Appearance could be a deciding factor when you do any kind of presentation, be it in the office or in front of a class. Moreover, as remote jobs and classes are becoming the norm, it is high time you took a look at the best Webcam for Zoom Meetings.
Before writing this article, I have spent countless hours categorizing the best webcams according to their quality, durability, microphones, and other features. Besides, along with the top list of web cameras, you will find a definitive guide on choosing the best-suited one for you.
So, without further ado, let’s get started the reading.
Just in case if you’re in a hurry….
Just check these two best models from my review unit. You won’t regret it later.
My Top Pick
Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam
Features:
- Full HD Premium Video quality
- Autofocus and light correction
- Stereo audio with dual mic
- Privacy shutter
- 5 feet cable
Runner-Up
NexiGo AutoFocus 1080p Webcam
Features:
- 1080p HD video resolution
- Can record up to 30 fps
- Has built-in microphone
- Widely compatible with other operating systems
- Comes with software support
- Best Overall: Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam
“It has all the necessary features for meetings along with privacy shutter. 1080p, autofocus, light correction, Stereo audio with dual mics.”
“2-megapixel CMOS sensor, 30fps at 1080p, Autofocus, privacy cover, built-in Noise-canceling microphone”
- Best Budget: Logitech C270 Webcam
“For the price, no other models have such capabilities. Easy to install and use, 720p video.”
- Best 4k: BRIO Ultra HD Pro Computer Webcam
“full HD 4K, 1080P, and 720P capable video for recording, premium glass lens, 4k image sensor, high dynamic range (HDR), autofocus, light correction, stereo audio with dual mics”
- Best Wide-angle: Vitade 960A Pro USB HD PC Web Camera
“Built-in ring light, 1080P USB Webcam, 80° wide-angle lens, video at 30fps, Advanced H.264 encoding, Automatic low-light correction”
- Best Durable: Microsoft LifeCam Cinema
“Aluminium body, 360-degree rotation, noise cancelling microphone, 720p video.”
- Best Portable: Logitech HD Laptop Webcam C615
“360-Degree swivel, 1080p Camera, Fold-and-Go Design, tripod ready, quick setup.”
- Best for Team Meetings: Meeting Owl Pro – 360 Degree
“360-degree camera. Good for conferencing. Loudspeaker.”
What Is a Webcam?
If simply put, a webcam is a device that streams images or videos to connected networks such as the internet. It keeps taking video and continuously sends them to the CPU. Then the CPU processes and converts them into binary bits and sends them to the designated address on the internet.
Is Webcam Necessary For Zoom Meetings?
You probably heard these thousands of times; humans are social animals. We cooperate better with social interactions. Everyone’s participation through the video feed makes up for the lack of real-life communication. And you will need a webcam for a fulfilling experience.
You can participate in Zoom meetings without webcams, but you won’t able to transmit your video. Zoom will be only able to send your voice to other participants. Attending meetings without the video defeats the purpose of the meeting to some extent.
Zoom lets you join the meeting even if you do not have a webcam. But attending meetings or classes in such ways might feel superficial.
10 Best Webcam for Zoom Meetings: The Reviews
Before buying a webcam for your zoom, the first important thing you need to do is – fix your specific need and budget. I have researched and categorized some best cams that you can buy in 2021.
1. Best Overall: Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 1080p
- Sensor: 2MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps at 1080p
- Viewing Angle: 78°
- Cable Length: 5 ft.
- More Features: Privacy shutter, Stereo audio with dual mic, Light correction, HD Autofocus
Logitech C920S HD Pro webcam stands out from the crowd with a privacy shutter. I chose this as the best overall because it can record at 1080p in 30 fps with auto-focus while providing privacy.
Privacy Shutter
Be it anything, casual or formal meetings; we have witnessed many embarrassing scenarios on the internet. Its privacy shutter will help you not being one of them.
Field of View
78° Field of view covers enough that you can move comfortably in front of the camera. You can move around and yet be in the frame. While moving, you wouldn’t need to worry about not being in focus.
30 FPS With Light Correction And Stereo Mic
This one also has features like 30 fps recording, light correction, and stereo mic. 30 fps makes the video smooth enough to feel lifelike, while light correction helps to get better footage in low light. Everyone will listen to you clearly as it has a decent stereo mic.
The Good
The 30 FPS recording makes the video very smooth. Auto light correction helps to recreate the optimal environment. Nicely fits on top of the monitors. The privacy shutter works like a charm when you need to cut the video feed.
The Bad
Some users faced issued when used on different operating systems. So, make sure it supports your OS before making the purchase.
2. Runner-Up: NexiGo FHD USB Web Camera for Streaming Online Class
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 1080p, 720p
- Sensor: 2MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps at 1080p
- Viewing Angle: 65°
- Cable Length: 6.4 ft.
- More Features: Privacy shutter, Noise-cancelling technology, Autofocus
After the first look at both top pick and runner-up webcams, I couldn’t see much difference. They both have similar features. But taking a closer look, I noticed that the NexiGo camera lens has a narrower viewing angle than the top pick.
Viewing Angle
It is not a very big deal, but a wider angle helps cover more area; thus, conferencing becomes a lot easier. But you can comfortably take part in meetings with a 65-degree viewing angle. That is why I have chosen this one as the runner-up.
2MP CMOS sensor
If you don’t think that you would ever need conferencing, you can seriously consider this one. I really like the picture quality that its 2MP CMOS sensor can produce. For the price, such performance and features are very rare.
Built-in Microphone
Furthermore, the built-in mic eliminates the requirement of buying an additional audio input device. While you are in a meeting, this webcam can support you by automatically adjusting the brightness and focus.
On the other hand, noise-canceling technology makes sure that the receiver on the other end is hearing you clearly.
The Good
The narrow viewing angle together with the privacy shutter gives your better privacy. The picture quality is very good thanks to the CMOS sensor. You can install it very easily. Also, the service over the years will be very reliable.
The Bad
The color balance might seem a little off. You can tweak settings to make it better.
3. Best Budget: Logitech C207 Webcam
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 720p
- Sensor: 3MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 60°
- Cable Length: 5 ft.
- More Features: 16:9 aspect ratio, Good sound quality, Elegant design
I chose this product because it is simple, elegant, and cheap. Yet, it serves very well. Its built-in microphone is excellent at noise reduction. The 16:9 aspect ratio gives a decent view, while plug-and-play is a great addition.
Ease of Use
You can get rid of all the driver problems, software errors, etc., due to the plug-and-play feature. Your voice will be better received because of noise-reducing microphones. Your feed will look great in all situations.
Decent Microphone
This one records video at 720p, the feed gets noisy in low light. The microphone is excellent. It can pick up noise from long distances. Also, you won’t have to deal with an extra mic anymore.
Price
This webcam is a whole package. From a great video feed to the microphone, it has all the requirements covered. On top of that, you will have to spend substantially less than other webcams. The sacrifices you have to make are the poor low light performance and fixed focus.
The Good
The best thing about this webcam is its affordable price tag. The noise-reducing mic allows clearer audio. As it is a plug & play device you won’t need additional drivers. Comes with 2 years of official warranty.
The Bad
As the focus is fixed, you won’t have much freedom of movement. Make sure there is enough light in the environment.
4. Best 4K: BRIO Ultra HD Pro Computer Webcam
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 4K, 1080p, 720p
- Sensor: 13MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps at 4K
- Viewing Angle: 90°
- Cable Length: 7.2 ft.
- More Features: HDR, 2 Stereo Mics, Autofocus
I have to confess that getting a true 4K recording experience in the webcams is not a reality to this date. But the BRIO Ultra HD Pro has amused me at how close it can get to the authentic 4K resolution. Despite its over-the-moon price tag, I would recommend it for its performance and reliability.
Great Video Quality
If you choose to record at 1080p resolution, no other webcam on the list will be able to beat its video quality. The quality of the lens, along with the 60fps refresh rate, plays a big role here.
Built-in Flash
Moreover, the flash on the front can make sure an uninterrupted zoom meeting in low light situations. It also comes with dual mics that capture your voice as it is.
User-friendly
The webcam supports both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 so that recording at UHD doesn’t get interrupted. It’s a plug-n-play webcam, but you can visit the official website and install the latest driver for your operating system in case of having connectivity issues.
The Good
The video it captures has a very high quality. Automatic exposure control helps in both bright and low light situations. Anti-glare glass gets rid of all glare effects. Compatibility with different connection types allows you to use it with a wide range of devices.
The Bad
The price tag is very expensive but the features overshadow most webcams in the market.
5. Best 2K webcam: Webcam 2K HD Streaming Camera
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 2K
- Refresh Rate: 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 90°
- Smart Light Adjustment: Yes
- More Features: Noise reduction microphone, privacy shutter, tripod, plug & play
This is another webcam that comes with the whole package. Besides hi-res video, you will get a great built-in microphone, wide FOV, crystal clear recording, privacy shutter, and more.
2K Resolution
If 4K webcams are too expensive for you then this cam will guide you to a middle ground. With 4 million image sensors it records delicate, crisp, and crystal clear video. Moreover, it records at 30 fps which is a huge boost to the quality.
Great Microphone
You will be free from extra wires that an extra microphone brings along. The built-in noise reduction mic ensures the recording of natural and clear sound. It will offer a quality experience even in noisy environments.
Adaptable
This webcam can adapt to the way you want it. With its 360° degree rotation, you are free to rotate it in any direction you need. Tired of sticking the webcam to monitor? Now you can set it up anywhere you want with its multi-functional tripod. In short, it can adapt to the way you want it to set it up.
The Good
Video quality is excellent due to 2K resolution support. It is very easy to install, just connect it to the PC and you are done. The built-in microphone works really well. Offer great value for money. Also, it has a privacy cover.
The Bad
The instruction manual says it allows manual focus, but many reported it is hard to find. Has a little bit of fisheye effect.
6. Best all in one package: Jupiter 1080P Webcam
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 1080p
- Refresh Rate: 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 90°
- Speakers: Yes
- More Features: AI focus, Human shape tracking, High compatibility, privacy shutter
This webcam itself is a whole package as it comes with both speaker and microphone. To put the cherry on top, it also has an AI focus.
AI Focus
With the help of AI technology, it can detect human presence and expand the feed accordingly. There will be no wasted space on the frame at any given moment which will look very professional. This feature will be very helpful during multi-person conferences.
Speaker, Microphone
Besides the camera, it comes with 4 microphones and 1 speaker. The mics are fit with echo cancellation and noise reduction technology. The 3-watt speaker makes loud noise without any delay. Unlike most webcams, it has both speaker and mic which is a huge bonus.
Exclusive Software
The PC software eMeetLink allows you to use the webcam in a better manner. With the software, you can adjust the field of view and other video parameters like exposure, contrast, brightness, and more to your liking.
The Good
View from the camera has clear and crisp quality. The presence of both a built-in speaker and microphone makes everything a lot easier. The software allows different customization options. The use of AI technology adds professionalism to every video call.
The Bad
You will need the software for the webcam which can feel like an extra hassle.
7. Best Wide-Angle: Vitade 960A Pro USB HD PC Web Camera
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 1080p, 720p
- Sensor: 2MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps at 1080p
- Viewing Angle: 80°
- Cable Length: 4.5 ft.
- More Features: H.264 encoding, Ring Light, 3 Brightness Level, Automatic Light correction
The wide viewing angle and the use of advanced H.264 encoding have made me review this exceptional webcam.
Light Correction and Auto-focus
It has automatic low-light correction and autofocus. What are the advantages of those? Vitade 960A Pro is so good at capturing the surroundings that you can even consider it for streaming, not to mention the zoom meetings. Now add those to the wide viewing angle and you have a beast at your disposal.
H.264 Encoding
Furthermore, the encoding I have mentioned compresses the video half the size compared to MPEG. As a result, it takes less bandwidth, ensuring smooth streaming, even if your internet speed is not very fast.
Software Support
Though the software part of the webcam configures several features automatically, you can still control a few things according to your preferences. Some people are complaining about washed-out video quality. I think they are not adjusting the ring light’s brightness according to the surrounding.
The Good
The low light performance of this webcam is very good. The price is reasonable considering the features it provides. Works seamlessly with most other devices. If used correctly, you can rely on it for years to come.
The Bad
The built-in ring light does not come with the best quality.
8. Most Durable: Microsoft LifeCam Cinema
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 720p
- Sensor: 5MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 73°
- Cable Length: 6 ft.
- More Features: 360-degree rotation, True color technology, Digital microphone
This device made my list as no other product could compete at durability with its aluminum body and the set of features provides.
Durable Build
Microsoft LifeCam Cinema has a metal body made of aluminum. The hard aluminum body makes this webcam very durable. It can withstand almost all kinds of abuse you can throw at it.
360° degree rotation
The camera can swivel around 360° degree while featuring TrueColor technology. So, this webcam can be rotated 360° degree any you want. The use of TrueColor technology achieves colorful video delivery no matter where you set it up.
720p resolution
This device can capture video in 720p at 30 fps, which looks better than most webcams as it uses a premium glass lens. The video feed is very smooth. It offers a 73° field of view, which is very decent. The noise-canceling built-in microphone has excellent sound quality.
The Good
The build quality is excellent as it can withstand abuse. The image quality is very detailed and sharp. Face tracking work great. Suitable to carry anywhere thanks to the moderate size.
The Bad
You might face compatibility issues with different versions of macOS, so look before you leap. The auto-focus under-performs in some situations.
9. Best Portable: Logitech HD Laptop Webcam C615
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 1080p, 720p
- Sensor: 8MP
- Refresh Rate: 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 74°
- Cable Length: 3 ft.
- More Features: 360-degree rotation, lightweight and portable, Premium autofocus
Logitech webcam C615 has made it into my list because of its portability. Fold it, put it in the bag, and you are ready to go wherever you want.
Flexible
This Logitech webcam has a very well-thought-out fold-and-go design. The Fold-and-Go design makes it very easy to carry. Besides, a 360-degree swivel can easily cover all the surroundings. Using a tripod, you can mount it just the way you like.
Versatile
This cam records at 1080p but only allow 720p during video calls. The swiveling head can also tilt, which means you can set it up at any angle. The microphone delivers decent sound.
Freedom to Travel
This can handle abuse when traveling as it is built with thick plastic and rubber. Also, it takes much less space so you will have plenty of room for other stuff in the bag.
The Good
It is foldable and the size is small enough to easily carry anywhere. The tiltable swiveling head allows you much more flexibility when starting a call. One click upload feature can be used to upload videos directly to Facebook and YouTube.
The Bad
You will need additional software for macOS. The USB cable is short.
10. Best for Team Meeting: Meeting Owl Pro – 360 Degree
Features We Like:
- Video Recording: 1080p
- Refresh Rate: 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 360°
- Cable Length: 6.5 ft
- More Features: 8 smart mics, Great speaker quality, In-built Wi-Fi
Meeting Owl Pro allows panoramic video and has a loudspeaker. It can connect multiple rooms besides featuring a mic array.
360-Degree video and sound
This webcam allows a 360-degree panoramic view of the whole room. Mic array will focus on the speaker automatically when someone speaks. So, everyone in the room will be heard loud and clear.
Panoramic View
Unlike most others, users of this device do not have to look at packed faces on the monitor. Everyone at a meeting will be visible at 1080p video in a panoramic view. Mic has an audio pickup radius of 18 feet.
Connectivity
An interesting feature of this webcam is that it can connect to multiple rooms. That means Even if teams are in separate rooms, they can also join the meeting.
The Good
The 1080p video is crystal clear. Automatic speaker focus works very well. The panoramic view makes space for everyone in the room. Comes with a built-in speaker and microphone.
The Bad
It is not a plug-and-play device and troubleshooting is hard.
| Products | Resolution | Viewing angle | Autofocus | Built-in Mic |
| Logitech C920S HD Pro
|
1080p | 78° degrees | Yes | Yes |
| NexiGo AutoFocus 1080p Webcam
|
1080p | 65° degrees | Yes | Yes |
| Logitech C270
|
720p | 60° degrees | No | Yes |
| Logitech BRIO Ultra HD
|
4K | 90° degrees | Yes | Yes |
| Vitade 960A HD
|
1080p | 80° degrees | Yes | Yes |
| Microsoft LifeCam Cinema
|
720p | 73° degrees | Yes | Yes |
| Logitech C615
|
1080p | 74° degrees | Yes | No |
| Meeting Owl Pro
|
1080p | 360° degrees | Yes | No |
| Jupiter 1080P Webcam
|
1080p | 96° degrees | Yes | No |
| Webcam 2K HD Streaming Camera
|
2K | 90° degrees | No | No |
Key Features for the Best Webcam for Zoom Meetings
When buying the best webcam for zoom meetings, here are some key features you should keep in mind.
Resolution
Video quality depends on the resolution—the more, the merrier. Better resolution not only makes the image sharper but also picks up tiny details on the camera.
Depending on your need, the suitable resolution might vary. Just for casual meetings, 720p would do fine. If you are a workaholic who is always busy with formal meetings, 1080p might be better. So take into account what you will be using the webcam for.
Auto-Focus
There are two types of focus in webcams, autofocus, and fixed focus.
Fixed focused cameras have set lenses. They can't change their focus because their lenses are attached. If you move during a meeting, you might go into the blurry portion of camera without noticing it.
In autofocus, lenses can move to adjust their focal length. Say you moved to the board to explain something at a meeting, the camera will automatically focus on you. You wouldn't need to worry about being in focus anymore.
Microphone
This a handy feature but often overlooked. Desktop computers rarely have a built-in microphone. Even if they do, the quality remains questionable. So, you might get stuck with a low-quality microphone.
A microphone in the camera will help you to get rid of this problem. Whether you have a dedicated mic with you or not wouldn't matter. Plug the webcam in, and you already have a microphone.
Rotational Coverage
This is a convenient feature that makes good webcams great. Imagine you have set up a home office to your liking. But after a few days, you found another comfortable position. Now you will have to adjust the table, monitor, etc. according to that position.
But rotational coverage will rescue you from this dilemma. You can rotate camera any way you like. It is also useful when there more people participating in the same webcam. Everyone can turn it to them when speaking.
How Can I Improve Video Calling Quality For Zoom Meetings?
Besides using one of the best webcams for zoom meetings listed above, there are few tips to improve team meetings' video call quality.
Light: Make sure you do not have a light source on the background. Having A light source on the back will darken your footage. It really distorts the video.
Distance: Do not distance yourself from the microphone. Distance will deteriorate sound quality.
External Mic: Even though some webcams have a built-in mic, they cannot compete with a dedicated mic in sound quality.
Do Webcams Need Special Software?
Yes, some webcams need special software to operate. For others, only installing drivers would work. This specialized software is provided with the package most of the time. They can be downloaded from the manufacturer's site too.
This software allows tweaking many settings in webcam.
Hosting Webinars on Zoom
You have to be a licensed Zoom user first. You will also need a Zoom Webinar license to host webinars. Once you have the license, you can schedule your webinar on the Zoom web portal.
Deterring Hackers
Webcams sometimes pose security threats, as we have seen in recent times. As precautions some things you can do are
- Use Firewall
- Keep the OS updated
- Do not link on the suspicious links
- Use VPN
- Use trusted tech support
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I look better in zoom?
You can use Touch Up My Appearance in Zoom to get a soft focus and smooth out your skin tone.
Do Webcams Need Special Software?
Yes, some webcams need special software to operate. For others, only installing drivers would work. This specialized software is provided with the package most of the time. They can be downloaded from the manufacturer's site too. This software allows tweaking many settings on the webcam.
What is a good webcam resolution?
720p or 1080p both resolutions are good enough regular use.
Are webcams better than laptop camera?
With very few exceptions, yes. Cameras used in laptops are fundamental. Webcams perform better than built-in cameras in notebooks.
How to host webinars on Zoom?
You have to be a licensed Zoom user first. You will also need a Zoom Webinar license to host webinars. Once you have the license, you can schedule your webinar on the Zoom web portal.
Conclusion
While buying a webcam for your video meeting, your specific need and budget are the first and foremost things. Keeping that in mind, I focused mainly on price and features when choosing the best webcam for zoom. I hope this list will help you find the one you have been looking for. I wish you all the best at your next zoom meeting.
