The 5 Best Webcams of 2022 (2023)

Updated on May 12, 2021

A lot of webcams eschew hardware in favor of rudimentary functionality. While high-end specs may be unnecessary for most users, they can certainly come in handy, especially if the addition will only cost you an extra $15 or so. Enter: the Logitech C920. This webcam is every bit a camera, capable of providing HD stills and video for a variety of purposes, making it a versatile webcam for gaming, blogging, conferencing and even creative purposes.

Our testing showed that it shoots and streams in Full HD (1080p) at 30fps (frames per second), records stereo (2-channel) audio, and can capture still images at 15 megapixels. This is comparable to most high-end smartphone cameras. It also features a tripod-ready universal clip that fits to laptops and LCD monitors, a 360-degree swivel base and articulating support.

The Lenovo 500 FHD webcam is an excellent option for PC gamers looking for a reliable way to video chat with friends in party games or apps like Discord and Skype. This webcam records and streams video in full 1080p HD for great picture quality. The lens gives you a 75-degree viewing angle with 360-degrees of pan and tilt controls to perfectly center you in the frame. It features plug-and-play functionality, meaning you can use it straight out of the box without having to install extra drivers or video software. It's compatible with Windows Hello facial recognition software for password-free log-ins to your computer and programs to give you an extra layer of security while you're away from your desk. It also has a privacy shutter to block unwanted spying. The Lenovo 500 FHD webcam has a hinged clip for mounting on your monitor as well as threads for tripod mounting and custom placement options.

If you’re a high-energy business type or active Skype user, but you’re trying to spend as little money as possible on a new webcam, you may want to check out the Logitech C270 instead of the Microsoft LifeCam. Logitech is one of the top brands in webcams, having a hold on most of the top-selling products. But there’s a reason for that: they make quality, dependable webcams. With 720p video calling and recording and a modest design, the C270 is a solid option for any Skype session, Google Hangout or Zoom meeting.

You can snap really basic three-megapixel still images, and it features a built-in noise reduction mic. It does not swivel left or right but it does tilt and articulate vertically.

Razer built their Kiyo streaming webcam from the ground up to meet the demands and needs of Twitch streamers of all levels. This webcam features a built-in ring light with adjustable brightness so you get even, studio quality lighting without cluttering your streaming space with bulky box lights. The camera can record and stream in both 720p and 1080p HD at 30 and 60 fps, respectively, so your video feed always has smooth, clear motion and tons of detail.

The Kiyo is optimized for use with the Streamlabs suite of streaming software and is also compatible with OBS and XSplit. The hinge stand allows you to mount the webcam on either your computer monitor or on a tripod and allows you to customize your streaming setup. The built-in microphone captures your voice for crisp, clear audio during game and Discord chat. The camera features an autofocus function so you don't have to waste time fiddling with settings to get the perfect picture.

The Logitech Brio UHD webcam records and streams video in 4K UHD as well as 1080p and 720p. With HDR support and an autofocus feature, your video clips and streams will have stunning detailing and contrast. With dual omnidirectional microphones, your voice will be recorded and streamed in full stereo no matter where you are at your desk. It's compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS laptops and desktops as well as many video calling apps like Zoom, Skype, and Discord.

This webcam is certified to work with Windows Hello for facial recognition login capabilities. The built-in stand hinge allows you to mount this webcam on your computer monitor or a tripod for expanded placement options. The Brio utilizes Logitech's RightLight 3 software to automatically detect your room's lighting and adjust your picture quality accordingly so you get a consistently great-looking video recording or stream. It also comes with a removable privacy shade for peace of mind when not in use.

Final Verdict

The Logitech C920 is a well-rounded webcam that works for professionals as well as gaming enthusiasts. It streams and records in full 1080p HD for great video quality in almost any app.

FAQ

• Do you need a 4K webcam?

  The short answer is no. While resolution is definitely one of the most important factors in determining image quality via webcam, and a 4K feed is definitely noticeably sharper than even full HD video. That said, 4K can come with some issues that lower resolution cameras do not, like a major increase in bandwidth usage. Also, many of the devices and displays webcam footage is being outputted on (the majority of laptops, for instace), don't support 4K video anyway, so much of the increased fidelity is lost.

• Are external webcams better than laptop cameras?

  External webcams are almost universally higher quality than the built-in cameras that come standard in most laptops. While there are exceptions on both sides, of course, generally once you've used a dedicated webcam, you'll never want to go back to the grungy video most laptop cameras produce.

• How important is frame rate?

  Generally, unless you're engaging in some kind of frenetic activity that involves a tremendous amount of movement/motion, a webcam that supports 30FPS (as nearly all of them do) is sufficient. If you plan to move the camera around a great deal or are trying to capture high-speed activities, consider 60FPS or higher.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

Subscribe