The 5 Best Webcams

Dedicated webcams are becoming increasingly rare as they become incorporated into many other electronic devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. However, modern standalone webcams typically feature high definition and advanced lenses for greater video quality than your normal integrated webcams. So if you frequently make video calls, a dedicated webcam could be a worthy investment.

What Is a Webcam?

A webcam is a video recording camera that directly feeds the image it captures to a computer. Webcams are most widely used as a means of establishing a video link, allowing computers to act as videophones or conference stations. This association with video communications through the Internet gives it its name.

Best 5 Webcams

Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920

The high-end product of this list, the Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 comes with full HD 1080p video resolution, 15 megapixels, and a robust autofocus system. Users applaud the excellent sound and video quality of this webcam. Additional features include built-in dual stereo microphone, noise filtering to improve audio quality, and the ability to upload to major social networking sites with just one click. Currently $74.99 on Amazon.

Microsoft LifeCam Cinema Webcam

The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema Webcam is praised by both professionals and users for its stellar video quality. This Microsoft webcam is capable of producing HD video with a resolution of 720p. Additionally, the microphone on the webcam contains noise-reduction features to enhance its audio quality. Aside from the audio and video quality, users also appreciate its ease-of-use and the fact that there’s no software to install — all you need to do is plug in it to begin using the webcam. Currently $39.97 on Amazon.

Logitech HD Webcam C310

The Logitech HD Webcam C310 is an affordable webcam that still performs very strongly. With a resolution of 720p and 5 megapixels, this webcam produces quality high definition video. And with a noise-canceling microphone, it records great audio as well. One downside, however, is that some report that video quality may get choppy at higher resolutions. Currently $29.99 on Amazon.

Creative Live! Cam Chat HD

Another solid-performing webcam, the Creative Live! Cam Chat HD is also well-reviewed by users. This webcam carries HD 720p resolution with a 5.7 megapixel video camera. A built-in noise-canceling microphone allows you to enjoy clear audio and one-click upload to Facebook, YouTube and Photobucket lets you quickly upload your photos or videos to your favorite social media sites. Currently $19.99 on Amazon.

Logitech Webcam C210

One of the more affordable cameras on this list, the Logitech Webcam C210 is also the only one here that doesn’t record in high definition. However, users agree that for the price tag, you still get great video and audio quality, and for making video calls, it gets the job done. Mac users beware — this webcam is only compatible with Microsoft PCs. Currently $26.98 on Amazon.