If you’re looking into the best webcams on the market, you’re probably already familiar with autofocus. This handy webcam software lets your camera track your movements and keeps your video smoother. If you’re in the market for a new model, comparing an autofocus vs a manual focus webcam will help you decide which one is best for your needs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Even a decent webcam will struggle to keep up with movement if it doesn’t have the ability to autofocus on a subject.
- Autofocus is the best option for those with great lighting that will be moving around a lot and want a smooth video.
- Manual focus is better for any situation with low lighting, and you’re going to be relatively stationary.
Webcams: Manual Focus vs Autofocus
Knowing how to choose a webcam is crucial in the modern age, especially if you want to participate in Zoom meetings, video calls, or even streaming. Therefore, it’s important to compare the different types of webcams available, such as a wide-angle vs a normal webcam, when purchasing a new model to find the best fit and learn more about the features they offer.
Insider Tip
Some webcam models allow you to turn autofocus on or off by adjusting the video settings.
Lighting Conditions
When it comes to video, the visibility of content matters above all. An autofocus webcam has trouble honing in on the subject if the lighting is less than perfect. As a result, the manual focus webcam wins this round because you’ll be able to control the sharpness of the image regardless of lighting.
Smooth Video
If you have flattering lighting and want an overall higher quality video, the autofocus model will yield the best results. It’s just like when you’re comparing a webcam vs a phone camera; one will produce better image quality than the other.
Warning
If you want a webcam to create streaming content or high-quality video, budget models may not provide everything you need.
Extra Features
Premium webcams always come with more options for customization than their inexpensive counterparts. If you’re looking for the best webcams for YouTube or another content-sharing website, having those features can make or break your account. In this case, more expensive models have the autofocus feature and provide more webcam settings.
STAT: Two-thirds of students in Poland used a laptop during online school activities in 2020. (source)
