The Top 10 Webcams for Streaming
(WE SWEAR THIS LIST ISN’T SPONSORED BY LOGITECH)
The 2020 pandemic has allowed a lot of people to pursue their hobbies in ways that they never could before. Some people have learned to play a new instrument, others have hit the home gym, and some people have looked at pro-gamers and thought, “I should do that.”
Which is exactly why you’re here on this list, looking at all these cameras. You probably searched “best cameras that streamers use” and most likely got bombarded with a ton of results with funky names like the Ultra HD 4k ProMax C62Ds Buprio (this isn’t real, please don’t Google it) which you can get for either $40 or $159.27, yet you still don’t know what to go with. Well, you’re in luck because you’ve come across the right place for your research. Below is a list of a bunch of cameras, some used by the top streamers, complete with specs and how much allowance you’ll need to save. So sit back, pour some G-Fuel in your mom’s fancy china teacup that you aren’t supposed to be using (and you aren’t exactly sure why nobody ever uses these cups to begin with) and let us provide you with a researched list that will help you streamline your options just a tiny bit more:
1.) Logitech c920
The Logitech C920 is one of the most popular webcams being used by streamers out there. This model is being used by Stodeh, MacieJay, Symphuny and Tyler1. Logitech has really been establishing its name in the streamer market by producing equipment that is tailored to the needs of the streamer market. This webcam provides recording at both 1080p and 720p at 30 frames per second while giving a nice 70 degree Field of Vision. The camera lens is protected by a glass lens cover while you’ve got its HD auto light correction technology “RightLight 2” focused on ensuring lighting balance. Also, as an added bonus, dual mics for clear, stereo sound. All of this at a reasonable price point of $79.99 however you might find it a little difficult to get your hands on one.
2.) Logitech c922
The Logitech C922 has been used by Pokimane for a very long time at this point. The C922 Pro HD stream camera packs a slightly bigger punch than the Logitech C920 by having 1080p at 30 fps while producing 60 fps at 720p. Couple this with the usual Logitech package (Xsplit license, built in stereo mic, glass lens, RightLight 2 etc) and you get excellent performance at an entry level price point. It sets itself even slightly higher by perching atop its included tripod, which might come in handy for those who don’t want stuff on their monitor. This webcam might set you back $99.99 but if it worked for Pokimane, it might just work for you.
3) Logitech streamcam
Logitech knows what they want; to be the brand streamers want. That’s why they didn’t hold any punches when they introduced the Logitech StreamCam. Mount it anywhere, get that good, good image quality, USB-Type C connectivity and dual front facing microphones. Follow this up with image stabilization, automated exposure and framing and you might just think that Logitech wants to absolutely dominate the market with products like this. Smooth 60 fps at 1080p is the big bang in this product along with the simple shifting from portrait to landscape via turning the camera. You can get all of this for $169.99. It’s a little pricier, but it might just be worth it.
4) Logitech brio
Time to bring out the BIG GUNS. The Logitech Brio delivers 4K ultra HD videos at 30 FPS, 1080p at 30/60 FPS and 720p at 30/60 AND 90 fps. They sat down at Logitech HQ, looked at each other and said “Well, why not?” and then they made the BRIO. Loaded with RealLight 3 and x5 HD zoom coupled with 3 different FOV (Field of View) settings and omni directional mics, you just know Logitech wanted to give you absolutely everything. Its going to cost you more than an entry level webcam, and rightly so, though but not as much as you’d expect. It currently sits at $199.00.
5) Razer Kiyo
Okay so finally there’s another company in this list. Razer has one goal in sight: build for the gamers. That’s why Razer is dipping its feet in the streamer’s pond of webcams, which isn’t that surprising of a move. Razer Kiyo comes with full camera controls, a built in ring light to help illuminate the salty reactions when you get mapped, and sharp, smooth video action. Razer Synapse 3 gives you creative control over your camera, coupled with 1080p at 30 fps and 720p at 60 fps for only $99.99. This gives you a budget option with great specs overall.
6) Microsoft Lifecam
Big boy Microsoft isn’t going to NOT produce a webcam. The Microsoft LifeCam is a nice little package which includes a 1080p HD Sensor along with 720p HD video chat. A wide angle, four inch auto focus, 360 degree rotation and wideband microphone make this a comfy little package at $99.95. While there are better options out there, the Microsoft lifecam provides a good quality, decent value, Microsoft-y, webcam with good specs for a budget experience.
7) Ausdom 1080p
Now we’re entering real budget territory. The AUSDOM 1080p provides HD quality video with a temperature related defect. Although were not sure if it’s a one off, were pretty sure its weird because the focus points of the camera goes off when the camera is warm or cold. While the specs of the camera may be nice, this one makes the list so that everyone should know that theres a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to selecting the right equipment for you rig. We aren’t going to go into much detail other than that the AUSDOM 1080p currently sits at $79.99. BE WISE IN YOUR DECISIONS.
8) Logitech C615
…aaaaand we’re back on Logitech. The C615 is an old school package that you might find difficult to locate currently, but if you’re considering buying used, this C615 may just be what you need. The C615 has 1080p resolution at 30 fps, a built in noise reducing mic (although you might want to invest in a standalone mic, we like the Shure SM7B) coupled with full 360 degree physical motion, but the 78 degree FOV motion might just serve your purpose well enough. You might find one for nearly $100 but there’s a good chance, if you really look, you might find it cheaper.
9) Clearone Unite 20 Pro
The Unite 20 PRO sits here at number 9 with its 120 degree ultra wide angle field of view coupled with 1080p resolution at 30 fps. Advanced 2D and 3D noise reduction coupled with autofocus and a progressive scanning mode make the model a top 5 rated webcam according to PC GAMER as well as one of the Top Gadgets of 2020 by the Gadgeteer. It goes for around $100.
10) Sony Alpha a6000
Just buy a Mirrorless digital camera like Shroud did and link it up to your PC. Its different, its snazzy, it’s amazing video quality on your stream. The Sony A6000 is a camera that you can stream with tonight and then detach from your PC to take pictures at your kid’s birthday party the next day. A 179 focal point plane along with a 3 inch tilting LCD and anti-dust system allows for a superior alternative to webcams. The alternative being, astoundingly, a real camera. It might be the most expensive option on this list at nearly $599 on the used market so be very considerate of how you’re going to spend your money.
So that’s our list for top 10 webcams in the summer of 2021. We hope it helped you get closer to a decision. No, we aren’t sponsored by Logitech, they just make really good stuff.