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Most laptops and select desktop computers have a built-in webcam. These vary in quality, but it doesn’t hurt since you don’t have to pay extra. However, despite having a free option, I prefer an external webcam for six reasons.
1Superior Image Quality
One of the key reasons I prefer an external webcam over built-in options is that they offer better image quality. Built-in webcams typically have low-resolution image sensors and lack the advanced optics to deliver crisp images. For instance, laptop webcams only offered 720p video quality for a long time. Only recently have we seen manufacturers include webcams that can capture 1080p video (and sometimes higher resolutions).
However, even with this, most built-in webcams stilllack image quality compared to external ones because of their inferior image processors. Some of thebest external webcams, like the Insta360 Link,also offer higher-resolution lenses that can shoot up to 4K video.
2Flexibility and Adjustability
Another great advantage of external webcams is their flexibility and adjustability. First, I can adjust the angles with an external webcam to get the perfect position to present myself. I can mount the webcam on a tripod or the top of the monitor. Many external webcams also include adjustable arms that you can rotate or tilt to find the perfect angle. This contrasts with built-in webcams fixed at a given position on your device, which may not always be the best in all situations.
Secondly, external webcams get an extra point for being detachable, allowing you to use them between different devices. I have a desktop and a laptop, so I can use my webcam on either at any time, ensuring I have the best image quality in online meetings. I can also take my webcam to my next computer when I upgrade.
3Privacy and Security
External webcams come with security and privacy built in mind. They typically have physical shutters that can be closed whenever the camera is not used. Another privacy-focused feature is the indicator light, which lights up when the webcam is used. It is a nice feature that can help youtell whether your webcam has been hacked. This is not to imply that someonehacking your webcam is easy; it’s quite the opposite. However, it can happen, and such security and privacy features can help mitigate such issues.
Some built-in webcams have an indicator light, a physical shutter, or both. Still, they’re far less common than standard. Plus, because external webcams are plug-and-play, you can unplug them when they are not in use. An excellent option if you’re looking for a privacy-focused webcam is theRazer Kiyo Pro Ultra 4K webcam. It has a privacy shutter, a lens cover, and a white LED indicator.
4Better Low-light Performance
Low-light performance is a must-have feature, especially for someone who regularly works at night like me. Most built-in webcams can produce acceptable picture quality under perfect lighting but struggle in low-light conditions. Low-light performance typically requires larger image sensors; most built-in webcams have smaller sensors. There areways to make your webcam look amazing, but it won’t match having a large sensor.
Most external webcams are optimized for low-light scenarios by including large image sensors that can allow more light to pass through the lens, thus delivering better images even in low-light situations. For example, the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra has a 1/1.2-inch image sensor with a f1.7 aperture. On the other hand, theOBSBOT Tiny 2webcam sports a 1/1.5-inch sensor. These are large sensors that you won’t find on any built-in webcam.
5Wider Field of View
External webcams typically offer a wider field of view than their built-in counterparts. Built-in webcams tend to have a narrow field of view because they are usually created with the notion that the device will only be used by one person at a time, which may not always be true.
This can be limiting in some scenarios, such as when you want to show more of your surroundings in a video call or join a call with a group of people. And that’s where external webcams typically shine. Some even include an adjustable field of view, allowing you to switch between them depending on your liking and the situation.
6Offer More Features
Besides the other standout features discussed above, external webcams also offer more nice-to-haves that you won’t find in built-in webcams. Some have auto-tracking functionality, following you wherever you go, ensuring you’re always in the middle of the view.
Some have built-in microphones that offer far superior sound quality. Others include gesture and voice control, filters, and fine-grained image quality control.
I use an external webcam for different reasons, such as better image quality. They also include certain features you won’t find in built-in webcams and give you more freedom when it comes to mounting. If you’re like me and are frustrated by the limitations of your built-in webcam, it’s time to make the switch.
