Best Cameras for Virtual Meetings in 2024

Cameras for virtual meetings have an obvious importance – a virtual meeting without a camera is… well…. just a phone call. 

But the value of cameras for virtual meetings and events goes deeper than that:

  • Communication – Cameras allow people to pick up on visual clues such as facial expressions and body language, things that are essential for good communication and building trust.
  • Focus – Research shows keeping cameras on during virtual meetings improves focus.
  • Engagement levels – Because people feel like they are less likely to get away with distractions or multitasking when their faces and bodies are visible on the screen, cameras increase engagement levels and people’s focus when cameras are on.
  • Professionalism – Participants “feel” the part when they get dressed up for work (even if it’s just from the waist up.) As a result, cameras add a sense of professionalism and composure to your event.

However, virtual event types are just as varied as in-person events. So depending on the event type, everyone will require a different type of camera.  

Some people are the frontman in high-dollar virtual events. Some are casual attendees. Some will need a wider field of view for capturing an extensive area, such as when calling as a group. Some will need a narrow point of view for focused attention during personal calls. And of course, everyone has a different budget.

So how can you choose the right camera for you? 

We’ll break down the best cameras for virtual meetings during 2024. We’ll cover the top-rated cameras in these categories:

  • Best Picture
  • Best Budget/Beginner Friendly
  • Best for Small to Medium Sized Conferences
  • Best for Large Conferences

Lights, camera, action!

Best Picture – Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra

Pros

  • Excellent Image Quality: The Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra has some of the best picture quality of any webcam available. It offers high-resolution recording modes, an ultra-large aperture lens with a wide dynamic range, and HDR that creates excellent low-light performance.
  • Advanced Face Tracking Autofocus and Auto Exposure: Capable of not only tracking your face and holding a steady focus but automatically adjusting light levels to keep your face perfectly exposed.
  • Built-in Privacy Shutter: The webcam features a built-in privacy shutter for added security and privacy.
  • Omnidirectional Mic: An omnidirectional microphone makes it more than suitable for video calls and casual use.

Cons

  • Complicated Software: The Razer Synapse software has been criticized by some for being not so user-friendly.
  • May Not Be Suitable for Your Laptop: While by no means bulky, its size may not work for some laptops.
  • Limited Framerate: It supports 4K only at 30fps, which may be a limitation for some users.
  • Average Microphone Quality: The built-in microphone is suitable for video calls but may not meet the needs of serious recording or streaming.

Budget

The Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra is a $299.99 high-end webcam, placing it in the premium price range. You do get every bit of what you pay for. However, this price might put it out of reach for some.

Who It’s Best For

The Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra is best suited for those who prioritize high-quality video production, including streaming, recording, and professional content creators. 

It may not be the ideal choice for users who are looking for a more budget-friendly or user-friendly option, or those who do not require advanced features such as 4K resolution and HDR support.

Under $100 – Logitech C920s Pro HD

Pros

  • Good Image Quality: The Logitech C920s Pro HD offers fantastic image quality for its price, suitable for most video calls, streaming, and recording.
  • 1080p Resolution: It supports 1080p resolution, resulting in a sharp, detailed video.
  • Stereo Audio: The webcam captures sound from both left and right channels creating a more realistic sound from a broader range of angles.
  • Privacy Shutter: It comes with a built-in privacy shutter for added security and privacy.
  • Budget-Friendly: The Logitech C920s Pro HD is a more budget-friendly option compared to other high-end webcams.

Cons

  • Limited Framerate: It supports 1080p at 30fps, which may be a limitation for some users.
  • Average Low-Light Performance: The webcam’s low-light performance is OK but not mind-blowing. So this camera may not work for dimly lit environments.
  • Microphone Quality: The built-in microphone provides decent audio quality. But don’t expect to get the premium audio quality that’s needed for professional recording or streaming.

Budget

  • Coming in at $69.99 the Logitech C920s Pro HD is a more budget-friendly option compared to high-end webcams. This makes it a great choice for those wanting a good quality webcam at a reasonable price.

Who It’s Best For

The Logitech C920s Pro HD perfectly strikes that balance of quality and price. It is best suited for users who require a reliable webcam for video calls, streaming, and casual recording without having to break the bank. 

It may not be the ideal choice for professional content creators or users who need advanced features such as high frame rates, crisp audio, or great low-light performance.

Best Beginner/Budget Webcam- Logitech C310 HD

Pros

  • Budget-Friendly: The Logitech C310 is a super cost-effective option, making it within reach for all who need a basic webcam for video calls and casual use.
  • 720p Resolution: It supports HD 720p resolution with 30 fps, providing decent video quality for its price.
  • Automatic Light Correction: The webcam creates a well rounded image quality by adjusting the video based on the lighting conditions.
  • Long-Range Mic: The built-in noise-reducing microphone picks up your voice from up to 5 feet away, providing respectable audio quality for video calls and online meetings

Cons

  • Limited Features: The webcam lacks advanced features such as auto-focus, adjustable field of view, and a privacy cover.
  • Narrow Field of View: It has a 60-degree diagonal field of view, which may not be sufficient for capturing a wider area or multiple individuals in the frame.

Budget

The Logitech C310 is an extremely budget-friendly option. With a list price of $27, it’s an affordable choice for beginners or casual users in need of a basic webcam.

Who It’s Best For

The Logitech C310 is a simple webcam for video calls, online meetings, and casual use. It’s ideal for those who view cost-effectiveness as more important than advanced features and specs.

Best for Small to Medium Conferences – Logitech MeetUp

Pros

  • Super-Wide Field of View: The Logitech MeetUp sports a super-wide 120-degree FOV. This means that everyone at the table of small conference rooms is clearly seen.
  • 4K Ultra High-Def Sensor: The combination of a 4K ultra high-def sensor and the Logitech lens provides extra sharp clarity and video quality.
  • Integrated Audio Optimization: MeetUp’s integrated audio is optimized for huddle room acoustics. It features three beamforming mics and a custom-tuned speaker to deliver exceptional sound in small rooms.
  • Easy Set Up and Use: The Logitech MeetUp is designed for easy installation and plug-and-play, connecting to a computer or laptop simply via USB.
  • Compact Design and Wall Mount: With its compact design and included wall mount, the Logitech MeetUp minimizes cable clutter and keeps your conference room looking clean.

Cons

  • Possibly Limited Range: The built-in beamforming mics are only optimized for ranges up to 4 meters or up to 5 meters with the addition of the Logitech Expansion Mic. This may not be enough depending on the size of your conference or huddle room.

Budget

The Logitech MeetUp comes in at $699. Increase that to $879 if you want to include the Expansion Mic.

Who It’s Best For

The Logitech MeetUp is best for those who need a great camera for a small conference or huddle rooms. The super-wide field of view, integrated audio optimization, and 4K ultra high-def sensor provide exceptional video and audio quality.

However, the heavier price tag means that it’s likely not a good choice for those who don’t need a webcam for a small group of people. Also, the limited range may not make it suitable for larger crowds.

Best for Large Conferences – Logitech Rally System

Pros

  • Studio-Quality Video: The Logitech Rally system offers studio-quality video with its 4K Ultra-HD imaging system, delivering sharp video, outstanding color, and exceptional optical accuracy.
  • Crystal Clear Audio: Logitech RightSound™ technology enhances vocal clarity by suppressing background noise, auto-leveling voices, and focusing on active speakers.
  • Automated Camera Technologies: Logitech’s RightSense™ technologies automatically frame and optimize color and luminance for human faces.
  • Modular Audio: Modular audio and expansive PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) capabilities gives full audio coverage of medium to large rooms while providing convenient access to mute controls.
  • Easy to Set Up and Use: The Logitech Rally system is designed for easy installation and plug-and-play functionality in a variety of meeting room setups.

Cons

  • Cost: The Logitech Rally system is a high-end solution, and its advanced features may come with a higher price tag, making it less suitable for small organizations or those on a budget.
  • Additional Accessories: Depending on your room size or needs, you may need to purchase additional accessories such as the Logitech Expansion Mic and TV Mount. This can add to the overall cost.

Budget

Logitech offers a custom price depending on your specific needs. Upon product release, Logitech advertises the Rally system at $1,999. This includes the Rally Camera, table and display hubs that minimize cross-room cabling, one speaker and one mic pod.

Logitech Rally Plus, which adds a second speaker and mic pod, comes in at $2,499. The system can be expanded with additional Mic Pods for an additional $349.

Who It’s Best For

The Logitech Rally system’s exceptional video and audio performance, automated camera technologies, and modular audio capabilities make it ideal for organizations and businesses that require a high-quality, comprehensive video conferencing solution for medium to large meeting rooms.

What Will They Remember?

Cameras are just a small part of a high-quality virtual meeting. True, they are important. But people come for the event. And your camera quality is likely only something your audience will remember if it’s bad. 

So what do you want your audience to remember?

  • Your well thought out presentation?
  • How you kept everyone engaged with graphics, slides, and other tools like gamification?
  • How you did more than supply information, but encouraged networking and helped build business relationships?

Good tech is a must for a virtual meeting. But like putting on a good suit, it’s just the beginning of becoming a professional. What makes a true impact is what comes after the camera starts rolling.

Would you like advice on how to improve the quality of your virtual meetings, events, and conferences? Are you curious what other industry leaders are doing in the modern age of going virtual? 

We have been working with clients of all sizes around the world for 15+ years and we’re eager to pass on our experience to you. Shoot us a quick message outlining your needs, purpose, or issues and we promise we’ll give you actionable advice.