Online live streaming is undoubtedly one of the most popular ways to create content nowadays. It has existed for decades now but what launched it further into the mainstream is its involvement with the gaming industry since more and more gamers would broadcast themselves doing live gameplays.
As the platform rapidly gets more traction, so is the demand for great quality equipment. Perhaps you want to start streaming but you’re a little tight on funds? Don’t worry, we got you. In this article, we will recommend some of the best budget webcams to use for streaming.
Best Budget Webcam for Streaming: Gesma 1080p Webcam
The Gesma 1080p webcam is a plug-and-play webcam, which means it doesn’t require specific and complicated drivers to work. Its USB 2.0 connector makes it convenient and easy to use. You can also enjoy the smooth image register with its HD 1920 by 1080p resolution, specifically designed for professional conferencing.
Gesma 1080p also promotes security, especially when you’re streaming at home because of its manually focused lens and rotatable neck. You can pan the camera to a maximum angle of 90 degrees, and it also has an adjustable range that allows the camera to lock an angle and remain still.
Pros
- Very convenient with plug-and-play
- Crystal clear
- 8m omnidirectional sound absorption built-in microphone
Things to consider
- No background noise, yet somehow distorted sound
Affordable Logitech Webcam for Streaming: Logitech HD Webcam C310
Logitech C310’s 720p lens lets you enjoy smooth graphic motion, preventing a choppy visual register on the other end. You can also take high-resolution snapshots of up to five megapixels, all thanks to their Logitech Fluid Crystal Technology.
It uses CMOS 1.2 megapixel as its optical sensor technology which allows a clearer image register. It also has its built-in, noise-reduction microphone that recognizes voices up to 1.5 meters away, and filter sounds outside the range.
Pros
- Microphone clarity and no ambient noises
- Excellent image quality
- Exceptional lighting autocorrection
Things to consider
- Base only has vertical panning
- Video gets choppy on higher resolutions
Best Gaming Budget Webcam for Streaming with Light Ring: Razer Kiyo
Razer released the best budget-friendly webcam for streamers with a built-in ring light as the biggest flex. It has a rotating bezel that allows easy adjustment for brightness level. Kiyo also features superior low-light performance which reduces graininess, and still captures details even in dark conditions.
Even though it doesn’t have the best audio quality, it offers 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second that work perfectly with the ring light, giving you smoother graphics and clearer displays for your viewers.
Pros
- Excellent image contrast and quality
- Easy-adjust light
- Enhanced HDR
- Supports a wide field of view
- Great image sensor
Things to consider
- Requires Synapse software
- Fussy color in low light
- Small movements trigger autofocus
Best Webcam for Streaming: Logitech Pro HD Webcam C920
Logitech Pro HD Webcam C920 is equipped with an automatic high definition light and color correction to display sharp images. This Logitech RightLight 2 technology allows you to still look clear even when you’re in a dimly-lit location. Additionally, a full HD glass lens keeps the video clear and crisp, and ensures a smooth autofocus function.
Aside from excellent quality graphics, its dual-microphone stereo audio allows a more natural audio, and removes muffled sounds and background noises with its noise-cancelling feature.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Adaptive autofocus feature
- Clear audio capture
- Dual microphone
Things to consider
- Can only pan for less than 90 degrees
- 30 fps maximum frame rate
- Lens cover is too thin
Best Webcam Most People Used for Streaming: Razer Kiyo Pro
Razer’s Kiyo Pro is known for its excellent resolution and quality. It has 1080p video resolution with up to 60 fps. Aside from this, you can activate high dynamic ranging (HDR) at 30 fps, which elevates your graphics’ dynamic range, and correct underexposed areas.
Another factor why this model is most favored by streamers is because of its durability. Kiyo Pro’s lens is made up of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 which is highly damage-resistant, and is four times scratch-resistant than the competitive aluminosilicate glass.
Pros
- Enhanced HDR
- Has a wide range field of view
- Very adaptive sensor
- Adjustable and customizable settings
- Durable lens
Things to consider
- Poor autofocus performance
- Color can be hard to perceive under dim light
- Needs Synapse software