Razer Kiyo Pro vs. Razer Kiyo: Which streaming webcam is right for you?
Best Overall
Compared to the original Razer Kiyo, the Razer Kiyo Pro offers a much better experience for a much higher price. It's a premium webcam for advanced users, and in that context, it's fantastic.
For
- Better 1080p framerate and HDR
- More durable lens
- More FOV options
- Better sensor
- Better mounting options
Against
- Much more expensive
- Worse for casual streamers/broadcasts
Best Budget
While the Razer Kiyo may be outclassed by the new Pro version, it's still the better option if you only stream/broadcast casually, thanks to its affordable price and reliable performance.
For
- Much more affordable
- Better for casual streamers/broadcasts
Against
- Worse 1080p framerate and no HDR
- Less durable lens
- Only one FOV option
- Worse sensor
- Worse mounting options
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.
Header Cell - Column 0 | Razer Kiyo Pro | Razer Kiyo |
---|---|---|
Resolution and framerate | 1080p @ 60FPS | 1080p @ 30FPS, 720p @ 60FPS |
Lens | F2.0 with Gorilla Glass 3 | F2.0 |
Sensor | IMX327 with STARVIS Technology | Proprietary sensor |
HDR | Yes | No |
FOV | 103, 90, 80 | 81.6 |
Mounting options | Detachable L-shaped joint, tripod | Monitor mount, tripod |
Price | $200 | $100 |
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.
Best Overall
Top-notch cam
Compared to the original Razer Kiyo, the Razer Kiyo Pro offers a much better experience for a much higher price. It's a premium webcam for advanced users, and in that context, it's fantastic.
Best Budget
Excellent for casuals
While the Razer Kiyo may be outclassed by the new Pro version, it's still the better option if you only stream/broadcast casually, thanks to its affordable price and reliable performance.
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Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he's been an avid fan since childhood. He's been writing for Team WC since the summer of 2017, and you'll find him doing news, editorials, reviews, and general coverage on everything gaming, Xbox, and Windows PC. His favorite game of all time is probably NieR: Automata, though Elden Ring, Fallout: New Vegas, and Team Fortress 2 are in the running, too. When he's not writing or gaming, there's a good chance he's either watching an interesting new movie or TV show or actually going outside for once. Follow him on X (Twitter).