Whether you’re in the office or at home, owning a reliable webcam is vital. Webcams allow you to instantaneously connect with anyone, anywhere, anytime. They give you the means to remotely film and participate in important business meetings, training sessions, and webinars. Webcams are also essential if you want to record professional-quality videos for YouTube or other streaming sites.
If your current webcam is in dire need of replacing, or you’re on the hunt for your very first one, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind. To help you find the ideal webcam for your particular needs, we scoured the web to find the very best ones on the market. We reviewed dozens of options and considered a range of factors including the quality of their resolution, lens, and microphone, as well as Amazon reviews.
Upon careful evaluation, we determined the Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam to be the best webcam overall. It boasts all the impressive specs you could hope for in a webcam, including full 1080p high definition and automatic light correction. If you’re ready to discover more about this eye-catching product, as well as our other top picks, take a read of our comprehensive guide below.
The 5 Top-Rated Webcams
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Webcam Overall | Logitech C920 1080p HD Pro Webcam | 4.4 |
| Best Webcam With a Dual Microphone | FUVISION Webcam with Microphone 1080p Stream Webcam | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Webcam | Xinidc Full 1080p HD Webcam Built-in Microphone Camera | 4.1 |
| Best Webcam With 360° Rotation | Nertpow 1080p NP HD Mini USB Webcam | 4.0 |
| Best Webcam for Video Conferences | Logitech Conference Cam BCC950 1080p Video Conference Webcam | 4.2 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Webcam Overall: Logitech C920 1080p USB HD Pro Webcam
If you’re looking for a webcam that excels in every way, the Logitech C920 1080p HD Pro Webcam is your best bet. Offering full HD 1080p video calling, full HD true-to-life video recording, and H.264 video compression, this webcam is designed for consistently flawless video experiences.
The built-in dual stereo microphones with automatic noise reduction will also ensure you won’t encounter any pesky audio difficulties. Other highlights of this fantastic webcam include its automatic low light correction and five-element glass lens. Another great feature is how versatile it is: it can just as easily be propped on a tripod as it can be clipped to your laptop, LCD screen, or monitor.
If you’re thinking all of these features sound too good to be true, perhaps you’ll be reassured by the fact hundreds of customers have given the Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. They’ve been eager to show their praise of it, leaving feedback about its amazing auto-focus, easy to tilt camera, robustness, and incredible picture and audio quality.
Logitech C920 1080p HD Pro Webcam Key Features:
- Full 1080p high definition video calling
- Full HD video recording
- Built-in dual stereo mics with automatic noise reduction
- Compatible with Windows® 7 and above
Best Webcam With a Dual Microphone: FUVISION Webcam with Microphone 1080p Stream Webcam
One non-negotiable feature every webcam should have is a high-quality microphone, like the one the FUVISION Webcam with Microphone 1080p Stream Webcam boasts. After all, if you’re finding it difficult to clearly hear other people on a call and/or they’re having trouble hearing you, you will quickly run into a number of problems. Not only will it make you look unprofessional during the call, but you’ll also need to find a way to catch up on all the information you missed after it.
That’s why FUVISION’s built-in unidirectional dual microphone is so impressive. It offers crystal clear sound for up to 32 feet away and no-drop audio, so you won’t need to worry about any untimely sound-related difficulties mid-call. In addition to its excellent sound quality, this webcam offers recording, streaming, and calling at full 1080p HD. Other notable features include its 90° field of view, auto-focus, and low light correction.
FUVISION Webcam with Microphone 1080p Stream Webcam Key Features:
- Full HD video in 1920 x 1080
- USB Video Class (UVC) webcam
- Frame rate up to 30fps
- Built-in dual stereo microphone
Best Budget Webcam: Xinidc Full 1080p HD Webcam Built-in Microphone Camera
We know that you’re probably thinking, “A webcam under $50 can’t be very good, can it?” We’re here to tell you that the Xinidc Full 1080P HD Webcam Built-in Microphone Camera offers far greater specs than its low price would have you believe.
First of all, consider the fact that it is a high-definition 1920×1080, high-resolution 2-megapixel webcam with a 1/3” CMOS image sensor. It also comes with built-in stereo microphones and automatic low light correction. If that wasn’t enough, the webcam’s 75°-90° wide-angle view with no optical distortion works to ensure all participants are captured in the frame, without the need to constantly move your camera. If you’re in need of one more reason to give this webcam a go, it’s worth keeping in mind that Xinidc offers a free warranty to ensure any issues are quickly resolved.
Xinidc Full 1080p HD Webcam Built-in Microphone Camera Key Features:
- High-definition 1920×1080 high resolution
- 75°-90° wide-angle view
- 90° adjustable clip for multi-angels placement
- Free warranty
Best Webcam With 360° Rotation: Nertpow 1080p NP HD Mini USB Webcam
The Nertpow 1080p NP HD Mini USB Webcam is another inexpensive webcam that has some seriously eye-catching features. One of the most notable is its highly-flexible camera head, which not only offers 360° rotation but also 180° up and down movement. This means you can adjust the camera to precisely the right angle so you’re perfectly in frame, wherever you are.
Other features you’ll be interested to learn about this HD 1080p webcam include its noise-canceling technology and sound reach of 8 meters. If you’re anything like us, you’ll also appreciate how straightforward this webcam is to set up. Forget about installing any drivers; you just need to plug it into your computer with the USB cord to get it up and running.
Nertpow 1080p NP HD Mini USB Webcam Key Features:
- High-resolution HD PC MOS sensor
- Simple plug and play
- 360° adjustable camera head
- Automatic white and color balance correction
Best Webcam for Video Conferences: Logitech Conference Cam BCC950 1080p Video Conference Webcam
There’s no room for error when it comes to video conferences. Anything less than stellar audio or visual performance can adversely impact how your participants receive a video conference. That’s why it’s worth investing in a webcam that’s designed to deliver pristine video conferences: the Logitech Conference Cam BCC950 1080p Video Conference Webcam.
Logitech’s webcam offers 1080p full HD video quality as well as stunning, razor-sharp visuals via its world-class Carl Zeiss optics. Its built-in, full-duplex speakerphone and noise-canceling microphone with a frequency response of 200Hz – 8KHz will also prove to be a welcome feature. So will its 78° field of view and 180° remote-controlled video pan. And finally, we’d be remiss to not mention its easy-to-use remote control and base button control options. You’ll be able to use either of them to manage all of the fundamental components of a professional-looking conference call, from panning and tilting, to zooming and controlling the volume.
Logitech Conference Cam BCC950 1080p Video Conference Webcam Key Features:
- 1080p full HD video quality
- Carl Zeiss optics
- 78° field of view
- 180° remote-controlled video pan
Who Should Buy a Webcam
In an age where an increasing number of people are working from home or remote working, it’s vital to have the tools to make the process of staying connected with colleagues, clients, and other professionals as smooth as possible. A high-quality webcam makes video calling and video conferencing a breeze. Simply set it up on your computer monitor or prop it up on a stand, and the webcam will ensure that you, as well as anyone else on the call, experiences optimal visuals and sound.
You may also wish to use a webcam to stay connected with family and friends. Video calling is a fantastic way to keep in contact with family and friends you can’t physically meet for whatever reason. A webcam is also a must if you wish to start filming videos for YouTube, Twitch, or any other site.
The reason a webcam is a worthwhile investment is that the image and sound quality offered by a webcam can simply not be paralleled by a laptop/computer camera. Using your laptop/computer camera can make your image appear grainy, dull, unfocused. What’s more, as the sound quality is usually quite poor in these cameras, the sound quality may sound distant and/or static-filled. This can not only be frustrating, but it can also make you appear unprofessional. Fortunately, you can avoid these issues simply by using a high-quality webcam.
Important Features to Consider
Not all webcams are created equal. They should have a few important features as standard. Here’s what to consider when trying to select between different webcams:
- Visuals. The visual experience offered from webcam to webcam can vary dramatically. To ensure you’re happy with the ones your chosen webcam offers, be sure to take careful note of the specs of each option. Your best bet is to look for webcams with high-definition and high-resolution specs like 1080p.
- Field of view. If you’re after a camera that will capture a wider frame, be on the lookout for each camera’s field of view specs. The greater the field of view offered (quantified in degrees), the greater span in a single frame.
- Ease-of-use. A webcam that’s difficult to set up and get running can be a huge headache. It’s well worth looking for options that offer simple and quick setup. For this, we suggest taking a read of customer reviews, as customers will usually point out their experiences in this regard—both good and bad.
- Sound quality. Many buyers forget to consider sound quality when shopping around for a webcam. This is unfortunate given that a webcam with great visuals but poor sound quality will result in a frustrating user experience for you as well as anyone else on the call. Look for options that provide excellent sound quality and sound reach with high-quality built-in speakers.
- Rotation range. Webcams offer different rotation ranges for you to choose from. Those with a greater rotation range will be easier for you to adjust and get the angle just right. If you’re looking for a camera with a maximum rotation range, look for options that offer 360° rotation and 180° up and down movement.
- Price. Generally speaking, the more you pay the more functions and features you’ll be able to take advantage of. However, budget buyers don’t need to miss out; there are plenty of excellent budget options that we’ve highlighted throughout this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a webcam on a computer?
A webcam on a computer is a high-quality video camera that is specially made for shooting real-time videos via your laptop or computer. This device is usually small in size and is connected directly to your computer or laptop. It can be attached to your monitor or propped up on your desk beside it. It must be bought separately from your laptop or computer.
While some people may refer to the cameras that come built-into a computer or laptop as ‘webcams,’ these should technically be referred to as ‘computer/laptop cameras.’ N.B. Some computer or laptop camera companies may refer to such cameras as ’embedded webcams.’
What are the advantages of a webcam?
Webcams boast a number of advantages over a computer/laptop camera. They are able to offer greater-quality videos because of the higher quality of their components as well as their more advanced design. For example, a laptop doesn’t have room to fit a multi-lens stack, but most webcams do. Other qualities a webcam has over a computer/laptop camera include greater sound quality, light sensitivity, focal length, field of view, and heat dispersion.
Are webcams better than laptop camera?
If you have a laptop camera, you may be wondering why you should spend more money on buying a webcam? The short answer is webcams offer greater picture quality, functionality, and usability. As a separate device, there are no limitations on the features and functions it can offer. After all, webcams are built to provide you with the best video experience possible.
If you’re wondering, “Why can’t a laptop camera offer this as well?” think about the fact that the lens in your laptop is tiny. It is consequently extremely limited in its capacity to offer the high-level specs and features a webcam can. Laptop cameras may be fine for very casual use, but the fact of the matter is that they’re not built for high-quality videos or to support professional-level filming.
How do I know if I have a built-in webcam?
If you want to test out your computer or laptop’s built-in webcam (a.k.a. your computer/laptop camera) before deciding whether or not to buy a webcam, you will need to locate it first. Usually, you can tell by looking for a small, round camera lens located in the top-middle of your monitor.
To confirm that it is indeed installed on your computer, follow these steps: Open your computer/laptop’s ‘Control Panel’ > Open ‘Hardware and Sound’ > Locate the ‘Devices and Printers’ menu. A button/file representing a camera should appear there. You may be also able to confirm if you have a built-in webcam by typing ‘Webcam’ or ‘Camera’ into your computer/laptop’s ‘search box.’
If you suspect your camera may be disabled (because you can see the lens but cannot find it installed using the steps above), follow these steps: Open your computer/laptop’s ‘Control Panel’ or ‘search box.’ > Search for ‘Device Manager’ > Locate the camera icon/file> Check to see if it says it is disabled or enabled. If it’s disabled, you will be able to enable it there.
Other Webcams We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other webcams as well. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best webcams list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Budget Webcams
With a 4-megapixel CMOS Sensor that at features up to a 2560 x 1440 QuadHD resolution, this webcam makes capturing professional-grade videos a piece of cake.
Key Features:
- Dual microphone
- Up to a 2560 x 1440 QuadHD resolution
- Automatic low light correction
Price: $35
Once you learn of how many features Walfront has packed into this 1080p webcam, you’ll no doubt find it hard to believe it’s just $33. Features that may seal the deal include its automatic low light correction, 95° wide angle view, and 360° horizontal rotating base.
Key Features:
- 95° wide-angle view
- Facial-beautifying effect
- 360° horizontal rotating base
Price: $33
This nifty, multi-system compatible webcam captures 30 frames per second with captures full HD video at a wide-angle view of up to 110°.
Key Features:
- 30 frames per second
- 110° wide-angle view
- Plug and play
Price: $35
This high-definition webcam has knocked the socks off of countless customers. Read the customer reviews and you’ll see that customers have been seriously impressed by its easy setup, stellar video quality, and the fact that it comes complete with a tripod.
Key Features:
- Facial-enhancement technology
- Automatic low-light Correction
- Tripod included
Price: $40
If distracting background noise has been an issue you’ve encountered with past webcams, you’ll love that this one from FRIEET features a built-in dual noise reduction and sound-absorbing microphone which offers crystal clear audio within 18 feet.
Key Features:
- Dual noise reduction and sound-absorbing microphone
- Clear audio within 18 feet
- 90° wide-angle view
Price: $35
Mid-Range Webcams
The Amcrest 1080p Webcam promises to provide sharp and clear videos. Its most noteworthy features include its 70° wide-angle view, zero optical distortion, and a built-in dual noise-reducing microphone.
Key Features:
- 70° wide-angle view
- USB 2.0 plug & play
- Built-in dual noise-reducing microphone
Price: $50
Perfect for anyone whose video usage isn’t too demanding, this affordably-priced option offers a host of handy features such as a wide-angle lens, manual focus, and light correction.
Key Features:
- Manual focus
- Light correction
- Wide-angle lens
Price: $49
How does a full HD 1080p webcam with 360° rotation, 110° wide-angle view, easy setup, and a built-in dual noise-reducing microphone sound? That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Peteme 1080p HD Webcam.
Key Features:
- 110° wide-angle view
- Dual noise-reducing microphone
- 360° rotation
Price: $46
This high-definition 1080p 2-megapixel webcam from AUKEY is no doubt a crowd favorite—it boasts an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from over 2000 reviews. Customers love the fact that it offers high picture quality, a sophisticated microphone, and easy mounting for a very reasonable price.
Key Features:
- High-definition 1080p
- 2-megapixel photos
- Money-back guarantee
Price: $55
Over 1500 customers have given this option an average rating of 4.3 for good reason. In addition to its unique 5-layer glass lens, it boasts 30 frames per second and automatic low-light correction.
Key Features:
- 5-layer glass lens
- 30 frames per second
- Built-in microphone
Price: $70
Another eye-catching webcam with a built-in privacy cover is the VSILE 1080p Webcam. Thanks to its drive-free plug and play, you won’t need to worry about fumbling around trying to set it up. We additionally appreciate its universal tripod-clip and 110° wide view angle view.
Key Features:
- Drive-free plug and play
- 110° wide view angle view
- Universal tripod-clip
Price: $50
Sometimes, you just want to track down a product that works reliably without a fuss. In the world of webcams, that describes the Castries 1080p Webcam to a tee. Its automatic light correction, streamlined design, and simple setup make it a safe choice if you want to ensure your money will be well spent.
Key Features:
- Automatic light correction
- Easy-to-use
- Smooth live streaming
Price: $70
If privacy is a concern for you, but you don’t want to compromise on quality, this is a fantastic choice. NexiGo’s webcam is a fantastic choice. It not only features 2-megapixel CMOS image sensor and a built-in microphone, but also an easy-to-use privacy cover that will also protect the camera’s lens from dust.
Key Features:
- 2-megapixel CMOS image sensor
- Comes with a privacy cover
- 6.5’ USB cord
Price: $59
A 6-layer glass lens, dual noise-reducing microphone, and 180° adjustable base are just a handful of features you can look forward to with the EACH 1080p HD Webcam.
Key Features:
- 180° adjustable base
- 6-layer glass lens
- Automatic low-light correction
Price: $43
High-End Webcams
The world’s first intelligent video conferencing camera, the Jabra PanaCast is built to guarantee hitch-free video conferring. It lives up to the hype as the world’s first intelligent video conferencing camera, by offering three 13 MP cameras, 4K video capture resolution, 180° coverage, as well as real-time video stitching.
Key Features:
- 3x 13 MP cameras
- 180° coverage
- 4K video capture resolution
Price: $597
This 4K ultra high-def webcam boasts state-of-the-art low-light performance, 5x digital zoom, as well as secure facial recognition for Windows Hello.
Key Features:
- 5x digital zoom
- Secure facial recognition
- High frame rates
Price: $280
A winner of the Tom’s Guide Innovation Award, the Razer Kiyo is loved by critics and customers alike. It’s uniquely designed with a flattering ring light with adjustable lighting levels to banish harsh shadows once and for all.
Key Features:
- Ring light with adjustable lighting levels
- Maintains visual fidelity during streaming
- Award-winning
Price: $179
Microsoft LifeCam Studio 1080p HD Webcam
This webcam was designed to provide more natural, detailed audio. In addition to its high-precision glass lens optics, it automatically delivers bright and colorful video thanks to its unique
TrueColor Technology.
Key Features:
- High-precision glass lens optics
- TrueColor Technology
- High-fidelity microphone
Price: $187
Marantz Professional Turret 1080p HD Webcam
This freestanding broadcasting system, which features a full HD webcam, will be sure to exceed your expectations. It features a high-quality USB condenser microphone that captures audio at a studio-grade 48kHz / 16-Bit resolution, a dimmable LED light ring, and H.264 video compression.
Key Features:
- Freestanding broadcasting system
- H.264 video compression
- USB condenser microphone
Price: $299
One final high-end webcam we believe is well-worth considering is Lansen’s 1080P HD Webcam. Whether you’re filming a video or conducting a web conference, you can take advantage of its crisp images at 30 frames per second, dual noise-reducing microphone, and 110° wide-angle view.
Key Features:
- 30 frames per second
- Dual noise-reducing microphone
- 110° wide-angle view
Price: $170
