Applications such as Skype have revolutionized the way of communicating via PC, smartphone and tablet thanks to the possibility of seeing yourself in a video call; The protagonists of this revolution are certainly webcams, video and audio devices now omnipresent in PC and notebook equipment. While before it was necessary to buy expensive teleconferencing systems to be able to talk remotely with other people, now an Internet connection, a program and a webcam are enough to see and talk, reducing the distances between people. If in laptops the webcam is now integrated in the body of the monitor, in the case of a fixed PC it will be necessary to purchase one suitable for your purposes. In this guide I will show you the features that a good modern webcam for PC must have to make video calls with Skype or other programs, with a collection of webcams that you can buy on offer.
READ ALSO: Best free video chat for PC and video conferencing programs
Characteristics of a good webcam
In order to take advantage of Skype and other programs with video call support (Facebook Messenger above all), I recommend viewing only the webcam which have this type of characteristics:
- Resolution for modern standads focuses only on webcams with support for 720p or better 1080p resolution; in the latter case, make sure you have enough speed on the Internet (at least 12 mega in download and 1 mega in upload) to be able to hold the call in high definition. Ignore any webcam with low resolutions (VGA or less), now useless.
- Autofocus: make sure that the webcam you have chosen has autofocus (autofocus), so you can always focus on the frame and avoid blurry shots.
- Microphone: if the webcam integrates the microphone you will have a less expense to carry out, since your voice will be captured by the webcam itself while making the video call. Some models integrate 2 microphones, in order to better capture the voice and sounds of the environment.
- Lights : some webcams also integrate lighting lights in the body, designed to make calls in the dark.
- Personally, I find them annoying in the long run, better to use the room light or a desk lamp rather than having these LEDs shot on the face while you call. The operation LED is fundamental, so as to understand immediately if the webcam is on and functioning.
- Docking or support : most webcams have an interlocking docking system, designed to be used on the top of any PC monitor; other models have a dedicated base so that they can be placed on the desk.
- Compatibility: practically all webcams are compatible with Windows, but many models also have good support for Mac systems, the FaceTime app (Apple's Skype alternative) and Linux systems.
- In the vast majority of cases, therefore, it will not be necessary to install any driver, since the latter is already available in the operating system.
- Connection: all webcams have USB 2.0 cable, easily connected to one of the free ports on the back of the case of a PC. Some models also have wireless connectivity, using the home WiFi network as a means of communication with the PC; these devices are often sold as security cameras, but they can also be used as webcams if needed.
HD Webcam: buying guide
If you have carefully read the characteristics of the webcams you are now ready to buy one without making any mistakes!Below you can find some of the most interesting HD webcams marketed online, with much cheaper prices than physical stores.
Logitech C270
You can't spend too much on a new webcam but you don't know which model to buy "> Logitech C270 (25 €)
TeckNet
If you need a webcam with FullHD resolution (1920 x 1080) without spending a capital you can view the C018 model offered by TeckNet. This webcam resembles a small camera with an aluminum body and, in addition to recording in high definition, it has a digital microphone capable of picking up the voice clearly and clearly. Excellent coupling system, usable on both fixed PCs and notebooks.
This mid-range webcam is available here -> TeckNet USB Full HD 1080P Webcam (25 €)
Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
You are concerned that a webcam too cheap is not compatible with Windows or your Mac / Linux system "> LifeCam HD-3000 (€ 29)
HD Wireless IP 2.0 camera
Are you looking for a wireless webcam for your PC?
In this particular case I advise you to view the features offered by YISSVIC.
The webcam records at 720P HD and also has an infrared sensor, so you can converse even in total darkness, in addition to the zoom and robotic orientation features (it was born as a security camera).
It connects via home WiFi and is immediately available on your PC, so you can communicate wirelessly.
You can view this webcam here -> Wireless Webcam HD (35 €)
Logitech HD Pro C920
No expense spared and you want to support your PC with the top of the range webcams "> Logitech HD Pro C920 (69 €)
READ ALSO: How to activate the webcam, try it and deactivate it when not in use
