some all-in-one desktops. Many of these solutions, like the webcam on Apple’s iPad and MacBook Pro, come with artificial intelligence that can help track and frame a subject as they’re moving around. And the best part about built-in cams is that they don’t cost extra, and no additional hardware is required. 

On the accessories front, Lumina’s A.I.-powered 4K camera is an excellent alternative to the Link. Both cameras achieve similar end results with software, but the Link pulls ahead with its larger image sensor for better low light performance and a PZT design that allows panning without digital cropping. These benefits come at a $100 premium compared to Lumina’s $199 cost. 

Neither of these solutions, however, come with support for Windows Hello. If you desire 4K image quality and need Windows Hello support, you’ll have to look for solutions like Dell’s UltraSharp 4K cam and Logitech’s BRIO 4K.

The closest competitor to the Insta360 Link is the Obsbot Tiny 4K, a compact $269 AI-powered 4K webcam with a similar gimbal design. Unlike the Link, the Tiny 4K uses a two-axis gimbal, making panning less smooth.

Insta360 Link: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You're a professional or creator who needs more advanced capabilities from your webcam
• You need a 4K webcam with a PZT feature to track and follow you as you move around
• You frequently present during virtual meetings and need features like Overhead mode or DeskView
• You take video calls under challenging lighting conditions and desire HDR, auto corrections
• You need a large image sensor for low light scenarios but don't want to invest in a ring light

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You rely on Windows Hello for password-less logins
• You are on a budget
• You want a webcam with few moving parts

While it's competitors who rely solely on software to smarten up their camera experiences may run into the challenges of physics, Insta360 expertly marries advanced hardware with intelligent AI to deliver the best consumer webcam experience to date. Taking inspiration from gimbals, action cameras, and significantly more expensive conference room video conferencing solutions, Insta360's Link delivers an AI-powered camera that comes with a built-in camera operator inside to pan, tilt, and zoom as you move about the room.

Designed for professionals and creatives who have transformed their living rooms and homes into conference rooms, it's as if Insta360 planned for the global health pandemic. But the Link isn't just a webcam. This advanced camera is a collaboration tool designed to share documents and whiteboards. It's a tool for virtual brainstorming. It's a tool for creators whose mantra is show and not tell. And for that, the Insta360 is worth every penny for the productivity it inspires. 

Back during the worst days of the pandemic, webcams took a huge hit as everyone started working from home and the supply chains were cut off. We stopped seeing deals altogether because just being in stock was a rarity. Those days are behind us now, though, as the deals have returned! Today for Prime Day you can get the Elgato Facecam 1080p webcam on sale for $139.99. This is easily the lowest price we've ever seen for Elgato's webcam, which once debuted at around $200 and has been regularly selling for around $170 for most of 2022. 

Remember to sign up for Prime Day's free trial if you haven't already to take advantage of all the Prime Day deals. Our Prime Day live blog is breaking down all the best deals, too. 

• See all the Prime Day deals: USA | UK | Canada | India

The lowest price yet for Elgato's webcam

We reviewed the Facecam, and you can read our review here, when it first released and received 4 out of 5 stars. Jez Corden said, "that blisteringly fast response rate makes it a great option for those looking for the best performance and speed."

The Facecam includes true Full HD 1080p pixel resolution that can get up to 60 frames per second easily. It also has the Elgato Prime Lens with studio quality f/2.4 20mm glass and a Sony STARVIS sensor that is designed for indoor use. All in all, it works very well even in challenging lighting conditions. Paired with something like an Elgato key light, you're going to get very good image quality from this thing. 

It connects via USB 3.0 and uses Elgato tech to get you extremely low latency. That low latency is really important, especially if you're a content creator who's already streaming and making videos and using programs like OBS. You can get everything you want in the image, too, thanks to the field of view that goes up to 82 degrees and a fixed focus range that's easy to adapt to. 

Over the last two years, webcams have taken a new priority for desktop computers and laptops. While many new offerings have been on the market, none have beaten Logitech's Brio 4K despite being five years old.

That's finally changing with Lumina, a 4K camera. What makes Lumina interesting is how much it relies on good software. There's a lot to like with a configurable field of view (FoV), f2.0 lens, and a sizeable 24.84mm² 4K sensor. And thanks to all that AI, it also promises to rival DSLR cameras like the Sony A6500. Heck, it can even auto-calibrate colors. That's a lot of hype.

But what about the drawbacks? There are a few, but luckily, not many.

Lumina AI Webcam: Price and availability

The Lumina camera is available through Amazon Prime and directly from Lumina for $199. It comes in four color choices: Silver, Gold, Rose Gold, and Atomic Grey. For this review, Atomic Grey was used.

Lumina (direct sales) offers 14 days for returns/exchanges and a one-year warranty.

Lumina AI Webcam: What's good

The Lumina AI Webcam packing is compact, concise, and feels premium. You get a Type-C to Type-C cable, a small hex screwdriver, camera mount, magnetic privacy shade, Lumina Color Card (for auto-tuning), and the camera.

Made from aluminum, the Lumina feels high quality, especially since 99% of webcams are made from molded plastic. It looks cool too: simple and very modern. Compared to most other webcams, this one is very compact, making it easy to toss into a bag.

Setting up is super simple. Screw the camera to the mount (with another hole for using it with a tripod) using the small hex driver. Then, plug in the Type-C to Type-C cable to your PC. You need to download Lumina's software, which is available for macOS and Windows 10/11.

The magnetic cover sticks to the top of the Lumina, so you never lose it. You pull off the L-shaped accessory and place it over the lens when you want to engage. It's simple and looks nice. A small white LED lights up when the camera is enabled for privacy awareness.

That software is full of features ranging from basic to advanced, including exposure, white balance, tuning auto-white balance (red and blue), and saturation. Going into advanced settings, there are sliders for exposure, gain, composite exposure, backlight compensation, hue, zoom, tilt, roll, and much more.

One of the secrets to Lumina is the AI, which is found under "Plus" settings (versus "Raw"). Based on preference, you can choose Plus or Raw in most video messaging apps (Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet). Plus gives you advanced functionality like the ability to auto-zoom ("Cameraman") based on facial recognition to keep you in the frame. There is also background blur, including a slider to control how much blur is used. While not as good as NVIDIA Broadcast (which uses an RTX GPU to render), Lumina's blurring is very effective and beats any app's solution.

If you don't want to use those Plus features, choose Raw in your video app. Then you can use presets and control everything yourself.

You can use the Lumina camera without software, although you won't have access to the Plus AI settings or all the sliders to customize the image.

Interestingly, Lumina has a configurable FoV that works on a slider and lets you dial in how much (or how little) of your background to display versus Brio 4K, which has static FoV at 90°/78°/65°.

The overall image quality for video is very good and easily rivals and often even beats Logitech. But that is only when I customized the settings, as out of the box, the default color profile makes my face look very red. This complaint likely has something to do with the auto color-tuning not yet being available (see below).

When combined with all the extra frills of AI and the sheer number of slider settings, this is the most advanced webcam I have come across. Suppose you don't like the auto settings? Just dial in all the colors, exposure, and white balance to your liking. Find a range of settings you prefer? Add it to one of five presets to save it.

Finally, Lumina is building out a lot of the functionality around Lumina via its app, which also handles firmware updates. The company seems to be updating every couple of weeks to fix issues and add features.

Lumina AI Webcam: What's not good

While the overall image, which is the most important thing, is outstanding with this camera, there are a few downsides, some of which are minor, while others are more impactful.

This camera does not have any Windows Hello infrared (IR) support for auto-logging into Windows, unlike the Brio 4K. Considering both are priced at $199, that's worth considering as Windows Hello is a very convenient feature.

In the box is a Lumina Color Card. It has a little QR code and a full palette of colors. The idea is you hold the card up to the camera, and the AI reads the QR code and uses that palette to auto-tune your colors and white balance. Quite brilliant! However, as of now, that feature is disabled as Lumina "fine-tunes" the algorithm. This ability should be back "in a few weeks," but it's not here as of now.

The Windows software is obviously cloned from macOS and looks weirdly out of place on Windows 11. Sure, it works, does everything you need it to, and is very stable, but it'd be nice to have a native app that uses Windows UI elements. That software also requires registering/licensing, which is odd in 2022, considering the app has no subscription.

Despite all the advanced features in Lumina, there is no HDR (high-dynamic range) support. While not necessary, it would help with blown-out light in the background. Maybe the company will add it later via a software/firmware update, but it's not available right now.

I also found the included Type-C cable simply too short for reaching my desktop rig. Ironically, I used the Brio 4K's cable, which is much longer. While a solvable problem (buy a longer Type-C cable or extension), Lumina should include one that is at least 5 feet.

Lumina AI Webcam: Competition

The most obvious alternative to the Lumina is the Logitech Brio 4K, which has been the best webcam since it came out an astonishing five years ago. The Brio has Windows Hello, HDR, and exceptional image quality. It is now often found for $157, which is more affordable than the $199 for the newer Lumina AI Webcam.

Dell threw its hat in the ring with 2021's $199 UltraSharp Webcam. It also has Windows Hello, HDR, 4K, and decent software. While the image can be sharp, it tends to be too dark and not as pleasing as the Lumina. Even after tweaking the (more limited) settings, the image is below that of the Lumina and Brio. But it gets good reviews, and people seem to like it.

Razer also has its Kiyo Pro, which is ginormous and boasts excellent low-light abilities. In my experience, it's an OK webcam with a size that doesn't match the promises, but it is sharp. It costs $200, and it is the worst of them.

You can see more options in our best webcam guide.

Lumina AI Webcam: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You want the most advanced 4K webcam on the market
• You need excellent image quality
• You like software-based image enhancement with AI

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You want Windows Hello

Overall, I'm impressed with the Lumina, and it has replaced my usage of the Brio 4K on our weekly podcast, guest podcasts, and occasional TV appearances where you can see it in action. I think the focus on AI and software is where advanced camera imaging is these days (see every modern smartphone on the planet), and it's becoming more significant than the hardware. Indeed, the webcams from Dell and Razer have the proper hardware, but it's the software processing and algorithms that keep them from beating Logitech (and now Lumina).

Once Lumina brings back auto-color tuning, it will easily be the best webcam. I think watching the software improvements will be the fun part of Lumina as the team seems focused on maximizing its potential. It already has a great head start as Dell, Razer, and even Logitech don't have anything this advanced.

Of course, Lumina could be better as I sorely miss Windows Hello. Considering this camera started as a macOS project, it makes sense why it's not here. Let's hope for the next version Windows Hello is added, even if it ups the price slightly.

Perhaps my only real concerns are two-fold: How long does Lumina stick around, and what happens when Logitech finally releases a successor to Brio? Lumina is a small, new company started in 2021 with about 50 employees, and it doesn't have the legacy of Logitech, which has been around for decades. That could matter for long-term support, although there's no reason to think the Lumina AI Webcam will stop working. And when Logitech releases a new flagship webcam, I wouldn't be surprised if it again sets the bar for the category.

But, for now, I'm confident that Lumina AI Webcam is not only one of the best options available, but it also has the most potential to get even better. So yeah, if you need the best and want the most advanced, get a Lumina.

What you need to know

• Samsung just announced its new PRO Endurance microSD card that's optimized for surveillance and dashboard cameras.
• The microSD card supports up to 16 years of continuous recording, which Samsung claims is up to 33 times longer than other cards with similar transfer speeds.
• The Samsung PRO Endurance microSD card starts at $11 for the 32GB version and ranges up to $55 for the 256GB model.

Samsung just launched a new microSD card that's optimized for continuous recording. The Samsung PRO Endurance can continuously record for up to 16 years (140,160 hours). That's up to 33 times longer than competing cards with similar transfer speeds, according to Samsung. The Samsung PRO Endurance is available starting today in variants ranging from $11 for 32GB to $55 for 256GB.

The idea behind the microSD card is that you could use it in a security camera, surveillance system, or dashcam for several years. You'd have to occasionally delete the contents of the card, of course, but the microSD card itself would be useable for well over a decade.

Many of the best security cameras for NAS and some of the best doorbell cameras support microSD cards, though the latter often rely on cloud storage instead. A card like the Samsung PRO Endurance should be able to work in those types of devices for several years.

The Samsung PRO Endurance has read and write speeds of up to 100 MB/s and 40 MB/s, respectively. It's rated Class 10 and has a video rating of up to UHS Speed Class 3. It also features protection against water, magnets, X-rays, extreme temperatures, drops, and wearing out.

What you need to know

• Microsoft says people have requested that the Xbox HDR Game Calibration app make its way over to Windows.
• Microsoft is indulging the request and has announced a Windows HDR Calibration app is on the way.
• The app's already been teased to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.

Xbox has the Xbox HDR Game Calibration app to help displays and games play nice with each other when it comes to attuning for high dynamic range (HDR). Windows doesn't have such an app, meaning especially light and dark parts of your screen can lose vital visual details due to HDR discrepancies.

To fix that issue, Microsoft has announced that Windows will be receiving its own HDR Calibration app. Soon, color consistency and accuracy issues will be a thing of the past on your PC's display. The only mysteries are whether it'll come to Windows 11 and Windows 10 as well as when the app will actually arrive. There's no date for it yet, but in the announcement blog post, Microsoft notes that Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel have already seen a teaser for its arrival.

"If you are on the Windows Insiders Dev channel, you may have noticed a new section 'HDR display calibration' under System > Display > HDR settings," the blog reads, illustrating where the app will reside in the future. Until then, going to that destination will just lead you to the aforementioned post stating that the app is on its way. Expect the app to feature three testing patterns:

• One to determine the darkest visible detail you can see
• One to determine the brightest visible detail
• And finally, one to determine how bright your display can be

That's all the news there is at the moment for the Windows HDR Calibration app. But if you want to know more about the latest surprises for Insiders, check out our hands-on video with the latest build.

Looking for a new webcam to accompany your work from home (or even in-office) setup? Microsoft has you covered with its "Modern Webcam" that is also "Teams Certified," meaning it's ready for use with Teams without much hassle. Of course, this webcam will work fine in any app, but the Teams Certified stamp is there to let you know that if you use Teams, this is the accessory for you.

It's been a handful of years since Microsoft last shipped a webcam, so it's good to see the company is back with something new. Sadly, this isn't a flagship webcam, meaning it's not 4K or includes support for Windows Hello facial recognition. It's simply a webcam designed for video conferencing, and it does a great job at that, albeit with a few caveats.

There are a lot of great webcams out there, so make sure you check out our roundup of best webcams for Windows PCs in 2022! I've been using the Microsoft Modern Webcam for a little over a month now. Here's my review:

Modern Webcam: Price and availability

The Microsoft Modern Webcam is available direct from the Microsoft Store for an MSRP of $70. However, right now, you can grab the webcam for just $55, making it a good deal no matter the downsides. It can also be found on Amazon; however, prices there often fluctuate above and below $70.

Modern Webcam: What's good

The Microsoft Modern Webcam is a small, sleek, and functional camera that sits on top of your monitor with the included stand/tripod mount. It's available in a glossy black finish, and looks super clean in any setup. It has a built-in privacy shield that uses satisfying magnets to snap open and shut, with the shut position also cutting camera feed in addition to actually covering the lens. When active, there's a small ring light that surrounds the sensor letting you know that the camera is on.

It's also designed to be plug and play, meaning you can just insert the USB-A cable into your PC and you should be good to go, with no real setup required. That said, if you do want to customize the webcam, Microsoft does have an app called the "Microsoft Accessory Center" that will allow you to do just that. Here, you can change settings such as color temperature, HDR on or off, auto white balance, and more.

Here are all the things you can configure with the Microsoft Accessory Center app:

• HDR on/off
• Retouch on/off
• Brightness
• Contrast
• Saturation
• Sharpness
• White balance
• Auto exposure
• Flicker reduction
• Webcam mic on/off

The camera performance itself perfectly acceptable. It is a 1080p shooter, featuring a 78-degree field of view, support for HDR, auto exposure, auto white balance, and anti-flicker capabilities. It's a well-rounded sensor that looks great in well-lit environments. Microsoft does a good job at adjusting exposure so that your face is always the most visible, even if you have a bright source of light such as as window directly behind you.

I did come away rather impressed with this webcam's low-light performance too. While still quite noisy, the webcam didn't drop frames in an attempt to open up the sensor and allow more light in. I remained smooth in video, which is great to see and makes a big difference when presenting in video calls.

I also found this camera doesn't randomly hunt for focus as much as some others do. My Logitech BRIO 4K is really prone to randomly hunting for focus on my face, even though I hadn't moved much in the frame. I've not noticed this behavior on the Microsoft Modern Webcam.

Modern Webcam: What's not good

In our testing, the Microsoft Accessory Center app needs some work. We found that it will often forget settings, and it will sometimes not apply color temperature settings even after selecting them from the drop-down menu. This isn't a huge deal, as it takes a few seconds to go back into the app to reapply the settings, but it is a little annoying.

Some of the color temperature settings are a little strong too, and the same effect can randomly differ without anything changing in your frame. Sometimes this makes it seem like the filters you're applying aren't taking effect, because the differences between some of the effects are sometimes incredibly minor or non-existent.

The biggest downside of this webcam is the built-in microphone, which it appears even Microsoft doesn't recommend you use. By default, the webcam comes with the built-in mic disabled, and attempting to enable it in the Microsoft Accessory Center app will present you with a warning that states this microphone is not Teams Certified.

I'm really happy to see that Microsoft did add an option to enable or disable the built-in mic, as a lot of people have setups where they already have a dedicated microphone and don't need Windows getting confused about which mic it should use. It's also beneficial here because the built-in mic just isn't good.

Audio often sounds buzzy and noisy, even with mic gain settings turned down. It's not a pleasant mic to listen to, which is probably why it's off by default. The built-in mic on my Surface Laptop 4 did a much better job at audio, and Windows will default to your set mic if you have the webcam's mic disabled in the accessories app.

Finally, there's no Windows Hello built into this webcam. For the price, you probably shouldn't expect it, but if you were looking for a Microsoft solution for adding Windows Hello to your existing desktop PC, this is not the product for you.

Modern Webcam: Video and audio test

Here is a brief test of the video and audio performance, including an audio comparison with the built-in mic on the Surface Studio 2.

Modern Webcam: Competition

The webcam market is full of all kinds of different webcams, ranging from top-of-the-line 4K 120 FPS sensors to low-cost 720p cameras. The Microsoft Modern Webcam sits comfortably in the middle ground, being relatively affordable with good enough performance in well-lit environments.

If you're looking for something top of the range, the Logitech BRIO 4K is our recommendation. It has a 4K sensor, up to 60 FPS video recording, dual-array mics, and it even has Windows Hello built right in. But, this all comes at a premium price of $200, way above the Microsoft Modern Webcam, which comes in at just $99.

Alternatively, we have the Logitech C920, arguably the king of 1080p webcams. It has a wide 78-degree field of view, dual microphones, and a glass lens for extra clarify. Microsoft's Modern Webcam competes very well with this device, but I think the Logitech beats it by a small margin thanks to its slightly better image quality.

We also have the HP 320 FHD and 325, featuring a similar price to the Microsoft Modern Webcam, a 1080p sensor, albeit with a slightly narrower 66-degree field of view. That said, these HP webcams are mounted to a 360 stand, which is unique, but could be useful in certain scenarios.

Modern Webcam: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You need a basic, capable webcam
• Looking for something that's plug and play
• Already have a dedicated microphone

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You need something with a good built-in microphone
• You want Windows Hello facial recognition

The Microsoft Modern Webcam is a great choice for anyone looking for a camera that excels in day-to-day video conferencing in apps like Microsoft Teams. If you're presenting to a large audience, or partaking in small team meetings, you can't go wrong with the Modern Webcam.

That said, it's not all perfect. While I came away impressed with the video quality, even in low-light scenarios, the microphone that's built in is just bad. Microsoft ships the webcam with the microphone disabled for this reason, so I recommend you a dedicated microphone instead.

Overall. for the price, I think you're getting a good deal with the Modern Webcam, so long as you use a different microphone. The built quality is good, it looks sleek above any monitor or display, and the built-in privacy shutter with magnets is a really nice touch.

What you need to know

• HP announced its new HP 320 FHD Webcam and HP 325 FHD Webcam today.
• Both webcams have FHD resolution, 66-degree viewing angles, and can rotate 360 degrees.
• The HP 320 FHD costs $40 and will be available in February 2022 while the HP 325 FHD launches in March for $39.

HP announced two webcams alongside its range of new education laptops. The HP 320 FHD Webcam and HP 325 FHD Webcam are straightforward all-in-one webcams. They both feature resolutions of 1080p, can record 30 FPS video, and have 66-degree viewing angles. They also each have removable lens covers for privacy and can rotate 360 degrees.

Both the HP 320 FHD and HP 325 FHD are Works With Chromebook certified. That means they'll seamlessly work with the best Chromebooks, including the newly announced HP Fortis 14 G10 and HP Fortis 11 G9 Q. As one would expect, the webcams also work with Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS.

The design and specs of the HP 320 FHD and HP 325 FHD are similar to most of the best webcams on the market, but there are a couple of elements that stick out. For example, the ability to rotate 360 degrees allows the webcams to switch between facing forward and backward easily.

Since the webcams are aimed at people in education, support for Chromebooks is a nice touch. With hybrid learning being more common, having a good webcam that can work with any device is important.

HP also announced a portfolio of Fortis laptops today. The new rugged laptops are built to withstand the bumps and knocks of modern student life, which often involves carrying devices back and forth between home and school.

Webcams are a large necessity for many different reasons, and as such, there are a lot of webcams to choose from. There are different options based on what you may be looking for, whether that's a particular price range or if you want face recognition. However, the best one overall would have to be the Logitech Brio webcam, thanks to its ease of use and the high quality of the video chat. There are plenty of other webcams you can check out, though.

Best Overall: Logitech Brio Gaming Webcam

Logitech is a reputable name in the webcam space, and this webcam is one of the best cameras on the market for any and all needs. Not only does it capture video in 1080p quality at 60 frames per second (FPS), but it also auto-adjusts with the lighting.

This is a great option for streamers and YouTubers as well, seeing that it can capture every facial expression and every movement when you're making your videos. The video recording starts instantly, so there's no delay and you can hop right in. It's a great option for any video maker, but also for any sort of video chatting you may need to do.

Beyond basic webcam features, the Brio can do even more. You can use it with Windows Hello, so you can use an image of your face to sign in. You also get a free 12-month Premium XSplit license with purchase, which means you can get started setting up a professional-looking stream. This has everything and more you may need out of a great webcam, so it makes sense for it to be our number one pick.

Best Value: Microsoft LifeCam Webcam

There's something great about saving a few bucks on something as simple as a webcam, so if that's you, this is the perfect camera. It works with any desktops or laptops, and it can do a widescreen video so you can fit everyone in the frame. However, you do lose a bit of video quality, since this can only record up to 720p. It's also a hard software to get set up on your PC, making the camera not function until you're able to set it all up.

If you don't mind the video quality and a long setup, this is a great webcam for the low price point. A built-in microphone also helps you save a few bucks so you don't have to purchase that separately. This will work perfectly for video calls, especially if you're trying to fit the whole family into the frame, but probably not if you want to record video or stream for professional use.

Best Mid-Range: Logitech C922

The Logitech C922 is a great mid-range webcam that comes with a lot of extras that make the price point well worth it. One of our favourite options comes with an included tripod, microphone, and three-month Premium XSplit license, although you can buy it without. You can even pay extra and get a Yeti Nano, which comes from one of the most reputable brands in USB microphones.

It also has the option for 1080p video quality and automatically adjusts to the most high-quality lighting, even in a low lit room. Although it does get up to 1080p video, it does not support 60FPS like our top pick and only gets up to 30FPS, so it might not be ideal for streaming or recording in a professional capacity. There is also some video lag and only some support for certain CPU types on custom-built computers.

If you are looking to stream or video chat quite often, this is a good choice to get everything you could want out of your webcam. Plus, getting a few extra items out of this purchase can help push your videos over the top. This webcam is a wonderful option for any reason, from conference calls to Skyping with your mom across the pond.

Best for Streaming: Razer Kiyo Webcam

If you're into streaming or recording videos while you're gaming, this is a great choice for those long-winded sessions. The Razer Kiyo has a light already attached to its build and autofocus so you don't have to worry about adjusting it while playing games. With 720p at 60 FPS, you'll get a quality and crisp image for your viewers to enjoy while streaming your favourite games. It's also small, which means it's easy to take with you anywhere so you can record on the go.

Although the stand may be cheaply made, the camera is well worth the possibility of the stand becoming an issue. The microphone also may not be the best, but it doesn't create the worst audio while streaming. There have been complaints of the microphone sounding a bit muffled, which may be due to placement or ill-use of the camera.

This webcam is well worth purchase overall considering that it has everything you could need while playing games.

Best for Business: Microsoft LifeCam Studio Webcam

If you're looking for a high-class camera for business meetings, this is a great fit. The Microsoft LifeCam Studio has great image quality, high-quality audio, and also includes autofocus so you're never looking or sounding bad. It's a great pick, especially for important conference calls and business meetings between other business owners.

The video quality comes in at 1080p, making it one of the best video qualities you can get on a webcam. However, there have been issues with the software disconnecting during the setup, making it a long process. Even if the camera is a little large and the mount may not be the best, you'll continue to look great for every call once the setup process is complete.

This is great for your business, and it will continue to make every call well worth every cent you've paid. Business is all about first impressions, and the Microsoft LifeCam Studio will make sure you give off the best one. The image quality and perfect audio will make you shine bright in every conference call you make.

Best Value Alternative: iRush Webcam

The iRush webcam is a great and cheap alternative to other webcams if you're looking to save a few bucks. This product can adjust to any low-light area and it has 110 degrees of view for any videos you need to take. Add to this a noise-reducing microphone, and it seems like purchasing this may be a steal.

The audio and video may suffer a little bit to keep the price low. People have also reported connection issues when it comes to the software. There have been complaints of it going on and off during calls or while setting up your calls. Also, there were errors while updating the software to run the camera on Windows 10.

Once you get past the issues this webcam has had in the past, there is nothing you can't do with it. The ease of low-light adjustments and the wide range of view helps make this webcam worthy of its price. It's a wonderful alternative if these other webcams didn't catch your fancy.

Bottom line

There are a lot of options that you have to go through to find a worthwhile webcam for all of your video chat needs. We made it a little easier by narrowing down the options to just a few. The best one that fits everyone's needs is the Logitech Brio webcam, with the high-quality camera and the ability to also support streaming. It fits every need you may have, and it's a great choice for anyone looking to invest in a killer webcam.

There are different properties that every webcam supports, so picking which one would be the best for your needs is important. Any webcam can bring life to anything you may use it for, whether that's streaming your favourite games or talking to your favourite people over video chat.

While webcams have become very important to how we now work, it's rather remarkable that Logitech — who released the BRIO 4K back in 2017 — is still the top offering. That's not to say other companies aren't gunning for the king. Dell's new UltraSharp Webcam certainly has many of the right features (on paper), but is it absolutely better?

I've been using Dell's big new camera for a few months now, and while the UltraSharp advances the category in some meaningful ways, Dell still has room to grow in the image processing department.

Dell UltraSharp Webcam: Price and availability

The Dell UltraSharp Webcam is available through Amazon and Dell directly for $200. There are no options or differing configurations.

Dell UltraSharp Webcam: What you'll like

There's no doubt that Dell is really trying with the UltraSharp. Dell nailed the looks, feel, quality, and specs list if you could design the perfect webcam.

Out of the box, you get a solid, hefty, tube-like camera. It's all machined anodized aluminum and eschews the plastics like in Logitech's cameras. The magnets are strong, won't shake loose, and are machined with precision. Included are two mounts — one for your PC display and one for a tabletop that doubles a tripod mount. The mounts are purely magnetic, which is excellent. Just pull away and swap out with no tools or screws.

Connectivity is achieved through a Type-C to Type-A cable (the Type-C is for the camera; Type-A for the PC) that measures around 7 feet in length, more than enough for most setups. It's rubber, thick, and feels capable.

Dell makes use of magnets again as the included privacy lid simply sticks to the front glass, ensuring the camera cannot record anything. In a clever move, when not in use, Dell lets you slap it to the rear of the camera (also using magnets) so that you don't misplace it.

Turning to the main point, the camera, and on paper, Dell again hits the right notes. A massive 8.3MP camera, Windows Hello, HDR, Sony sensor, 4K-capable — it's all great. Windows Hello works without a hitch, and Dell's ExpressSign-In (aka presence detection) works well to automatically turn on your PC and log you in without touching a thing. Likewise, it can auto-lock your PC when you walk away.

The software (Dell Peripheral Manager) is automatically installed when you plug the camera into your PC. No need to search out an app on the web. Dell Peripheral Manager is simple to use and walks you through the initial setup. From there, you can use the default setting or use some presets like smooth, vibrant, or warm. Of course, there is also custom where you can create your own profiles where you configure the field of view (65, 78, or 90 degrees), focus, zoom, HDR, white balance, sharpness, contrast, and more.

Under Camera Control is AI Auto Framing, which is a real selling point. When enabled, it overrides the field of view preset, and it follows your face/body. It's an excellent option for those who fidget on camera or move around slightly during calls, as it means you'll always be centered. The action is smooth and looks purposeful, too.

Dell UltraSharp Webcam: What you won't like

This camera does not have a built-in microphone. That's odd, but Dell makes a good point that most people who need a more "pro-level" webcam will also bring a higher quality microphone. It also makes for less confusion in Windows as to what is your default mic. Nonetheless, if you don't have an external mic (on your desktop) or your laptop's mics are poor, you'll have to spend some extra cash to solve that.

While the Dell UltraSharp tilts nicely up and down, it does not move side to side. It's not a deal-breaker, but a pivoting mechanism would have been beneficial.

The default image settings for the Dell UltraSharp Webcam are not to my liking. The white balance seems slightly off, my skin looks redder than in real life, images are too soft, and the overall picture seems darker than other webcams. It's not terrible, and some may prefer the look, but the out-of-the-box regular settings don't seem ideal.

The good news is you can create your own profile and "dial-in" sharpness, brightness, white balance, and more to suit your needs. After doing so, my thoughts on image quality improved. But this is where Logitech still has an advantage, as the BRIO 4K just works without any user tweaking. Also, I was never able to tweak Dell's camera to match the look of Logitech's.

Human presence detection, aka Dell ExpressSign-in, is unlikely to work on many desktop PCs, which is disappointing. Dell notes on its website that "Walk Away Lock and Wake on Approach does not work" on computers that support an S3 sleep state. That's most desktop PCs, as laptops use the S0 sleep state (Modern Standby) instead. I'm a massive fan of this feature on laptops and was excited to have it on my cutting-edge Intel 12th Gen system, but the feature won't even show up in the app (also confusing). But if you plan to use this camera on your laptop, ExpressSign-in worked as advertised, and it is an excellent security option.

While I like the idea of the magnetic privacy lid, at least on my desktop setup, I often just laid it on the desk when not in use, as reaching to place it behind the camera is quite a stretch. Logitech has an optional $9 privacy lid that just opens and closes and is much easier to use.

Dell UltraSharp Webcam: Competition

The most apparent alternative to this Dell webcam is the Logitech BRIO 4K, which is now priced around $150. Despite it being nearly four years old, it's still one of the best options out there. It lacks the excellent build quality, mounting options, and Dell's nifty ExpressSign-in feature, but the image quality (without tweaking) is still at the top with an overall sharper, brighter picture.

Razer also has its Kiyo Pro, which is ginormous and boasts excellent low-light abilities. In my experience, it's an OK webcam that's size doesn't match the promises, but it is sharp. It, too, costs $200. It is the worst out of all three.

You can see more options in our best webcam guide.

Dell UltraSharp Webcam: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You want a flexible 4K webcam for everyday use
• You want a better webcam for your laptop
• You want Dell ExpressSign-in for security

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You want the best 4K webcam

Going into this, I had high hopes as Dell gets a lot right with the UltraSharp Webcam. But as the saying goes, when you come at the king, you best not miss. Dell misses compared to the Logitech BRIO 4K, which is astonishing considering that the camera is four years old. It's not that the hardware is at fault, as I'd rate Dell's design and quality as better than the BRIO, but the software and color science are just not as good as Logitech's, who has much more experience in this field.

It is a bit ironic that despite its name being UltraSharp, I don't find this webcam to be that sharp at all. Indeed, it often seems soft to me while keeping the text in the background focused.

In theory, those criticisms mean that Dell could push updates to the UltraSharp Webcam (both in software and firmware) to address the soft-focus, white balance, and brighten up scenes. But you should never buy a product based on what could be instead of what it is (and there are no signs of any substantial Dell updates in the pipeline).

Dell's camera exacerbates these issues being around $50 more than Logitech's. That makes recommending it over the BRIO very difficult.

None of this is to say this UltraSharp is bad. Indeed, I'll easily contend it is easily the second-best webcam on the market right now, and it does have some strong points, including ease of mounting. But Dell needs a bit more practice to get the software tuning down before it topples Logitech.

Razer is a big gaming brand that builds some of the best Xbox headsets and best PC gaming headsets out there, alongside mice, keyboards, and even laptops and PC parts nowadays. The firm is eager to become the center brand for all things gaming hardware and accessories, and frankly, there are few companies out there that are as synonymous with gaming.

Razer broke into the webcam space a few years ago with their Razer Kiyo, complete with an onboard ring light. Since then, the firm put out a Razer Kiyo Pro too, with the ring light redacted in favor of a more powerful CMOS sensor. The Kiyo Pro was a tad on the expensive side for all but the most dedicated streamers — what if you wanted something a little more "entry level"? Well, say hi to the new Razer Kiyo X. Will it make the grade as one of the best Windows PC webcams? Let's find out.

Razer Kiyo X: Price and availability

The Razer Kiyo X is a relatively new product and not likely to go on sale soon, but the holidays and sales dates like Black Friday and Prime Day might land you a good deal. At standard, the Kiyo X costs $80 and is available at all major retailers across the globe, including Razer itself and Amazon.

Razer Kiyo X: What's good

The Razer Kiyo X impresses right out of the box with an attractive, if subtle design profile. The lens is flanked with a textured circular design, giving it a classic "camera"-style appearance, with an embossed Razer logo text pressed into the lower half.

The camera sports two separate hinges for angling the base, which is coated in friction-heavy rubber to keep it from slipping and sliding all over the place. Razer also went for a texture cable for this product, which has a generous length ensuring you'll be able to position it practically anywhere in your office space.

The base can be folded flat and used as is, or can be mounted on a tripod with a standardized screw socket. The grip on the base wraps all the way around, meaning you can use it to aid positioning and "hook" onto monitors and laptop displays with relative ease. The lip over the side of the base is quite small too, meaning it won't encroach on your screen space like a Mac-style notch if you do decide to mount it on a screen.

When it comes to actual performance, the Kiyo X impresses. I've reviewed far more expensive webcams like the Elgato Facecam with "high-end" sensors and found that the Kiyo X dominates in similar lighting conditions, reducing noise while also costing half the price — that's an impressive feat.

Comparing it to my previous webcam from Papalook, the Razer Kiyo X offers a far clearer image quality, while reducing the annoying backlighting I have in this office space without damaging overall image balance. The webcam's auto focus is also rapid and accurate, prioritizing the center subject. Before I felt like I had to feed enhancements from XSplit VCam to improve my camera quality on streams and in calls, but the Kiyo X's raw feed, even on default, offers a great experience.

Razer Kiyo X: What's not so good

Source: Windows Central

The Razer Kiyo X's closest competition in some ways is probably the Logitech C920 line, which often comes in at a little cheaper for similar features. The Razer Kiyo X can do 60 FPS video, which is ideal for streamers and content creators, but only does so at 720p, which isn't great. Additionally, there doesn't seem to be a way to force these settings outside of capture software specifically, which is a bit odd. Indeed, the Razer Synapse app is bare bones when it comes to feature controls on this thing, letting you adjust things like brightness and contrast as you might expect, but there's no way to directly control the resolution or frame rate without diving through the settings of your capture software. By default, it hits 1080p at 30 FPS.

The Razer Kiyo X also doesn't come with a tripod, nor does it come with a privacy shield for those conscious of those sorts of things. I feel like Razer could've done a bit more to sweeten the deal here, given that this thing isn't cheap.

Finally, the built-in microphone on the Kiyo X is passable, but you likely won't be using it for content creation. It's standard fare and offers a similar experience to that of a laptop built-in mic.

Razer Kiyo X: Competition

Like I mentioned above, the Kiyo X is comparable to the likes of the Logitech C920 webcam, which is often seen as the gold standard for high-quality, yet affordable webcams. The C920 doesn't offer a 60 FPS recording mode as standard, but the C922 does, and often comes in a little cheaper too.

On the flip side, we have cameras like the Elgato Facecam on the market. Elgato aims to be the No. 1 brand for all things video game streaming, but I find the prices they push often don't match the quality. I'd say without a doubt the Razer Kiyo X offers a better experience overall than the Elgato Facecam, despite being less than half the price, although the Facecam does offer 60 FPS recording at 1080p if that's what you need for your setup.

Razer Kiyo X: Should you buy it?

The Razer Kiyo X is a great all-round product that feels like it offers value for money. I would've liked to have seen a bit more in the box to sweeten the deal, either with a tripod or an extra privacy cover or something along those lines, but it offers a similar experience for a similar price as many of its contemporary competitors.

The webcam performs excellently in bad lighting setups like mine, blocking back lighting from bleeding across the subject in focus with minimal noise patterns. It looks sharp and high quality at 1080p, and can make things speedy at 60 FPS at 720p if you're looking for something a bit more "streamer"-ish.

You should buy this if ...

• You want a webcam that can offset bad lighting conditions
• You don't want to break your bank balance while doing so
• You don't mind losing 60 FPS for 1080p recording resolution

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You want 60 FPS at Full HD
• You're mad it has no RGB lights

The Razer Kiyo X is another great product from the company, showing that it can turn its hand to practically any device for a gaming or home office setup with minimal fuss.

Razer has strong competition in this space, from Logitech in particular, and it should probably look at ways it can further differentiate itself from solutions that often come in a bit cheaper. That being said, if you're a fan of the Razer brand, you need look no further; this is a great product.

We've been seeing a lot more good deals on webcams recently. There was a time when we were lucky to see any in stock at all, let alone on sale. Take advantage of these savings now that they are back. The VisionTek VTWC40 Premium 1080p webcam has dropped to $49.99 at Amazon and Dell. This is a relatively new webcam only released earlier this year. It hasn't dropped in price on Amazon before and normally goes for around $80. You can still find it going for close to that price at other retailers like Walmart.

Working from home? Need a good webcam for your next Zoom or Google Hangouts meeting? Maybe you're a student and you're taking some classes at home and need a good webcam for those sessions. Maybe you're a content creator and want to put your face out there on Twitch or YouTube. Whatever your reason, if you need a new webcam this is the one to get.

With a 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, your video will be clear and look professional every time. The VisionTek also has Autofocus technology that can keep you or the subject of your video looking clear and sharp. Even as things are moving around in the background, the camera will stay trained on your face.

Dealing with a low-light situation? The VisionTek webcam includes powerful ring lights that can keep you looking your best. The lights can be turned on and off and even have two brightness and color settings you can adjust.

This is a plug-and-play webcam. You won't need to install any drivers or anything to get it working, so you can get started rather quickly. That also makes it compatible with a wide range of programs and platforms.

Webcams suffered last year, too, you know! A classic case of supply and demand. There has been a whole lot of demand for webcams since more and more people started working from home, doing school from home, and looking into content creation... from home. Unfortunately the unusual circumstances of 2020 led to a short supply at the same time, so good prices on decent webcams were hard to find for a while there. If you're still looking for a webcam or want to upgrade one you're not happy with, grab the Aluratek 4K broadcast webcam on sale for $69.99 today only at Best Buy.

This sale is part of Best Buy's deals of the day. Best Buy claims this is a $110 discount, and you can still find this webcam going for $180 at some retailers like B&H. It's worth pointing out that Amazon has price-matched this deal. While this is the lowest it has ever been at Amazon as well, the camera normally sells for between $80 and $100 there.

Whatever you use a webcam for, you'll be able to do it in style with this one. Join a video conference, stream, broadcast, record a podcast, or whatever else. Do it all in full 4K video. The webcam also has stereo noise-cancelling microphones that can eliminate ambient noises you don't want, making your voice crystal clear whenever it's your turn to speak. It also has a 90-degree view that doesn't distort angles either. As long as you're at least 10 inches away from the webcam, you'll get a Fixed Focus lens that provides clear video.

The automatic low light correction means you don't have to have a professional lighting setup, either. It can fine tune your image to help out when the lights are dim. Use the 5x digital zoom to frame the view exactly how you want it. You can crop out distracting backgrounds or hide your desktop littered with empty coffee cups.

Use the built-in tripod mount to rest your webcam on a tripod instead of your monitor or laptop. The simple USB plug-and-play makes it easy to get setup. Plus, it's compatible with a variety of platforms, too, including Xbox. It runs on Windows or MacOS.

What you need to know

• Razer has two new streamer-friendly pieces of tech that are now available to buy.
• The Razer Kiyo X USB webcam goes for $79.99.
• The Razer Ripsaw X capture card costs $139.99.

It ain't easy being a streamer. You often need a webcam and capture card, and depending on what kind of streamer you are, you may also have to worry about asking for tips every stream, playing dress-up in order to hit subscriber goals, etc. The point is, streaming is a lot of work, and having the hardware for the job is step number one. That's where Razer comes in.

Whether you're a YouTube streamer, Twitch affiliate, or Chaturbate Gaming auteur, Razer has you covered with its new plug-and-play Razer Ripsaw X capture card and Razer Kiyo X webcam. Here are the key details for both devices:

• The Kiyo X USB webcam can stream at 30fps in FHD, or 60fps at 720p. It costs $79.
• The Ripsaw X capture card can handle up to 4K at 30fps via HDMI 2.0 and USB 3.0 connections. It costs $139.

And if you want to really amp up your Razer streamer™ look, consider grabbing a Razer Iskur gaming chair to complete the overall aesthetic. Though check out our best webcams for Twitch roundup before shelling out big money to the green-and-black snake guys.

Windows Hello is fast and secure

Windows Hello is a feature on Windows 10 and Windows 11 that allows you to log into your device with your face or fingerprint. Apps can also work with Windows Hello so that you can log into apps with your biometric data. It's becoming more useful as more apps and services, like password managers, support it. You not only save time logging into your devices but also jumping in and out of apps.

In addition to being more convenient, Windows Hello helps secure your device. Many people either use the same password across multiple devices or use straightforward passwords. With Windows Hello, you can create a complicated password once and then use your fingerprint or face to sign into your device in the future. You may still have to enter your password occasionally, but you'll still save time overall and make your tech tougher to access.

Microsoft also recently announced the option to remove a password from your Microsoft account. To replace a password, people will be able to use the Microsoft Authenticator app, Windows Hello, a security key, or two-factor authentication.

Many of the best Windows laptops and other new devices ship with fingerprint scanners or biometric cameras. However, if you're happy with the rest of your PC's hardware but just want to add Windows Hello support, an external webcam with Windows Hello support could be perfect for you.

Do you need a webcam for filming or security?

The type of PC that will benefit most from an external webcam that supports Windows Hello is a desktop. Webcams aren't massive, but they're bulky enough to be cumbersome on laptops or tablets. A desktop or all-in-one will generally have a monitor large enough to house an external webcam.

Both the BRIO 4K and Kaysuda webcams use infrared to scan your face and are more secure than simple face readers or iris scanners. They also work very quickly, allowing you to sit on your desk and have your device unlocked. You can also use Windows 10 to automatically log you off a device when you stand up and walk away from your desk. These features are perfect for an office setting where you regularly leave and return to your PC but don't want to enter a password multiple times throughout the day.

Because both of these cameras work well with Windows Hello, the main difference is picture quality. The Logitech BRIO 4K is the best webcam in this category. It has an excellent 4K camera along with the IR components needed to scan your face for Windows Hello. The Kaysuda webcam only shoots in 1080p but is a friendlier option when it comes to price and still works well with Windows Hello. The webcam that's best for you depends on if your primary use for it is Windows Hello or a combination of Windows Hello and filming and streaming yourself.

If you just want a camera that can unlock your PC quickly without requiring you to touch a fingerprint scanner or to type in a password, the Kaysuda webcam is a relatively affordable option that will work well. If you need a webcam that can unlock your PC and be used for streaming or recording things, you should purchase the Logitech BRIO 4K. It films in 4K and also works well as a Windows Hello webcam.

No matter how good any of the best webcams are, it simply cannot match the quality delivered by an actual camera. Whether you're a creator, streamer, or just want your online video presentations for work to look their absolute best, using your own camera as a webcam is easy and makes a huge difference.

There are two methods we're going to look at here. The first is by using Elgato's dedicated Cam Link dongle, and the second is by using any existing capture card you may have access to.

What you need your camera to have

Before getting started, it's essential to check whether your camera will be suitable. Essentially you need two things: the ability to output video over HDMI (or Micro-HDMI as it most likely is) and that you can remove the on-display overlay.

Elgato has a helpful resource that's an excellent place to start, but it's also not necessarily definitive. But before you invest in any additional hardware, do make sure your camera supports both of these things. The second, in particular, is essential else you'll be mirroring all your cameras overlay onto your video output.

You'll also need a way to ensure your camera will stay powered on. In some cases, you may be able to keep it powered over USB, or you may need a dummy battery that hooks up to the mains. It will vary depending on your camera, but for popular brands like Lumix and Sony, you'll probably be looking to get a dummy.

How to use your own camera as a webcam with the Elgato Cam Link 4K

The Elgato Cam Link is one easy piece of equipment to use; in fact, it's no different from using a webcam as far as your PC is concerned. Getting set up is very straightforward.

1. Connect the Mini-HDMI cable to your camera's video output.
2. Connect the HDMI end to the input on the Cam Link.
3. Connect the USB port on the Cam Link to your PC.

To verify everything is working correctly, simply open up the Windows Camera app, and you should now see an image just as you would if it were a regular webcam.

It's a simple plug-and-play affair, though it's perhaps a good idea to visit the Elgato downloads page and grab the latest version of Game Capture just to make sure you've got any drivers you might need.

The latest Cam Link can capture video in up to 4K, so it's also essential to ensure that you set your camera up correctly for your desired resolution. If you're intending to use it for streaming somewhere like Twitch, 4K won't really matter.

How to use your own camera as a webcam with a capture card

Alternatively, if you have a capture card lying around or you'd just prefer to get one of those over a Cam Link, you can get precisely the same results.

The setup process is identical, except you're connecting the HDMI from the camera to a capture card instead, and you will need to ensure you have the right companion software for your card.

4K capable capture cards are more expensive than the Cam Link 4K. If you're shooting for UHD video, then you're certainly better getting one of those unless you happen to have a spare 4K capture card.

If you don't have a capture card, something like the EVGA XR1 will work well with as it doesn't require drivers and is fairly affordable. If you're working with a desktop PC, then the AVerMedia Live Gamer HD is a great call, with driver-free operation over PCIe for zero latency and remarkable quality.

Our top equipment picks

If you're looking to take your webcam game to another level with your own camera, then the Elgato Cam Link 4K is one of the easiest ways to do that.

Whether you want to do video conferencing, streaming or recording a YouTube video, once you've connected your camera to a Cam Link and then the Cam Link to your PC, you'll be able to see yourself looking better than any webcam will ever make you look.

Additional equipment

A capture card, if you don't already have one, might be a more flexible alternative, but whatever you use, you'll certainly need the right cable for the job.

EVGA XR1 ($100 at Amazon)

The EVGA XR1 doesn't require any drivers so with your camera connected it'll work just like any regular webcam.

AVerMedia Live Gamer HD2 ($130 at Amazon)

An internal, driver-free capture card that will deliver great gaming content or let you hook up a camera as a fantastic webcam.

Mini-HDMI to HDMI cable ($13 at Amazon)

Many cameras will need a Mini-HDMI to HDMI cable to connect up to either a Cam Link or a capture card.

If you have a car, you should have a dash cam! You never know what you might need it for including everything from crashes and other emergencies to catching video of rare occurances like a lightning storm or a deer in the road. A dash cam might cost a bit now, but it could save you hundreds down the road when insurance gets involved. Grab the Vantrue N2S dual dash cam on sale for $169.99 at Newegg. We shared a deal a few weeks ago when this price dropped to $190 at Amazon, and you can still find that deal. Most other places it's going for arouhnd $220. It would be that price at Newegg, too, except this deal is part of Newegg's Shell Shocker sales (daily deals similar to what other retailers have). This price matches the lowest we have ever seen.

Because this is a dual dash cam, the Vantrue actually has cameras that face forward and backward. That makes it great for catching accidents that unfold on the road ahead, but it can also capture people coming up behind you or even breaking into the car. Whatever you're recording, you'll get crystal clear imagery of it. If you're just using the front camera you can get resolutions as high as 4K at 25 fps. If you're using the cabin camera at the same time, you can get 1440p resolution at 30 fps. It's great either way and ensures you don't miss out on crucial details like license plate numbers and things like that.

The N2S has a built-in G sensor. This helps it detect when a crash has occured and immediately begin recording. The cameraa will also lock and save that footage so there's no accidental overwriting. Combine the Sony Starvis sensor, a big aperture, six glass lenses, and four infrared LEDs for advanced night vision that can record even in the dimmest environments. The WDR tech provides exposure and dynamic range in low light conditions as well.

Other features include a 24/7 parking mode where the camera's functions are triggered when it detects motions or a collision. It also has an external GPS suction cup mount that will help you record the route, speed, and location coordinate details for the video.

The camera supports microSD cards up to 256GB, but it doesn't come with one. We know of some of the best microSD cards out there, so grab something like the Samsung Evo Select 256GB microSD card to save all your recorded footage onto.

Getting the best webcam has become increasingly important in recent times with the shift towards more remote working. Video conferencing is the norm for so many of us, and broadcasting through a webcam with the quality of a potato just doesn't cut it.

A lot of webcams are also increasingly targeted at content creators, which is fine, but they don't necessarily suit the needs of the workplace as well. That's where the eMeet C980 comes in.

This fairly affordable webcam is absolutely perfect for the home or the workplace, with hardware designed to make video conferencing as easy as possible while still ensuring a quality picture and ease of use.

eMeet C980: Price and availability

The eMeet C980 is available now in North America and Europe through Amazon for $90/£90. In Europe, it is also available through third-party retailers such as Argos for the same price. On Amazon, it's also worth looking out for discount vouchers which are often available to take the price down further.

eMeet C980: What you'll like

From a good webcam, you basically want a decent microphone and good quality video, and that's what you get from the eMeet C980. At its core, it doesn't do anything remarkable, instead just doing a good job on the basics.

Video wise you get up to 1080p at 30 FPS or 720p at 60 FPS, and it's backed by the usual sort of trickery you'd expect to find like backlight compensation. There is a companion app to this webcam to change some very basic settings, but even without it, you'll get along fine because it's entirely plug and play, and anything you need to do can be done within Windows or other software like OBS or NVIDIA Broadcast if you use them.

Image and video quality are pretty good, but the real killer feature is the 90-degree field of view. This is what sets the C980 apart from a number of its competitors at this price point and what makes it an ideal tool for the workplace. It'd be easy to pop one of these in a meeting room and be able to capture everyone without the need to get too close together. For content creators, that field of view gives you a lot of space to crop to fit any overlay templates you're using without sacrificing quality.

The other side to the C980 is the audio. Naturally, it has a microphone built in, but it's actually a four-microphone omnidirectional array with intelligent noise reduction. It isn't perfect, but if you're working in a slightly noisy environment it should help dull background noise, and again, it makes it a perfect tool to use in a meeting room with multiple participants.

The killer feature that makes this a great workplace webcam is the built-in speakers. If you're working at a desktop PC all day you don't have to worry about wearing headphones to be able to take part in a conference call. eMeet is better known for its conference call speakers, and having this included in the C980 is a real value add.

It's also got a built-in magnetic privacy filter. It's nothing fancy, simply a round plastic disc attached to a piece of string, but it works. Just pop it over the lens when you're done and it'll stick in place. It's also so obvious you won't actually forget to use it.

eMeet C980: What you won't like

This is a big webcam. There's quite a lot of hardware in it, so it isn't unjustified, but it's very much on the large side. I didn't really feel having it on my PC monitor, for one because I have vertically stacked displays and it was interfering with the top one. It might not be an issue for you, but you won't be hooking this over a laptop any time soon, either.

The alternative is to use a mini tripod since it has a standard screw thread underneath. The webcam tilts forward so you can still get the alignment just so, but on top of your monitor might not be the best place for it.

The speakers are also a tad on the quiet side if you're in anything but a quiet room. I've been using it for conference calls for a couple of weeks and with a desk fan running in the background I do struggle to hear what people are saying. It's a useful feature and the quality is very clear, but it could certainly use some more volume. And there are no controls in the companion app to make it louder, either.

eMeet C980: Competition

In this sort of price range, it's coming up against some of the best webcams around, like the legendary Logitech C920 or the content creator-friendly Razer Kiyo. All are good choices.

The C920 and Razer Kiyo are both smaller (even with the Kiyo's ring light) and so more suited to on-monitor placements or use with laptops, and both will deliver similar video. The C980 video is a little better looking than each overall, but it's close, though the 90-degree field of view certainly sets it apart.

Neither of these competitors offers the same kind of microphone tech, though, nor do they have speakers, even slightly quiet ones. For video conferencing, in particular, they're probably a little behind. But for content creation, the Logitech or Razer are probably better choices.

eMeet C980: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You want a good webcam under $100
• You do a lot of video conferencing
• Ease of use is important

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You're expecting loud audio from the speakers
• You're going to use it with a laptop
• You're purely into content creation

The eMeet C980 is a very good webcam, certainly for its price. But it's undeniably a better choice for a work environment than for someone who's into content creation. Its entire design is suited to the office or the meeting room, with a wide field of view, omnidirectional microphones, and built-in speakers.

It is quite large though, and those speakers aren't particularly loud. You can probably do something about that with third-party software, but you shouldn't really have to. Nevertheless, this is an excellent, highly convenient tool to have in your office setup that won't break the bank.

The webcam market is hot stuff right now, as more of us than ever work and play from home. Elgato is a company renowned in the streaming space, with a variety of products such as the Elgato Key Light and the Elgato HD60S+ capture card designed and built for game streamers. One obvious product was always missing from the equation, though.

Say hi to Elgato's first webcam, with a Sony-powered sensor in tow. This is the Elgato Facecam, but is it worth the $200 asking price?

Elgato Facecam: Price and availability

The Elgato Facecam is a pretty hefty $200, owing to the tech baked into the array. Several layers of anti-reflection lenses, a Sony sensor, onboard memory, and ultra-low latency contributes to the price point, but whether or not it's worth the asking price versus competing solutions remains a hot topic (which we'll answer further below).

Availability on this one is pretty sketchy too. The Facecam is available across Europe in small amounts on Amazon and other storefronts. As of writing, it's only available direct from Elgato in North America, with a two-week waiting time. Presumably, Elgato will ramp up availability in line with demand.

Elgato Facecam: What's good

The Elgato Facecam enjoys a solid design, complete with a good amount of heft, a standard screw socket for tripods and mounts, a laptop-styled hook mount in the box. It is powered by USB-C, and comes with a generously long cable and privacy shield for good measure.

The Facecam supports up to 1080p 60 FPS captures, with 50Hz and 60Hz configurations. The refresh rate reduces the rate at which lights will flicker in your feed, and the latency is impressive, ensuring that your actions and expressions lineup directly with your game capture footage.

The image production is good generally. Despite working in extremely challenging lighting conditions where I am, I was able to tweak at the settings and end up with something that looked good. The lack of 4K may be disappointing for those who do full-camera streams, but as someone who might appear in a small podcast window or game stream in the bottom corner, I find the 720p 60 FPS setting to be more than adequate. The colors, auto focus, and picture sharpness are good, with options for software smoothing and a broad range of settings you can adjust to meet your exact conditions.

Source: Windows Central

Given the positioning of my windows, I generally don't have a great experience with webcams out of the box. The great array of settings for the Elgato Facecam certainly helped, giving you a great degree of control over shutter speed and iso, for limiting or boosting the amount of light being processed by the sensor. With regular lighting conditions and production, you might not need to mess with the settings too much at all. When I closed my curtains and used my TV and Nanoleaf panels as a lightbox, it produced a great out-of-the-box image with little tweaking. Still, if you're just planning on using this for Microsoft Teams or Zoom calls, there's probably no need to spend this much.

As an initial offering from Elgato, there's little to complain about. The image quality is great and perhaps more importantly, responsive, with a stable mount that's versatile for most angles and setups. For $200 dollars, though, I can't help but wonder why there's not a little more on offer here.

Elgato Facecam: What's not good

As of writing, the Elgato Facecam app has a decent array of features for controlling the sensor array, but that's where the story ends. There are no capabilities for background blurring. There are no "fun" features or post-processing capabilities at all. If you want background blurring in streaming software, you'll have to feed the camera through an app like XSplit VCam or NVIDIA Camera, although I couldn't get the former to recognize the Facecam as a camera when I tried recently.

It's a minor gripe too, but the fact the camera privacy shield is detachable makes me think that I'm just going to end up losing it. Some kind of slider or attached solution would've been preferable, but it's ultimately a minor gripe.

There's not a huuuuuuuge amount of stuff to complain about with the Facecam; it does exactly the job it said it would, albeit at a premium.

Elgato Facecam: Competition

My biggest question mark hangs over the price of this thing, which is $200. There are competing products out there like the Razer Kiyo, or the Logitech StreamCam, which are comparable while being a fair bit cheaper. The Razer Kiyo even comes with a ring light baked in, which helps you manage image reproduction in challenging lighting conditions. The Logitech StreamCam also includes vertical video capabilities for content creators working on social platforms as well as Twitch, etc.

The Facecam potentially outperforms both of these webcams in a general sense, specifically on latency and feed refresh rate. The raw feed also makes it a better option in some cases for streaming software. I'm not sure if it's worth so much more than some of the competitors out there, though, especially if you're a casual streamer.

Elgato Facecam: Should you buy it?

The Elgato Facecam is a solid option for those who are already well invested in the Elgato streaming ecosystem. The image reproduction quality is great generally, with software that gives you a wide array of control over how the sensor performs. The onboard memory ensures that you don't need to keep the software running 24/7 too, which is something a lot of webcams generally don't offer.

It is pretty pricey though, especially if you're a casual streamer or someone who just wants a small webcam feed in the corner of your game footage.

You should buy this if ...

• You're a fan of Elgato products
• You want a 60 FPS camera with industry-leading responsiveness
• You want a raw camera feed in your set up for manual post-processing

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You're a casual streamer who doesn't necessarily need the speed

The Elgato Facecam is a good camera overall, with software that will no doubt evolve over time to make up for some of its shortcomings. Casual streamers could probably get more value out of a cheaper option from Razer or Logitech, but for those desiring the best latency in their already Elgato-heavy setup, this might be a good option for you.

What you need to know

• The Dell UltraSharp Webcam (WB7022) seeks to topple Logitech for the best 4K webcam.
• The UltraSharp features a large Sony STARVIS CMOS sensor, AI, and HDR to deliver excellent video quality.
• The camera also features Windows Hello and Dell ExpressSign-In to wake your PC and log into Windows quickly.
• The $199 camera goes on sale today, June 29.

Logitech is still the king with its popular BRIO 4K, offering the best image quality we have seen when it comes to webcams, even 4 years after its debut. Of course, since the pandemic of 2020, the webcam market has suddenly become much more critical, and we are starting to see that heat up with the Konftel Cam10 and now Dell.

Today, Dell is unveiling its new $199.99 UltraSharp Webcam (WB7022), which is now on sale.

The camera can do 4K like BRIO, but it uses a high-end Sony STARVIS CMOS sensor to do so with an elongated body to house all the components. Dell, effectively, wanted to have a DSLR-like camera experience, and that was the challenge they sought to conquer.

Like other 4K cameras, the UltraSharp can shoot video at 30 FPS in full resolution, but if you want 60 FPS, you must bump it down to full HD.

The UltraSharp is unique in a few ways. For one, it has no microphones on it, which is odd. But Dell makes a compelling case that people who need this camera will be using their own premium microphone setup. Not only does it save space, but it lets Dell keep the UltraSharp to just below $200.

The camera also features typical ranges for the field of view, including 65°, 78°, and a wide-angle 90°, similar to the BRIO 4K.

And yes, it not only has Windows Hello facial recognition for quick logins to Windows 10 or Windows 11 but it also sports Dell's human-presence detection technology. Referred to as Dell ExpressSign-in, the camera detects when you are in front of the camera to auto-wake the PC or auto-lock when you step away.

For privacy, there is a magnetic cover that snaps into place. That cover sticks to the back of the camera when not in use for easy access. Speaking of magnets, Dell uses it for the stand and mount, too, which snaps onto the camera so users can place it on a PC or a tripod. Not only do you have many mounting options, but you also won't have to spend a lot of time setting it up either.

But perhaps it is the AI that makes this camera interesting. Dell includes auto-framing, so the camera's software auto-tracts your face and frames the video if you move during a video call. There is also sophisticated 3D/2D video noise reduction to make images less grainy and Digital Overlap HDR for "true-to-life colors and balance exposure."

Of course, Logitech's magic is really with its software, so it remains to be seen if Dell can outdo the BRIO 4K, but, at least on paper, it has all the right stuff. We'll be reviewing the UltraSharp Webcam (WB7022) to see it can replace our BRIO 4K on the weekly podcast.

There are dozens of webcams out there, and we round them all up on our best PC webcams article over here. We all know the major brands like LG and Razer, but there are a wealth of lesser-known companies making cheaper alternatives.

Recently, I had the opportunity to check out the Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam, as I explore getting back into video game streaming. It's a pretty decent product overall, but weak software and configurability make it tough to recommend.

Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam: Price and availability

The Papalook PA930 is available exclusively from Amazon for $70. Given its specs, it's a pretty good price, and seems to be well stocked without going out of sale. The problem is, the listed 60 FPS feature doesn't work, and it has no real software to back it up. This is about as no-frills as you can get, but for decent-quality HDR camming, it's not bad.

Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam: What's good

The Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam is a very no-frills USB cam, ideal for elevating your conferencing situation above the weak webcams we often find ensconced in the bezel on our laptops.

It sports a dense, high-quality construction, complete with integrated microphones and an attractive fabric-style finish. It has a standard screw mount for tripods, and even comes with a telescopic tripod of its own bundled into the box. It also has a privacy cover, as well as a hook clip for mounting on monitors and other types of edges.

The picture quality isn't awful by any means, providing a sharp 2K image at a decent wide angle. A button on the top of the cam lets you switch to a 1080P mode, which limits the field of view and brings the subject a bit closer in.

The webcam struggles a bit with low light, producing a grainy image, but it's more than passable for general use. You may want something a bit more expensive if you're planning to stream video games or produce high-end YouTube videos, but as a conferencing solution, it's not bad.

The problem is, it's marketed as an option for game streamers, and I don't think that's accurate.

Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam: What you won't like

The Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam has a mode button on the top, which the website claims switches the view from 2K at 30 FPS, to 1080p at 60 FPS. It also claims it can do 720p and other modes. The problem is, the mode button doesn't actually work, and 30 FPS is a stretch too.

Papalook's own software says that the output is about 18-20 FPS. Using the frame rate counter in the Xbox Game Bar also corroborates the frame rate. Switching from 2K to 1080p has no effect on the FPS whatsoever, and trying to force a 60 FPS mode using an external software suite like Streamlabs OBS doesn't give you 60 FPS either. Straight up, this webcam is effectively offering false advertising. It's weird because the webcam even says "60 FPS" right on the lens, so it's not like it's a website/listing error. I'm not sure Papalook knows what 60 FPS means.

The software Papalook asks you to download is also awful, and doesn't really seem to do anything besides let you take "photographs" using the camera. It's a far cry from what you get with Razer and LG, and others whom Papalook is effectively competing against. This is about as barebones as you can get.

The microphones are barely passable in regular use too, although they're probably better than the integrated one on most laptops.

Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam: Competition

Honestly, you should probably skip this webcam. The established brands provide a far better experience for what is ultimately just a slightly higher spend. Our picks on our best PC webcams list give you a look at some of the better options. Streamers will probably want something like the Avermedia Livecam or the Razer Kiyo, while for high-end stuff, you'll probably want the Logitech Brio. And then, there's always the Logitech C series, which remain the best-in-class option for most scenarios.

Papalook PA930 HDR 2K webcam: Should you buy it?

While this webcam is by no means terrible, it's odd how some of its advertised features straight up just don't work. The picture quality is decent enough for most user scenarios, but you can spend a little bit more on a C922 from Logitech, and get the 60 FPS option this webcam claims, but doesn't actually support.

You should buy this if ...

• You want 2K quality for a relatively low price
• You like the design of the webcam

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You want 60 FPS video
• You want configuration software features

Papalook might one day emerge as a decent webcam brand. The design and construction of the PA930 is solid enough, and the image quality at 2K is quite good. It's just odd that some of the listed features don't work as advertised.

Even without the 60 FPS, this is one of the few 2K resolution HDR-lighting cams you can get at this price on the market, which makes me feel a tad forgiving.

Working from home has taken a new imperative in 2020 and now 2021, which means affordable, quality web cameras are needed. Sweden-based Konftel has been in the cam game for more than 30 years, so it should be no surprise that its new Cam10 full HD offering is much better than anticipated.

I've spent the last few weeks with the Cam10, and while it does not dethrone the Logitech BRIO 4K, it makes up for it by being almost half the price. Here is what else you need to know about the Konftel Cam10.

Konftel Cam10: Price and availability

The Konftel Cam10 is available through Amazon (via Provantage LLC) for $98.94 as of this review. Because this is a business-focused device (although anyone can buy one), there is a discount when buying 14 units or more ($89.39 per device).

Customers can also go through Konftel.com, with sales directors and channel managers to better assist companies who want direct purchases and support. The company can set up a live demo of the camera to experience how it looks in real-time. Additionally, Konftel can send a sample unit to companies interested in trying it themselves.

A two-year warranty from Konftel backs the Cam10, and it offers service beyond the warranty period.

Konftel Cam10: What you'll like

The Konftel Cam10 is a straightforward and traditional webcam. Its housing is a bit larger than the Logitech BRIO 4K, but not by much. A 1.55-meter USB Type-A cable is used to plug into any device, and within seconds the blue LED light lets you know the camera (or microphone) is enabled and being used.

The specifications are typical for a webcam at this price. While 4K is not supported, very few services run at 4K, making the point mostly moot, especially for businesses where bandwidth is also concerned.

On top of the Cam10 is a slide toggle that enables the privacy shutter, itself emblazoned with a big red center target. It's simple to use and more effective than Logitech's extra flip door that can be lost in transit.

Two microphones flank the camera and sound exceptionally good. While Logitech still edges out Konftel here, these mics are more than good enough for your everyday video conference calls being clear and crisp. Konftel offers its Ego compact and portable "personal speakerphone," which can be used in addition to the Cam10 for enhanced audio as it features "OmniSound" with HD audio.

The camera bracket is adjustable and easily mounts to any laptop or desktop display. It also has a threaded 1/4" tripod mount for more professional use, something Logitech omits.

Software is handled via Konftel Camera Control, a free download for Windows or macOS. The app lets you flip vertical/horizontal planes, toggle anti-flicker, zoom and pan, and advanced controls like white balance, saturation, sharpness, and more complying with UVS standards to work with other apps. The company also offers firmware updates with detailed changelogs.

And actual image quality? It is terrific. After years of trying generic webcams, Konftel Cam10 is better than I expected. White balance, skin tones, and sharpness are all above average. Focusing is fast and can even manage macro shots.

By default, the 90-degree viewing angle is too wide for home or single-person use, but that can be adjusted via the Camera Control software. But that 90-degree option is killer for conference rooms where multiple people may want to be on the call and is a big differentiator from other options.

Konftel Cam10: What you won't like

The Cam10 is no champ in low light when compared to Logitech Brio 4K, but it can edge out Razer's new Kiyo Pro, which is surprising. Of course, you could also get a Lume Cube kit to improve your home "studio" setup without breaking the bank.

It is hard to complain about the lack of Windows Hello facial recognition (via infrared sensors) at this sub-$100 mark, but offering it would be welcomed.

While the Cam10 does not have 4K Ultra HD support, Konftel does offer the Cam20, which does, along with 123° field of view, but it is also more geared towards conference rooms over personal use.

Konftel Cam10: Competition

The most obvious competitor to the Cam10 is Logitech's BRIO 4K. Make no mistake, Logitech's flagship webcam is still the reigning champion considering it has UHD support, Windows Hello IR, HDR, better software, and the best low-light performance around. However, it also costs around $180, which explains that price gap.

Razer has its Kiyo Pro, but despite its huge size (and high $200 price tag), it doesn't quite live up to the hype nor the cost, even if it is, at times, capable of greatness.

There are other options, too, like AVerMedia Live Streamer CAM 313 or Mouse Facial Recognition Camera (with Windows Hello), which are slightly cheaper but not as performant for visual quality. You can see more choices in our best webcam for Windows PCs guide.

Konftel Cam10: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You want to spend less than $100
• You need an excellent full HD webcam for home or work
• You want excellent support, warranty, from a well-known company

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You need 4K resolution
• You want the best low-light camera
• You can afford to spend more money

Overall, I am incredibly impressed with the Cam10, more so than I thought. There are dozens of me-too generic full HD webcams on Amazon in this day and age, most using the same sensor and produced from no-name companies. Konftel, here, is different. All they do is make professional, enterprise-level conferencing hardware (including selling whole kits). You get a great warranty, and they will live-demo the camera, which is an excellent service.

The image quality with the Cam10 is excellent and approaches Logitech quality. Sure, the BRIO 4K is still better, especially for low light, but the pricing helps explain that difference.

Whether you're a work-from-home Microsoft Teams user or someone in an office, the Cam10 should be on your list of webcams to consider.

What you need to know

• Auto HDR support is currently being tested on Windows 10.
• The feature adds Auto HDR to over 1,000 PC games.
• The feature is currently available for testing for Windows Insiders in the Dev channel.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is on its way to over 1,000 PC games, courtesy of a new feature that Microsoft is testing out. Auto HDR is already available on the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, and now it's on its way to Windows 10. The Auto HDR feature is now available on Windows 10 build 21337 or above, which is available to Windows Insiders in the Dev channel.

Microsoft outlines the new feature in a DirectX Developer Blog post:

Auto HDR will work with over 1,000 DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 games, greatly expanding the library of PC games with a form of HDR.

Microsoft shares an image as in example comparing Gears 5 with SDR, Auto HDR, and native HDR.

Gears 5 has a native HDR experience, so as you'd expect, it is the best of the bunch. That being said, the Auto HDR experience looks much better than the SDR one.

To appreciate this Auto HDR, you'll need a monitor that supports it. Luckily, many of the best computer monitors support HDR.

If you aren't a Windows Insider, you can easily join the program. Just be aware that you'll be using prerelease software, so you may not want to run it on your main PC.

What you need to know

• Konftel recently announced the Cam10 webcam for desktop use.
• The camera has a 90-degree field of view, 4x digital zoom, and two built-in microphones.
• The Cam10 is set to start shipping in the second half of February for $129.

Konftel recently announced the Cam10 webcam. The Cam10 is designed for desktop use and has several features to improve the quality of video conferencing and calling. The Cam10 is set to ship in the second half of February for $129.

You may recognize Konftel for its conference call hardware. The company makes high-quality hardware that covers several video conferencing and calling scenarios. The Cam10 appears to be in line with other devices from the Swedish company.

The Cam10 is a business webcam that has a resolution of 1080p and a 90-degree field of view. It has 4x digital zoom to get closeups on subjects and a privacy shutter when you want to block the camera for security. It also has two built-in microphones to help deliver clear audio.

The Cam10 doesn't have specs that blow away the competition, but Konftel has a good reputation, so the camera should be high-quality.

It also has some options that make it easy to set up in different work environments, including a tripod mounting hole and brackets for placing it on top of the PC. Again, these aren't unique to the Cam10 but are nice to have.

Based on the reputation of Konftel, the Cam10 could compete for a spot on our list of the best webcams for Windows PCs.

Ultimately, we think that between these two 1080p @ 60FPS webcams, the best option for most people will be the Razer Kiyo Pro since it offers better performance and features overall. That being said, the Logitech StreamCam is an excellent alternative that offers a comparable experience for a lower price. Don't forget that it can be used in portrait mode, too.

Kiyo Pro vs. StreamCam: Comparison and specs

When it comes to performance and features, the Razer Kiyo Pro edges out the Logitech StreamCam in several areas. While it's true that both webcams are capable of 1080p and 60FPS, the Kiyo Pro also supports HDR. Additionally, the lens on the Kiyo Pro is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, making it sturdier. The IMX327 sensor on the Kiyo Pro is better at making adjustments based on room lighting as well, thanks to Sony's STARVIS technology. The Kiyo Pro gives you more options for the field of view, too, as it features 103, 90, and 80 degrees as options. The Logitech StreamCam, meanwhile, only offers a 78-degree field of view. Finally, the Kiyo Pro can be mounted more flexibly thanks to its detachable L-shaped joint. Both webcams are compatible with tripods.

Despite being behind in most areas, though, the Logitech StreamCam does have one trick up its sleeve: portrait mode functionality. With the StreamCam, you can rotate the camera 90 degrees for vertical video recording. This will be very useful if you're planning on creating content for smartphone apps like Instagram. It's also important to note that the Logitech StreamCam is a bit cheaper than the Razer Kiyo Pro at $170.

Kiyo Pro vs. StreamCam: Which should you buy?

We love both of these webcams, but overall, we think that the Razer Kiyo Pro is the better option, thanks to its more impressive specs and performance capabilities. It may be a little pricier, but we think it's worth it if you're investing over $100 into a webcam anyway.

With that said, though, the Logitech StreamCam is still a great alternative. It offers performance that comes close to what the Razer Kiyo Pro has while also featuring compatibility with portrait perspective and a slightly lower price tag.

If neither of these webcams suit you well, don't forget to check out our roundup of all of the best webcams for Windows PCs for more options to consider.

Overall, the Razer Kiyo Pro cements itself as the definitive option if you're a professional streamer in need of top performance and features. Meanwhile, the original Razer Kiyo remains the best choice if you're a casual user who can make do with solid specs and will benefit from a lower price tag.

Kiyo Pro vs. Kiyo: Comparison and specs

In a direct comparison, the Razer Kiyo Pro outclasses the normal Razer Kiyo in pretty much every way. The Kiyo Pro's 1080p 60FPS capabilities outperform the Kiyo's 30FPS maximum, and the Kiyo Pro's lens is outfitted with Gorilla Glass 3 for superior durability. Additionally, the Kiyo Pro also has support for HDR. In terms of field of view, the Kiyo Pro has more options at 103, 90, and 80 degrees compared to the Kiyo's 81.6 degrees. The Kiyo Pro also has a more advanced light sensor that does a better job of making adjustments to the image based on your environment's lighting. Finally, the Kiyo Pro has a detachable L-shape joint that gives you much more flexibility when it comes to mounting, as opposed to the standard monitor mount that comes with the regular Kiyo. Both webcams can be used with tripods, and both also have good onboard microphones.

Despite how the regular Razer Kiyo falls behind in terms of specs, though, it's still a fantastic option if you're someone who only streams and broadcasts every once in a while. This is because while its performance isn't the best of the best, it's still good and will be more than enough for non-professionals. Also, it's much more affordable, which makes it more appealing for folks on a budget.

Kiyo Pro vs. Kiyo: Which should you buy?

While both of these webcams are excellent, we think that overall, the Razer Kiyo Pro will be the best option for most people looking for a quality webcam for streaming and broadcasting. Its excellent performance and features make it an amazing choice, and if you're serious about your streaming, it's arguably the best webcam you can buy to support your goals.

If you're more casual about streaming, though, don't count out the standard Razer Kiyo. While its performance is weaker than what you get with the Kiyo Pro, it's also much less expensive, making it an attractive budget-friendly option. Additionally, the performance is still good overall, meaning that you'll still have a good experience.

If neither of these webcams is right for you, don't forget to check out our roundup of all of the best webcams for Windows PCs for more options.

Both of these webcams are amazing, but we think that the best one for most people will be the Razer Kiyo Pro since it has excellent performance and specs across the board. The Logitech Brio is an excellent choice for people who need 4K or camera zoom, however.

Kiyo Pro vs. Brio: Comparison and specs

In terms of specs and features, the duel between the Razer Kiyo Pro and the Logitech Brio is a close one. In the resolution and framerate category, the Logitech Brio comes out on top with both 4K 30FPS and 1080p 60FPS options, while the Kiyo Pro is limited to 1080p 60FPS. The Kiyo Pro hits back with a Gorilla Glass 3-protected lens, a wider maximum FOV of 103 degrees, and a detachable L-shaped joint that gives users greater mounting flexibility. The Brio returns fire with its digital zoom feature that allows you to zoom in 5x in HD as well as Windows Hello functionality, though.

Both webcams support HDR and have excellent sensors that adjust the image according to your surroundings' light. Both also have several different FOV options to choose from, and both cost $200.

Kiyo Pro vs. Brio: Which should you buy?

Ultimately, we think that between these two webcams, most people will be better served by the Razer Kiyo Pro. The wider maximum FOV, more durable lens, and more flexible mounting options give it a big edge when it comes to versatility and durability. That's ultimately what we think will benefit people the most.

However, don't overlook the Logitech Brio. 4K does look incredible, and the digital HD zoom feature can be great if you want to use the webcam in some more unorthodox positions.

If neither option is a good fit for you, have a look at our roundup of all of the best webcams for Windows PCs for more awesome webcams.

I was impressed by Reolink's external security cameras. The Reolink RLC-511W is a brilliant camera that can be used indoors and outdoors and hooked up to your home network for a smart surveillance system. Reolink also makes some more affordable indoor-only cameras like the E1 Pro.

This little puppy, much like its more powerful RLC-511W sibling, can connect to the best NAS for home surveillance at home or in an office using Wi-Fi. The Reolink E1 Pro actually comes with a few advantages, like motorized pan and tilt, but doesn't offer any connections for wired LAN. Is it worth $50?

This review will run you through the pros and cons of this aggressively priced home security camera.

Reolink E1 Pro tech specs

Reolink E1 Pro design and features

The Reolink E1 Pro is an indoor-only security camera designed for home and office use. It's the latest camera from the company to rock crystal-clear 4MP Super HD video support. There are some other handy features that make the asking price all the more enticing. It's also in a compact dome form factor, measuring 76 x 106 mm.

It's painted entirely white with a black glossy face to match the catalog of Reolink's security cameras. There's a small Reolink branding on the front, but that's about it. You'll find the AC input on the rear at the bottom. There's no ethernet connection, unfortunately. The main unit that houses the camera tech itself also has the daylight sensor, microphone, microSD card slot, and reset button.

The 4MP CMOS sensor is capable of recording in 1440p. It can also do night recordings too thanks to the integrated IR tech. During the night, the Reolink E1 Pro can record up to 40ft, making it ideal for placement at windows facing outside if you'd rather not set up an external security camera.

The viewing angle is pretty good at 87.5 by 47 degrees. What this translates to in English is the ability for the camera to capture an entire room if placed correctly. Thanks to being a dome camera, it's possible to pan the main body by 355 degrees horizontally and 50 degrees vertically to achieve the perfect recording angle.

Reolink E1 Pro setup and performance

Reolink made the process of setting up a security camera almost painless. With the Reolink E1 Pro, it's even more straightforward. All that's required is to unbox the camera, plug in the power supply, fire up the app and follow some on-screen instructions. The entire process from start to finish lasts some 10 minutes.

A voice prompt will guide you through the initial set-up phase, though all that's really required is to scan a QR code on the camera using the Reolink app and connect it to your home Wi-Fi network. Once it's all up and running, it's possible to place the E1 Pro in the desired location or mount it to a wall or ceiling.

Using the Reolink app on Android is a breeze. It's easy to configure the E1 Pro to alter the detection zones (which is essentially using an eraser of sorts to carve out a radius), motion detection, alarms, notifications, recording, and much more. You can view live feeds, activate/deactivate night vision, alter pan, and even have a conversation using the microphone.

If you've used a Reolink camera before, you'll feel right at home here. For a NAS enclosure, the setup process is even easier. All you need to do is make sure your enclosure has enough free security camera licenses (Synology, QNAP, ASUSTOR, and others will happily sell you additional licenses if needed).

Once the camera is connected to your Wi-Fi network, it'll be possible to grab the IP address and connect it to your NAS. Then it's just a case of configuring the camera within the surveillance app on the NAS and commence recording.

Should you buy the Reolink E1 Pro?

Who it's for

• If you're on a tighter budget
• If you want a capable security camera
• If you want to set up home surveillance
• If you need an indoor security camera

Who it isn't for

• If you need an outdoors capable camera
• If you want a high-end security camera

Reolink is really crushing it with its latest catalog of home and office surveillance cameras. They're all built to a high standard, come with an easy-to-use app and work with the most popular NAS enclosures without issue. If you're looking for a budget-friendly solution to enhancing home security, look no further than the Reolink E1 Pro.

Setting up the dome camera was a breeze on its own with the built-in SD card reader and smartphone app. Making the move to a Synology NAS was a painless process. The recording quality is good for its size (and price) and the available features like manually setting detection zones are excellent in this class.

Whether you want a camera pointing at the front door or in the office, the Reolink E1 Pro will be up to the job.

The Depstech plug-and-play 1080p USB webcam is down to $15.49 with code VAP5IFUT at Amazon. That code drops the price of this webcam by half, putting it at the lowest we have ever seen. This is a great deal especially if you've been looking for a webcam and been unable to find one. This has not been a good year for webcams, so even finding one in stock is nice. Finding one discounted and discounted by half is a bargain.

You get more than just a webcam with this purchase, too. For one thing the webcam comes with a privacy cover. If you're worried about hackers or companies somehow using your webcam to look at you when the webcam is not in use, you can protect your privacy by covering the lens when you're done with it. The cam also comes with a tripod stand. The adjustable tripod lets you place the camera flat on your desk or near your computer so you can get a perfect angle and you don't have to block your screen or anything like that.

The webcam generates video at 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution at 25 to 30 frames per second. It has a 65-degree wide viewing angle, and it captures everything in front of it in a clear, smooth image. It even works in dimly lit environments thanks to automatic light correction. The dual mics help keep your voice sounding clear as well. More than one mic means it can filter out some of the background noise and help you sound even more natural.

You also don't have to worry about the setup with this webcam too much. It's a plug-and-play device. You won't need to download any new drivers or software to get it to work. As long as you have a USB port, you have everything you need to get this webcam working. It works with most video apps like Skype and Zoom and YouTube, and it has a wide compatibility with platforms. Use it on operating systems as old as Windows XP, the Mac OS, and more.

A good way to protect your home is to install a security camera or a few around the exterior. Not only do they help discourage potential intruders from breaking an entry, but they can also record all the action for prosecution. We're growing our NAS coverage on Windows Central, including the best NAS for home.

The Reolink RLC-511W was reviewed favorably, and today we're looking at the RLC-410. Unlike the RLC-511W, which comes packing a motorized auto-focus and wireless connectivity, the RLC-410 isn't quite as advanced, but this is reflected in the lower price. It does, however, have IP66 protection against the weather, and night vision.

So, how does it fare against the RLC-511W, and is the RLC-410 a great starter camera for the home?

Reolink RLC-410 Specs

While the RLC-410 isn't quite as capable as the more pricey RLC-511W, the specifications are almost identical, aside from optics, wireless connectivity, optical zoom, resolution, and dimensions. This camera does support PoE too, making it possible to power it using a single RJ45 cable.

Inside the box, you'll find the Reolink RLC-410 camera, as well as a waterproof cap for the ethernet connector, RJ45 cable, software CD, manual, and all the mounting hardware (screws and plugs) you'll need. Like other security-focused products, Reolink includes a sticker with the RLC-410 that lets you notify visitors your home is protected.

Reolink RLC-410 Features and design

The RLC-410 is well packaged, and unboxing the camera makes you believe they mistakingly packed another model by accident as it feels very well put together for a security camera at this price. It's quite the compact device, too, since you're missing the 4x optical zoom found in the larger RLC-511W. Still, it has plenty of kit where it matters most, including IR LEDs and the front's main camera.

The design is a bullet-style, with the main unit up front attached to the mount on the rear. Everything is aluminum, aiding the IP66 rating that allows you to use this camera outside without fear of weather damage. The sides are bare, aside from the subtle Reolink branding, and the rear houses the two antennae connectors, a single cable, and MicroSD slot.

This single cable splits into three parts—one for the reset button, another for the ethernet, and finally, AC power. This isn't required since the RLC-410 supports PoE, making this a great option if you already have a PoE switch available.

Inside the RLC-410 is where the magic happens, thanks to the 4MP1/2.7-inch CMOS sensor with auto-focus. To make everything work in the dark is an array of ## IR LEDs with a single light sensor to determine when it's time to automatically switch between day and night modes. It's completely wireless too. Once hooked up to AC power, two antennae can be attached to the rear of the camera to allow the device to communicate with the outside world (or your NAS/NVR) without a data cable.

Reolink RLC-410 Setting up and using the camera

To set up the RLC-410, all that's required is downloading the smartphone app on Android and iOS or the PC app for Windows. Using either is easy since you'll still require to have the camera connected via ethernet to the router or switch, so it's on the same network as your phone or PC.

The apps should automatically detect the camera on the network and allow you to set a password for the camera. This step is important since it's what ensures you're able to connect to the camera using third-party software.

After the camera has been successfully configured, it's time to install it in your desired location. This part is also fairly straightforward. Reolink includes a small paper template that can be used as a guide to drill and install the wall plugs. Once that's out of the way, all that's left is to screw the camera's rear to the wall.

Much like the RLC-511W, all that's require to swivel and rotate the camera is the included Allen key, which is used for a single screw on the base. Once it's facing the right way, you can tighten that screw for the camera to be secured in place. The main cable for the ethernet, reset switch, and AC should be hidden within a junction box or within the property to prevent someone from tampering with the camera.

The software is also outstanding from Reolink. The mobile and PC apps are excellent if you do not plan on using a NAS/NVR, letting you configure a whole host of settings, view live feeds, receive motion detection alerts, and view recorded footage. The video recordings' actual quality is outstanding, even though we've dropped down to a 4MP sensor with a lower resolution.

It'll not be too good in low-light conditions, so if you install the RLC-410 in a shaded area, it may be worth having night vision mode active. The IR LEDs allow this camera to be used throughout the day and night.

If you would like to use a NAS or NVR, you can do so without issue. Most modern enclosures from Synology, QNAP, and ASUSTOR will work well with the RLC-410, allowing you to add the camera to the respective surveillance software. So long as you have a free camera license to spare on the enclosure, you're good to go.

I rounded up some of the best NAS for home surveillance to help get you started. The installation process is largely the same between enclosure vendors. Many of them have helpful resources that help you get started in no time at all, even if you're unable to locate and add the camera automatically.

Reolink RLC-410 Things I didn't like

For the price, the RLC-410 has plenty going for it, though it's not perfect. It's not a wire-free camera since it requires an AC power source or PoE through RJ45. This is a slight bummer for those who prefer to not have cables running everywhere and would prefer to charge an internal battery instead, but this does allow Reolink to keep the camera size compact.

Because there's no internal battery at all, should your home lose power, so too will your Reolink security cameras. It would be good at the very least to have a small battery backup in case of power outages, even if it is to record but a few minutes of footage.

The quality of the video recording is very good, but in low-light scenarios, it's not quite as good as more expensive security solutions. For most homeowners, the day and night recording quality is more than good enough.

Reolink RLC-410 Should you buy?

Who it's for

• If you need to install a home security camera
• If you plan on using the camera on its own
• If you want a security camera that works well with NAS/NVR
• If you have a PoE switch/router

Who it isn't for

• If you want a camera with a backup battery
• If you want the best camera for low-light recording
• If you want a camera with an optical zoom
• If you want a wireless camera

The Reolink RLC-410 is one of the company's more budget-friendly security cameras but has everything you need for a compelling solution for the outdoors. The IP66 rating ensures the camera won't sustain damage from the weather. PoE makes for a cleaner finish, only requiring AC power, and it's incredibly easy to set up and use.

Not everyone needs a more expensive camera, which is where the RLC-410 comes into play. It has everything you need for a starter home surveillance solution, including a 4MP shooter for HD recording, a built-in microphone for capturing noise, great build quality for defending against the elements, and a MicroSD card slot if you don't plan on hooking up a NAS or NVR.

If you were to purchase a NAS, the RLC-410 works well with the leading brands, including enclosures from Synology, ASUSTOR, and QNAP. Whether you need to cover the front, rear, or all sides of your home, the RLC-410 is a great option that'll work both inside and outside the property.

Security cameras are increasingly popular with homeowners as they look to add smarter tech to keep their household safe while inside and away. We're covering network-attached storage (NAS) enclosures right here on Windows Central, compiling the best NAS for home that work well with mobile devices and Windows PCs. It turns out; security cameras often work especially well with these NAS servers.

Cue the Reolink RLC-511W, a bullet security camera that can be used both inside and outside the home. It's not incredibly expensive but offers an impressive list of specifications, including IP66 protection against the elements, wireless connectivity, night vision, and localized storage. Is this a good choice for your first budget-friendly security camera, and how well does it work with NAS? Read on to find out.

Reolink RLC-511W Specs

The specification sheet for the RLC-511W is pretty good, considering the price. It's supported by indoor and outdoor uses and has an IP66 rating for protection. The 5MP CMOS sensor is capable of HD recording and has a 4x optical zoom and night vision. While you can use a NAS/NVR for footage recordings, the camera does take a MicroSD for local storage.

Included in the box are the Reolink RLC-511W camera, a waterproof cap for the ethernet connector, RJ45 cable, software CD, manual, and all the necessary mounting hardware (screws and plugs). You can even use the bundled sticker in your window to make visitors aware your home is protected.

Reolink RLC-511W Features and design

Upon unboxing the Reolink RLC-511W, it's clear to see that this bullet-tyle recorder looks far more expensive than the asking price. It's an all-aluminum chassis, including the solidly built mount. It's a hefty box since the optics are large, and you've got that 4x optical zoom. The camera's front is dedicated to the sensor, lens, IR tech, and other goodies that make this a compelling purchase.

The sides, top, and bottom of the unit are completely bare, aside from some subtle Reolink branding and a small hole for the microphone. The rear of the camera houses the SD card slot, which takes MicroSD cards. A single cable comes out the back, which splits into three parts—one for the reset button, another for the ethernet, and finally AC power.

The heart of the RLC-511W, however, is the 5MP 1/2.7-inch CMOS sensor with auto-focus. 24 IR LED lights are located around the main lens in a ring formation, alongside a light sensor at the bottom. Two antennae can be attached to the rear of the camera to allow the device to communicate with the outside world (or your NAS/NVR) without a data cable.

Reolink RLC-511W Setting up and using the camera

A major selling point of Reolink cameras is the supporting apps and services. There's a small sticker on the camera, which should be removed after you've set everything up, that contains a QR code for the mobile app. Available for iOS, Android, and Windows, this Reolink app can automatically detect the RLC-511W as soon as the camera is connected to the network.

It's worth noting that you do need to have the camera connected to your network using an ethernet cable. It won't allow for wireless connectivity until the smartphone or PC app can communicate with the camera. Once you've got it connected through the app, your network credentials can be entered and saved, allowing you to remove the cable and install the camera thereafter.

As for installing the camera physically, it's just as easy as connecting it to the Reolink app. The company has made it incredibly straightforward to mount the camera to your desired location, as well as manipulate the angle at which the camera is facing. All that's require to swivel and rotate the camera is the included Allen key, which is used for a single screw on the base.

Once you've got it facing the right direction, simply tighten that same screw, and it'll be secured in place. The main backplate requires three screws and plugs to secure the RLC-511W to a wall or ceiling. An ethernet cable can be used, though it's recommended to only use this for the initial setup process.

When it comes to software, Reolink has another win here. Its offerings on both mobile and PC are excellent if you don't plan on using another system to manage all your recordings. The app's setup process is literally 1, 2, 3, as you can see from the above screenshots. The process takes about 30 seconds. Once you're in, there are plenty of options to play around with.

The video quality is excellent, particularly during the day. If you have the camera installed in a low-light setting, it'll not fare that well. That's largely down to the hardware used and is a limiting factor of the price tag. Still, those 24 IR LED lights I aforementioned are excellent at providing enough light for night vision use. A security camera should be good to go both during the day and night, and the RLC-511W scores big here.

If you would like to use a NAS or NVR, you can do so without issue. Most modern enclosures from Synology, QNAP, and ASUSTOR will work well with the RLC-511W, allowing you to add the camera to the respective surveillance software. So long as you have a free camera license to spare on the enclosure, you're good to go.

I rounded up some of the best NAS for home surveillance to help get you started. The installation process is largely the same between enclosure vendors. Many of them have helpful resources that help you get started in no time at all, even if you're unable to automatically locate and add the camera.

Reolink RLC-511W Things I didn't like

So, what didn't I like about the Reolink RLC-511W? It's difficult to pick apart home surveillance cameras these days since most of them rock good enough sensors for good quality recordings. Just look at how good even budget smartphones are these days. The RLC-511W is a great balance between functionality, video quality, and affordability.

Still, there are areas Reolink could improve things. Firstly, the entire process of moving the parts that should move but don't upon unboxing is startling at first. It's important to use considerable force to move the main body and swivel the mount to get the right angle, but just make sure to loosen the correct screw beforehand.

It's not truly a wire-free camera since you will need to power the RLC-511W. Whether you achieve this through the AC adapter and use the antenna for Wi-Fi or ethernet cable for data is up to you, but it's something worth bearing in mind. There's no internal battery here, so if the power goes out, you're in the dark, quite literally.

The video quality is outstanding, so too is the 4x optical zoom and auto-focus. But the auto-focus can be found to be a little slow, especially when compared to other security cameras. It's not a deal-breaker but does take a few seconds to correctly focus on an object.

Reolink RLC-511W Should you buy?

Who it's for

• If you need to install a home security camera
• If you plan on using the camera on its own
• If you want a security camera that works well with NAS/NVR

Who it isn't for

• If you want a camera with a backup battery
• If you want the best camera for low-light recording

The Reolink RLC-511W is an enticing proposition, especially for those who are considering home security. An alarm system is great, so too is a Ring doorbell, but it's good to have peace of mind with better recording equipment monitoring your home while you're away. Reolink makes some killer hardware, and this camera is a fine example.

It's not the most powerful security camera, but it's also not the most expensive. If you're looking for a middle-ground, the RLC-511W should be on your shortlist. It has plenty of tech, including some fine optics for high video quality, as well as a built-in microphone, solid build-quality, and a painless setup process with full support for NAS/NVR.

Should you be in the market for a budget-friendly security camera (and these things can get real expensive real fast), the RLC-511W is a great option for covering the front or rear of your property. Whether you plan on using it inside or out, wirelessly or wired, the camera will work without a hitch. Overall, this is a great mid-range camera.

What you need to know

• PowerToys has an experimental feature that lets you mute your microphone or camera with keystrokes.
• The feature works regardless of which camera you use.
• The feature is available in the Experimental v0.22.0 of PowerToys.

PowerToys has a handy new feature that allows you to easily mute your microphone or video. The feature is currently in the Experimental v0.22.0 of PowerToys, which you can install for free through the app's GitHub page. The feature also requires that you're on Windows 10 version 1903 or later.

Even if you grab the best webcam for Windows PCs you won't want to appear on it all the time. With the new feature for PowerToys, you can mute your microphone or "mute" your webcam, regardless of the app that you're using.

The team behind PowerToys has worked on this feature since early this summer. The feature allows you to mute your microphone, camera, or both, with a keystroke. When you're camera is in use, and the feature is enabled, you'll see a dialog on your screen to let you know if your microphone and camera are on.

To use the feature, you need to set your camera to "PowerToys camera." This still uses your hardware of choice, which you can set up in the PowerToys app. The PowerToys GitHub page explains how the feature works, including how it works behind the scenes.

What you need to know

• Sony released a new app call Imaging Edge Webcam.
• The app allows you to use Sony cameras as webcams for your PC.
• The app supports a wide range of Sony cameras and is free.

You can now use Sony cameras as webcams for your Windows 10 PC, thanks to a new piece of software from Sony called Imaging Edge Webcam. The app allows you to connect several models of Sony DSLR and mirrorless cameras to your PC as a webcam. Sony is the latest camera manufacturer to release a piece of software to let you use your camera as a webcam, joining the likes of Panasonic and others.

Imaging Edge Webcam is free and available for Windows 10 PCs running a 64-bit version of Windows 10. TechRadar reached out to Sony to see if a macOS version is coming out, but the company has not shared any details about any other versions at this time.

The process of connecting your camera to your PC varies a bit depending on the camera that you have. Generally, you connect your supported Sony camera using the camera's PC Remote function. Then you connect your camera to your PC through USB. You'll also need to switch your camera on and off and restart the app you want to use the camera on. During the process, you'll need to make sure smartphone control is turned off. Sony has a full set of instructions on its website, including the different steps needed for various camera models.

Using Sony's new app allows you to use the expensive camera that you purchased as a webcam, which should improve video quality.

If your camera isn't supported or if you have a PC that isn't running Windows 10, you can use a device like an Elgato Cam Link 4K to connect your camera to your PC.

Should you buy a 4K webcam?

4K webcams are up and coming right now, but do you really need one? As more and more people are working from home, many are wondering which webcam is best for their online meetings. There's a lot to like about a 4K webcam, but the reality is most people probably don't need one for their uses. If you're someone who only uses their webcam for Microsoft Teams, Zoom calls or streaming online, then a 1080p webcam should be more than enough.

Most people who stream content online are doing so at 1080p, so there's no need for a 4K webcam — it would only be downscaled anyway. If you plan on streaming content at 4K or recording videos locally to upload later, then a 4K webcam may make more sense, as the higher resolution will let you crop in on things without losing too much detail in the image.

If you've decided you need a 4K webcam, there are quite a few out there available today. Many are quite a bit more expensive than 1080p ones, so if you're price conscious, then perhaps that's another reason to go for a lower resolution 1080p webcam instead. Also, many of the 4K webcams are quite a bit bulkier and heavier than 1080p ones, as they carry larger and more powerful sensors.

So what should you buy?

If you've decided on a 4K webcam, we recommend the Logitech BRIO 4K as it's the webcam with the most features for a reasonable price. It features Windows Hello, 4K video recording at 30fps, 1080p video recording at 30fps, and 720p video recording at 90fps. It also has a different field of view options and HDR support for accurate colors.

If you've decided on a 1080p webcam, you can't go wrong with the Logitech C930e, a great all-rounder 1080p webcam. It can record with a 90-degree field of view and supports H.264 for clearer videos without taking up too much space. It's also quite a bit cheaper than the BRIO 4K.

Streaming continues to grow in popularity, and while the big guns like Ninja have some seriously expensive gear in their setups, those aren't the only options. AVerMedia as a brand has a great selection of hardware for streamers of all budgets, and the Live Streamer Cam 313 is its new webcam that completes the suite.

Nothing it offers is particularly groundbreaking, but it's priced well and delivers decent results if you're willing to give it a chance. Especially if you're just getting into streaming.

What you'll like about AVerMedia Live Streamer Cam 313

There's plenty to like about the Live Cam 313, not least that it comes with an attractive price and its specs are a good pairing for something that costs $80. Its primary target is the streaming market, and for that audience, this is a really good webcam.

There are a couple of hardware features that stand out from the crowd, the first being the sliding privacy filter. It's nothing fancy, just a piece of plastic around the main body that slides over the lens to make sure nobody is watching you when you're not streaming. The other neat feature is that it can rotate 360 degrees, which makes adjusting it much easier, especially if you have multiple monitors or an unconventional desk layout.

You can also use the rotating body to get some better angles, and if you're running a multiple-camera setup for your stream, the Live Streamer Cam 313 can give you some great effects when not placed directly in front of you.

It's capable of 1080p video at 30 frames per second (FPS), which is perfect for streaming, and since it only uses USB 2.0, there are no compatibility issues if you want to use it with any laptop or older PC. USB 3.0 would allow more bandwidth for video, but compatibility is arguably more important since most streamers will be using a small video window and won't be handling high-resolution video.

The Live Streamer Cam 313 is a well-balanced product. The image quality is good, and (with a little tweaking) it's on par with that of my own webcam, the Razer Kiyo. The picture is sharp, boasts good color, brightness and contrast, and since it's fixed focus, you never have to worry about it trying to find your beautiful face if you move about.

On top of the hardware and the decent quality video, AVerMedia also has some built-in filters that you may or may not like. They're fun to use, and there's a decent selection, including one that turns you into Mickey Mouse. It's disappointing they're not supported universally in any application, but you can at least use them in the companion RECentral app for recording or streaming, as well as in OBS Studio and XSplit.

Be aware though that if you're using CPU encoding, these filters add a significant strain. My eight-core Ryzen 7 2700X total system use spiked to 50 percent just using the filters and a web browser.

The short video below shows off the Live Streamer Cam 313 in a streaming environment, as well as a comparison to one of our favorite streamer-focused webcams, the Razer Kiyo.

What you'll dislike about AVerMedia Live Streamer Cam 313

On its own, this is a good webcam. But while it offers good video at an attractive price and a few extra features you may or may not be excited about, it doesn't really do anything unique. The biggest elephant in the room is the old stalwart, the Logitech C920. If you can get one of those on a deal (as you often can), you'll have comparable video quality at a lower price.

There are also some things about just setting up and using the Live Streamer Cam 313 I'm not overly fond of. You can just connect it to your PC and off you go, but you'll get horrible quality. No matter what I tried, until downloading the driver packages from AVerMedia it was just bad. There was a huge shadowed area behind me, and it was impossible to get the right exposure and color settings.

Installing the CamEngine made things a lot better, and without both it and the latest version of RECentral, it's not immediately obvious you can do anything creative with the webcam at all. The necessity for these downloads isn't made clear enough, and the best thing to do is download AVerMedia's Assist Central application and let it do the hard work for you. It'll at least make sure you have the latest firmware and driver packages.

Even then, depending on your lighting you'll likely need to adjust the settings manually to get a quality you're happy with. I found the auto settings to be short of the mark in both white balance and exposure. It's equally important to make sure you have good lighting. That's true of basically every webcam, but low light performance isn't great, so if you want your stream to look good, you'll need some lights.

So should you buy AVerMedia Live Streamer Cam 313?

If you like the look of this webcam, absolutely buy one. Especially if you're getting started in streaming. It's good value and will deliver pleasing results as long as you're happy to tinker with it to get the best-looking image.

The issue isn't so much with how good the Live Streamer Cam 313 is; it's more that there are competing products that are close in overall performance, like the Logitech C920, that can be had for a lower price. I do like the rotating head on this cam, though, because it gives you much more flexibility, especially in small spaces like my office.

AVerMedia also has in some territories a starter pack that pairs this webcam with the Live Gamer Mini capture card and the AM310 microphone. And that's really where the Live Streamer Cam 313 makes the most sense. AVerMedia has a whole family of products for the aspiring streamer that are good quality and attractively priced. Few other companies can boast such a strong portfolio of streaming products that are beginner-friendly.

The Blink XT home security camera can be used as part of an array of cameras to protect your home, and right now you can save 50% on the 1- or 2-camera kits as Amazon's exclusive deal of the day for Prime members.

Blink XT cameras have motion detection, up to 1080p instant recording, and smart notifications. You can check on your home in real-time from anywhere using the Blink app, and Blink also offers free cloud storage for recorded video clips, so you don't have to pay for a monthly subscription. They are super simple to set up and run wirelessly for two years on two included Lithium batteries. They are also weather-resistant, so you can monitor your home's surroundings all year round. You can switch between LEDs or infrared vision to light up those surroundings or keep an eye out at night. The 1-camera system is currently half price at just £49.99. The 2-camera system is also on sale for £89.99, which is a savings of £90.

You can link up to ten Blink cameras to the same system to create a comprehensive view of your home. There are newer Blink XT2 cameras coming out, but they use the same sync module hub as the Blink XT so you can mix and match first and second-generation Blink XT cameras once they arrive. Amazon backs Blink XT cameras with a one-year warranty and shipping is free with Prime.

If you're not already an Amazon Prime subscriber, you're going to want to take advantage of the 30-day free trial to make the most of this offer and all of the upcoming deals during Amazon Prime Day.

Almost identical to the Logitech C922

As the numbers in the names might suggest, the C922 is a successor to the C920, which for a long time was the best all-round webcam for Windows PCs and a favorite of streamers.

The C920 is capable of delivering great quality video at both 720p and 1080p, but unlike the C922, is limited to 30 FPS in both cases. You also don't have the background removal software on the C920 as you do with the C922.

Like the C922, it has stereo microphones, though streamers likely will still want to use a dedicated mic for maximum quality, and it also has the same built-in backlight enhancement you get on the C922.

Compatible with all major streaming software

Like the C922, the C920 is entirely plug-and-play with a Windows PC and a byproduct of that is you'll encounter no issues using it with all the major streaming applications. Whether you use OBS, XSplit, Streamlabs OBS, Elgato Game Capture, AVerMedia RECentral, or something else, the C920 will work at up to 1080p resolution in all of them.

Pair with a green screen for best effect

One of the big, streamer-friendly features of the C922 is that you can remove the background with software and simulate a green screen. You can't do that with the C920, but you're not really missing out, so don't worry. It's a pretty processor intensive thing to do, and the effect isn't close to as good as using a proper green screen.

So as with anyone using the C922, our recommendation is to pair the C920 with a green screen if you want to make your stream look better without your background clutter!

Plug and play support for all Windows apps

The Logitech C922 is a simple plug and play affair on a Windows PC. That is, as soon as you connect it to your computer over USB, Windows will recognize it as a camera.

That, in turn, means apps which can use a camera can see the webcam, including Skype. With Skype specifically, you have an option in the app's settings menu to test the video before you use it to make sure everything is working OK.

It doesn't need drivers, but there are some companion apps that will help you get the most from it. One allows you to remove the background through software like a virtual green screen, though it's fairly processor intensive.

The Logitech C922 has a built-in microphone

This webcam has not just one microphone, either, but two, so you can deliver stereo audio. They're positioned on either side of the webcam, and while you won't be recording a podcast or anything with them, the built-in microphones will sound great if you're video conferencing or recording a Skype call.

Choose between 720p or 1080p video

Being able to change resolution is important if you're struggling with bandwidth issues, but you still want to look good. The C922 delivers great quality video with solid backlight enhancements and will do 720p or 1080p video in Skype.

At 720p you can up the frame rate to 60 FPS, while at 1080p you'll be limited to 30 FPS. Whichever you choose, Skype will handle it with no problems and you'll look just grand to folks at the other end.

HAVIT produces some excellent affordable hardware, like the KB396L so I was pleasantly surprised by a $9 webcam from the company when my Logitech C920 finally decided to start crashing the PC. Unfortunately, the HAVIT N5086 wasn't worth the money.

What you will like about HAVIT N5086

The price. At just $14, it's a seriously cheap webcam and one that comes from a reputable brand, which has a catalog of quality accessories and peripherals. Unfortunately, it seems that HAVIT's affordable but quality approach wasn't used with this webcam. It's a simple webcam, though, which means you can plug it in and get started immediately.

There's no faffing around with drivers or required software, nor does it take long to unpack everything. Speaking of which, one area where the N5086 is great is the packaging. Companies have come a long way with tech packaging over the last decade and even lesser known parties get it right.

What you'll despise about HAVIT N5086

While there are a few things to like about this webcam, there's a whole lot more to be unimpressed about. The microphone isn't great on the N5086, but this shouldn't come as a surprise as most webcam microphones are terrible, compared to headsets and dedicated microphones. Where the more serious problems lie is with the actual picture quality.

It's not bad, but terrible. This is simply unacceptable in a webcam, which sole purpose is to record visual data and send it to the PC. On a meeting call or chatting with friends, you'll find that the quality is worse than what your smartphone can produce. You won't want to use this anywhere near your video game stream either.

Issues with the picture quality aside, the webcam is clearly just a more affordable, cheaply made version of the Logitech C920. It looks a little different but shares a similar design. It's a shame as from the front, the N5086 looks like a webcam that costs just as much as the Logitech accessory it tries so desperately to imitate.

Overall, it's just not a pleasant experience, regardless of the price. And you should never payout to be dissatisfied.

Should you buy the HAVIT N5086 webcam?

I would try to look elsewhere, even at $14. I simply cannot justify the cost for what you get. Not everyone has encountered the picture quality issue that I have with this unit, in particular, which would make it a dud, but overall it's just not what I expect from HAVIT.

$14 at Amazon

The Kiyo is part of Razer's broadcaster lineup of accessories, joined by the Seiren microphones and Ripsaw capture card. Their collective target: Streamers. Folks who need a quality product to produce a quality stream.

The Kiyo isn't like any normal webcam, though. And that's pretty obvious as soon as you clap eyes on it. It's big and round and has a really bright ring light out front. Overall, it's a solid product that has its faults, but might be the thing you need for your stream.

What you'll love about the Razer Kiyo

The light. Arguably it's the single thing you'd be considering buying the Razer Kiyo for. Lighting is important if you're putting your face in a stream, because your viewers will want to see you and it doesn't look very professional if you're all dark and noisy. The light on the Kiyo cures all that without the need for external, often large lights.

• Video: 1080p/30fps or 720p/60fps.
• Adjustable ring light.
• Built-in microphone.
• Supports XSplit and OBS (and most Windows apps that support webcams).
• Standard tripod mount.

That also makes it a superb choice for a streamer who's tight on space. If you're using a green screen, this light alone probably won't be enough, but it's really bright. It's also super easy to adjust, you simply turn the ring and it gets brighter or dimmer.

The image quality when the room is well lit is pretty good and looks quite punchy with plenty of contrast. Comparing it to my Logitech C922, the Logitech's image for both photo and video looks more washed out. Even without the ring light activated on the Kiyo.

Video wise, the Kiyo shoots 1080p video but it's limited to 30FPS. If you're pushing out a 60FPS stream and want your webcam to match, you have to drop the resolution to 720p. If you're only using it in a small box on stream though, even 720p is overkill. But the facility is there.

And if you'd rather not have it hanging off your monitor (more on that below), there's a standard tripod mount on the bottom. Although you'll have to supply the tripod (unlike with the Logitech C922).

What you'll hate about the Razer Kiyo

This thing is huge. It covers an entire tab in my web browser with the piece that hooks over the front of the monitor, and it's an all-around giant. It isn't particularly heavy, at least, but it's huge. This is less of an issue if you're using it on a tripod, but it's quite the thing to mount on your monitor.

What's also disappointing is that Razer hasn't hooked up the Kiyo to its Synapse application. There are no software controls for the Kiyo whatsoever, so you can't zoom, pan, tilt, or adjust white balance and exposure. Any tweaks have to be done in your applications, like XSplit or OBS.

The built-in microphone is pretty quiet, which for a streamer isn't the end of the world. But if you don't have an external microphone, or even if you're using this in a pinch for something real-world like a conference call, folks on the other end may struggle to hear you.

There's also a pretty aggressive auto-focus. You never want to be out of focus, so it's great the Kiyo is fairly fast, but in my testing even only small movements can trigger the auto-focus, so you see that shifting movement. It isn't the end of the world but if you do move around a lot, it's something to bear in mind. Especially since there's no companion app to set manual focus with.

Bottom line on the Razer Kiyo

For the target audience, streamers, the Kiyo is a great choice. Even if you have external lighting, the ring light illuminates your face evenly in even the darkest of situations, so you'll always be seen on your stream. The image quality is decent, and even though it isn't leagues better than competing devices, it's more contrasty and I think better looking than something like the Logitech C922.

There are drawbacks, mostly minor, like the sheer size of the thing if it's going to be mounted atop your monitor.

The biggest criticism is that there's no companion software, so you have very limited control. Apps like XSplit can adjust brightness and contrast as well as tint, but they can't pan or tilt the camera feed, and they can't enable manual focus. Considering Razer has Synapse for a ton of its hardware, it feels like a misstep not to have something for the Kiyo.

But for streamers, you could do a lot worse and if you're tight on space that ring light will really help out. It's super bright so you don't need it on full all the time, especially if you're quite close to it, but it does a fantastic job. You may look a little saturated if it's too bright, so make sure to adjust things a little in your streaming software.

It's less easy to recommend to a non-streamer, especially at $100, and if that's not your thing probably look elsewhere. But for who it's meant for, it's a solid choice.

See at Amazon

More: Best webcams for Windows