Microsoft L2 LifeCam HD-3000, Black

Product Information

The Logitech Brio is, in our opinion, the best 4K webcam for those who have a legitimate need for one. Who are these users? 4K isn't necessary for video calls or for game streaming since many don't have the internet broadband to stream 4K content.

When you're investing in your new live streaming camera, it's worth remembering that many cameras can't actually stream at the same resolution that they're capable of recording at. For example, some cameras may be able to record in 4K Ultra HD, but are only able to output 1080p Full HD when being used to stream. This file is the latest version of Microsoft LifeCam; Program features excellent sound and video quality and works on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows. Windows 7 is now the default operating system, but it should function flawlessly across various Microsoft operating systems. The Elgato Facecam is a relative newcomer to the streaming circuit, placing a firm emphasis on accessible, high-quality content. It shoots video at a streaming-friendly resolution of 1080p, uncompressed, with a 60p frame rate. A webcam can be accessed remotely by someone else if your computer is infected with a type of virus called a Remote Access Trojan (RAT). If you are concerned about the potential for remote access, install some good antivirus software and use or buy a modesty shield for your camera. However, the C920 is not that much cheaper than the more refined and focused C922x, so if you don't already have the 920, it's worth grabbing the C922x. Logitech has essentially looked at what made the older webcam a success within the streamer community and took some lessons on board for the Pro Stream model.The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 is USB-powered, eliminating the need for additional power sources or batteries. Its compact design, with dimensions of 44.5 mm in width, 39.3 mm in depth, and 109 mm in height, makes it portable and easy to set up anywhere. Of course there are reasons to look for the Tail series (which is just about to get an update), but unless you need features like NDI|HX3 and multi-cam setups managed by the cameras themselves then the smarts you need can all be found in this sophisticated webcam. If you use a platform like OBS it'll have no issue recognising it, and the 4K image is good, even in relatively low light thanks to the 1/1.5-inch sensor.

Other positives for the Brio include its multiple fields of view. You can choose between three different framing options, as long as you're happy to drop to 1080p. The Brio also has the required sensors for proper Windows Hello authentication, and it's equipped with dual omnidirectional noise-canceling mics. No need for a separate microphone! With an approximate 1 megapixel resolution, this webcam delivers decent image quality, suitable for everyday video chatting and casual recordings. However, it does not feature a built-in flash, limiting its performance in low-light conditions. Lighting is a crucial part of video production, and you’ll want to make sure your face is brightly and evenly lit when streaming. You can invest in standalone lighting to help achieve this, but on a tight budget, you could be better off with the Razer Kiyo, which has its own integrated light ring made up of 12 LEDs. The light ring surrounds the camera and its brightness can be adjusted; the lights offer up to 10 Lux of brightness at a distance of one meter, with a color temperature of 5600K. As well as brightening your face, the light should also help prevent your face from mirroring reflections of gameplay from your screen, making for a more professional look. Notably, it's one of the few webcams to offer 1080p 60 fps streaming, assuming that your computer meets the minimum specifications for it. Most webcams opt for 720p 60 fps or 1080p 30 fps, so this is a pretty nice perk. High-definition video capture: Webcams support 1080p or higher resolution video, providing clear and detailed video images.There is also a digital zoom function, although we would advise against using this, because the 720p resolution, while acceptable when viewed normally, doesn’t provide enough pixels for images to remain sharp when zoomed in. Finally, there is a manual focus option for making sure the image stays exactly the way you want it – we prefer this, as autofocus can have a habit of incorrectly adjusting in some lighting conditions, taking you out of focus. Logitech's budget model, the HD Webcam C310, was sharp, clear and bright; it caught all of the detail that the LifeCam didn't. The C310 showed off the stitching in my shirt, and individual hairs on my head and beard. There was still some visual noise, but not as much as on Microsoft's camera. Equipped with a built-in microphone, this webcam allows for convenient and hassle-free audio communication. The USB 2.0 interface offers a reliable connection and facilitates easy plug-and-play installation. With a minimum RAM requirement of 1024 MB, it ensures compatibility with most systems. The default image it produces is bright – some might call it overexposed – but if it’s not to your taste then it’s easy enough to fix the settings with Elgato’s Camera Hub software.

While the Logitech C922 Pro has staked out a place as a near-ubiquitous camera for conferences and the like, the Logitech Streamcam is a newer model that’s pitched directly toward streamers. Its video quality is excellent, with 1080p 60fps footage that looks excellent. You’ll have no reason to worry about your streaming quality once this camera is up and running – the auto framing and exposure features keep you centered and keep the image balanced for a pleasing output. You can also install the Logitech Capture software, available for Windows or Mac, to further streamline the process.

The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 is a no-frills webcam that simply gets on with the job

Enabling your embedded web camera by installing appropriate software will allow your system to capture and send images through a computer network, and include support for various features that the webcam benefits from. Another plus – if you have it – is the ability to use it with DJI's excellent radio microphone system though, though the GoPro has the option of a wireless mic or a media mod too.