The vast majority of laptops and monitors today are made with built-in webcams, but their quality leaves much to be desired. If you want to enjoy full-fledged communication with the interlocutor via video communication, hold conferences, record thematic videos (including streaming), then you will need a separate device that will provide fairly decent image quality.
In computer goods stores, a huge assortment of similar products of various price ranges and functionalities is presented. So that you do not get confused in the variety, we decided to make a rating of good quality webcams in 2019. Before proceeding to the analysis of the characteristics of specific models, let's turn to another important question: what exactly should you pay attention to when buying this device?
Summary of the rating:
What points are important when choosing a good quality webcam?
The main function of this equipment is not only to ensure acceptable image quality, but also to send it as quickly as possible over the network. This is carried out as follows: the lens picks up the light reflected from objects and directs it to the photosensitive matrix, where it is converted into an electrical signal. It goes to the video capture board, where it is digitized, and then compressed in a special block. In the future, the central processor of the device processes the resulting frames according to a certain algorithm and outputs from via USB or Ethernet, depending on where the video should go.
It turns out that the matrix is the central element of the equipment, therefore it is primarily paid attention to when buying a device. All modern webcams are equipped with CMOS or CCD matrices. The first option will cost relatively inexpensive, it does not need a large number of system resources of a personal computer, spends energy efficiently, but the picture is of mediocre quality. The second variety provides noise reduction in the image, allows you to achieve the most natural color reproduction, but it will cost much more.
In terms of resolution, everything is quite simple: due to the fact that we need a good picture, in our review we will focus on this parameter, starting from 1080 pixels and above. The sensitivity of the device directly depends on the degree of illumination of the room. If there is a lack of light, this will lead to noise and, as a result, a decrease in image quality. This problem can be solved by the presence of a special LED backlight located around the lens. The image will turn out a little darker than usual, but the clarity of the image will remain the same.
Be sure to pay attention to the number of frames per second - it is best to give preference to models that shoot with a frequency of 25-30 frames. The video will turn out quite smooth and close to natural perception. Many webcams have a built-in microphone, but the quality of sound recording often leaves much to be desired.It will not be superfluous if, along with it, an active noise suppression system is provided, then a voice will be heard on the recording, and not extraneous sounds.
When choosing models for our review, we were guided precisely by the above parameters, but we also took into account several other important points: value for money and user reviews. We tried to include not too expensive models in the rating so that you can choose the best products for yourself at an affordable cost.
Top 10 good quality webcams
10. Defender G-lens 2693
The first device that fell into our rating is equipped with a CMOS matrix, whose resolution is 2 megapixels. Despite this, the picture is very clear, widescreen. Color reproduction is natural. Drivers for the camera can not be installed, but with this solution only limited functionality of the device will be available. If you nevertheless install drivers and download a specialized application for working with this model, then access to a variety of image settings is opened. In particular, it will be possible to change the brightness, contrast, image size, use frames, special effects and so on. The functional side of the product is very wide: automatic exposure setting is provided here, it also independently adjusts the white balance, so the video is completely natural.
Photosensitivity is also adjusted without user intervention. This feature provides good image quality even when working in low light conditions. The focus here is automatic, you do not have to change it when moving in the frame. There is one single physical button on the case - with its help you can take a snapshot. The microphone is built-in, the sound is clear, no wheezing and extraneous noise was found. For detail and sharpness of the image meets the five-layer glass lens.
Benefits:
- Acceptable cost of equipment;
- Quite decent build quality;
- Shooting videos in Full HD;
- Long cable for connecting to a computer;
- The presence of a good microphone;
- There is no need to manually adjust the various settings.
Disadvantages:
- There is no indicator of work;
- Without installing drivers, there is no access to many camera features.
9. G-CUBE GWJ-800
One of the cheapest models in our review, however, this did not in the least prevent this product from shooting videos in Full HD format. It has an original case, which is a ring of various diameters - they can be adapted when installing the camera on a horizontal surface or can be used as clothespins by placing the device on the monitor of a personal computer or laptop. The viewing angle is not too wide - it is only 80 degrees, but it may be quite enough when organizing conferences or ordinary communication with other users. There is a button for photographs on the case, and there is also a built-in microphone. When folded, the device occupies a minimum of free space. The kit comes with a soft cloth bag in which this camera is very convenient to store.
The device operates on the basis of a matrix format CMOS, the resolution of which is 1.3 megapixels. The maximum frame rate here is 30 per second. Using the camera, you can get a photo with a resolution of up to 2560x1920 pixels. It connects to a computer using the standard USB 2.0 interface; there is no need to install drivers. Overall dimensions are 73x26x73 mm. There is a built-in microphone, which in the absence of extraneous noise produces a fairly high-quality sound.
Benefits:
- Very low cost;
- Compact dimensions and light weight;
- You can store in a special bag.
Disadvantages:
- There is no autofocus system and other features that are responsible for the usability of the equipment.
8. Logitech WebCam C925e
The device was created by leading developers of a well-known enterprise engaged in the production of these products. It was originally positioned as a product designed for professional users and videoconferencing. Video recording here is made in Full HD format with a frequency of 30 frames per second. The viewing angle of the lens is 78 degrees, automatic focusing is provided, two microphones working in stereo format. In addition, there is a special shutter, which, if necessary, you can simply close the lens. In the manufacture of this camera, Logitech RightLight 2 technology was used, with its help it is possible to significantly improve image quality if there is insufficient lighting. It is connected as standard - via the USB 2.0 connector.
The dimensions of the webcam are 73x126x45 mm and weighs 170 g. Due to the very sensitive matrix, it is possible to achieve high-definition video recording regardless of the conditions of use. Fastening of increased strength, if desired, it can be adjusted. It is used for both monitor and laptop display. The webcam is capable of working with absolutely any application designed for video conferencing. The warranty period is three years.
Benefits:
- For a webcam, the video recording quality is simply excellent;
- The microphone clarity is pretty decent;
- The lens is closed with a special shutter if necessary;
- The LED lights up only when the camera is used by applications;
- Reliable mounting design;
- Thread for mounting on a tripod.
Disadvantages:
- High price for a device of this type;
- Some users think that the viewing angle is too large.
7. Genius WideCam F100
Quite an interesting model, which comes with not only a standard user manual, warranty card and other documentation, but also a USB extension cable, thanks to which the length of a standard cord for connecting to a computer can immediately increase to 3 meters. The camera is designed in a fairly simple office style, so it will look good, say, in the office of the boss, but it will fit into the home interior with ease. Its format is wide-angle, therefore it is possible to conduct various kinds of video conferences with ease, in addition, more than one person can simultaneously be in the frame. The device is located on a plastic hinge that allows it to rotate around its axis. The mount is a soft clothespin that will not damage the display surface of the laptop or monitor.
Along with the camera is a driver disk, which also has a proprietary utility from the manufacturer. With its help, you can change the number of frames per second and use some more additional features. The camera itself is quite reliable, there are several systems for automatically adjusting the image, so under any conditions it will produce a pretty good quality picture. Due to the fact that the model shoots video in high resolution (HD format), it is desirable to provide your computer with high-speed Internet.
Benefits:
- Strong enough case made of reinforced plastic;
- Very large viewing angles;
- The microphone has a high sensitivity, it conveys even a whisper;
- Decent color rendering quality.
Disadvantages:
- Permission to change will not work.
6. SVEN IC-950 HD
It looks neat and quite compact - this product has no extra parts. A special stand is provided for fixing the product. Focusing in this camera is performed manually, and the ring rotates quite tight, which allows you to set the desired indicator. All fasteners are made of rubberized plastic, so you can not be afraid to damage the monitor. The quality of the photos is quite high. The device is characterized by automatic adjustment of exposure and brightness.When recording video, a resolution of 1280x720 is used, the picture is very clear. For more convenient use of this equipment, the developer has created a special application that can be downloaded from the official website of the company. The program is fully Russified, there you can change almost all the parameters of the camera. You can get rid of even the slightest flicker.
The microphone is characterized by a high level of sensitivity and the presence of an electronic noise reduction system. Drivers for this webcam are not provided - any operating system determines it automatically. The software additionally provides the user with several interesting effects, which allows you to give the picture originality. You can also perform software scaling in the application.
Benefits:
- Easy to use;
- Convenient, fully Russified application;
- Insignificant cost of the device;
- The optimal ratio of price and quality of products;
- Decent frame rate.
Disadvantages:
- Short power cable for connecting to a computer.
5. Ritmix RVC-015
At the very center of the rating of the best good quality webcams was a model that has a standard appearance, there are no unnecessary and unnecessary lotions here - everything is strictly on the case. The recording quality is at a consistently high level, the picture is transmitted over the Internet quite quickly. The case is made of durable plastic with a glossy finish. This device looks very attractive, but here it will accumulate dust and various kinds of pollution like fingerprints. The clothespin is soft, and at the same time quite reliable - there is no need to fear that at the most inopportune moment the camera will fall from its place. The microphone is reliable, a noise suppression system is provided, the interlocutor will hear the voice clearly.
The video quality is acceptable - it corresponds to a resolution of 1280x720 pixels. It works on the basis of a two-megapixel matrix, the refresh rate of the picture is 30 frames per second. High-quality optics, made of glass. The focusing system is automatic - you do not have to adjust the design every time before the start of a conference or video recording. If you install the driver, then the resolution can be increased to 1600x1200 pixels. In the case when the built-in microphone is not enough, then there is a 3.5 mm jack for connecting a microphone. The viewing angle of the lens is 54 degrees.
Benefits:
- Decent picture quality;
- Convenient mounting system;
- Long service life;
- The presence of a jack for connecting a microphone;
- Long USB cable;
- A lot of systems working to improve the image without the knowledge of the user.
Disadvantages:
- If the speed of the Internet is slow, then the picture may be a little late.
4. Logitech BCC950
The device works well with all the latest Windows operating systems, starting with 7, in addition, it can work with macOS version 10.7 and later, and you do not have to install drivers for this. Perfectly suited for use both in office and at home - the camera supports the protocols of all modern messengers, including those responsible for organizing video conferences. In general, the equipment here is quite interesting. The fact is that this is not just a webcam, but a real all-in-one system. In particular, this includes: the webcam with an electric drive itself, devices responsible for providing hands-free calls and allowing for deep and clear transmission and reception of sound. The microphone is omnidirectional, its radius of action is 2.5 meters. There is an analog connector on the case, which allows you to connect also headphones.
The camera is powered by both a personal computer and an ordinary network - for this, a special adapter is supplied with it. The kit also has an extension leg that allows you to position the camera at eye level. The lens here is manufactured using Carl Zeiss Tessar glass optics. There is also a remote control on which all buttons located on the camera body are duplicated.With it, you can control the pan, increase or decrease the volume, turn off the sound altogether, and so on.
Benefits:
- "All-in-one" - the manufacturer managed to combine a high-definition picture and the highest quality sound;
- The presence of a separate omnidirectional microphone, which has the function of active suppression of echo;
- There is a remote control;
- The frame rate is 30 per second at a resolution of 1080 pixels;
- Wide viewing angles;
- Auto focus;
- The presence of an extension leg that allows you to change the height of the camera.
Disadvantages:
- It requires significantly more space than a standard webcam;
- Quite expensive.
3. Logitech Brio
Another product that does not require the installation of drivers, but operates on the principle of plug-n-play. It must be connected to the computer via the USB 3.0 port - in this case, the maximum data transfer speed is ensured. The camera works with Windows operating systems from 7 and above and MacOS from 10.10 and above. The software will have to be downloaded on the official website of the manufacturer. The application is simple, weighs a little, differs in power and functionality of work, is completely Russified. Shooting is carried out in quality from 1080 pixels and above - the maximum resolution reaches 4K. An original feature is provided here - the face recognition function using an infrared sensor. Overall dimensions are small - 102x27x27 mm with a weight of only 63 grams. The manufacturer provides three years of service.
The front panel is closed with a special glass of increased strength, under which all the main elements are located. The mount is soft and flexible enough, but stiffeners are still present. If necessary, the camera can be mounted directly on the table, in its lower part there is a thread for attaching to a tripod, and the manufacturer also has a shutter that covers the lens. The automatic focusing system supports HDR technology, there is still a five-time digital zoom. When a video is being recorded or any other use of the camera, the LED located to the left of the lens lights up.
Benefits:
- Very interesting appearance;
- Compact dimensions and light weight;
- The case is made of metal, so it removes excess heat well;
- A large number of different functions.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive.
2. A4Tech PK-910H
Provides shooting video in Full HD quality, the colors are as realistic as possible, and the sound is clear and clear thanks to the active noise reduction system. The focus is automatic, the camera works well with computers running on the Windows and MacOS platforms, if you need to use it on Linux, you will have to download special drivers. A special LED illumination of the lens is provided, which lights up during the operation of the device. There are no difficulties in the process of using this device - it is easily recognized by any programs, including those intended for conferences. Video is transmitted without distortion with good resolution.
The frame rate is 30 per second - the picture will remain clear even with not the highest Internet speed. Auto focus is very stable. The sharpness is good, as well as the detail, so everything that falls into the lens of the device can be easily viewed. The resolution of the CMOS matrix is 2 megapixels - it is quite enough for calls on Skype and for other similar programs. The case is plastic, it looks pretty stylish, the mount is reliable, made of rubberized plastic. Connects to a computer via a USB 2.0 port.
Benefits:
- Auto focus;
- Good sharpness;
- Reasonable cost;
- The presence of lens illumination during operation;
- Good picture and sound quality.
Disadvantages:
- Effects are poorly thought out.
1. Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920
As a leader, we decided to identify another model from this manufacturer, which from the very moment of its appearance on the market was positioned as a professional device. This is evidenced even by the appearance of the products - the case lines are restrained, the camera is made of high quality materials, has a black color. The bevels of the microphone ears have undergone minor changes compared to the previous model. The element responsible for mounting to the monitor is made completely matte. The hardware itself has a decent size and a fundamentally new design. It is located on very tight hinges, so the camera alone will not be able to move out of the monitor. Naturally, there is a connector for attaching to a standard tripod.
It connects to a PC using the standard USB 3.0 port, and the cable is quite long. The camera is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which has auto focus with twenty positions. Two LEDs are located on the sides, and their work can be turned off in the camera settings. Video is recorded in 1080 pixels at a frequency of 30 frames per second, and at the same time it is possible to record and to communicate using any of the instant messengers. The video sequence is smooth, no jerks were noticed, the colors are saturated, and the image is quite clear. The sound is impressive for similar products. This webcam is capable of taking photos, the resolution of which can reach 15 megapixels. The device has a function of automatic anti-flicker, which will be very useful in low light conditions.
Benefits:
- Attractive appearance;
- Superior build quality
- Autofocus is instantly triggered;
- Pretty sensitive microphone.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
In conclusion, a useful video
We have come to the end of our review. Before saying goodbye, I would like to express the hope that you were able to choose the most suitable product for yourself. If you have doubts about a particular model, then feel free to ask your questions in the comments to this article. We will try to respond to them as soon as possible and provide you with all the necessary information.