A key part of capturing your audience’s attention on video is using the right camera. Whether you're dialing into a work meeting or creating dynamic videos, boosting your image quality can elevate your visuals and help you make a lasting impression. Unlike your laptop's built-in camera, a dedicated webcam can capture subtle nuances that bring your ideas to life—helping you stand out from the crowd.
Not everyone needs the same features. If you’re looking to improve your appearance in the occasional meeting, budget-friendly models could be all you need. For full-time content creators, streamers, or professionals looking to make a stellar impression, high-end webcams might be worth the investment. And if you fall somewhere in the middle, versatile, mid-range picks can offer the best of both worlds. No matter your choice, all the options we’ve curated work seamlessly with mmhmm, so you’ll always look your best.
In this roundup, we focused on webcams for their convenience and ease of use. While DSLRs can deliver excellent results, they often require extra setup, which isn’t ideal for most people. We focused on options priced between $60 and $300 USD, scouring reviews from top publications to bring you the best picks for video calls, streaming, and content creation—because your ideas deserve to shine in the best light possible.
Best budget-friendly options
Anker PowerConf C200 2K
Looking to upgrade your home office or laptop without spending a fortune? The Anker PowerConf C200 offers solid 2K video quality, a step above standard 1080p webcams. Its adjustable field of view (65°, 78°, or 95°) ensures you can frame your shot perfectly. PC World dubbed the PowerConf C200 the “best overall webcam” for its excellent value and superior low-light performance. Similarly, Wirecutter named it their top pick for budget webcams, highlighting its standout image quality for under $70.
Poly Studio P5
The Poly Studio P5 from HP is another great low-cost contender. PC Mag praises its significant improvement over built-in laptop webcams, strong low-light performance, and standout audio quality. While we recommend using an external microphone, the P5’s built-in mic offers best-in-class audio quality—making it a great option if you’re not yet ready for a mic upgrade. According to Tom’s Guide, its low-light correction and autofocus both perform well, quickly adjusting to lighting changes and refocusing on subjects as they move.
Best overall choices
Logitech Brio 505
If you’re searching for a reliable all-around webcam, the Logitech Brio 505 fits the bill. Wirecutter calls it “the best webcam for most people,” citing its strong image quality and intuitive software. Digital Camera Review liked the smooth and accurate subject tracking. They also praised the Brio 505’s “show mode,” which flips video feed when you tilt the camera downward to help you easily share sketches or notes during a call. If you like the Brio 505 but you need 4K resolution, the higher-end Logitech MX Brio is a worthy upgrade.
Insta360 Link 2C
If you want 4K quality in a portable package, consider the Insta360 Link 2C. It delivers sharp video and top-tier autofocus at a mid-level price point. Tom’s Guide awarded it five stars (their top rating), praising its premium build and excellent companion software. If subject tracking is important to you and you’re willing to spend a bit more, Wired recommends the slightly more expensive Insta360 Link 2, which includes a gimbal that physically pans and tilts, helping to keep you in the frame as you move.
Best of the best
Elgato Facecam Pro
For creators who demand top-tier 4K at 60fps, the Elgato Facecam Pro is an exceptional choice. It’s ideal for streamers, vloggers, and TikTok creators. TechRadar applauds its dynamic range and noise reduction, noting that it preserved detail in dark shadows and bright highlights better than any other webcam they’ve tested, making it their top pick for the best 4K at 60fps video. Tom’s Guide calls the Facecam Pro’s image quality “buttery smooth” while praising both its face tracking and autofocus. While it doesn’t include a built-in microphone, this level of video quality pairs perfectly with an external mic for a professional-grade setup.
Obsbot Tiny 2
The Osbot Tiny 2's ability to handle nearly any recording or streaming task earned it PC Mag’s Editors' Choice award. With its large sensor, the Tiny 2 delivers stunning 4K video with a touch of bokeh to blur the background and help subjects pop. Its standout feature is the built-in gimbal, which allows for full-range pivot and tilt movements. While there are cheaper gimbal-equipped webcams out there, the Tiny 2 sets a new standard for subject tracking. Combined with sophisticated AI tracking, the Tiny 2 excels at following moving subjects—perfect for product demos, fitness videos, or dance tutorials. TechRadar lauds its Dynamic Gesture Control and voice commands, calling it the “best premium webcam of 2024.”
Whether you’re leveling up your video calls, recording presentations, or creating polished content, these webcams offer excellent options for every budget, helping you look sharp, professional, and ready to engage with your audience.
The Complete Guide to Looking Great on Video
