Webcam FAQs
Things to consider when buying a webcam
There are a few key points to consider when shopping for a new webcam. Towards the top of the list should be picture quality, which is made up of resolution, frame rate and extra features like HDR and autofocus. The former should ideally be Full HD, also known as 1080p, and the frame rate should be at least 30 frames per second. Some cameras offer 60fps, which produces smoother motion, but enabling this tends to lower the resolution to 720p, which is regular HD and still acceptable in most cases.
While some webcams now offer 4K resolution, like the Logitech Brio (£145.89, Amazon.co.uk), this often isn’t worth the extra expense as most video chatting and conferencing apps don’t support the higher resolution. In fact, high dynamic range (HDR) is a more valuable feature to have instead of 4K.
You should also pay attention to compatibility, but these days that isn’t much of a hurdle to clear, thanks to many webcams being plug-and-play. This means you simply plug them into a spare USB port (usually USB-A) and they work right away without requiring extra software.
Most good webcams are very easy to connect – a standard USB is all you’ll really need. Some of the higher-performance webcams may require PC drivers to be installed if you’re on Windows, but these should be done automatically. A few of the good streaming or content-creator orientated webcams also have apps and programmes to change colour rendition, exposure, contrast and white-balance.
Next, check how the webcam will attach to your computer monitor, and see if it comes with a miniature tripod or other alternative mounting option for if you want to locate it away from the screen.
Finally, does the webcam have a privacy cover to block the lens when not in use? Some have these as an integrated component, some come with a fairly basic, detachable cover and some miss out entirely. Almost all have a light to show when the camera is active, however.
How much does a good webcam cost?
The good news is, unless you are indeed a streamer, you don’t have to spend a lot on a good webcam, as most budget webcams will suit casual, recreational or business users. You can get a decent setup for less than £30, but if you want 1080p HD and good adaptive low-light performance, we’d suggest spending over £50.
The most expensive and best webcams are north of £100-£150, but the difference is noticeable and if you’re spending your days on professional business calls or streaming, we’d recommend you at least trial these options to spot the difference for yourself.
The verdict: Webcams
Although it’s one of the oldest cameras on the market, we still can’t fault Logitech’s C920 for its all round ability and the fact it can do what most people want out of it for a very reasonable price.
If money was no object then we’d whole-heartedly recommend the impressive visual performance of the Razer kiyo pro. Looking for a 4K option? Try the new teza from Trust – again in our opinion, very good value for money.
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