Best Cameras for Video Conferencing

There is no video conferencing without the right camera. A high-quality camera can make all the difference, no matter your meeting space—large, medium, or small which plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and clarity of communication during calls.

Our previous blog discussed the best microphones for video conferencing, so you are well-equipped for any scenario.

In this article, we will be exploring the best cameras to enhance your video conferencing experience. This guide will review some video conferencing cameras currently topping the chart in various conferencing categories (large, medium, and small rooms), highlighting their features to help you make an informed decision.

Best Large Room Video Conferencing Category

1. Logitech Rally Plus Premium Ultra-HD ConferenceCam System

Key Features:

• Razor-sharp 15x HD zoom
• Integrated with Logitech Rightsense Technology 
• Native Zoom Room support (Plug-n-Play)
• Ultra HD imaging system with powerful 4k sensor 
• PTZ camera capability with a wide dynamic range 
• Multiple mountain options
• 90° diagonal, 82° horizontal, and 52° vertical field of view 
• Includes rally speaker, rally mic pod, rally table hub, rally display hub, and remote controls 

The Logitech Rally Plus Ultra HD PTZ Conference Camera is a premium modular video conferencing device with an Ultra HD imaging system. It is ideal for professional collaboration in spaces of any size, including training facilities, boardrooms, conference rooms, and lecture auditoriums. With advanced technologies, the Rally Plus Camera delivers professional performance in every meeting. This premium video conferencing camera features an auto-tracking function and improved pan/tilt/zoom performance, allowing smooth transitions between the three preset locations. The camera's 90-degree field of view makes it ideal for up to ten seats and other professional settings requiring clear, high-resolution video. Logitech RightSight technology controls the camera's automatic movement and lens adjustment to fit every participant in your meeting room in a single view.

2. FoMaKo NDI Camera 20X Optical Zoom NDI PTZ Camera

Key Features:

• 20x optical zoom 
• Supports 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution 
• Multiple application usage 
• Advanced 2D/3D noise reduction technology
• High-quality video streaming over NDI (Network Device Interface) 
• Supports PoE (Power over Ethernet) functionality 
• Built-in gravity sensor
• Easy installation process

The FoMaKo KN20A NDI PTZ Live Streaming Camera features a 20x optical zoom, a 1/2.8 inch high-quality CMOS sensor, and a 60.7-degree wide-angle lens, giving you the perfect streaming experience for your live events like meetings, broadcasts, education training, and more. One of the major advantages of FoMaKo NDI cameras is that they do not require expensive broadcasting equipment and legacy SDI cable connections. Instead, it uses your computer network architecture (LAN or WAN), cables, and switches. NDI uses standard IP networks to turn Ethernet-based LAN into a video network and also uses IT infrastructures, which reduces the overall cost of installation. FoMaKo KN20A supports other video outputs such as HDMI, 3G-SDI, and CVBS.

3. Poly Studio E70 Smart Camera

Key Features:

• Dual lens smart camera 
• 2160p UHD display resolution
• 20 megapixel 4k sensor camera 
• Motorised electronic privacy shutter 
• Integrated with Poly DirectoryAI technology
• Supports speaker tracking and group framing 
• Supports Poly Lens Management Software  

If you are looking to have a meeting with a large audience, yet want to communicate clearly with them, in high-quality audio and video formats, the Poly Studio E70 is what you need. First-of-its-kind, a smart camera designed to deliver high-end video quality with professional audio capability and next-level analytics. The Studio E70 features a dual-lens 20-megapixel 4k sensor camera enhanced with Poly DirectorAI technology to deliver the best video experience, perfect for a hybrid working environment. With 120-degree and 140-degree horizontal and diagonal fields of view, the Poly Studio E70 can seamlessly transmit between wide-angle and narrow lenses, capturing everyone in the room. The Studio E70 Poly Lens Management allows easy and worry-free deployment and management of the device. An ideal choice for a hybrid working environment with up to 15 participants, providing a horizontal and diagonal field of coverage at 140 degrees.

4. NEAT Conferencing Neat Bar Pro

Key Features:

• Captures up to 4K, 16x digital zoom
• Provides 16x beamforming mics with large speakers
• Echo cancellation and noise suppression technology
• Supports dual-screen for multitasking
• Offers compatibility with Zoom and Microsoft Teams
• Controls meetings and displays at the touch of a button
• Comes with integrated LED indicators 
• Offers security protection with a Kensington lock slot
• Includes a mounting kit for easy installation on surface areas

The Neat Bar Pro conference system offers compatibility with Zoom and Microsoft Teams for easy engagement with other parties, both in-office and remote workers. This conferencing solution captures images and videos up to 4K resolution and up to 16x digital zoom delivering quality video experience. The provision of a 16x beamforming microphone array with large speakers provides you with exceptional audio delivery. It also provides echo cancellation and noise suppression technology, so you can experience noise- and echo-free communication. The Neat Pad touchscreen controller supports dual screens for multiple participants to enable multitasking and connects via USB mode for easy connectivity. The touchscreen controller also assists in controlling some meeting features, like scheduling meetings, sharing screens, joining meetings, and so on with a tap.

Best Medium Room Video Conferencing Category

1. Logitech PTZ Pro 2 Camera

Key Features:

• Full HD Resolution of 1080p at 30 fps
• 90 degrees Diagonal Field of View 
• Motorised pan and tilt
• Up to 10x HD zoom capacity
• Smartphone control remote App
• Compatible with Windows 7, 8.1, macOS 10.10 or higher 

Logitech PTZ Pro 2 offers excellent optics and life-like video calls, creating the experience of being together in the same place. With 1080p Full HD at 30fps, a 90-degree wide field of view, and 10X lossless zoom from the remote, you get professional video coverage for your boardroom, classroom, conference, and other video-based meetings.

2. Poly - Studio X50

Key Features:

• Up to 4K UHD image resolution 
• 120-degree wide-angle field of view
• 5x digital zoom and 2 camera presets 
• Noise blocking technology
• Auto-framing and active speaker tracking

Poly Studio X50 is best for a medium-sized conferencing space. It picks up video and audio quality with the sleek all-in-one video bar, which circulates sound around the meeting space while delivering the best video conferencing experience. The Polycom Studio X50 can work with any cloud video collaboration software you want to use.

3. Owl Labs Meeting Owl 3 360° 1080p Smart Video Conference Camera

Key Features:

• 360-degree lens for Panoramic 1080p video of the room
• Built with 8 omnidirectional microphones and 3 Speakers
• Micro-HDMI for audio expansion
• Automatically focus on active speakers
• Compatible with most Web-Based Video Conferencing

The Meeting Owl 3 smart video conference camera does not sacrifice audio quality for video or vice versa. It is capable of recording 360-degree video in 1080p HD and 360-degree audio up to 180 feet (5.5m). The device can be in meeting rooms with up to 12 people. Place it at the centre of the conference table, surrounded by participants, and enjoy live 360 panoramic camera coverage from the Meeting Owl 3.

4. AVer CAM520 Pro2 Conference Camera

Key Features:

• 1080p60 video resolution with 2MP 1/2.8" Sony Exmor sensor
• Provides high image quality in conference spaces
• Supports UVC over USB to control camera settings and movements via your computer
• 12x Optical Zoom, and 84.5-degree Field of View
• Included IR remote control aids adjusting the pan, tilt, and zoom
• Simple to use with plug-and-play operation

The CAM520 Pro2 from AVer has built-in superior integration capabilities, providing high image quality and correct colour in medium conference spaces. It captures 1080p60 video with its 2MP 1/2.8" Sony Exmor sensor and is simple to use with plug-and-play operation. It connects easily to practically any Windows, Mac, or Chromebook desktop or laptop computer with a single USB cable, allowing you to get started instantly. It can also stream to a variety of internet services via its LAN port.

Best Small Room Video Conferencing Category

1. Jabra PanaCast 180° Panoramic 4K UHD Conferencing Camera

Key Features:

• 180-degree Panoramic 4k video
• Supports whiteboard sharing
• Intelligent zoom
• Intuitive camera technology 
• Plug-and-play connectivity
• Microsoft Team and Zoom certified.

The Jabra Panacast 180° Panoramic 4K UHD Conferencing Camera is designed to be the world’s first intelligent 180-degree panoramic 4K plug-and-play video solution. Intelligent Zoom automatically includes everyone in the conversation, while Vivid HDR ensures the best video quality even in low-light situations and in the most challenging lighting conditions. Its plug-and-play technology allows you to collaborate quickly and easily with others, bringing hassle-free video and audio to your huddle room. The 4K UHD Conferencing Camera from Jabra works with all leading video and audio conferencing solutions and is certified for use with Microsoft Teams and Zoom.

2. NexiGo N990 4K PTZ Webcam

Key Features:

• Ultra HD 4K webcam, best for personal and huddle room setup
• Features full pan, tilt, and zoom functionality
• Offers 5x digital zoom at 1080p resolution 
• Packed with two omnidirectional noise-cancelling mics
• Offers up to 3 installation options you can choose from 
• Zoom Certified, also works with Skype, Facetime, Facebook, YouTube, Microsoft Teams, and more
• Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac OS, Android V5.0, Smart TV, and many others

The NexiG1 N990 4K PTZ Webcam is perfect for personal meetings and live streams. It is an easy-to-use device—just what you need to hold a more efficient meeting without lagging sound or video. The NexiG1 N990 4K PTZ webcam features an 8.5-megapixel Sony sensor with a QHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 and 30 frames per second for the best video quality and crisper images. You can get a good video even in bad lighting situations. It has two omnidirectional microphones with noise cancellation built right in. These mics work exceptionally well, blocking out a sizable portion of ambient noise while narrowing in on your voice no matter where you are in the room. Just plug the USB Type-A cable that comes with it into your computer, and you're ready for your meetings. 

Best Webcams in Video Conferencing Category

1. Logitech Brio 4K Ultra HD Webcam

Key Features:

• 4K ultra high-definition resolution 
• 5x digital zoom with a wide 90° field of view
• RightLight 3 technology with HDR for excellent low-light correction
• Compatible with major video conferencing apps

• Plug-and-play USB connectivity
• Windows Hello facial recognition support
• Noise-cancelling microphone

The Logitech Brio is a top contender for anyone looking to upgrade their video conferencing setup. This 4K camera from Logitech is an Ultra HD Pro, a live-streaming webcam that delivers a remarkable video experience. The camera entails fascinating features that take your meeting or gaming experience to the next level. It features an adjustable field of view (FOV) that allows you to choose a diagonal angle of your own choice, and select up to three different diagonal views. This includes 65, 78, or 90 degrees diagonal, plus 5x HD zoom that gives clarity to the image no matter how extreme it is zoomed in. It integrates omnidirectional mics with noise-cancelling technology that helps block background noises from interrupting live videos. The mics pick up audio even at a distance, eliminating background noises. It features superior low-light correction and HDR to provide clear and detailed footage, even in dim settings.

2. Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam

Key Features:

• Automatic light correction
• Built-in dual microphones with noise cancellation
• Wide 78-degree diagonal field of view
• High-definition at 30 fps and auto-focus
• Dual microphones for enhanced audio

• Plug-and-play setup, compatible with Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS
• works with major conferencing platforms

This is a more affordable alternative to the Brio; the Logitech C920 offers excellent 1080p video quality and stereo sound. It’s one of the most popular webcams for video conferencing, providing great image clarity and automatic adjustment to lighting conditions. The Logitech C920s PRO Full HD Webcam is designed for creative professionals and features professional-quality video streaming and a privacy cover to protect your content. Stream freely with the flexibility of wireless or wired connectivity, and add audio with a 3.5mm cable. The green screen feature allows you to easily create infinite backdrops so you can use whatever background fits your project (green screen purchased separately). Enjoy smooth streaming in full HD 1080p at 30fps or 720p at 30/60fps, making it perfect for widescreen video calls on Skype, Google Hangouts, and FaceTime for Mac.  

3. Razer Kiyo

Key Features:

• Provides 720p at 60fps or 1080p at 30fps
• Offers 81.6 degrees field of view
• Automatically focuses on the subject
• Integrated adjustable ring light with 12 levels of brightness
• Plug-and-play setup, no complicated software is required
• Works with Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, and more.

The Razer Kiyo is a standout for anyone who has struggled with poor lighting in their home office. Razer’s Kiyo webcam offers an illuminated ring light,  a unique feature that ensures you always look your best, even in low-light environments. The Razer Kiyo webcam is a desktop streaming camera with a powerful, multi-step ring light that can dim or brighten on command. Streaming at 1080p@60fps to provide the perfect innovative camera for professional streaming. The Razer Kiyo accurately tunes colour casts so images on the screen are accurate to real life, using light presets that shift to suit your environment. It maintains even and flattering lighting and eliminates harsh shadows. Plus, with adjustable brightness levels, getting the right amount is a breeze. Fast and accurate to keep you in focus. Enjoy full customisation by toggling between Auto and Manual Focus and adjusting Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, and White Balance. You can also choose between different image presets. Also, it allows you to create multiple profiles and save different looks on Razer Synapse 3 to suit your streaming needs.

4. AVerMedia Live Streamer CAM 313

Key Features:

• Records crisp HD video up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second
• Reliable plug-and-play USB webcam
• Two built-in mono microphones for clear audio
• Built-in privacy shutter helps to protect the lens from damage

The AVerMedia Live Streamer CAM 313 records and transmits high-quality video with up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second. It offers brilliant camera effects and filters powered by AI facial tracking. The fixed focus lens can focus from 1.31 to 3.28 feet away, and two integrated mono microphones are used to record audio. It is best for broadcasting, streaming, and gaming. Also, it meets the requirements of the NDAA for national security compliance. 

Key Considerations for Choosing the Best Camera for Your Video Conferencing Needs 

When in doubt about the camera selection for your video conferencing setup, consider the following factors:

1. Video Quality: Choose conferencing cameras that offer at least 1080p resolution for clear, sharp video. 4K resolution is the gold standard.
2. Audio Quality: Audio is important when picking a camera for meetings. Look out for cameras with built-in microphones or the ones that support expansion microphones for better audio quality.
3. Wide-Angle Lens: The wider the field of view, the more participants it can capture in a frame. This is important, especially for group calls.
4. Autofocus and Auto-Adjustment: The Autofocus feature ensures the camera stays focused on the person or object in the frame. This is particularly helpful if participants move or shift positions during the meeting.
5. Lighting: Poor lighting can affect your video quality. If you're working in low-light environments, choose a camera with built-in lighting features like the Razer Kiyo to improve your appearance.
6. Compatibility: Ensure the camera is compatible with popular video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, etc.).

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality camera for video conferencing can significantly elevate your communication experience, making you look more professional and ensuring clear video quality during virtual meetings. Whether you're working from home, hosting a team call, or presenting in a large conference room, there's a camera that fits your needs and budget. From affordable options like the Logitech C920S to premium choices like the Logitech Brio 4K.

The cameras on this list provide the best combination of video quality, sound, and ease of use. Choose the one that fits your needs and budget, and take your video conferencing to the next level.