For reasons we won’t go into, the way we work has changed dramatically. Remote working is the new normal for many of us, and it comes with hours of meetings in Zoom, Teams or Skype. Ever wondered why Netflix is super sharp while you look like a smudge in meetings? It’s because your laptop’s camera isn’t up to scratch, and probably isn’t positioned well either.
Simply put, most laptops and some phones treat front-facing cameras as an afterthought, and often use low-quality components to keep costs down. That approach works fine for the odd call, but in 2022, it’s seriously lacking.
However, it’s possible to buy standalone webcams that pack in dedicated, bespoke components for a much clearer feed – and they don’t have to be particularly expensive either. Separate webcams also give you the benefit of placing a camera where you want; whether it’s on an external monitor or tripod. That also means you can pick a more flattering angle...
On this page, we’ve put together our favourite webcams available now; from cheaper, more affordable cameras to pricier ones that offer serious clarity. It’s also important to note that all webcams – regardless of quality – work best in a good light.
Best webcams in 2022
The Logitech C920 is one of the most popular webcams on the market and for good reason. It doesn't have the best specs on this list, but it delivers strong performance for a competitive price. It can stream 1080p video at 30fps, which is significantly better than most laptop webcams, and it's also able to deliver 60fps at a slightly lower 720p resolution. You get stereo audio, and a 78-degree angle means you don't have to sit directly in front of it.
Those with an eye on security will prefer the C920S; it’s essentially the same camera but comes with a cap for the lens. Both are compatible with all the main meeting clients and connect via USB.
Tried and tested by Group Commercial Content Editor Adam Binnie: "It's difficult to get motivated about buying a new webcam - there's one in my computer that does an okay job, so spending money on replacement hasn't been high up on my to-do list.
"However - after one too many complaints from colleagues about me not looking at them while talking (I use a second screen and my webcam is built into my laptop) I decided to give this Trust camera a go. No more squashing calls on my smaller screen, now I can have the whole team on my monitor and look at them at the same time.
"It runs 1080p at 30fps and has autofocus to ensure you're always looking crisp. I've got it hung over my screen using the in-built clip but you can also attach it to a telescopic tripod if you have space on your desk. Being able to move the camera around to find the best angle for my room's lighting (or whatever my hair has decided to do that day) is worth the upgrade alone.
"Downsides? There's no light to illuminate your face, or to show when it's recording, and it takes up quite a bit of space on the top of my monitor, but as a budget-friendly upgrade to your stock laptop webcam it ticks a lot of boxes."
If you're looking for a modest update to your existing setup but don't want to spend too much, it's worth checking out the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000. At just under £40, it's easy on the wallet and the specs aren't bad.
The HD-3000 will stream video calls at 720p and it can record in 1080p, too. Microsoft’s webcam can correct the white balance for more lifelike colours on calls, and it can also be mounted on a tripod.
Razer is usually associated with high-end gaming hardware, and its Kiyo webcam certainly looks the part. Unlike other webcams here, the Razer features a built-in ring light, which ensures your face will always have the best possible lightning.
In addition, the Kiyo will stream at a competitive 1080p at 30fps, though you can double that if you’re prepared to drop quality to 720p.
At just under £100, the Razer Kiyo isn’t cheap, but it’s compatible with streaming software popular with gamers – in addition to clients such as Microsoft Teams. You also need to subtract the cost of a ring light; they usually cost around £30 to buy separately, but the Razer comes with its own.
Those taking streaming seriously should put Logitech's StreamCam at the top of their list. Alongside 60fps streaming at a full 1080p, the StreamCam comes with Logitech's Capture software unlocking exposure, frame stabilisation and other parameters.
Facial tracking and dual microphones mean the StreamCam performs well in work meetings – providing you install the right software – though other features such as 9:16 portrait streaming clearly cater towards content creators.
At £140, the StreamCam is probably overkill for those daily Zoom calls.
Get past the odd name, and the Brio represents Logitechu2019s most sophisticated camera by far. Small and relatively plain, the Brio is capable of streaming 4K and HDR content at 30fps, 1080p content at 60fps, and 720p content at a ridiculous 90fps, if you feel it's necessary.
The top-of-the-range Logitech includes three field-of-view settings to either add space around you or crop closely to your face, while RightLight 3 technology ensures you’re lit properly at all times. Finally, dual omnidirectional mics with noise-cancelling ensure the Brio’s sound doesn’t let down its pictures.
At £180, the Brio isn’t cheap, but if you enjoy being at the cutting edge, it’s the only camera for you.
Rrp: $21.80
The C270 is one of the cheapest webcams you can buy, but it delivers solid specs that can still improve your meeting experience. While cameras like the Brio 4K can hit 90fps at 720p, the C270 maxes out at solid 720p at 30fps. There's only one mono mic, and the field-of-view is a fine but fixed 60 degrees.
This cheap Logitech webcam does everything you need it to – and has a clip so it can be easily fixed to a laptop or external monitor. It’s not the most exciting camera on this list, but with a retail price of £25, it doesn’t need to be.
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