By 2021, videos will account for more than 80% of internet traffic. The increasing need for streaming and creating YouTube gaming channels is a testimony to this.
Now, if you’re looking to have a slice of that, you’ll need a decent quality gadget for vlogging.
The best webcam for vlogging is a handy and inevitable device that will help to record as well as stream.
With a webcam, streamers can connect easily to their audiences in a better way.
However, with so many choices to choose from, finding an ideal webcam for vlogging seems like a Herculean task.
And it’s for this reason we’ve created this massive review guide to help you choose the best webcam for vlogging.
In our guide, we highlight the top 5 webcams in the market, and better yet, we shall provide you with a buyer guide at the end to help you make a more informed decision on your next purchase.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick!
PRODUCT NAME | Video Capture (px) | Weight (Ounces) | Dimensions (Inches) | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1080p | 5.72 | 2.8 x 1.71 x 3.74 | ||
1080p | 5.71 | 3.7 x 2.8 x 1.7 | ||
1080p | 3.2 | 1.55 x 1.75 x 4.28 | ||
Other Great Recommendations | ||||
720p/1080p | 10.3 | 3.66 x 5.08 x 1.06 | ||
1280 x 720 | - | 9.85 x 4.94 x 6.45 | ||
Best Webcams For Vlogging In The Market For The Money
Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam
Logitech C922X Pro has been in the market for quite some time, and it has garnered quite a huge following. Released in 2016, the Logitech C922X Pro builds upon what C922X offered.
The Logitech C922X Pro is specifically geared towards providing pro-quality to streamers. More specifically, it’s designed for gamers looking to create great gaming content.
Why We Like Logitech C922X Pro
Superior Video Clarity
Optimized for streaming and recording, C922X can record and display video at both 1080p and 720p.
Now, for those who really care about visual quality, C922X provides full HD (1080P) at 30 FPS/ 720P at 60FPS streaming.
With such metrics, C922X will allow you to connect with superior clarity every time you go live on YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook.
Again, you won't feel the need for investing in a DSLR because the video quality on C922X is everything that your audience would expect.
Automatic Low Light Correction
With the C922X, you can count on an incredible performance, regardless of the lighting conditions.
The automatic low light correction is a feature that will guarantee streaming of clear and crisp video even in dim light.
The webcam will automatically adjust its performance to accommodate the lighting conditions, including the flickering room lights or computer screens.
Background Remover Tool
Gamers will really love the background remover tool.
The Remover tool is among the highlights of the C922X, and it allows you to eliminate the need for a green screen for game streaming.
With this feature, you can now broadcast your gameplay in full HD with an integrated background replacement, no-drop audio, and a 78-degree field of view.
The background remover tool will help in adding some nice production value to your Twitch streams.
Crisp Audio
The two omnidirectional microphones on the c922x will allow you to capture crisp stereo audio from every angle.
The built-in stereo microphones negate the need for an external microphone and ensure a no-drop streaming and clear recorded video.
Personify
For better interaction with the audience, c922x Pro is powered by personify. This means that you can easily integrate live images while broadcasting, thus helping to create a better interaction with your audience.
What we like most about this feature is that it boasts of fast, smooth uploads with H.264. This is an advanced compression technology that demands less network bandwidth.
Ease of Use
For convenient use, the C922X Pro features a fully adjustable tabletop trip with a swivel mount, which can extend up to 18.5cm.
Pros
- full HD (1080P) at 30 FPS/ 720P at 60FPS
- Ideal for use in varying lighting conditions
- Captures sound from every angle
Cons
- Not plug-and-play friendly with Macs
Check Logitech C922X Pro Price On Amazon
Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920
Second, on our list of the best webcams for vlogging is the Logitech HD Pro C920. This is yet another product from Logitech, and it goes ahead to buttress the superiority of this brand.
The C920 ticks all the boxes for the best webcams and more. This webcam, for instance, can stream at 1080p, delivers dynamic stereo, offers up 15 megapixels, and more.
Why We Like the Logitech C920
Carl Zeiss Tessar Lens
Considering the surface which light has to pass, the glass Carl Zeiss lens is a pretty big deal for image quality.
Unlike the standard plastic lenses we see in other webcams, the Carl Zeiss glass is a 20-step autofocus lens that has a wide-angle view. This is instrumental for capturing all of the action on the stream that is befit even for the most discerning You Tubers and Twitch gamers.
Also, the glass lens will not only improve on the image quality, but it has extended durability compared to the plastic lenses.
Incredible Livestreaming Capability
When it comes to live streaming, the Logitech C920 lets you stream in 720P, while providing full 1080 HD videos.
While full 1080p for shooting would be ideal for most of the users, 1080HD is not an issue unless you’re looking for true HD streaming.
The departure point of this unit from the rest of the webcams in its class is the ability to shoot 1080p video with no framerate reduction.
See, many websites boast of 1080p, but they often sacrifice the framerate, meaning their videos are sluggish and jerky.
With the C920, however, the captured videos are clear, detailed, and fluid-like.
Although a few video services support chatting at 1080p at 30 fps, an increasing number of services are incorporating this service. Some of these include Skype, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts.
Built-in H.264
A superb technical feature on the C920 is the built-in H.264 video compression.
This feature lets you record and compresses video without adding strain to your computer.
This is because the video is processed right on the camera.
A benefit of this is that users with older generation computers or those with computers with lower hardware can equally record and stream in HD.
15 MP Camera
The C920 lets you capture high-resolution images, thanks to the 15 MP camera.
The camera on this unit has the highest number of megapixels count within its class.
The quality camera is a handy feature and will allow you to take quick and quality pictures of your YouTube thumbnail or any other channel.
Audio Quality
Lifelike videos work best if they're accompanied by crisp audio.
And in the C920, you get high-end audio, thanks to the presence of two in-built microphones.
If the reviews are anything to go by, the audio quality on this webcam is full and natural for the better part.
Built-In Face Tracking
Using an Auto-focus technology, the C920 will adjust exposure and white balance setting based on your face rather than information from the entire scene.
The advantage of auto-focusing based on your face is that the C920 can present your face in the best light.
Pros
- No framerate reduction
- Video compression feature
- Can be used with laptops with low hardware components
- Built-n face tracking
Cons
- Not 1080 HD for streaming
Check Logitech C920 Price On Amazon
Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 is the true definition of “you get what you pay for.”
Now, if your budget is unforgiving, the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 might provide the best bang for the least buck.
While it will not deliver business-call quality, it should get things done in causal settings.
Why We Like Lifecam?
Video Quality
LifeCam HD-3000 lets you record in 720p at 30 fps, with the video maxing at 720p.
While you won't get the same video quality as with a 1080p camera, 720p is still decent.
With an image resolution of 4MP, LifeCam HD-3000 offers a much lesser resolution than most of the webcams.
As such, you’ll not have the pleasure of seeing the finer details such as face imperfections or face lines.
Also, if you move your head, the images tend to get more blurred, and a slight movement causes noticeable fuzzing.
Ideally, if the difference is resolution is not much of a big deal to you, then the LifeCam HD-3000 is the perfect option for you.
True-Color Technology
The True Color technology will allow you to optimize brightness and enhance color in varying lighting conditions.
The fixed-focus lens on the LifeCam HD-3000 will allow you to zoom an image up to 4X digitally
When the webcam is placed sturdily in place, it delivers clear and well-balanced images, and the playback is surprisingly smooth.
Audio Quality
The microphone on the LifeCam HD-300 has an integrated noise reducer.
This microphone will automatically reduce and eliminate the background noises, allowing you to deliver crisp and clear sound.
Software
Compatibility with Microsoft's LifeCam software will allow you to customize some of the processes on the webcam, such as the use of filters and face masks to liven up your video chats.
Also, the software will let you choose the resolution to use in your photos.
Finally, the software allows you to save photos, videos, and audio in your hard drive.
Overall, the HD-3000 does not offer a premium feel, but it will provide the best video at this price.
Ideally, this unit is a superb choice if you’re budget-stricken, or want to upgrade from an old VGA webcam.
However, when purchasing the HD-3000, you must keep your expectations in check.
Pros
- Good video quality for its price
- Automatic light adjustment
- Budget-option
Cons
- No 1080p
Check Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 Price On Amazon
Razer Kiyo
For a long time, Logitech has been the undisputed king of webcams. However, its dominance was upset by Razer Kiyo.
The Kiyo is not like your common webcam, and this is truly evident once you set your eyes on this product.
Kiyo has a really bright ring light out front, and that’s probably its selling point as the ring makes Kiyo more-as the kids say-lit.
What We Like About Razer Kiyo?
Built-In Light
The first thing that you’re likely to notice on this webcam is the built-in ring of LED lights.
The light is a wonderful addition to this unit, especially to the gamers because lights often reflect off one’s screen, obscuring the action.
With the Kiyo, however, the adjustable ring of light will fire the illumination exactly where you need it most.
The Kiyo is an incredible option, especially for those vloggers who lack the equipment for fine-tuning the lighting in their setup.
Kiyo will do most of the work and offer optimal illumination.
What we like most about the illumination of this unit is that it's not too harsh, and it does not look too focused on the screen.
Even at the highest settings, the illumination is soft and indirect and will smooth out your face with even lighting.
Sure, the ring of light won't replace the existing LED panel, but it does play a crucial role in improving your overall footage.
Awesome Image Quality
Besides the incredible lighting system, Kiyo captures color with greater accuracy.
Regarding resolution and Framerate, Kiyo offers 1080p at 30 fps, and when you drop at 720p, Kiyo offers 60 fps.
With the above image quality, Kiyo will effectively pick up the tiny details and will deliver a sharper image quality.
Auto-Focus
The auto-focus feature on this unit is not only reliable, but it expertly handles sudden exposure to changes better.
For instance, should unforeseen light happen during the recording process, the Kiyo will quickly adjust.
By and large, Kiyo delivers a stable rate both in light and in the dark, and will generate far lesser grain in the darker tones of your shots.
Software
If you’re a Razer enthusiast, you’ve probably noticed that most of their products come with Synapse connectivity.
The Synapse connectivity is a handy feature that makes Razer use and makes the unit more intuitive.
This software will allow easier adjustment of various settings, including color variations.
Pros
- In-built light
- Incredible image quality
- Easy to use
Cons
- No 4K quality
Check Razer Kiyo Price On Amazon
Logitech C270
The Longitech C270 is within the same class as the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000, we had reviewed earlier.
Both of these models are budget-options, and they come with a simple, yet intuitive design.
The Longitech C270 is a cool little device that doesn’t cost a fortune, but it records lower resolution images but works in high definition (720p)
Why We Like Logitech C270
Design
C270 features a simple and minimalist design.
The face of this webcam, for instance, is polished in a dark grey finish, giving the unit a more premium look.
When it comes to mounting, the unit has an incredible mounting mechanism.
This unit will literally sit at the top of the monitor and does not require any complicated brackets or clips; rather, it leverages on a counterbalance system.
Image Quality
Expectedly, at this price point, expect an okay quality but not something amazing.
The Logitech cannot shoot in 1080p, which is considered as the standard nowadays but instead offers 720p.
The color is a little bit washed, but still, you will see everything relatively clearly.
However, for Skype video uses, the Logitech c270 excels.
The picture is quite good, depending on the size of the screen you're using. However, anything from a laptop, desktop to the phone is completely fine.
Audio Quality
Logitech has an incredible audio system comprising of a built-in microphone that’s clear and crisp.
The microphone is quite a handy feature for gamers who need to chat and don't have a separate mic.
The microphone also works well with Skype calls, and users did not have a hard time on both ends when using this feature.
Pros
- Budget option
- Works well with Skype
- Great image quality for the price
Cons
- No 1080p
Check Logitech C270 Price On Amazon
Factors to Consider When Purchasing the Best Webcam for Vlogging
There’re a few features that you need to consider when choosing a webcam for vlogging.
These include;
Resolution
The first thing to look out for is the resolution.
Resolution refers to the image quality and determines how easy your viewers are going to see you.
The two common classes of resolution include 1080p and 720p.
While the 720p webcams are generally affordable, they don’t have a quality that might be looking for.
The 1080p webcams, on the other hand, are expensive, but the price difference won't matter if you're looking for quality and crisp images.
Auto Focus
Having a webcam with an autofocus feature is a handy feature since you won't be having a cameraman when shooting your videos.
And given that manual focus is out of the question, having a webcam with autofocus is of the essence.
However, ensure that the autofocus does not have episodes of phasing you out momentarily, but will instead focus and consistently keep track of your ace when recording videos.
Lighting Adjustment
Having a unit with lighting adjustment will save you from the need for investing in the lighting system.
A unit with a low-light performance is, in particular, a handy investment as it shows your face in good light even when working in the dark.
Finally, cameras that function well in low light often have an easier time maintaining consistency in colors during recording.
Build Quality
When choosing a webcam, you want a device that will serve you for long.
Therefore, it's necessary that you asses the overall design of the unit and ensures it designed sturdily.
While the construction won’t necessarily make the webcam to stop working altogether since it’ll be sitting on your desk most of the time, you might notice a reduction in performance with time.
Compatibility
No one wants to purchase a webcam, only to learn it’s not compatible with their devices.
Before making a purchase, you would want to consider whether it works with your operating system.
FAQs
Are vlogging cameras cheap?
A vlogging camera comes with varying specifications that will determine if it is cheap or expensive. If the resolution is standard, then the camera will be cheap compared to the high-resolution types. Other features also determine the pricing of the cameras. Luckily, you'll always get a camera within your budget since many manufacturers come up with cameras to meet your needs.
Is it easy to use a vlogging camera?
Yes, a vlogging camera is easy to use since it comes with a guideline, and it takes a few minutes to learn how to use the camera. Ensure you go through the guidelines to master the steps for using it.
Is a vlogging phone better than a vlogging camera?
Often, beginners start with a phone before advancing to a vlogging camera. But, quality comes with a good camera for vlogging because it has the specifications for the task, making it better than the phone.
Are vlogging cameras durable?
Under good care, the vlogging camera will last you forever and deliver the best videos for your followers. Manufacturers produce varying camera qualities, and you'll need to be keen when picking the most durable ones that you can get value for your investment.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality webcam is an incredible way to take your vlogging to new heights.
Choose one of the webcams from our best webcams for vlogging and experience perfection in streaming and live recording.
1 comment
Yes, originally this webcam featured a Carl Zeiss Tessar lens and onboard H.264 encoding, but Logitech dropped the Tessar years ago and more recently also the H.246 encoding, costing the webcam down.
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