Best Webcams for Youtube in 2024

Jed Smith Avatar

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Updated 11:36 pm

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To find the best webcam for Youtube you’ll need to determine the features that are right for you and your home. We recommend that you favor webcams that record video at a minimum of 1080p and 30FPS frame rates, offer plug and play functionality with all major editing and media suites for MacOs, Windows, and ChromeOS, with additional connectivity to Android and iOS. Additional features to look for include Ultra HD/4K video recording capability, high-precision glass lens, image correction technology like autofocus and low light compensation, and high-SPL dual stereo mics with noise cancellation.

After analyzing hundreds of reviews amongst a multitude of products with varying price points and features, we’ve determined that the Logitech C922x is the best webcam for Youtube you can buy on the market today. Keep reading about this and our other top picks to learn more about the best webcams on the market.

Top 10 Best Webcams for Youtube

 #1  Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam for Youtube

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: Game streaming-friendly frame rates, advanced image correction features, full stereophonic high-SPL mics, and extra-wide 78-degree FOV for a go-to choice in professional content creation.

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  • Precise autofocus
  • High-speed frame rates for gaming content
  • High-quality tabletop tripod included

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  • Updates require manual installation

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The Logitech C922x Pro Stream is a 1080p/30FPS or 720p/60FPS webcam designed with professional content creation on major platforms including Youtube and Twitch in mind. Its precision glass lens is augmented by advanced low-light compensation and fast autofocus for sharp, clear images at both resolutions, and its dual microphones capture true stereophonic audio with automatic noise cancellation and a high SPL for distortion-free sound.

Updates are performed manually, but are simple and fast and require no software expertise. Its superb image quality, game-streaming-friendly 60FPS mode, high fidelity sound, and plug and play functionality combined with its full compatibility with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android make it a powerhouse for Youtubers and other professional content creators, and it even comes with a high-quality tabletop tripod for increased mounting options. It’s a top-quality choice for anyone in search of the best webcams for Chromebook.

 #2  Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam for Youtube

Award: HONORABLE MENTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: A privacy shutter offers security from hackers and protection from the elements while an extra wide-angle glass and a huge range of platform compatibility make it a great, safety-minded all-arounder.

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  • Full high def/30FPS video
  • Plug and play for all major platforms
  • Advanced autofocus

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  • Bulkier than some models

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The Logitech C920S is a 1080p/30 FPS webcam with an extra wide-angle glass lens and a built-privacy shutter for security from hackers and protection from the elements when not in use.
It features advanced, fast autofocus and plug and play compatibility with a huge range of streaming, video calling, and content creation platforms for Windows, macOS, and Chrome Os, and its flexible, tripod-compatible mount gives it extra adjustability.

It’s somewhat bulkier than some models available, but its light weight means it’s still very much a good fit for nearly any device while still being a sturdy and durable piece of hardware. Its consistent subject clarity, image fidelity, wide-angle glass lens, and security-minded design make it a great choice for content creators and professionals who need a safe, reliable video calling option. It’s a great option if you want the best webcams for conference rooms.

 #3  Logitech BRIO Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST RESOLUTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: High FPS and Ultra HD video recording and modern image and framing features like facial recognition software make it a high-end option for pro content creators.

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  • 5x Zoom
  • HDR-capable for deep shadow and color
  • 4K/30FPS and 1080p/60FPS video

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  • Higher price point than many models

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The Logitech BRIO is a 4K/30FPS and 1080p/60FPS Ultra HD webcam designed to deliver exceptional image quality with generous framing and image modification options for Youtubers, professional game streamers, and general live streaming. Advanced features include 5x digital zoom, low-light compensation, and RightLight™ 3 tech for HDR for rich, deep color and shadow. Multiple aspect ratio options such as ultra-widescreen add even more variety of shooting and editing options.

Its exceptional performance and host of advanced features come with a higher price point than many in its class. However, for some of the highest-fidelity results available from external webcams and the huge range of creative options it offers, it’s hard to beat. For wireless options, check out our best wireless webcams buying guide.

 #4  Logitech C930e Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST FOR HIGH-SPEED STREAMING

WHY WE LIKE IT: An extra-wide FOV, advanced video encoding for fast, hitch-free streaming, and uncommon framing options including zoom and tilt give it plenty of creative content possibilities with top-quality fidelity.

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  • 30% more field of vision than most
  • Optimized for major streaming platforms
  • UVC H.264 in-camera video encoding for fast, smooth streams

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  • Bulkier design than some models

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The Logitech C930e is a 1080p/30FPS webcam optimized for both streaming and video calling platforms like Microsoft Lync, Youtube, and Skype which utilizes patented UVC H.264 in-camera video encoding for smoother, faster streams than many models in the class. Advanced shot features like 4x zoom, tilt and pan, and an extra-wide 90-degree field of view glass lens allow for a wide array of creative options for content creators, and stereo dual microphones capture crisp, low-distortion audio.

It’s slightly bulkier than many similar models in class and may fit more awkwardly on some smaller devices. However, its huge range of adjustability in mounting and framing and excellent picture and sound quality combined with optimizing for streaming and video conferencing platforms and apps make it a versatile performer for professional content creation making it one of the best webcams for streaming on our list.

 #5  Razer Kiyo Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST FOR LOW ILLUMINATION SHOOTING

WHY WE LIKE IT: Compact and portable, with a built-in ring light for low light shooting and plug and play compatibility with all major gaming consoles.

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  • Powerful, integrated illuminator
  • High-speed frame rate mode
  • Compact, folding, portable design

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  • External mic required for optimal audio

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The Razer Kiyo is a compact, lightweight 720p/60FPS or 1080p/30FPS webcam great for professional game streaming and professional content creation even in challenging shooting conditions. Its built-in ring light helps manage shadows and compensate for low light shooting, and its low-bulk folding design adds portability and fits well on any size device.

Its built-in mic doesn’t perform on the level of some in its class when it comes to SPL, but the high-speed shooting option and plug-and-play compatibility with all major gaming consoles makes it a great choice for game streaming. Moreover, its space-saving, compact foldability, and low light compensation design make it great for the discrete shooting of any professional content. It’s one of the best gaming accessories for professional gamers on our list.

 #6  Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST ON A BUDGET

WHY WE LIKE IT: A built-in laptop mount and desktop stand, digital zoom and other image correction and framing options, and plug and play compatibility with all major platforms for versatility at an exceptional value.

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  • TrueColor patented tech for rich color
  • Digital pan, tilt, and 4x zoom
  • Universal mount for laptops, desktops, notebooks, and monitors

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  • 720p resolution only

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The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 is an external webcam that records video at 720p/30FPS and features a variety of image enhancement and correction options such as digital pan, digital tilt, and 4x digital zoom. Its built-in dual microphone captures quality audio with automatic noise reduction, and its universal mount/base/tabletop tripod gives you a wide variety of mounting and placement options.

The 720p/30FPS maximum resolution is lower than some professional Youtubers and content creators will prefer, but its TrueColor image technology gives its lower resolution images an exceptional color depth and richness. Its variety of shooting modes, image correction features, and high framing and mounting adjustability makes it an extremely versatile webcam at a great value. Paired with the best selfie light, you have a truly budget-friendly setup for content creation.

 #7  Ausdom 640 HD Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST AUDIO CAPTURE

WHY WE LIKE IT: Wide field of view, image correction technology, and HD video capture round out a full-featured option with high-performance audio and a noise-canceling stereo microphone.

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  • Noise-canceling stereo mic
  • 90-degree FOV
  • Autofocus and low light compensation

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  • Fairly bulky build

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The Audsom Full HD is a 1080p resolution, 30FPS webcam with a 90-degree wide-angle lens excellent for video calling and high-SPL stereo dual built in microphones for exceptionally clear, no-distortion audio. Features like fast autofocus and low light compensation help make framing great shots quick and easy along with its full compatibility and optimization for most major content and streaming platforms like Youtube.

Its advanced digital sound features add some weight and bulk, but it’s still easily mountable on most laptops and notebooks. Its exceptional video quality and image correction feature combined with its exceptional audio performance make it great for conferences and noisy events where a defined, low-noise stereo sound image is crucial, or content creation where audio plays a key role. You might also want to check out the best webcams for Skype.

 #8  Microsoft LifeCam Studio Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST FOR WINDOWS USERS

WHY WE LIKE IT: A multi-element glass lens, ClearFrame image technology, and extra-wide FOV augment a high performer optimized for Windows specialty streaming and content platforms.

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  • 1080p/30FPS or 720p/60FPS
  • Face tracking autofocus
  • Designed and optimized for MS Lync video platform

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  • Less plug-and-play integration with macOS

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The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema is a 1080p/30FPS or 720p/60FPS external webcam optimized for Microsoft’s Lync video calling and content-creation platform. The precision glass lens combined with its patented ClearFrame and TrueColor technology provides focus, clarity, and richness to images, while the high fidelity built-in dual microphone captures high-end audio for any purpose.

Its Windows-focused optimization means slightly less plug-and-play functionality for macOS platforms and devices, though it’s still fully compatible. However, advanced features like face tracking autofocus and patented imaging software make it a top choice for Windows-based content creators and streamers. For Mac users, you’ll want to choose one of the best webcams for Mac instead.

 #9  Mevo Plus Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST ON-BOARD EDITING

WHY WE LIKE IT: 4K video recording and an advanced image processor combines with full-featured in-camera editing software for a powerhouse digital media hardware and software suite.

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  • Advanced image and framing features
  • 2160p image resolution
  • Full mobile device compatibility

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  • On the expensive side

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The Mevo Plus is a 1080p/60FPS and 4K/30FPS external webcam and digital editing suite with an advanced image processor and precision glass lens. Its full-featured in-camera editing software is fully compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, allowing live streamers and other content creators to shoot, edit, and upload professional-quality media on-site and upload quickly to Youtube or other content platforms.

Its variety of advanced features include zoom, autofocus, and low light correction and its exceptional performance and versatility come with a considerably higher price point than many in the class. However, for professional quality content creation, whether on location or in the studio, it’s a complete digital media production option for everything from Youtube content to conferencing to professional 4k game streaming. You might also like our best gaming chair buying guide for next-level game streaming.

 #10  Creative Blasterx Senz3D Webcam for Youtube

Award: BEST ADVANCED FEATURES

WHY WE LIKE IT: A modern, sophisticated option with advanced technology such as a depth-sensing infrared sensor, motion tracking for easy framing of fast-moving subjects, facial recognition autofocus.

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  • Bluetooth and mobile app connectivity
  • Intel RealSense tech offers facial recognition and gesture response
  • Voice-controllable integration with Cortana

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  • Something of a learning curve for newcomers
  • High price point in class

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The Creative Blasterx Senz3D is a super-modern 1080p/30FPS infrared-equipped webcam with a large variety of cutting-edge features and tech that make it an innovative video tool offering many creative possibilities. A unique three-lens design captures complex visual data using an RGB camera, an infrared camera, and a depth sensing-laser projector for advanced facial recognition, body gesture recognition, and motion detection.

Additional advanced features like background replacement for green-screen effects, precise autofocus, and digital zoom make for an impressive media tool that nonetheless may be overbuilt for some more casual streamers and content creators who want to avoid a high learning curve. However, its innovative tech and high image and sound quality offer possibilities not available to most webcams on the market.

How We Decided

We preferred webcams that record video at a minimum of 1080p and frame rates of 30FPS, preferably capable of 4K and 60FPS for professional game streaming and high fidelity Youtube content creation. We favored webcams that offer plug and play functionality with all major editing and media suites for MacOs, Windows, and ChromeOS, with additional connectivity to Android and iOS.

We also liked webcams with high-precision, multi-element glass lenses and image correction and modification features like precise autofocus and low light compensation. Other advanced imaging features like facial-recognition autofocus, automatic frame finding, and motion sensors were also appreciated.

Finally, we liked webcams with high-SPL (sound pressure level) stereo dual microphones featuring built-in noise cancellation for clear, distortion-free audio capture.. We also liked webcams with extra wide-angle lenses (75-degree FOV or higher), and which connected via USB-3 or Thunderbolt for the highest transfer speeds and lowest latency video calling possible. Proprietary video compression technology for faster uploads and less hard drive bloat was also appreciated. It’s certainly one of the best computer accessories for content creators.

Best Webcam For Youtube Buyer’s Guide

The Most Important Features to Consider

  1. HD Video Recording
    Though resolutions of 720p are acceptable for video calling and casual live streaming, at this point, the minimum specs for most original Youtube or other streaming service content is 1080p video. Frame rates of 30FPS are adequate for most kinds of content, but professional game streamers often prefer 60FPS frame rates to match those of modern gaming consoles and high-end PC gaming. Ultra HD, 4K resolutions, while producing some dazzling images, usually aren’t necessary for most Youtube content, though again for professional gaming, some content creators will want to match the 4k resolutions of their high-performance PC gaming rigs. It’s important to remember, on that note, that higher resolutions and frame rates come with much higher file sizes, which means slower transfers and more hard drive space used.
  2. Sound
    If you’re using the webcam to record your sound, then you want to make sure it’s capable of recording high-quality sound without distortion and clipping. A condenser mic with a high sound pressure level (SPL) and a wide dynamic range is desirable. Features like noise cancellation are also great for video conferencing purposes. It should also be able to record at least 16 bit, 44.k sound files in the WAV, AIFF, or high-quality compressed format like MP4. If you’ll be using a dedicated external mic like a USB mic, make sure you have enough ports on your laptop or desktop for both the mic or audio interface AND the webcam- USB, mini-USB, and thunderbolt connections are all common for webcams, audio interfaces, and, obviously, USB mics. Secondly, make sure your webcam’s dedicated software or the software that it connects to syncs easily to your sound source or records the sound itself.
  3. High-Speed Connectivity and Plug and Play Functionality
    While the fastest data streaming connections are Thunderbolt and USB-3 or USB-C, many models feature USB-2 or mini USB instead. This, however, doesn’t necessarily mean significant decreases in transfer speeds and increased video calling latency, as some external webcams also feature proprietary video compression technology that creates smaller file sizes without noticeable loss in fidelity. Given the wide variety of options available to streamers when it comes to getting your content edited, transferred, compressed, and uploaded, a webcam that offers a variety of connectivity options is ideal, but keep in mind your needs as a content creator and make sure the ease of use is maintained even with a multitude of options and features. Webcams that connect to mobile devices can also be handy, either for using your device as a remote control or for using an Android or iOS editing app or video suite app to get your content online.

Webcam For Youtube FAQs

Do I need an external webcam for Youtube and other content platforms?

If you’re serious about the content you’re creating, the answer is yes. Though the small majority of laptops be they PC, Mac, or Chromebook come with built-in webcams capable of reasonable video and audio fidelity, they generally lack many features that external webcams bring to the table. Limited video resolutions, low SPL microphones that can distort and clip easily and lack true stereophonic imaging, and a lack of integration or optimization for major video platforms and apps are all common limitations. A dedicated webcam will generally give you high image quality and superior sound (if they feature mics) and will integrate with your editing and recording software or feature built-in software for an all-in-one mini production suite.

What are the limitations of external webcams?

Modern webcams across all price points are capable of professional-quality images to varying degrees, but their compact, removable design means they generally can’t provide the fidelity and cinematic results of professional-grade digital cameras designed for filmmakers. While most external webcams are capable of capturing 1080p, not all of them are capable of frame rates of 60FPS, and even fewer are capable of UltraHD 4K video. Regardless, they’re generally adequate or even excellent for high-quality game streaming, video calling and conferencing, and professional content creation for platforms like Youtube.

Are external webcams secure for use with Youtube and other content platforms?

While in theory any webcam can be hacked using trojan horse viruses and other malware, and such hackers can even get to cameras on private networks, the likelihood of this happening to you is fairly low. And while years ago it was conventional wisdom that Macs don’t get viruses and malware- that’s no longer really the case- though it’s still less common. Regardless, content platforms like Youtube are popular on an international level with hundreds of millions of users who have various levels of access to each other, so it’s best to be on the safe side. Besides taking common-sense precautions with how you use your external webcam, firewall apps, VPNs, and general security or antivirus software are recommended regardless of the operating system you use, and there are countless options ranging from freeware to more expensive and robust software tools.

What’s the best webcam for Youtube?

The best webcam for Youtube will feature plenty of connectivity options for mobile devices and video/audio recording apps and digital media suites, capture video at 1080p and 60FPS with additional Ultra HD options, and feature a high-SPL mic that records high-quality digital audio or compressed audio. Image and shot enhancement features like fast, precise autofocus and low-light compensation, and proprietary, high-quality video compression technology to save hard drive space and increase transfer and streaming speeds are also all recommended.

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