Subscribe to our VK community!
Such a tool as a webcam has been known to users of personal computers for more than a dozen years. Quite a long time ago, laptops equipped with a built-in camera of this type appeared on sale. With its help, you can make video calls, communicate live with people who are at a great distance. However, not everyone knows how to choose the right product. In our review of the best webcams of the year, we will try to fill this gap, as well as talk about the useful features of the most famous models.
What do you pay attention to when buying a webcam?
As in the case of an ordinary photo or video camera, when working with this device, one of the key roles is played by the quality of the picture, which is directly affected by the resolution of the matrix. For home communication, CMOS-matrix equipment will be optimal. It is not very expensive, but at the same time it is able to provide a fairly clear picture. For professional purposes, a camera with a CCD matrix will be suitable. With it, you can get an image in HD or 4K. The latter type should be preferred if it is necessary for corporate communication, remote presentations, and so on.
Dimensions and resolution of the product are also very important. The higher the resolution of the model, the less graininess will be noticeable, thanks to which it will be possible to achieve a detailed image. However, with a low Internet connection speed, you should not purchase a camera with a very high resolution, since the channel simply will not be able to cope with a significant data transfer rate.
The high level of camera sensitivity allows you to comfortably work with this product even in low light conditions. Be sure to pay attention to such a parameter as fps or the number of frames per second. To ensure the continuity of the image, it will be enough to purchase products that produce 30 frames per second — almost all modern cameras have this parameter, but you can find products on sale that have a frequency of 40 frames per second or even more. They will cost much more, but the picture quality will be at a very high level.
It is desirable that the webcam be equipped with an auto focus system, that is, it will independently calculate the distance to the object — this ensures good picture clarity. Almost all modern cameras are connected to a personal computer via a USB connector. You need to see how long the cable is, so that it is enough for it to reach the system unit. On sale you can find wireless products based on Bluetooth or Wi-Fi modules.
Modern webcams in 2022 have a huge variety of additional features. In addition to the classic creation of photos, devices may have the option of shooting video, editing information if necessary. The most expensive models have the function of electronic control of contrast, brightness, frame rate adjustment and color gamut correction. On sale there are models that have a motion sensor, which allows them to be used even for video surveillance.
When choosing models to include in our ranking of the best webcams, we were guided by all the principles analyzed above. However, user reviews and the value for money of products were also taken into account. We tried to include not very expensive models in our review so that each of our readers could afford them. Now is the time to consider the specific performance of the selected products.
Best webcam models
10. CBR CW 832M
The equipment is a fairly simple device, characterized by small overall dimensions and weight. This camera belongs to the Color Edition series, so it will look great on the desktop, complementing it and giving an accent of elegance and style. The case is made of high-quality plastic, there are no backlashes, the assembly does not cause any complaints from users. The device is equipped with a built-in microphone with an automatic background noise suppression system, so it is convenient to communicate through this camera even without using a headset. If necessary, the products can be used even during video conferences. For communication via Skype or other messengers that support calls using video, this product is just perfect.
The versatility of the mount allows you to install the camera on the body of a monitor or laptop without fear that it will fall or move out at the most inopportune moment. Image resolution is automatically adjusted by the camera and directly depends on the speed of the Internet. It can reach a maximum of 5 megapixels or 2560×2048 pixels, before being sent to the interlocutor, the video goes through software processing. The level of clarity is regulated by four lenses made of glass. The focus here is manual. No additional software installation is required.
Advantages:
- More than acceptable cost;
- High image quality;
- Pretty natural color reproduction;
- Decent write speed;
- Built-in microphone with the ability to cut off unnecessary noise.
Disadvantages:
- Use in direct sunlight without a special darkening lens creates some visual problems.
CBR CW 832M
9. SVEN IC-300
The design has small overall dimensions, it looks very neat, there are no extra elements here. The camera is able to work with any operating systems. It will be almost invisible in the workplace. Such a camera was developed by Scandinavian engineers, who have been manufacturing various computer peripherals for quite some time. The products are assembled in China. The average service life of the camera, depending on the intensity of use, is about 2 years, and the camera is under warranty for half of this period. The fastening system is universal — it can be fixed both on thick and rather thin edges. No additional programs need to be installed. Focusing products is manual, so before starting a conversation, you will have to adjust it in such a way that the interlocutor can clearly see the person with whom he is communicating.
The length of the cable for connecting to a personal computer is about one and a half meters — quite enough for comfortable work with the device. The video format here is 640×480 pixels, it does not reach Full HD resolution, but this parameter is quite enough for home use. There is a built-in microphone, as well as a CMOS matrix with a resolution of 0.3 megapixels. All operating parameters can be easily adjusted.
Advantages:
- Attractive appearance;
- Does not require installation of any kind of driver;
- Built-in microphone for good speech clarity.
Disadvantages:
- Focusing will have to be adjusted manually;
- Image quality is not professional.
SVEN IC-300
8. RITMIX RVC-015
The model has decent viewing angles — about 55 degrees. Focusing here is manual, starting from 5 cm. The microphone is built-in, the cable connecting the camera and the personal computer is quite long and works on the basis of the USB 2.0 interface. A universal clip is provided that allows you to fix the device even on the roof of a laptop. No drivers are required and there is no proprietary software, which makes the use of this camera very convenient. The image is a little late in some cases. The maximum optical resolution of this model is 1600×1200 pixels at a frame rate of no more than 30 per second. This camera can record movies in .avi format and take still pictures in .jpg.
This is a fairly compact design, characterized by affordable cost, widescreen model. The camera operates on the basis of a CMOS sensor, so the image detail is quite good. The maximum interpolation of images can reach 24 megapixels. The design is stylish and quite bright, although not very catchy — in the workplace the camera will not catch the eye. The case has a special mechanism that allows you to adjust and fix the desired angle of inclination. The microphone here is distinguished by excellent sensitivity, has a reliable system for suppressing extraneous noise.
Advantages:
- Very convenient fastening;
- original appearance;
- Convenient to use;
- Acceptable cost;
- Does not need to install drivers and software.
Disadvantages:
- There may be a slight delay in the picture during a video call, but this may be due to the quality of the Internet signal.
RITMIX RVC-015
7. CANYON CNE-CWC1
The device is excellent for daily use. It is characterized by a fairly simple design, advanced functionality and excellent quality at a very affordable cost of the device. The camera is based on a CMOS matrix with a maximum resolution of 1.3 megapixels. Using this equipment, you can take pictures with a resolution of up to 1600×1200 pixels or videos of 640×480 pixels. The highest frame rate here is 30 per second. If necessary, the camera can be rotated around its axis, there is a special button on the body to take pictures. Like most modern cameras, this model is equipped with a built-in microphone with a fairly high level of sensitivity and the ability to suppress extraneous noise.
It is worth noting that the manufacturer gives a very long warranty for its products — 24 months, the camera itself weighs only 65 grams. Its body is made of high-quality plastic, all rotary elements are reliable, the fasteners do not cause any complaints. At the same time, the camera has its own built-in driver, which will automatically start installing the first time the device is connected to a working personal computer or laptop. The color rendition is quite natural, the colors are not distorted. When transmitting video over the Internet, even with an average or low connection speed, the device does not reduce the quality of the picture, but compresses it, making it easier.
Advantages:
- The noise reduction function in the camera microphone shows itself very well;
- Natural color reproduction, no distortion was noticed;
- Universal fixation;
- Ability to rotate 360 degrees;
- Video is recorded or broadcast at up to 30 frames per second;
- Very high quality build.
Disadvantages:
- Periodically, you have to manually correct the focus.
CANYON CNE-CWC1
6Genius Facecam 1000X
Another product from a well-known Chinese developer who has been producing and selling peripheral products for personal computers for quite a few years now. The overall dimensions of the model are 6x2x2 cm, it connects to a personal computer via a USB 2.0 connector, the cable length is almost one and a half meters. The mount here is also universal — it is a clip that will expand almost effortlessly to the required amount, but is fixed on the base very securely, there is not the slightest chance that it will suddenly come off at the most unfortunate moment. An important advantage of this camera is the presence of auto focus — the device will independently determine the distance to the object and adjust to it so that it looks as clear as possible in the frame.
The picture quality is quite acceptable, the sound is simply wonderful — very clear, does not disappear or lag, while there is a very high quality noise reduction system. The maximum video resolution is 720p, which corresponds to such a popular format as HD. The camera allows you to provide a very clear and comfortable image. It is equipped with a digital zoom system, and it will have to be controlled completely in manual mode. Video is recorded in .avi or .wmv formats. The camera has a warranty period of 1 year.
Advantages:
- Pretty acceptable resolution;
- It behaves well even in low light conditions;
- Reliable built-in microphone;
- When photographing, noise is also not observed;
- Pretty solid mount.
Disadvantages:
- Many users talk about a weak zoom — the increase could be made more than three times.
Genius Facecam 1000X
5. A4TECH PK-910H
Quite worthy products from a company that became famous mainly for its computer mice. The camera is made quite neatly, looks attractive, while it is able to record and send video in 1080p, which is fully consistent with the very popular and widespread today Full HD. The reproduction of colors is quite natural, they will not be distorted under any circumstances. There is a built-in digital microphone with active automatic noise reduction. The camera is fully compatible with all computers, regardless of whether they are based on Linux, Windows or MacOS. There is no need to install drivers yourself. The system itself will be able to determine the camera and do whatever it takes. The camera has an original bluish backlight, which turns on during its operation. This does not affect the functionality at all, but it gives the device additional style.
The camera works at 30 frames per second, however, with a higher Internet speed, this parameter will automatically increase. When recording videos, the user can independently choose the most suitable resolution, color space, sound format and many other parameters to get a better and more attractive picture.
Advantages:
- The presence of automatic focus;
- Real HD format;
- Acceptable cost;
- Good image quality both when making video calls and when recording videos;
- Has original lighting.
Disadvantages:
- Moving the camera too fast can cause the picture to blur.
A4TECH PK-910H
4.Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
By itself, this camera has been on the market for several years, but despite this, it still continues to be included in various reviews. The fact is that this model has very high characteristics declared by the manufacturer, and they fully correspond to the declared ones. Installing and mounting the camera takes very little time — the device, if necessary, is attached to a monitor of any kind. The camera itself finds and installs all the necessary drivers. Literally ten minutes after the first connection, the device is completely ready for use. In the area of the functional part, the equipment does not cause any complaints from users. The only problem is with adapting to the current room lighting, as this takes some time.
Picture and sound quality is quite acceptable — both during battery life and when making video calls. The resolution during the creation of a photo can be changed — from 0.1 megapixels to 0.9 megapixels. The device has a special timer — shooting both photos and videos will start with a delay of 3 seconds, and nothing can be done about it. The camera is equipped with a huge number of built-in effects that will help add extra fun to the conversation.
Advantages:
- It has a very high resolution for a webcam — 1280×720 pixels;
- It is placed in the case from shock-resistant plastic;
- The microphone automatically eliminates almost all noise and interference;
- Focus and white balance can be adjusted manually even during a call;
- Universal mount — suitable for any monitor or laptop;
- The blue LED indicator on the front panel will indicate the operating mode of the camera.
Disadvantages:
- Delay the start of shooting by 3 seconds.
Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
3. Defender G-Lens 2597 HD720P
In third place in our ranking of the best webcams is one very interesting model. First of all, it is impossible not to note the appearance of the product. The case here is plastic, has a peculiar shape, its corners are rounded. The peephole is located strictly in the center. To the right of it is a microphone, covered with a special metal grille. On the left, there is also a lattice, but it is made solely for symmetry. The camera mount is universal, so it is very convenient to install it on a laptop display, to fix it on a personal computer monitor, and if necessary, you can simply put it on the table. Between the camera and the stand there is a special hinge, due to which you can direct the camera anywhere. The length of the USB cable is almost one and a half meters.
The picture is focused and adjusted independently depending on the level of lighting in the room, but this can also be done in manual mode. Auto focus occurs not only when changing the distance for the subject and in case there is a sudden change in lighting. However, this takes some time — about 5-6 seconds. The camera may become slightly warm during this process. The standard resolution here is quite high — 2560×2058, only in this case the camera will shoot at a frequency of 5 frames per second. For 30 frames, you will have to use a smaller resolution — 1280×720 pixels, which also allows you to provide decent picture clarity.
Advantages:
- If necessary, you can use digital image magnification by 10 times;
- There is a face tracking function, which is very convenient when conducting a video conference;
- The button for taking a photo is located directly on the camera and works almost instantly;
- Universal mount allows you to place the camera on absolutely any surface.
Disadvantages:
- The sound quality is very mediocre;
- With frequent focusing, the camera will decently heat up.
Defender G-Lens 2597 HD720P
2. HP Webcam HD 4310
The design is distinguished by miniature overall dimensions, the body is entirely made of black plastic. The front of the panel has a glossy finish with a grayish edging, all other sides are made of plastic with a matte finish. On the sides are microphones that are hidden under small metal meshes. The camera lens is located strictly in the center. This model is based on a CMOS type matrix, as well as a camera with a maximum resolution of 2 megapixels and autofocus. It allows you to shoot in Full HD 1080p at 30 frames per second. Along with this, HP Truevision technology was also used, with the help of which the camera will automatically adjust to the existing lighting conditions in the room.
There are three buttons on the camera body at once — for recording video, for taking pictures and for accessing the chat. The camera is attached to the stand using a hinge. It can rotate 360 degrees around its axis, if necessary, it can be tilted back or forward. There are rubber pads on the contact elements of the stand, which do not allow slipping after the installation is completed. You can deal with this camera very quickly — it will take no more than five minutes. It is worth noting that on the left side of the device there is an LED indicator that will inform you about the active operation of the device. It does not burn too brightly, but the user will be able to notice.
Advantages:
- Excellent sound and picture quality;
- Drivers are installed automatically, updated if necessary;
- Acceptable cost;
- Auto focus functions correctly;
- There is a built-in microphone.
Disadvantages:
- In low light conditions, some graininess of the picture may be noticeable.
HP Webcam HD 4310
1. Logitech HD WebCam C270
Here we have reached the top of our review, where we can see another not too expensive model, developed by recognized world leaders in the field of webcam design and manufacture. Logitech Fluid Crystal technology was used to release products, thanks to which it is possible to achieve the smoothest video sequence, provide natural color reproduction and sound that is not distorted even in the presence of a lot of noise. Video calls are made at a resolution of 1280×720 pixels, and the resolution of photos can reach 3 megapixels. The camera has automatic light support. Despite the low resolution, all images go through software processing. Although here the connection is made via a USB 2.0 socket, however, there is compatibility with the latest generation connector.
Universal mount provided. The camera is compatible with any operating system. The front side of the case is made of high-quality dark gray plastic with a glossy finish, all other parts of the case are made of black matte plastic. The microphone is also located on the front panel. There is a motion sensor that works almost instantly — as soon as it detects a moving object, recording starts. The camera does not need to install drivers, although the disk with them is still included. According to users, with camera drivers, the colors of the camera are clearer and brighter.
Advantages:
- Very high image definition;
- Good quality microphone, which removes almost all extraneous noise;
- Long wire for connecting the camera and a personal computer;
- Long period of operation;
- Easy to enjoy;
- Quite reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- This camera was not found.
Logitech HD Webcam C270
In conclusion, a useful video
Our review of the best webcams that can only be found on the Russian computer market is over. As you can see, not a single rather expensive model is included here — only relatively budget products. We have tried to collect as much information as possible for each device so that you can choose the best model for yourself. If you still have certain questions about any of the devices, write to us in the comments. We will promptly respond to your entry and provide you with all the necessary information.