Hunting for the best webcam for live streaming can be a nerve-wracking experience. It’s even more complicated if you’re buying your first webcam. There are hundreds of options to choose from. And due to the pandemic, sales for webcams have been up by 179% in March of 2020. There are times when popular items go out of stock or significantly get a price increase.
We’ve gathered the best webcams for live streaming based on suggestions from streaming communities, Amazon reviews, and tech websites and narrowed the option as much as possible. This article is limited to the best webcams for live streaming based on these criteria:
- USB Webcam;
- Plug-and-Play;
- Within the $200 range.
This selection is suited for beginners looking to buy HD webcams, so they can look like a pro in their live streams and video calls without forking hundreds of dollars.
Best Web Cameras For Live Streaming
What makes a webcam the best? First, it needs to have at least 1080p resolution for streaming. Second, it should be easy to use and work right out of the box. Lastly, it needs to have an option for more advanced settings in the event you need them. Live streaming is a never-done deal, and you’ll always find yourself tweaking your setup.
Logitech c922
Logitech c922 is arguably the most popular webcam for live streaming. It’s the best bang for your buck. It’s perfect for beginner live streamers who want to upgrade from their laptop’s internal camera.
Price: $79
Resolution: 1080p at 30 fps, 720p at 30 fps
Features:
- Built-in stereo mic with automatic noise reduction
- Tripod included
- Works with Logitech Capture app for more advanced settings
Pros:
- Best camera to stream FULL HD under $100
- Easy to mount on any laptop or monitor
Cons:
- Video quality suffers under low light
- The built-in mic picks up a lot of background noise
Best Webcam For:
- Talking-head live streams
- Video conferencing
- Recording picture-in-picture tutorials
Logitech StreamCam
If you’re willing to add $100 more to your budget, the Logitech StreamCam is an excellent choice. PC Gamer dubs it as the “best webcam for streamers,” while Techradar hails it as “best for content creation.”
The main difference between StreamCam and C922 is its ability to record FULL HD vertical videos. It’s perfect for recording TikTok videos, Instagram Stories, and YouTube shorts.
Price: $179
ResolutionFull HD 1080p at 60 fps
Features:
- Smart autofocus and exposure
- Full HD vertical video for Instagram stories
- Monitor mount and a tripod adaptor
Pros:
- Fantastic video quality, better than C922
- Easy to mount
- Better in low light compared to C922
Cons:
- USB-C only connection
- More expensive
Best Webcam For:
- High-resolution streaming
- Vertical streaming and recording
Logitech Brio
Logitech Brio is an absolute favorite among veteran streamers because of its ultra-smooth video quality. And if you’re planning to use your webcam to shoot pre-recorded videos for YouTube, adding $20 to get the 4K resolution is worth it.
Price: $199
Resolution: 4K Ultra HD Recording, 1080p at 60 FPS for streaming and video calls
Features:
- Privacy Shutter
- Clip and Tripod Mount Included
- Up to 5X Zoom
- Built-in Microphone
Pros
- Great video quality
- The built-in microphone is better than C922
Cons
- Autofocus not working with Microsoft Teams
- More expensive
Best Webcam For
- Recording YouTube videos
- High-resolution live streams
Razer Kiyo
Logitech isn’t the only trusted brand for the best webcams. Razer, a brand loved by millions of gamers, has the innovative Razer Kiyo.
So, what’s the main difference between the two? The Razer Kiyo comes with a built-in ring light and has a sharper image quality.
Price: $60
Resolution: 1080P at 30 fps, 720P at 60 fps
Features:
- Built-in ring light
- Built-in omnidirectional mic
- Auto-focus
Pros:
- Good video quality at a low price
- Built-in ring light
- H.264 compression encoding, which is great for pre-recorded videos
- Innovative design
Cons:
- Non-detachable cable
- Tricky to mount on some surfaces
- Does not come with software for more setting controls
Best Webcam For:
- Gamers who are familiar with the Razer brand and want to start streaming
- Content creators who are looking for a cheaper option but with good video quality
AVerMedia PW315 Webcam
Another great alternative brand for live streaming gear is AVerMedia, a Taiwan-based technology manufacturer established in 2008. AVerMedia PW315 is one of the most popular recommendations from their webcams line, especially when Logitech webcams went out of stock.
Price: $119
Resolution: Full HD 1080P video calls at 60fps
Features:
- Dual Stereo Microphones with AI Noise Reduction
- Privacy Shutter
- Tripod
Pros:
- Best video quality at this price
- Sturdy build
Cons:
- Accompanying software is not user friendly
- May perform poorly under low light
Best Webcam For:
- Video conferencing
- Talking-head live streams
- Online classes
Anker PowerConf C300
The Anker brand is known for its power banks and charging cables, but they also have conference gadgets, including AnkerPowerConf C300. It is double the price of the Logitech C922 and $50 less than the StreamCam. Anker has a wider field of view–at 130 degrees max–which means you can fit more background or people into the shot.
Price: $129.99
Resolution: 1080P at 60 fps
Features:
- Privacy cover
- Dual microphones
- Anker Work app
Pros:
- Impressive video quality
- Great after-sales support
Cons:
- The software can be buggy
Best Webcam For:
- Conference rooms for hybrid meetings
- Streaming in FULL HD
NexiGo 1080P 60FPS Webcam
While this is a camera dubbed as “best for Zoom meetings,” it’s also a good option for live streaming. Like most webcams in this list, it can stream in 1080P at 60 fps. Most Amazon reviews highlight that it’s a good webcam even under low lighting conditions.
Price: $99
Resolution: 1080p at 60 fps
Features:
- Privacy cover
- Stereo microphone
- Auto low-light correction
- Tripod included
Pros:
- The best alternative to Logitech
- High-quality video even under low light
- Easy to install and setup
- Privacy cover is a plus
Cons:
- Issues with tripod not fitting properly
Best Webcam For:
- Zoom meetings
- Streaming to Facebook
Why Using Webcam For Live Streaming Is A Great Idea If You’re Just Starting
Whether you’re streaming your Zoom meeting or starting a full-fledged weekly live show, using an external webcam is a must.
Better Resolution
Laptops nowadays have better camera specifications compared to a decade ago, but they are usually good for Facetime or Messenger calls with friends or family. If you truly want to look professional in video conferences and live streams, it’s best to invest in external webcams. That way you can get crystal-clear and FULL HD video quality.
Wider Field of View
Most laptops have a limited field of view, which means you’ll appear very close to the camera.
Flexibility
With an external webcam, you can mount it on a tripod to get the best possible angle.
Summary
Choosing the best webcam for live streaming doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you’ve set the budget and your other content creation needs, it’s a lot easier to narrow down your options. The best strategy is to start with a budget-friendly option, such as the Logitech C922. It’s always easy to upgrade once you have committed to a regular live streaming schedule and need to take it to the next level. The next option–once you’re ready to level up–is to invest in a DSLR camera that can record and stream in FULL HD.
Irene Chan is a writer and live video producer at BeLive. She has been working in the digital marketing industry for a decade and loves the creativity of video production. She has a degree in Broadcast Communication and is always imagining new live videos to produce. She is based in the Philippines and lives with her husband, two kids, and their 11-year-old Chihuahua.
