Canyon CNS-CWC5

Reasons to buy:

Very low cost;
auto focus;
full HD resolution;
convenience of connection;
easy setup.

This is the most affordable device with Full HD resolution. It looks quite decent: a compact body in silver and black color, with a shutter button on top. The camera can also be used as a camera.

At low resolutions, the number of frames per second reaches 30. Canyon also has a built-in microphone.

It has a low-noise design that provides plenty of volume and a well-balanced frequency range.

Defender G-lens 2599

Reasons to buy:

Detailed Full HD images;
automatic exposure adjustment;
microphone with noise modulation;
does not require drivers;
universal flexible mount;
automatic adjustment of light sensitivity.

Defender G-lens will please you with its low cost, simple operation and automatic settings. For convenience, the model is equipped with a rotary mechanism that allows the device to rotate horizontally. A regular microphone with active noise cancelling will make your communication comfortable.

The installation of the webcam is available to everyone: it does not require any experience and does not take much time – it is enough just to follow the detailed instructions of the manufacturer.

Innovative technology, quality materials, 5-ply glass lens and protection from mechanical damage make it not only comfortable to use, but also long-lasting.

ExeGate GoldenEye C920

Reasons to buy:

Works well in all lighting conditions;
automatic color correction;
Microphone with active shupodavlenie;
convenient and reliable fixation;
High resolution optics.

The camera boasts automatic color correction. This means that color reproduction remains natural even in low light conditions.

Shooting with a frequency of 30 FPS will provide a clear, colorful picture, making ordinary movements natural. The model comes with a universal mount that allows you to securely fix the device on the body of the monitor or on the shelf.

Compact and easy to use, ExeGate GoldenEye surpasses the built-in laptop cameras and provides a decent level of video communication. Thanks to the high-quality microphone with active noise suppression, your voice will always sound clear.

A4Tech PK-925H

Reasons to buy:

Works well in all light levels;
Capture HD quality video at 30 frames per second;
Quality built-in microphone;
Optics with anti-reflective coating;
Compatible with most tripods.

The model, besides transmitting video, can also take photos. This greatly expands the functionality of the device. The manufacturer has equipped A4Tech PK-925H high quality matrix, which allows you to take pictures in all light conditions.

Thanks to the convenient mounting the camera can be placed in no time on a table or on the body of the monitor. Automatic focus is responsible for picture quality, providing excellent quality without interference from the user. And to connect the device to your PC or laptop, you don’t need to buy adapters – everything is done using a standard USB cable.

Genius QCam 6000

Advantages:

built-in microphone;
easy connection;
It is compatible with a variety of operating systems;
low price.

Disadvantages:

Sometimes image freezes.

Model with widescreen image and HD 720 resolution has a built-in microphone and noise suppression function. The voice sounds clear and loud.

The camera has automatic light correction, but the “noise” still appears in low light. Mounts the device to a monitor or shelf. The model is sold in several colors: black, red and yellow.

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Internet technologies are developing very quickly. And the webcam has long been a favorite gadget for most computer users. Probably no need to explain for a long time what a webcam is. The task of this device – with the help of a computer and various programs (such as Skype and others) to provide video communication over the Internet. But the functions of modern webcams are not limited to this: they can also be used to take pictures and send images, shoot, edit and broadcast video. And today, many people can no longer imagine communicating, relaxing or working without a webcam.

As a rule, webcams are already built into laptops, but in most cases their quality leaves much to be desired. Fortunately, manufacturers of smart equipment have developed a variety of options: from expensive professional cameras for streaming to budget models. Cameras from Genius, Logitech, A4Tech, Philips, Canyon, Microsoft, HQ-Tech, Creative, Trust, Gembird, Defender, Gemix and many other manufacturers are doing wonders in the world of video communication.

But when it comes to global manufacturers of smart equipment is quite difficult to make a comparison, or to talk about which web-camera is the best. The right choice depends on the task to be performed by the gadget. Some users need a camera with a good microphone, others are looking for a high-resolution gadget, and still others dream of a webcam with a remote. While for some, the smallest camera is ideal, others are looking for a larger device for video broadcasting. But at the same time, some parameters are equally important to all buyers, no matter what kind of camera they are looking for.

Choosing the right one

Despite the great popularity of webcams, not many people know how to choose a gadget for your PC or laptop and what characteristics to pay attention to in the first place. Therefore we have prepared a small cheat sheet-guide on the choice of webcams.
Matrix

All devices can be equipped with a CCD or CMOS matrix. The CCD options are considered the best. Their main advantage is that they provide a minimum level of “noise”. But these models have a disadvantage – they are much more expensive. However, if the camcorder is designed exclusively for Skype, a CMOS matrix will be quite sufficient. If you are planning to use a webcam to work with programs which recognize faces, it makes sense to give preference to a CCD matrix which will produce high-quality video with minimum noise.

The sensitivity of the sensor indicates the level of light needed to take good pictures. But in low light, even CCD-based webcams will produce a picture with noise.
Resolution

The image quality depends on the resolution of the device. This parameter is measured in pixels. Leaning towards one or another option, you need to understand what image quality is needed for certain purposes. And the first thing to know: the lower the resolution, the more grainy the image on the monitor will be. For home use webcams with a resolution starting from 640x480p are suitable.

For example, VGA 640×480 or 800×600 (never mind, even 320x240p) resolution will do for standard video conferences. If you’re planning to use your webcam for video recording, then HD 1280x720p or 1280×1024 is the best choice. To make it clearer what parameters are behind these numbers, it should be said that HD is the resolution used in good TVs. A higher resolution (1600×1200 or Full HD 1920×1080) is not only superior picture quality, but also the freedom to share photos and videos.

Number of frames per second

The third parameter of a webcam which directly affects the quality of the picture is the frame rate per second (FPS). The higher the FPS, the smoother the video stream. To ensure that the video quality does not cause irritation and the frame rate does not resemble slow motion, you should choose a device with parameters not lower than 30 FPS. A lower frame rate is fraught with “stuttering” freezes the picture. 40 FPS and more is a great choice for professional streamers.
Lenses

The type of lens has a significant impact on video quality. Webcams use two types of lenses: plastic and glass.

Glass lenses compared to plastic lenses guarantee a higher quality result. This type of webcam is the only right choice when high quality video recording or exceptional picture clarity during a chat is important.

Plastic lenses give grainy frames and poor image quality in low light conditions. These are cheaper options that are, however, very popular for home use.

Also, when choosing a lens, it is important to pay attention to the angle of view. A wide angle will allow you to stay in the frame, even if you have to move around while shooting.

Mounting Options

Webcam mount optionsDifferent manufacturers of webcams offer different options for fixing the gadget. The most common are desktop and so-called cameras on clothespins. Desktop – the best choice if there is a lot of free space on the desktop. In this case, the gadget can be placed on a special platform behind the computer. The “clothespin” variant requires much less space – the gadget is attached directly to the laptop or PC monitor. Another common attachment option is suspended. Such “flying” webcams, as a rule, are used as a device for video surveillance.
Connection options

The most popular webcam models are equipped with USB 2.0 or 3.0 ports. You’ll need at least a 1.5 meter cable to connect your webcam to your desktop computer. To connect to a laptop, the length of the cable does not matter.

It is also possible to connect the webcam via bluetooth or wifi. Such models belong to the category of more expensive. But the quality of their work depends entirely on the quality of the transmitted signal.
Operating System Support

Most webcams support the Windows operating system. Nevertheless, when buying it will not be superfluous to test the gadget for compatibility with a particular operating system.

Extra Options
Auto Focusing and Backlighting

Additional options in webcamsThe autofocus models have the ability to automatically zoom in and smart control the clarity and brightness of the image. In addition, it is very advantageous to buy webcams with backlighting. These additional features significantly improve image quality in darkened rooms.
Microphone

Models with a built-in microphone are advantageous. But the sound quality in such devices is not always on top. Meanwhile, for the home such a variant is quite suitable. But if finances allow, you can buy another, more powerful microphone to improve the sound clarity. If the camera is intended for professional video broadcasting, then the purchase of a high-quality microphone is a must. This is the only way to achieve high image and sound quality at the same time. If you still opt for the budget version, you should additionally check before buying whether the computer camera is equipped with a microphone – some brands are not equipped with an audio system.
Special effects

Many models feature a function to create different video effects: from animated images to virtual screen savers and special effects that distort the actual picture. If you do not need this kind of additions, it is better to choose a cheaper model without “gimmicks.

The post How to choose a webcam appeared first on diGI-watcher.

Logitech C922 Pro Stream

Reasons to buy:

high-quality and smooth images (60 FPS);
good sound;
attractive appearance;
Multi-functional mount.

One of the top models in its segment. Neat and beautiful camera, looks a little futuristic, in addition is equipped with facial recognition. It comes with a separate tripod.

Pro Stream supports all operating systems – including mobile iOS and Android, which allows you to make video calls with it via the phone. The high resolution Full HD picture gives excellent quality and clarity, and the stereo microphone provides sound on two channels.

Intel 3D RealSense Depth Camera D455

Reasons to Buy:

2 cameras for depth computation;
3D support;
ability to work at any light level;
RGB sensor and powerful IR port.

Intel 3D RealSense Depth is the crowning achievement of 10 years of stereo camera development experience. The device absorbed all the trends of the 3D-industry, while maintaining easy operation and compact size.

In the family D400 device became the final model – improved and corrected. The manufacturer has equipped the device with two cameras for depth calculation. With this solution, RealSense is able to better see, understand and interact with its environment. It is also able to self-learn.

A built-in identifier is responsible for accurate facial feature recognition anywhere in the room. The company takes privacy into account, so authentication and further registration are always done with the user’s permission.

RealSense Depth is a great solution for those looking for a versatile multitasking device that works at all light levels. The camera delivers high frame rates of up to 90 FPS.

Microsoft LifeCam Studio for Business-5 wh-00002

Advantages:

Full HD;
Clear sound;
Can be mounted on a tripod;
Autofocus for dynamic shooting.

Disadvantages:

For streaming requires third-party software.

This model with a traditional design resembles a street surveillance camera. Using a convenient mount, the camera is mounted on a monitor or any other surface. At the bottom of the stand there is a connector for a tripod. There is a quick start button on the cover.

The microphone transmits sound well – clearly and cleanly. The device is used for dynamic shooting indoors, as the model is equipped with autofocus. However, objects at a great distance from the camera, it does not hold the best way.

For the usual “home” model this webcam is too expensive, and its functionality is wider than required in the usual video communication. For streaming it seriously lacks the ability to fine tune, and the autofocus is not always at its best. However, if you are broadcasting while sitting in front of the camera it is definitely a good option.

The post The best webcams for streaming appeared first on diGI-watcher.

This program has a good functionality, so it is recognized by a large number of users.

With it, you can make both photo and video shooting even in automatic mode where the presence of the user is not required.

Everything a webcam captures with this program is saved in a separate file that can be viewed at any time.

In addition, Live WebCam gives you a chance to see in real time everything that is recorded.

The program uses the most popular formats for saving footage, JPEG and PNG, and also uses video compression for looping recording.

AlterCam v5.3

AlterCam is one of the best webcam applications. It’s pretty feature-rich and easy to use.

It allows you to record video or photos directly from your webcam, broadcast a previously created video or show your desktop, overlay any image on top, split screen.

In addition, the catalog contains more than 50 different effects, including blur, mosaic, fisheye.

Using the application is very easy. It’s enough to select the desired effect from the range of offered effects, and then just start broadcasting.

In addition, it is possible to combine several effects. The program is compatible with all current versions of Windows.

It also knows how to use GPU acceleration to use your CPU less and thus not burden your computer additionally.

D-view CAM

The program from the famous company D-Link is absolutely free, supports the Russian language and has a wide range of functions.

Among the various settings there is a record according to the schedule set by the user, as well as start menu Smart Guard, which has settings for various events and actions.
It is worth noting that this application is able to work with multiple cameras simultaneously and allows you to view video from any of them for a particular event.

The settings allow you to specify the server where all the archive records will be stored and to which you can go to view any of them.

There is an option to customize the on-screen menu with fonts, background and information displayed in the window.

Active WebCam

This multifunctional program is considered one of the best for working with webcams.

Among the available features is the recording of video by motion sensor.

Among the supported devices are local cameras connected to the computer via USB-port, network cameras with IP-interface, as well as remote.

To use the latter, you must have a copy of Active WebCam installed on the remote computer.

In the settings you can select both the method of capturing video and the device with which it will take place.

In addition, it is possible to set the image resolution and select the sound source.

In the “Compression” tab you can specify the percentage of compression, but remember that the more the picture will be compressed, the less information will be preserved, and the quality itself will be wanting.

On the same tab, you can compress the recorded sound.

Item “Motion” allows you to activate and configure the motion sensor so that it will not work in vain, starting a redundant recording video clip.

Xeoma

You can create high quality video surveillance system with minimal time and money by yourself.

First time you start Xeoma starts automatic search for both webcams and any other cameras connected to your PC.
In case the search is unsuccessful you can add another one at any time by clicking “+” icon in settings window.

The button of this menu is located in the lower left part of the working window of the program.

In addition, it is possible to add a random camera of the world, access to which is allowed by its owner. This function allows you to see what is happening in any other city on the planet.

When adding a new camera, the information window of the assistant opens, which thoroughly describes all the steps of this procedure.

The main window of the program will subsequently display all installed and found cameras.

In the lower right corner of the window there is a help icon, by clicking on it you can get any interesting information not only about the program and its features, but also to read various articles on the subject.

When hovering the mouse cursor over any of the available icons, an information window pops up with a description of this menu item, so it will be quite easy to understand their purpose.

The post The top programs for webcam appeared first on diGI-watcher.

The program is a simple, but quite functional tool for creating video surveillance, including audio accompaniment of the recorded material.

You can easily add both a webcam and an IP camera for surveillance, which can be installed using the built-in wizard.

In addition, you can display the floor plan where the camera is installed, play back the recorded material or record from a microphone.
When you add a new video source you get a large number of all kinds of settings, including image transformation, frame rate and microphone connection.

The program has a function for configuring the motion detector, for which there is a list of built-in algorithms for detecting the movement of an object.

The program also allows you to activate the notification function.

If desired, you can record the available cameras can be activated by the motion sensor and the alarm, as well as customize the quality of the stored video material and format.

IP Camera Viewer

With this application you can easily create a surveillance system and view video from both IP and webcams.
In order to perform simultaneous monitoring of several objects – the program supports simultaneous work with several cameras connected either via IP-address, or via USB-port of the computer.

In the settings of IP Camera Viewer there is an opportunity to set various parameters of the video signal, as well as zoom the image using the digital zoom.

Along with the image recording the program allows you to save the sound, but to realize this function you need a special camera or a separate microphone.

Install and try this application, which is not inferior to expensive professional equipment for video surveillance.

Droid Cam

This small program allows you to use your Android device as a webcam for Internet communication.

The connection between your computer and phone is made by installing two parts of this program on both devices, and the connection is made with a USB cable or by using the Wi-Fi module.
With this application you can not only turn your smartphone into a full-fledged webcam, but also adjust its resolution.

In addition, the settings have the ability to use the phone flash and zoom in/out, as well as adjust the brightness and contrast.

Cyberlink YouCam

The program allows you to use a connected webcam to capture and record video.

Among the various functions present and imposing visual effects, of which the application is quite a lot.

In the settings of video surveillance can be activated recording only when motion is detected, as well as continuous or slow motion recording.

The program can also automatically send automatic alerts to your e-mail address.

In the same section you can set the date and time to end the recording.

There are also settings to improve the current video, where you can set the automatic highlighting, achieve better sharpness or reduce the noise level.

In the advanced settings you will come across a more complete set of image settings related to the installed webcam.
As you can see – the program is quite interesting, and during its mastering there should not be any difficulties, as it fully supports the Russian language.

WebCam Monitor

This program is designed for video surveillance with the help of an ordinary web camera connected to your computer.

Its settings provide for sending messages when any noise or motion is detected within the range of the device.

In the case of motion, the program starts recording video and creates screenshots, which are immediately sent along with a notification by mail.

In addition, you can set the beginning and the end of the recording at a certain interval, which is sometimes very useful too.
Created videos can be saved on an FTP server, if necessary.

WebCam Companion

The application has a large set of features designed to work with the webcam and allows you to capture images not only in HD quality but also to record in 3D.

Also there is a possibility to automatically capture and send the resulting image to the printer.
The program is able to record when motion is detected, and the user can edit the created video content.

In the process of working on the saved clip there is a possibility of applying various special effects to the image, as well as imposing sound and text for subsequent publication in various social networks.

ManyCam

This small program can help you get more out of your webcam.

One of the most important is to use it in different programs for Internet communication, such as IСQ and Skype.

In addition, the program allows you to record overlaying different backgrounds on the videos you record.

With this feature, you may well be able to create the illusion that the recording was made from different locations around the globe.
To be able to use more and more effects, visit the developer’s website, where they are freely available and are divided into different categories.

In addition to changing the wallpaper, you can also impose a text, the current date and time, as well as all kinds of animated images and logos.

The best thing about this program is that you can switch your webcam over to the desktop to show your interlocutor what’s going on.

VirtualDub

This program allows you to quickly and accurately record the streaming video from your webcam.

With it you can not only record new video but also edit your existing video and save the finished project in any popular format.
Among a large set of features, you will be able to cut the file, glue several separate ones together, and add soundtrack to the resulting video.

VirtualDub has the ability to expand its functionality by installing various plugins.

The program itself is pretty fast, small size and no need for installation, so it favors a large number of users.

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