The hardware industry has several very good examples of product naming. The Intel Inside campaign and iPhone naming immediately come to mind.
At the other end of the spectrum one of the eager contestants is Logitech's webcam lineup. It got off to a promising start in 2012 with the Logitech C920 – the best webcam of it's time – but across the next 5 years, Logitech's top webcam lineup bewilderingly grew with 7 puzzling names:
- 5 business webcams: the C930E, C920-C, C925E,the Pro Webcam and the Brio
- 2 consumer webcams the C922 Pro Stream and the 4k Pro
Webcams aren't just useful for conducting video conference calls or for taking occasional selfies. If it gets paired with the right webcam software, you can certainly use your system to capture wide-angle photographs or maybe for surveillance purposes.Since, different uses rely on webcams for various uses, be it spicing up the video feed during an online chat or for professional purposes. Camera reviews, ratings, and prices at CNET. Find the Camera that is right for you. Shopping for the best webcam for you can be tricky because different uses require different technologies. The ones we've listed in this guide record and stream at 60fps at either 1080p or 720p. The 4k Pro / Brio is the only high end Logitech webcam that doesn't include hardware H.264 AVC video encoding. Thus it uses all the 5Gbps bandwidth of USB 3.0 (equivalent to USB 3.1 Gen 1) to stream MJPEG (equivalent to USB 3.1 Gen 1) video which has to be decoded and reencoded by whatever video calling/streaming/recording solution you use. This webcam features a built-in ring light with adjustable brightness so you get even, studio quality lighting without cluttering your streaming space with bulky box lights. The camera can record and stream in both 720p and 1080p HD at 30 and 60 fps, respectively, so your video feed always has smooth, clear motion and tons of detail.
To clear up some the confusion I've made a comparison table:
| C920 | C930E | C920-C | C925E | C922 Pro Stream | Pro Webcam | 4k Pro/Brio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Launch | Q1 2012 | Q1 2013 | Q1 2014 | Q2 2016 | Q3 2016 | Q3 2016 | Q1 2017 |
| Consumer/Business | Consumer | Business | Business | Business | Streamers/Gamers | Business | Consumer/Business |
| FOV | 78° | 90° | 78° | 78° | 78° | 90° | 90°, 78°, 65° |
| Shutter | none included | external | internal | internal | none included | external | external privacy shield |
| UVC | 1.1 | 1.5 | 1.1 | 1.5 | 1.1 | 1.5 | ? |
| H.264 AVC | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no |
| H264. SVC | no | yes | no | yes | no | yes | no |
| MJPEG & YUY2 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Max resolution | 1980x1080 | 1980x1080 | 1980x1080 | 1980x1080 | 1980x1080 | 1980x1080 | 4096 x 2160 (DCI native) |
| Max fps | 30fps | 30fps | 60fps@720p | 30fps 60fps@720p | 60fps@720p | 30fps | 90fps@720p, 60fps@1080p, 30fps@4k |
| Windows support | XP/Vista/7/8/10 | 7/8/10 | 7/8/10 | 7/8/10 | 7/8/10 | 7/8/10 | 7(1080p only)/8.1/10 |
| Mac support | 10.6.x or later | 10.7.x or later | 10.7.x or later | 10.7.x or later | 10.9.x or later | 10.7.x or later | macOS™ 10.8 or higher |
| Linux/Other support | Chrome OS, Android v 5.0 or above | - | Linux | Linux | Chrome OS, Android v 5.0 or above | - | Chromebook 29 |
| Glass Lens | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Zeiss® certification | not anymore | yes | - | - | - | yes | - |
| RightLight | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | yes | 2 | RightLight 3 with HDR |
| Cable Length | 6 feet or 1.83 meters | 6 feet or 1.83 meters | 6 feet or 1.83 meters | 6 feet or 1.83 meters | 6 feet or 1.83 meters | 6 feet or 1.83 meters | 4.9 ft (1.5 m) or 7.2ft (2.2m) |
| Auto Focus | yes | yes | yes, 20 steps | yes | yes, 20 steps | yes | yes |
| Microphone | Dual Stereo | 2 omni-directional mics | 2 omni-directional mics | 2 omni-directional mics | 2 omni-directional mics | 2 omni-directional mics | 2 omni-directional mics |
| Noise reduction | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Other | - | - | - | - | Background replacement, tripod included | Background replacement, infrared sensor+LED for Windows Hello | |
| Part number | 960-001055 | 960-000972 | 960-000945 | 960-001076 | 960-001088 | 960-001070 | 960-001178 4k Pro, 960-001105 Brio |
Here's the PDF version.
A few notes:
It took Logitech more than 4 years after releasing the initial C920 to release a new consumer webcam, the C922 Pro Stream
Carl Zeiss certifications
The newer C920 seem to have dropped their Carl Zeiss certification as noticed by @mjgraves. C920 which bears the Carl Zeiss certification on the webcam.
60fps (May 8th update)
Logitech has 3 webcams advertised as being capable of 60fps:
- the business oriented C920-C
- the streamer oriented C922 Pro Stream
- 4k PRO/Brio
But the C-925E also supports 60fps. We have a C-925E in the office and, out of the box, we were able to record 720p@60fps in OBS, XSplit and in Chrome when recording through WebRTC.
Microphone quality
The sound quality coming from the C920-C and C925E (wide form factor) is superior to that from the C920C930E and C922 (classic C920 body). The difference can be easily heard in YouTube comparisons. I am not sure it it's the wider space between the 2 mics, the different grille, different hardware or all 3.
The Logitech 4k Pro/Brio
Logitech has 2 names (and 2 part numbers) for the same webcam. Consumers get the 4k PRO with a nice looking packaging to attract buyers in stores while businesses get the Brio in a simple box. It's the same webcam.
Zuma revenge heroic frog. H.264 Advanced Video Coding
The 4k Pro /Brio is the only high end Logitech webcam that doesn't include hardware H.264 AVC video encoding. Thus it uses all the 5Gbps bandwidth of USB 3.0 (equivalent to USB 3.1 Gen 1) to stream MJPEG (equivalent to USB 3.1 Gen 1) video which has to be decoded and reencoded by whatever video calling/streaming/recording solution you use. It's sensor can record at max 4096 x 2160 (DCI native) and 3840 x 2160 (UHD).
Winrar command line. E stands for H.264 Scalable Video Coding
The C930EC925E and the Pro Webcam support hardware H.264 SVC (Scalable Video Coding) encoding (which is different than H.264 AVC (Advanced Video Coding)). SVC is especially good for live streaming if your end point also supports it. All 3 are business oriented webcams.
Webcams aren't just useful for conducting video conference calls or for taking occasional selfies. If it gets paired with the right webcam software, you can certainly use your system to capture wide-angle photographs or maybe for surveillance purposes. Since, different uses rely on webcams for various uses, be it spicing up the video feed during an online chat or for professional purposes. We have listed the top Webcam Programs For Windows 10, 8 & 7.
Read Also: How To Fix Webcam Not Working On Windows?
Top 10 Best Webcam Software For Windows PC: Best Camera Apps
Well, most of the Webcam tools are free to use, but some also have premium versions that have something unique to offer. Depending on your needs, you can use the right camera application for your PC!
Top Camera Apps Windows PC
Here is the list of the 10 best webcam software and camera apps for Windows 10, 8, 7 PC
1. ManyCam
ManyCam is one of the top webcam programs which is available for free. It allows you to screencast your computer display. The tool has YouTube integration which enables you to stream and broadcast videos directly from YouTube. Additionally, it supports various social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitch, YouTube, Skype, Tumblr & more. ManyCam allows you to use picture in picture video effects & lets you replace the background of your video stream with another image.
Why Use ManyCam?
- Add 3D masks, effects, face accessories, background and more.
- Add text to your live video broadcast.
- Works as a surveillance camera so that you can keep an eye on your home, office, parking & more.
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7
Price: Free, (Paid Version starts at $24)
2. Debut Video Capture Software
Debut Video Capture Software is a non-commercial tool that allows you to record your video calls with both screen & sound included. Using its webcam overlay, you can record from computer screen, external devices and more. It allows you to add text and time stamps to your videos. The popular webcam program provides users with an option to change the color settings and video effects before you can start recording. Moreover, you can adjust the video resolution, frame rate and size in which you want to record the video.
Why Use Debut Video Capture Software?
- All-in-one webcam solution for making quick tutorials.
- Support a variety of formats & sizes.
- Allows you to schedule recordings.
Available for –Windows 10, 8.1, 8, XP, Vista
Price: Free (Paid version starts at $49.99)
3. CyberLink YouCam 9
One of the best webcam software for Windows, Cyberlink YouCam 9 is an amazing way to connect with your family and friends over a video call. It provides tools to beautify your face and use 200+ fun effects while on video chatting. You can be meeting ready for real-time virtual makeup. It allows you to adjust video brightness, contrast, and exposure. Moreover, you can record your video calls using CyberLink YouCam 9. It is an easy to use Windows application and also provides security enhancements such as face login and surveillance.
Why Use CyberLink YouCam 9?
- Simple & easy-to-use interface
- Supports multiple video calling services such as: Skype, Google Hangouts, U Meeting and more.
- Ideal webcam tool to fulfill your formal & informal needs.
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7, Vista SP2
Price: Free
Check Now: Best Webcams For YouTube 2020
4. Yawcam
Our list of top 10 best webcam software for Windows 7, would certainly be incomplete without mentioning the Yawcam tool which is written in Java. The tool is easy to use, has a straightforward interface, and features all basic functionalities to fulfill your personal & professional needs. The webcam solution is entirely free and enables you to video stream, take images, detect motion, create time-lapse movies, add text and image overlays. Moreover, if you wish to protect your pictures and videos with a password, you can do so, using Yawcam, cool right?
Why Use Yawcam?
- Offers motion-detecting surveillance mode.
- Has a built-in web server.
- Multilingual webcam software for Windows users.
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7
Price: Free
Read This: How To Use Phone Camera As A Webcam For PC?
5. Logitech Webcam
Logitech is one of the pioneer manufacturers of webcams. Hence it is super-reasonable for the company to produce its dedicated Webcam software. The solution provided users with some impeccable features to capture images, record videos on your computer using a webcam, without any hassles. It also offers additional benefits like enabling you to adjust the camera's sensitivity and detect motion. The webcam software also features a surveillance mode which is useful if you want to view the feeds of the home cameras. The best part is that Logitech doesn't require a complex encoder for live streaming purposes.
Why Use Logitech Webcam Software?
- Extremely easy to use webcam solution.
- A useful option for live streaming & vlogging.
- Allows you to record from multiple sources & in vertical format (for smartphones).
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7
Price: Free
6. SplitCam
If you are looking for feature-rich webcam recording software, then choose none other than SplitCam. It is undoubtedly one of the best webcam software available for Windows. It enables you to add different effects to your videos. You can replace your head with a 3d object, or you can add something to your images to make them funny and cool. It works with almost all video communication services, including Skype, Facebook, Yahoo Messenger, YouTube, and more. With this webcam software, you can stream slideshow, video file, webcam and so much more, without any hassles.
Why Use SplitCam?
- Packed with some fun features like real-time 3D masks.
- Allows you to split the screen & supports a variety of video streaming services.
- HD video broadcast & support for various video resolutions.
Webcam Comparison 2020
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7
Price: Free
7. Webcam Toy
Webcam Toy is a fun way to interact with your friends & loved ones via video calls. It is a browser-based webcam tool. The solution has more than 80 filters and fun effects to choose from. Webcam Toy features an intuitive interface and can be used on any popular platform. The app is entirely free to use. You can also take photos, download them and upload on social media apps like Facebook and Twitter. However, the only downside that comes with this webcam program is, it doesn't support video recording.
Why Use Webcam Toy?
- Offers wide-array of effects.
- Capture quick photos add specific quirky distortion effects & filters.
- It doesn't require downloading any third-party tool.
Available For: Any Platform (Web-based)
Price: Free
8. IP Camera Viewer
IP Camera Viewer had to be included in our list of best web camera apps for Windows 10 & 7. Unlike most of the options available in the market, it enables you to view live video from external drives or IP cameras on your computer. Screen capture laptop. Moreover, the webcam tool helps you to connect the entire surveillance camera and track them all at once. It enables you to improve the video quality of the images by adjusting the video properties such as frame rate and resolution for the USB camera.
Why Use IP Camera Viewer?
- It is mainly used for home surveillance.
- Customize the image properties such as brightness, saturation, contrast and more.
- Watch the live feed of four cams at a time.
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 7, XP
Price: Free
9. WebcamMax
If your webcam is active every day, WebcamMax can undoubtedly be a great choice to add significant value. But, occasional users might prefer free webcam software to get the basic needs fulfilled. The Windows solution offers thousands of fantastic effects for your live video chats & video recording. It even lets you share your video clips or desktop screen with your friends or colleagues using the Instant Messenger even without relying on a real webcam. Quite useful, right? WebcamMax supports almost all the popular webcam programs such as Skype, Yahoo Messenger, YouTube, Ustream, Windows Live Messenger, and a lot more.
Why Use WebcamMax?
- Lets you change the background.
- Offers a wide range of emotion elements to express yourself better.
- Works with live users broadcasts.
Available for – Windows 10, 8, 7, XP
Price: Free (Paid version available at $19.95)
10. Fake Webcam
Yet best webcam software, Fake Webcam installs as a virtual webcam but works like a real one. The reason behind it calling fake is you can record video messages and also play them as video chat at the time while you're chatting with your friends online. It is simple and easy to use webcam application & offers a variety of effects & its previews to choose from. You can apply effects and overlays without any hassles & it even supports picture in picture effect. Fake Webcam also supports a variety of video communication applications like Skype, Hangouts, and more. The software can be downloaded for the 30-days trial version.
Why Use Fake Webcam?
- Easy to use interface.
- Freeware tools such as media codec packs & screen capturing solutions.
- Help file offers tips for configuring the program to work with many IM clients.
Available for –Windows 10, 8, 7, XP
Webcam Comparison 2017 2018
Price: $4.98
Wrapping Up: Which Best Webcam Program Did You Choose?
So, these are our top picks for best webcam software for Windows 10, 8 and 7. Choose whichever you like and if we have missed on something, let us know in the comments below. If you ask us, we recommend CyberLink YouCam 9 & ManyCam. Both of the solutions feature all the functionalities that satisfy the needs of both personal & professional needs!
Frequently Asked Questions: More About Webcams
Q1. Do Windows 10 Offer Its Webcam Solution?
Windows 10 comes with a built-in camera app through which you can use a webcam. It proffers a variety of features & built-in tools and apps that lets you capture and record.
Webcam Comparison 2017 Vs
Q2. Can I Use My Laptop As A Security Camera?
Yes, you can certainly use your Laptop as a security camera and record videos. Just you need to rely on third-party Webcam Software & the remaining task will be done by itself.
Q3. Should I Cover My Laptop Camera When Not Using It?
It certainly sounds like a healthy practice, but frequently covering your webcam with stickers or cover may ruin the lens. Hence, we suggest users relying on dedicated webcam software for keeping your webcam private, if you are not using it.
Next Read: Tips For Making Better Video Conferencing Calls
