What Is an External Webcam? Discover Its Benefits Over Laptop Webcam

Published: 3 Dec 2024

You’re in the middle of an important virtual meeting. The connection is great, but when you turn on your laptop’s built-in camera, the image is blurry, and the sound keeps cutting out. Frustrated, you start thinking, “Isn’t there a better solution to this?”

The answer is simple: upgrade to an external webcam. It’s a reliable way to improve video quality and enhance your overall experience. An external webcam provides better video quality than a built-in webcam.
In this article, I will explain what is an external webcam and how it provides better video quality than a built-in webcam.

Table of Content

Definition of External Webcam

An external webcam is a camera that you connect to your computer with a USB cable. It’s also known as a stand-alone webcam because it works independently of your laptop’s built-in camera. External webcams offer higher resolution, better audio, and more flexibility than built-in laptop cameras. These webcams are commonly used for video calls, streaming, gaming, and even online classes.

Popular brands like Logitech make webcams that turn your computer into a professional-grade video conferencing tool. Whether you’re working remotely or live streaming, an external webcam enhances the quality of your video and audio.

A Modern Black External Webcam With A Rectangular Design, Mounted On A Flexible Stand. The Webcam Is Placed On A Desk In Front Of A Blurred Computer Screen Displaying Software Interfaces, Creating A Tech-Focused Setup.

Why External Webcams Are Important Today

External webcams are becoming essential for many people today, especially with the increase in remote work, online classes, and live streaming. Built-in laptop webcams often lack good video quality, clear sound, and adjustable angles, which can make video calls or meetings less effective.

An external webcam can easily fix these issues by giving you better video resolution, clearer audio, and more flexibility in positioning. Whether you’re at home for work, taking online classes, or streaming, an external webcam will help you look more professional and sound better. With HD or even 4K resolution and noise-canceling microphones, These webcams help you look better and communicate clearly in every online meeting or call.

Benefits of Using an External Webcam

External webcams provide several benefits that enhance your experience. Here are some of them:

1. Better Video and Audio Quality:

Unlike built-in webcams, external webcams offer higher resolution (up to 1080p or even 4K) and better sound quality with advanced microphones. This is especially important for video conferences, where clarity matters. Clear visuals and crisp audio help you communicate more effectively.

2. Increased Flexibility:

One major advantage of external webcams is that they can be positioned at various angles. This flexibility allows for better framing during video calls or streams. You can adjust the camera to focus on the right background, show your workspace, or capture your best side for a more professional appearance.

3. Enhanced User Experience:

The ability to customize settings like autofocus, brightness, and field of view gives you full control over how you appear on camera. This is particularly useful for content creators or gamers who want to present themselves in the best possible way.

Is an External Webcam Better Than a Built-in Webcam?

When it comes to video calls, streaming, or even just taking photos, the differences between an external webcam and a built-in webcam are more noticeable. Let’s look at the main points to help you decide which webcam is right for you:

A Comparison Between A Built-In Webcam On A Laptop And An External Webcam, Highlighted Against Red And Blue Backgrounds.

1. Video Quality

External webcams provide sharper, clearer images with high-definition resolutions like 1080p or 4K, whereas built-in webcams usually only provide 720p resolution. This can make a big difference if you want to look the best in video calls or create high-quality content for streaming.

2. Low-Light Performance

Have you ever noticed how your face looks dark and grainy in poor lighting with a built-in webcam? But external webcams tend to have much better low-light performance, which means you’ll look clear and more natural, even in low-light rooms. This makes them a perfect choice for video meetings or gaming setups.

3. Field of View

External webcams give you a wider field of view, helping you capture more of your background or fit a larger space into the frame. On the other hand, built-in webcams usually have a limited field of view, so they’re better suitable for just showing your face.

4. Audio Quality

Many external webcams come with noise-cancelling microphones that provide clearer audio for calls or recordings. Unfortunately, built-in webcams often struggle with audio because they pick up undesirable background noise, which can affect the clarity of your communication.

5. Flexibility and Placement

With an external webcam, you can adjust the camera to find the best angle and position. Whether you need a low-angle shot for streaming or a higher angle for video calls, external webcams give you flexibility. On the other hand, Built-in webcams are fixed in place, so your options are limited.

6. A Quick Comparison Table: External Webcam vs Built-in Webcam

Feature	External Webcam	Built-in Webcam
Video Quality	1080p, 4K options available for sharp, clear visuals	Typically 720p, lower quality
Low-Light Performance	Superior performance, clear in low-light conditions	Struggles in low-light conditions
Field of View	Wider, adjustable for different angles	Fixed, narrow-angle
Audio Quality	Often includes noise-canceling microphones	Poor audio quality
Flexibility & Placement	Adjustable position for better angles	Fixed, limited to built-in position

7. Which is Better?

If you’re looking for better quality, flexibility, and more customization options, an external webcam is definitely a better option than a built-in webcam. Whether you’re streaming, attending virtual meetings, or simply connecting with friends and family, the investment in an external webcam is worth it. Not only will you enjoy better video and audio, but you’ll also be able to adjust your setup for the best experience.

How to Choose the Right External Webcam

If you want to buy an external webcam that fits your needs, consider these features.

A Thoughtful Man Choosing Between 1080P, 720P, And 4K Ultra Hd External Webcams Displayed On A Desk, With &Quot;How To Choose Right External Webcam&Quot; Text In The Corner.

1. Resolution

The resolution of your webcam plays a big role in the quality of your video. For basic video calls, a 1080p webcam will provide crisp, clear images. However, if you plan to stream professionally or create high-quality content, you may want to consider a 4K webcam. A higher resolution ensures sharper details, which is important for videos that others will watch, especially on larger screens.

Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for a webcam that offers a good balance between quality and affordability, go for a 1080p option.

2. Frame Rate

A higher frame rate (measured in frames per second or fps) makes your video look smoother and more natural. For most video calls, 30 fps works well, but for gaming or live streaming, you might need 60 fps or more to ensure a smooth experience. A higher frame rate is essential if you plan to create content or engage in activities like gaming where fast motion is involved.

Pro Tip:
If you’re streaming or recording video content, look for webcams with 60fps for the best performance.

3. Compatibility

Before buying a webcam, make sure it’s compatible with your device and operating system. Most webcams support Windows and macOS, but it’s important to double-check if you use specific apps or platforms for video calls or streaming.

4. Budget:

External webcams come in a wide range of prices. Budget-friendly webcams are usually fine for basic video calls and casual streaming. while higher-end models offer additional features like autofocus, background blur, or better low-light performance. Before deciding, assess your needs and select a webcam that fits your budget and offers the features you use most.

ProTip:
If you’re buying an external webcam for regular use, go for a budget-friendly option. However, if you’re a professional content creator or streamer, consider investing in a higher-end model for better quality and advanced features.

Are External Webcams Worth the Investment?

When people upgrade their video calling or streaming setup, the first question they ask is whether an external webcam is worth the extra cost. Because, most laptops already come with a built-in webcam, so why would anyone want to invest in an additional device like an external webcam?

Visual Representation Of An External Webcam's Benefits, Featuring Labeled Icons: Hd Resolution, Wide Field Of View, Audio Quality, Low-Light Capability, And Flexibility.

Here’s the thing: while built-in webcams are useful but they often fall short when it comes to quality. External webcams offer superior video and audio quality, better flexibility in positioning, and extra features that make them ideal for various activities, from business meetings to gaming or live streaming.

1. Cost vs Benefits:

External webcams are much better than built-in laptop cameras. While they cost more but they offer clearer video, better sound, and additional features that make them worth the investment. For everyday use, a laptop’s built-in webcam can be sufficient. However, external webcams provide superior performance and features that justify their higher price for professional tasks like live streaming, content creation, or virtual meetings.

2. Long-Term Value:

External webcams are a good long-term investment that can last for years. They are especially useful if you work remotely or stream regularly. Many advanced models come with extra features like background blur or noise-cancelling microphones, which enhance your experience. Additionally, they are easy to set up and work with most computers, making them a good and reliable option.

3. Use Cases:

If you’re a content creator, gamer, or someone who frequently hosts video calls, an external webcam is an essential tool for you. For example, streamers on platforms like Twitch benefit from the high-quality resolution that external webcams provide, which helps to maintain a professional image. For business professionals, the crisp video and clear sound of an external webcam can make a big difference in online meetings.

Conclusion

So guys, in this article, I have covered everything you need to know about what is an external webcam, from its advantages over built-in cameras to how to choose the perfect one for your needs.If you regularly attend virtual meetings, stream content, or just want better video and audio quality, investing in an external webcam is definitely worth it.

But my personal suggestion for you is to consider your needs and budget before buying an external webcam. Look at different models, and then choose a good external webcam that suits your requirements.

Thank you for reading this article. If you need more information or have any questions about external webcams, feel free to ask in the comments section.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions related to External Webcam.

Why should I use an external webcam instead of my laptop’s built-in one?

Because external webcams offer better video quality, clearer audio, and more flexibility in positioning, they are perfect for professional use, such as business meetings or live streaming. They also have advanced features like autofocus and noise-cancelling microphones.

Do external webcams work with all computers?

Most external webcams are compatible with both Windows and macOS systems, making them adaptable for various setups. Many webcams are plug-and-play, meaning they don’t require extra drivers to function. However, if you use a less common operating system like Linux or have specific software requirements, it’s important to check compatibility details before buying.

Are external webcams safe?

External webcams are generally safe to use, but you should take a few steps to protect your privacy and security. Here are some steps to keep in mind:

Unplug when not in use: Disconnect your webcam to ensure it’s not active.
Use a webcam cover: Use a small cover or tape to block the camera when not in use.
Install trusted software: Only download drivers and updates from official sources.

How do I set up an external webcam?

Setting up an external webcam is easy and quick, and if you need detailed steps, you can check out our guide on how to set up a webcam on a PC. Here’s a quick overview:

Plug it in: Connect the webcam to your computer’s USB port.
Install drivers: Most webcams install drivers automatically. If not, visit the brand’s website or refer to the manual for help.
Test it: Open your video app (like Zoom, Skype, or Teams) to ensure it’s working properly.

Do external webcams have microphones?

Yes, many external webcams come with built-in microphones. These microphones often provide better sound quality than the ones on laptops, and some even include noise-cancelling features to reduce background noise. However, for professional-grade audio, you may need a separate microphone.