If you do not need a webcam model for outdoor video surveillance, then you can ignore the mega-advanced offers. For them you just have to pay extra for the price.
If you are a simple Internet user who wants to communicate over the Internet, then you need a simple webcam without various additional spectrum options. Realizing the importance of this purchase, we decided to write an article that can competently answer the question of how to choose a webcam. Is this topic close to you? Then do not postpone the opportunity to read the material for later!
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List of webcam manufacturers: the best firms on the market
If the question arises of how to choose a webcam for a computer, first you should familiarize yourself with those manufacturers that are available on the market today. We propose to learn more about popular companies that have been able to recommend themselves in an excellent way among buyers.
Today, at the release of computer peripherals of excellent quality, the following brands were able to show their best: A4Tech, Logitech, Genius, Sven and Qumo.
If you are faced with the problem of buying a webcam for the first time, and do not have the proper knowledge, then it will be really difficult to resolve the issue. So for a start, it is recommended to understand how the devices work, what are their characteristics and properties useful to the user.
Webcam device operation: basic principles
Each webcam should not only capture the image, but also send it quickly over the Internet. This is due to the fact that:
- the lens catches the reflected light that comes from objects, and then transmits it to the sensitive matrix. At this time, the image is converted into electrical signals;
- information can be digitized on a video capture card. Subsequently, it is compressed and falls into the compression block;
- then it is up to the central processor. This device takes over the processing of prepared frames in accordance with a given program, and then redirects them to an Ethernet or USB output.
In addition to the listed blocks, fast and RAM chips can be found inside the web device. In order to store the main software, Flash acts, but with the help of RAM, recording of temporary data and a reserve of captured frames are observed, which are presented in a small amount.
From the outside, it is possible to connect alarm sensors to the camera. They also start video filming, which goes on a signal. At their expense, home security systems are produced, which are so in demand among many modern people.
The main criteria for choosing a webcam
This part of the article is really important. Of course, it is not enough to understand why the webcam was created, what is its purpose and how it functions.We hope that we will be able to introduce you to the course with this information and help you make the right purchase of the device, which in the future will delight you with its practicality and quality of work.
The matrix
Be sure to pay attention to what kind of matrix is present in the webcam. Today there are 2 types known: CMOS (CMOS) and CCD (CCD).
In the first case, an inexpensive option is provided with excellent performance. It is able to economically use power and produce an image that is of average quality. This type of matrix will be appropriate if you need a webcam exclusively for communication on the Web.
As for the CCD, the device uses special sensors that create less noise in the image. They are distinguished by more accurate color rendering properties. Often, such options are used in surveillance systems, help to conduct online conferences at a high level and broadcast video material.
Having chosen the type of matrix, you need to study what are the main technical characteristics that can affect the resulting image quality.
Video resolution metrics
Modern webcams have a resolution of 352x288 pixels and reach 4096x2160 pixels. Of course, we have specified the minimum and maximum values. In many cases, an excellent picture can be obtained at 1280x720 (HD), which will allow you to take a picture on its basis with a decent level of detail.
Other options can be found today. These are 640x480 - 800x600 pixels. They are suitable for video chat, although photographic detail cannot be obtained with this number of pixels. On the other hand, if the Internet cannot boast of high speed, it is better to give preference to a low resolution.
There are also cameras that have a resolution of 1280x960 - 1920x1080 pixels. They are more expensive, but the video quality will be excellent. Pictures will be slightly weaker than those of digital cameras.
When choosing a resolution for video recording, remember that the higher its setting, the more you need to have a fast Internet connection.
Sensitivity indicators
In the characteristics of the matrix, it can be indicated in Lux and it is determined in what light conditions the webcam functions and transmits the image without the presence of interference. If the sensitivity is low, then the broadcast from a room with poor light will be accompanied by "noise".
As a rule, it is customary to indicate the minimum value of the sensitivity, but it is necessary to determine whether the threshold meets the conditions where the shooting is carried out.
If this is an office equipped with large windows, and the shooting takes place in the daytime, then the figure is 500 lux. With a weak light source - 100.
Lack of sensitivity can be a problem. It can be solved by the built-in additional plan illumination, which is located in the lens area. The best option if the indicators of its brightness can be adjusted. But keep in mind that the presence of such an addition at an indirect level may indicate that not the best version of the matrix is provided inside.
Sweep features
In general, webcams are capable of capturing video, both progressive and interlaced. But if the picture goes to the PC monitor, then a high-quality image will become possible only in the second case.
This technology can be real when considering any kind of matrix. The main condition is that the camera model supports it.
The number of frames for video shooting
FPS is an important indicator that makes it possible to provide a comfortable communication with another user. But if it is necessary to conduct stream broadcasting, then it does not carry a determining value. The shooting speed will be sufficient at 30 frames in 1 second, but keep in mind that the Internet must have high speed indicators. The condition is really important.
If you are a non-picky user, then 15FPS is enough. But keep in mind that twitching may be present, the picture may lag behind the sound.If this option is not to your liking, then choose the model that shoots 25 frames in 1 second.
Microphone properties
A webcam with a microphone is practical. The option is convenient. But the truth is, even the most popular and respected manufacturers on the market were unable to make the function improved to perfection. In the case, 2 microphones are most often equipped at once. Due to this, they simply interfere with each other when functioning. This applies most often to budget and medium-cost options. For this reason, "stuttering" occurs during the broadcast.
The microphone level indicator will not depend on the shooting resolution, but it still has some relationship with it. The manufacturers who are trying to maintain a balance of properties of audio and video devices in one package should be thanked for this.
As for the conditional benchmark, we recommend that you rely on the following data:
- at HD resolution, the camera will have a mid-hand microphone. He is able to recognize speech at 3-4 meters;
- if Full HD, one hundred speaker is of high quality. And the audio signal has its own track, so the picture will not suffer even with simultaneous data transmission.
In those situations where you need the perfect quality of shooting and sound, it is better to buy an additional microphone. But if you still prefer a hybrid, then it is best to check the option for noise reduction and speaker sensitivity. This will ensure that the voice is clear and does not suffer from noise at the other end of the "wire".
Connection type
It is considered to be a classic solution - a wired connection to a PC using USB. As with any other peripheral, the main determinant will be the port generation:
- Option 1.1 - is slow. The connection type is the oldest. It is really very difficult for him to support the resolution of 640x480 pixels and transmit information over 15 frames in 1 second.
- Option 2.0 is a demanded port that has good bandwidth. It is capable of streaming video 25-30 FPS.
- Option 3.0 is a great connection type with fast speeds. But not all webcams are capable of supporting it. The solution is not relevant in this case.
Today, wireless cameras, which have a built-in transmitter, are gaining popularity. The package contains a receiver, which is usually installed in a USB port of a computer, but the signal is transmitted via Wi-Fi.
Such models are suitable for video surveillance systems. They can be used as a means of communication if the SAT will be far away or if it is planned to take pictures while moving.
Focus properties
In many webcam devices, focusing is done manually. Those. Once you install the camera, twist the ring on the lens, which allows you to capture the required sharpness. Sit quietly while recording.
If we consider automatic focus, then this solution allows you to get rid of manual settings, in which case the webcam will independently adjust the clarity, controlling the picture. There are devices on the market today with a tracking option, they concentrate on the face, keeping it in focus. As a result, photos from such broadcasts will be clear, there is no blur.
Design features
The parameters listed below will not be basic, but a lot depends on them. In particular, it is the convenience of using the device.
Mount: features
- a clothespin is an excellent option, suitable for users of laptops or flat-screen monitors;
- the stand is a good solution for old monitors or wide monoblocks, for which you cannot attach a clip;
- station wagon - the mount has a special clip, is able to perform the stand option, and also work with a clothespin.
Cord length
This is a completely unimportant indicator. If you have a laptop, even a very short wire will suffice.But for a PC with a system unit, you need a long cord to connect to a computer. But if the keyboard has a connector, then the problem can be solved without problems.
Closing lens
The function is suitable for those who want to protect themselves from surveillance using a video camera. Viruses have these properties. Manufacturers often offer options with curtains that need to be closed manually. But there are also automated devices on the market that work when the webcam is turned off.
Focusing features
Automatic focal length detection is a reality today. Almost all good webcams have this feature. And if it is absent, then it is better to look for another option to buy.
Additional options
Modern webcam devices have many additional options. For example, this is video filming, information editing, electronic control of contrast, image brightness indicators. It also has the ability to automatically correct colors, frame rates. Often the manufacturer builds in the autoZoom option, LED backlight.
Webcams can be used for video surveillance. This is possible if they have a built-in motion detector, a rotary mechanism. There is no superfluous and additional image adjustment, which controls the white balance, brightness, color.
A microphone may be available, as also mentioned above.
Price question: how much will a webcam cost?
With simple parameters with a resolution of 800x600 pixels and below, the device will cost around 400 - 2 thousand rubles. As for HD support, this is an option of 600 to 6 thousand rubles. But a good Full HD camera can be in the region of 2.5-3 thousand rubles.
There are models available and much cheaper, but their functioning will not be the best. In fact, the most successful variants of a similar format can be 15-30 thousand rubles, but not everyone can afford such a purchase.
Expert advice: choosing a webcam
For simple Skype communication, give preference to budget webcams with a microphone and CMOS matrix. With a resolution of 600x800 pixels, the option will be successful.
If you need a device for working video conferencing, take the model with automatic focus and support for FHD, built-in microphone.
