What to look for in a webcam

When evaluating a webcam, there are at least eight core criteria to consider—but they’re not always explained in plain English on the box. Here, we break down the key terms.

Product specs

These are the four parameters that define every webcam. But what do they mean—and do higher numbers always mean a better camera? We have answers.

• Resolution: The number of megapixels (or millions of pixels) in each webcam video frame. Higher-res cameras take more detailed, sharp stills, even on big screens. Common resolutions include Full HD or 1080p (2 megapixels), 2K (4 megapixels), and 4K (8+ megapixels). 
• Frame rate: This is the maximum number of frames your webcam can capture per second. The higher the frame rate, the more fluidly the camera captures motion.
• Field of view (FOV): This angle tells you how much area your webcam can capture—the higher the number, the wider the area it can film. A 60-degree FOV films one person nicely; a 90-degree FOV works better for capturing a group.
• Lens material: Plastic and glass are the two most common materials for webcam lenses. Glass lenses make for clearer images, but plastic is less expensive. 

Special features

Not every webcam will have these features—so if anything on this list is important to you, double-check that it’s in the camera you’re eyeing.

• Built-in microphone: Some webcams have built-in microphones. For the highest quality audio, you may also want a jack for an external mic.
• Autofocus: This is exactly what it sounds like. Webcams with this feature pull scenes into focus on their own—no need to fuss with the settings.
• Low-light correction: This feature automatically detects low lighting and boosts contrast, so you don’t look like a shadowy villain. 
• Green screening: This feature lets you customize your background as you stream—great if you want to conceal a messy room or stream from a cartoon dreamscape. Green screening looks most natural in good lighting with a high-res camera. 

💡TIP: If you’re looking at how to build a YouTube Studio setup, it’s essential to invest in a quality microphone too.

The 10 best webcams for streaming

Streamers love these USB cameras for their crisp resolution and customizable output. They let you livestream whatever you’re up to, whether gaming, dancing, or sharing storytime with your followers.

1. Elgato Facecam 

Best customizable webcam for streaming

The Elgato Facecam shoots 60 fps, and you can tell it was designed for creators because it lets you create your own shot: FOV, saturation, and even “color temperature” are all customizable in its Camera Hub software. You can also try set-it-and-forget-it Auto mode. 

Pros:

• 1080p resolution at 60fps, providing clear and smooth video.
• Pro-grade lens and a cutting-edge image sensor for superior image quality.
• Save settings directly to the device.
• Easily clamps onto a monitor or attaches to a Multi Mount system.
• Image Signal Processor (ISP) enhances highlights and automatically corrects shadows for vibrant yet natural colors.
• 82-degree field of view, allowing for a broad range of shot compositions.

Cons:

• No built-in mic.
• Sensor is optimized for indoor use, which may limit its effectiveness in outdoor or varied lighting conditions.
• Uses a USB 3.0 interface, which may not be compatible with older devices that only have USB 2.0 ports.
• Optimized fixed focus, which may not be as flexible as adjustable focus options in some shooting scenarios.

Price: $149.99

Note: Elgato also has a higher-res 4K Facecam Pro for about $50 more.

2. Insta360 Link

Best multipurpose webcam for streaming

‍

‍

The Insta360 Link can film in multiple modes, from portrait mode (for TikToks and other vertical videos) to desk view mode (for perfectly level flat lay shots). If you’re up and moving, it uses AI to keep you in the center of the frame. You can even control it with in-frame hand gestures—no button-mashing necessary.

Pros: 

• Ultra HD 4K resolution for clear and detailed video.
• Great low-light performance as Insta360 1/2" sensor captures detailed images even in dark rooms, and its HDR mode balances highlights and shadows effectively.
• Uses Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) for quick focusing, and auto exposure keeps the video looking natural.
• A 3-axis gimbal design and AI tracking algorithm allow the lens to follow your movements, keeping you in the center of the frame.
• Offers DeskView, Whiteboard, Overhead, and Portrait modes for various types of presentations and video conferencing.
• Allows you to manage your calls with simple hand gestures.
• Lens automatically points downwards after 10 seconds of inactivity to protect your privacy.
• Dual noise-canceling microphones and automatic gain control to amplify your voice and reduce background noise.

Cons:

• HDR mode is only supported for 1080p and 720p.
• While the Link has a built-in 1/4" mounting point, it may require additional accessories for certain setups.
• No built-in battery. 
• Must be powered via a USB-C cable.

Price: $299.99

3. Anker PowerConf C200

Best budget webcam for streaming

‍The Anker PowerConf C200 is a sturdy and affordable webcam. It offers excellent build quality and a plug-and-play setup, with software to ensure your cam is working properly. 

The Anker PowerConf C200 has a unique curved design made from strong plastic. For a fraction of the price of other webcams, you’ll get crisp videos that are color accurate with fast autofocus. 

Pros:

• Low-cost option for webcam streaming.
• 2K ultra-clear resolution.
• Allows you to adjust the lens opening angle (65°, 78°, or 95°) to control how much the camera sees.
• Uses AI tracking to follow your movements and keep you in the center of the frame.
• Includes a built-in privacy cover for when the camera is not in use.
• Noise cancellation reduces background noise and improves audio clarity.

Cons:

• The camera's HDR mode only supports certain resolutions and frame rates.
• No built-in battery and must be powered via a USB-C cable.

Price: $59.99

Learn: How to fix bad audio quality in a video

4. Logitech C920s Pro HD

Best streaming webcam for beginners

‍

The Logitech C920s Pro is a full HD 1080p webcam that autofocuses and corrects shadows automatically on video calls and streaming. Its glass lens comes with a privacy cap for when it’s not in use. A little bonus: Users say it works great with Linux. 

Pros:

• Comes with a privacy shutter for lens protection and user privacy.
• Full HD 1080p video calls and video recording.
• HD autofocus and light correction features for sharp images in any environment.
• Microphone captures stereo audio.

Cons:

• Requires a battery.
• Only 1080p as max resolution (consider the Logitech Brio if you need 4K video quality).

Price: $69.99

5. JLab Epic USB Webcam

Best webcam for streaming under $100

‍The JLab Epic USB Webcam can also autofocus and autocorrect shadows for a good price—but you’re not stuck with its autonomous decisions. You can adjust the zoom, and toggle among 15 exposure settings (no app required) to find the exact shot you want. 

Pros:

• 2k video, 5 megapixels, and 30 frames per second.
• Autofocus, adjustable exposure, and digital zoom for better image control.
• Dual omnidirectional microphones for clear audio.
• 90° field of view with light correction.
• Interchangeable fabric face plates for customization.
• Compatible with PC, Mac, and Chromebook.
• Two-year warranty.

Cons:

• Older machines might not be able to capture the JLab Epic’s full capability as the camera might overwhelm some systems.

Price: $79.20

6. GoPro Hero10 Black

Best webcam for adventuring content creators

‍

This GoPro was built for adventure, with video-stabilizing technology so you can film on the run… or the swim. It’s waterproof up to 33 feet underwater, and high-res, too. This model can livestream in 1080p, and film in nearly 12X that: 5.3K. (Note: This camera requires a microSD card, sold separately.)

Pros:

• High resolution with 5.3K60 + 4K120 video and 23-megapixel photos.
• GoPro’s signature video stabilization features.
• Waterproof up to 33ft.
• Automatically uploads footage to the cloud when charging.
• Compatible with 30 mounts + accessories.
• Offers features like TimeWarp 3.0, 8X Slo-Mo, and others.
• Compatible with various GoPro mods for expanded capabilities.

Cons:

• High price tag.
• A microSD card is required, but not included.

Price: $299.99

7. Sony Alpha ZV-E10

Best high-end camera for streaming

The Sony Alpha ZV-E10 was built with vlogging in mind, and it’s all about putting you front and center. Its auto-exposure (AE) feature will spotlight your face, and you can blur out a busy background with one touch. It can livestream in up to 1080p with a capture card, and shoot in up to 4K resolution. 

Pros:

• 4K Movie oversampled from 6k with full pixel readout, no pixel binning for high-quality videos.
• Product Showcase Setting transitions focus from face to object, useful for vlogging or product reviews.
• Background Defocus button instantly toggles on/off for creative control.
• Easy live streaming with a single USB cable and no extra hardware/software required.

Cons:

• High price tag.
• No built-in image stabilization.

Price: $699.99

8. Canon EOS M200 EF-M

Best mid-tier camera for streaming

The Canon EOS M200 EF-M is a high-res, high-tech camera with a whopping max resolution of 24 megapixels. It automatically detects eyes and focuses on faces—a blessing for group photos—and the LCD preview screen rotates more than 180 degrees (225 total!) so you can frame creative shots. 

The streamers that use this camera love it, but recommend rigging it to an HDMI cable and capture card for best results. 

Pros:

• Fast and accurate eye detection for sharp focus.
• High-image quality with a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor.
• 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie and vertical video for versatile recording options.
• 3 Inch touch panel LCD screen with tilt option.
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled for auto image transfer for easy sharing and storage.

Cons:

• Higher price tag for some streamers.
• No built-in GPS for geo-tagging capture locations (has to Bluetooth connect with your phone).
• Battery life is limited to 315 photos or up to 30 minutes of recording time, which may not be good for heavy users.
• Some streamers have reported overheating issues when using a USB power cord while recording.

Price: $449.00

‍

Learn: How to become a video content creator in 2023

9. Logitech StreamCam

Best webcam for streamers looking for a basic setup

The Logitech StreamCam is a great choice thanks to features specifically designed for streamers and content creators. It offers excellent video resolution with 1080p streaming at a frame rate of 60 frames per second, ensuring smooth video output. 

The webcam also includes a face-tracking feature and impressive low-light performance with smart exposure, making it adaptable to low-light conditions. Although it's not the cheapest option on the market, its focus on live streaming makes it a good contender for the best webcam for streaming.

Pros:

• Ability to easily switch between portrait and landscape modes by simply rotating the webcam.
• The StreamCam is compatible with major streaming software like OBS and XSplit, and it performs exceptionally well in low-light environments. 
• Streams and records in full HD 1080p resolution at 60 fps, providing high-quality video content with smooth motion.
• Full HD glass lens with a focal length of 3.7 mm.
• Features autofocus and face-based autofocus with Logitech Capture.
• Dual omnidirectional mics with noise reduction filter.
• Comes with a monitor mount and tripod mount.

Cons:

• Streamers have reported the USB-C cable is short and is built into the webcam, which could limit flexibility in certain setups. 
• Requires a USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C direct connection, which may not be available on all devices.

Price: $129.99

10. Razer Kiyo Pro

Best webcam for streaming in low-light conditions

‍

The Razer Kiyo Pro is a strong contender for a streaming webcam due to its advanced features and high-quality video output. It’s a popular option among gamers for its picture quality and functionality. 

The Razer Kiyo Pro stands out for its low-light performance, with its sophisticated light sensor effectively handling lighting in darker spaces. This feature makes it one of the best low-light webcams available. The webcam can record in 1080p at 60 fps or in HDR at 30 fps, offering flexibility based on your streaming needs. The wide-angle lens allows for a broader background display, and the field of view can be adjusted to suit your preferences.

Pros:

• Adaptive light sensor for clear video in any lighting condition.
• Uncompressed 1080p 60 FPS video for high-quality streaming.
• Wide-angle lens with adjustable field of view for versatile framing.
• Flexible mounting options with an adjustable mount and tripod compatibility.
• Privacy cover for when the webcam isn't in use.
• Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for scratch resistance.

Cons:

• The webcam does not offer a 4K resolution option.
• USB-C cable may not be long enough for some setups.
• The camera is not detected on Razer Synapse if another application interferes with camera accessibility.

Price: $99.99

Invest in the features you’ll use

Ultimately, there’s no single pro webcam to rule them all. Suppose you want DSLR-level shot customization, and a webcam all rolled into one. In that case, it makes sense to invest in a camera from Canon or Sony—but if you mainly need to look human while gaming, those same cameras are way too pricey and complicated for your purposes. 

Finding the right model for you is all about prioritizing what a great webcam means to you: a clear idea of the features you do need and skipping the bells and whistles you don’t.