Many users believe that streaming cams are the same as ordinary webcams. However, they differentiate them from DSLRs and mirrorless cameras since they appear distinct. But, in reality, not all webcams can be suitable for streaming. Likewise, some digital and mirrorless cameras can be great for live streaming.
So, in this article, you will discover the 16 best cameras for streaming. You will learn which brands offer the most useful features to simplify and enrich the video quality of your streams. Each model also displays information about its specifications and has user remarks so you can make a sound decision.
Comparison Table – 16 Best Cameras for Streaming
| Product | Price | Image Sensor | Sensor Resolution | Video Resolution | Frame Rate | Field of View | Zoom | Autofocus | Compatibility | Built-in Mic | Connectivity | Privacy Cover | Cable Length |
| Hollyland VenusLiv | $999.00 | Sony CMOS | N/A | 1080p | 60fps | 80-degree and 46-degree | 6x digital zoom | Yes | Windows and macOS | Yes | USB, LAN, and Wi-Fi | No | N/A |
| OBSBOT TailAir | $478.99 | 1/1.8-inch CMOS | 8.4 MP | 4K and 1080p | Up to 60fps | 92-degree and -32-degree | 4x digital zoom | Yes | Windows and macOS | Yes | USB, W-Fi, NDI, and Bluetooth | No | N/A |
| Logitech MX BRIO | $199.99 | CMOS | N/A | UHD 4K and 1080p | Up to 60fps | 90-degree, 78-degree, and 65-degree | 4x digital zoom | Yes | MacOS, Windows, Linux, and Chrome | Yes | USB-C | Yes | 4.9ft |
| Elgato Facecam MK.2 | $207.66 | 1/2.5-inch CMOS | N/A | Up to 1080p | Up to 120fps | 84-degree | N/A | No | MacOS 12.3 and Windows 10 | No | USB-C | Yes | 6.5ft |
| Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra | $299.99 | Sony STRAVIS 2 | 8.3MP | Up to 4K | Up to 60fps | 82-degree and 72-degree | N/A | Yes | Windows 8 or above | Yes | USB 3.0 | No | 4.9ft |
| Streamplify Cam | $67.91 | CMOS | 2MP | Up to 1080p | Up to 60fps | 90-degree | Digital zoom | Yes | Windows, ChromeOS, and MacOS | Yes | USB 2.0 | Yes | 0.5ft |
| Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 | $28.99 | CMOS | N/A | Up to 720p | Up to 30fps | N/A | No | No | Windows | Yes | USB-A 2.0 | No | 4.9ft |
| Logitech StreamCam | $75.50 | N/A | N/A | Up to 1080p | Up to 60fps | 78-degree | No | Yes | Windows and MacOS | Yes | USB-C 3.0-3.2 | No | 5ft |
| Insta360 Link | $249.00 | 1/2-inch CMOS | N/A | UHD 4K | Up to 30fps | 79.5-degree (diagonal) and 67-degree (horizontal) | 4x zoom | Yes | Windows and MacOS | Yes | USB-C | No | 4.9ft |
| Dell UltraSharp Webcam – WB7022 | $178.94 | STARVIS CMOS | 8.3 MP | Up to 4K | Up to 60fps | 65-degree, 78-degree, and 90-degree | 5x digital zoom | Yes | Windows and MacOS | N/A | USB-C 3.0-3.2 | No | 6.6ft |
| Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III | $1,399.00 | 1-inch CMOS | 20 MP | Up to 4K UHD | Up to 120fps | N/A | 4x zoom (digital and optical) | Yes | N/A | Yes | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi | No | N/A |
| AVerMedia PW513 | $89.99 | CMOS | 8 MP | 4K UHD | 30fps | 94-degree | 4x digital zoom | No | Windows and MacOS | Yes | USB-C 3.0-3.2 | Yes | N/A |
| Sony ZV-1 II | $798.00 | 1-inch CMOS | 20.1 MP | Up to 4K UHD | Up to 120fps | N/A | 2.7x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom | Yes | Smartphones, Windows, and MacOS | Yes | USB-C and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi | N/A | N/A |
| AnkerWork C310 | $99.99 | 1/2.5-inch | 12 MP | Up to 4K UHD | 60fps | N/A | N/A | Yes | Windows and MacOS | N/A | USB 3.0 | N/A | N/A |
| NexiGo N930E | $59.99 | 1/2.7-inch CMOS | 2 MP | 1080p | 30fps | 78-degree, 67-degree, and 42-degree | No | Yes | Linux, ChromeOS, Windows, and MacOS | Yes | USB 2.0 | Yes | N/A |
| Aukey Full HD Webcam | N/A | 1/2.9-inch CMOS | 2 MP | Full HD 1080p | 30fps | N/A | N/A | N/A | Windows and MacOS | N/A | USB | N/A | N/A |
Note: The manufacturers and marketplaces have the right to change the pricing at any time.
16 Best Cameras for Streaming Featured
Here are the 16 prominent streaming cameras with detailed descriptions, specs, advantages, and disadvantages.
1. Hollyland VenusLiv
The Hollyland VenusLiv camera lets you stream around the clock without interruptions. This streaming cam uses the Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) to quickly go live by simply choosing the previous URL. In other words, you don’t have to enter the URL every time you stream on popular platforms, like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and more, as the camera saves the streaming URL for future use.
The Hollyland VenusLiv frees you from external capture cards as the camera offers the USB Video Class (UVC) feature. All you need is to connect the camera to your PC or laptop through the supplied USB cable and you are ready for fast streaming. It also comes with a flippable (vertical and horizontal) HD touchscreen display of 5 inches that displays true colors through the CalMAN color calibration tool.
You can connect the Hollyland VenusLiv through the LAN port or Wi-Fi. Plus, it supports DC and NP-F power supplies to ensure there’s no stop to your streaming.
Key Specifications of the Hollyland VenusLiv
- 6x Zoom
- Autofocus
- 60fps frame rate
- Sony CMOS sensor
- 1x USB-A 2.0 output
- 1x USB-C 3.0 output
- 1x HDMI 1.4 output
- 3.5mm microphone input
- 1x SD/SDXC/SDHC card slot
- 1x RJ4 Ethernet
- 1920 x 1080 video resolution
- 80-degree horizontal Field of View (FOV)
- 46-degree vertical FOV
- Built-in microphone
Pros
- Full High-definition video output
- User-friendly controls with a bright display
- Dual connectivity options – wired and wireless
- VenusLiv has the latest heat dissipation system that allows 24/7 streaming without overheating
Cons
- Pricey – due to advanced technologies and unique qualities
Price
- $999.00 (As seen on Amazon)
2. OBSBOT Tail Air
The OBSBOT Tail Air is a powerful AI-powered streaming camera that follows you around during live broadcasts or video recordings. It is a PTZ streaming cam that offers up to 4K quality. The device comes with remote software for pan, tilt, and zoom. The auto-tracking and hand gesture control feature makes this camera smart enough to understand your movements.
The OBSBOT Tail Air has a high-quality 8MP 1/1.8” CMOS sensor. It also features AI tracking not only for humans but also for objects and animals. The camera includes a 3.5mm input jack, a micro-HDMI out, and an option HX3/NDI support. Besides, you also get a PoE/Ethernet connectivity option with an adapter (optional). It functions extremely well even under dim lights through infrared tracking.
All this is possible due to the latest tracking algorithm that homes in this streaming camera. The tracking technology keeps you, your pet, or an object, in frame to ensure top-notch hands-free video recording and streaming. Moreover, the OBSBOT Tail Air supports up to 4K video resolution at max 30fps. You can also stream on 1080p at 60fps resolution for HD quality.
Key Specifications of the OBSBOT Tail Air
- 4x digital zoom
- Autofocus
- 1/1.8-inch CMOS image sensor
- 8.4-megapixel sensor resolution
- 3.5mm stereo input for audio
- 3849 x 2160p (4K) video resolution
- Frame rate up to 30fps (4K resolution)
- 1920 x 1080p video resolution
- Frame rate up to 60fps (1080p resolution)
- 92-degree wide and -32-degree long FOV
- Windows 7 and later and macOS 10.13 and later compatibility
- 1x USB-C 3.0 – 3.2 Gen and 1x Micro-HDMI video outputs
- USB, W-Fi, NDI, and Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- The AI tracking reduces manual handling
- Detailed image quality during live streams due to 4K resolution
- The remote control lets you manage and adjust camera features and settings from a good distance
Cons
- Some users have experienced occasional glitches
- You have to purchase the remote control separately
Price
- $478.99 (As seen on Amazon)
3. Logitech MX BRIO
The Logitech MX BRIO is an amazing web camera for streaming and collaboration in 4K30p Ultra HD. You can also talk to your colleagues or broadcast on your favorite social in 1080p60. Additionally, the company has used an advanced sensor that ensures the display has 70% bigger pixels than ordinary streaming cameras for outstanding video quality. In challenging lighting environments, this camera lets you experience improved face visibility because of features like auto-white balance, auto-exposure, autofocus, and noise reduction.
The Logitech MX BRIO also provides adjustable ISO, tint, vibrance, and shutter speed so you can play around manually. On the contrary, you can use the Auto mode to allow the camera to handle all these adjustments automatically without your involvement. The audio quality is also extraordinary since this streaming camera has dual-integrated beam forming mics backed by AI assistance to mitigate unwanted noise.
The Logitech MX BRIO has USB-C connectivity, making it compatible with macOS, Windows, Linux, and Chrome. Also, this streaming camera has been officially certified to be used with several platforms, including Streamlabs, Chromebook, Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.
Key Specifications of the Logitech MX BRIO
- 4x digital zoom
- Autofocus
- CMOS image sensor
- 4.9ft cable length (approx)
- USB-C 3.0 to 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity
- UHD 4K video resolution at up to 30fps
- 1080p video resolution at up to 60fps
- 90-degree, 78-degree, and 65-degree FOV
- 2x beam forming built-in mics with noise cancellation
Pros
- Strong build quality – no delicate parts
- You can mount this streaming camera in multiple ways
- MX BRIO offers exceptional image quality, especially during live streaming
Cons
- The cable length could be longer
- Manual ISO adjustment takes a lot of time
- You may need to use an external microphone since the built-in mics have average audio quality
Price
- $199.99 (As seen on Amazon)
4. Elgato Facecam MK.2
Elgato has been a well-known contributor when it comes to delivering reliable cameras for streaming. The Elgato Facecam MK.2 is one of the best creations by the company that targets users who prefer super-fast streaming. This streaming cam gives you lifelike video quality with accurate color reproduction, even when the lights are low.
Moreover, the device is supported by the Camera Hub software that allows you to make adjustments in the video similar to professional DSLR cameras. And guess what? This camera lets you save all the adjusted settings in its built-in memory so you don’t have to repeat the process.
The Elgato Facecam MK.2 comes equipped with High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology that ensures rich visuals at 1080p50. Also, the video streaming is completely uncompressed. Besides, the manufacturers claim minimal latency with high image fidelity.
Another interesting trait of MK.2 is its design. This device is made to mount perfectly on monitors and laptop screens. Also, the mounting angles are so accurate that they capture natural eye contact through live streaming sessions. The lens also has a slide shutter to ensure privacy whenever required.
Key Specifications of the Elgato Facecam MK.2
- 84-degree FOV
- 6.5ft cable length
- 1/2.5-inch CMOS image sensor
- UBS-C 3.0 to 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity
- Supports up to 120fps frame rates
- Supports video resolution ranging from 540p up to 1080p
- Fixed focus ranging from 11.8 inches to 47.2 inches
- MacOS 12.3 and Windows 10 (64-bit) and later versions compatibility
Pros
- The image quality is almost near to DSLRs
- This camera has a wider lens compared to other brands
- Several great effects, like blurred backgrounds and face tracking, improve streaming quality
Cons
- No built-in microphone
- There might be occasional drops and lags when using the camera with Steamlabs OBS
- Some users have experienced grainy feed which needs to be adjusted from the settings
Price
- $207.66 (As seen on Amazon)
5. Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra
The Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra offers marvelous features for professional streaming and content creation. The camera is equipped with a larger sensor and cutting-edge technology for delivering admirable image quality. It includes the Sony STRAVIS 2 Sensor to capture more brightness and image detail so you and your audience can enjoy sharp and vibrant colors. The credit goes to the F/1.7 aperture lens that enables this streaming cam to perform exceptionally under low-light conditions.
While the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra reproduces clear images, it can also automatically adjust different light levels to provide the required exposure according to the current lighting scenario. Moreover, the camera features steady focus with face tracking to keep your streams well-lit.
Additionally, the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra provides background blurring to offer detail to your shots. Besides, it works on HDR technology to improve the visual texture. You can also rely on this device for correcting over and underexposed angles to make sure the stream has a balanced contrast and lighting.
Key Specifications of the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra
- Autofocus
- 4.9ft cable length
- USB 3.0 connectivity
- Sony STRAVIS 2 image sensor
- 82-degree and 72-degree FOV
- Compatibility with Windows 8 and later
- Omnidirectional microphone
- 8.3 Megapixels sensor resolution
- Supports up to 4K video resolution
- Supports up to 60fps frame rate
Pros
- It has a solid build quality
- This camera for streaming has an incredible and natural image quality
Cons
- Short cable
- It may not work with MacOS since nothing is mentioned on the official documents and site
- Pan and zoom are only possible after installing software, which affects the overall video quality
Price
- $299.99 (As seen on Amazon)
6. Streamplify Cam
The Streamplify Cam provides great features to fulfill your streaming requirements. The camera broadcasts clear and sharp visuals at Full HD 1080p60 resolution backed by a 2MP sensor. If you are tired of the average audio quality of streaming cams, here’s the good news. The Streamplify Cam includes a stereo microphone with Realtek Audio. The mic can record sound at more than 48dB signal-to-noise ratio. Also, it is capable of capturing sounds coming from up to 10 meters of distance.
The Streamplify Cam offers a 360-degree swivel so you can position the camera at your desired position without restrictions. It has a wide angle of around 90 degrees, which you can adjust vertically up to 45 degrees. It also possesses an automatic light adjustment feature that modifies the color and brightness of the image as per the lighting conditions. Moreover, the Streamplify Cam comes with an autofocus feature and has a plug-and-play functionality where no drivers or third-party software are needed.
Key Specifications of the Streamplify Cam
- Digital zoom
- 90-degree FOV
- CMOS image sensor
- 2-megapixel sensor resolution
- 1920 x 1080 FHD video resolution
- Up to 60fps frame rate support
- 2x built-in microphones
- USB 2.0 connectivity
- 200 cm (0.5ft) cable length
- Compatible with Windows XP to 11, ChromeOS, and macOS
Pros
- Good build quality with a sleek design
- The camera delivers true HD streams
- The background blur and autofocus are similar to DSLR cameras
Cons
- Extremely short length of the provided cable
- Using the camera on a Green screen requires excessive adjustments to achieve satisfactory results
- You cannot rely on the audio quality of integrated microphones if you are a professional streamer
Price
- $67.91 (As seen on Amazon)
7. Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
Alright folks! This one is classic and never gets old enough to be out of the list of the best streaming cameras. The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 provides a 16:9 cinematic screen format, which makes it an ideal device for sharing streams over social media accounts. The camera delivers natural and vibrant colors, and can easily fit laptops and desktop computers.
It is made with a built-in omnidirectional mic with acoustic noise-canceling technology to ensure your audio also has excellent quality during your stream. The noise cancellation feature works really well at reducing unwanted background noise.
However, the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 is mostly compatible with Windows operating systems starting from Windows 7 to Windows 10. It comes with a bundle of software, that includes Windows Move Maker and Photo Gallery which adds more fun to the user experience. Overall, if you are beginning your streaming career and you are looking for a starter camera, this can be a suitable option.
Key Specifications of the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
- Fixed focus
- CMOS sensor
- Video resolution up to 720p
- Frame rate up to 30fps
- USB-A 2.0 connectivity
- 4.92ft cable length
Pros
- Good image quality at this price point
- It is a plug-and-play streaming camera with automatic installation of drivers
- The built-in microphone delivers great sound compared to other models
Cons
- It may not be compatible with Macs and the newer Windows 11
- This is not a professional streaming camera
- The product is only available on authentic marketplaces as the official Microsoft has stopped its retail directly to users
Price
- $28.99 (As seen on Amazon)
8. Logitech StreamCam
The Logitech StreamCam is designed to stream on YouTube, Twitch, and other platforms quickly. The camera connects your Mac and Windows computer with a 5ft built-in USB-C cable for uninterrupted video transfer. Also, you can mount it on your monitor or use a tripod to position the camera.
Quality-wise, the Logitech StreamCam not only delivers remarkable visuals but also provides high audio quality through its dual front-facing mics. While the camera can be linked to any system via USB-C, it can also be used with Logitech Capture. This pairing helps you experience better framing, stabilization, and exposure, allowing you to create next-level content.
What’s more? The StreamCam captures organic and vibrant video streams in Full HD 1080p60, which ensures more details and smooth motion. It also comes with an AI facial-tracking feature that always keeps you in the spotlight, no matter how bright or dull the lighting is.
Key Specifications of the Logitech StreamCam
- 78-degree FOV
- Autofocus
- Video resolution of up to 1080p
- Up to 60fps frame rate
- USB-C 3.0 to 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity
- 5ft cable length
- macOS 10.14 and Windows 10 or later compatibility
Pros
- Simple plug-and-play cam
- Marvelous color accuracy
- The integrated microphone can record in-depth audio
- This streaming camera delivers solid video, better than most newer models
Cons
- Some users disliked the non-detachable USB-C cable
- The device makes the laptop screen heavy when mounted
- Using the Logitech Capture on a MacBook may not provide optimal performance due to frequent crashing
Price
- $75.50 (As seen on Amazon)
9. Insta360 Link
The Insta360 Link is a streaming webcam with AI technology that captures 4K videos at 30fps. It offers numerous video modes with other essential features like auto-exposure and autofocus for clear visibility. The AI system helps in face tracking while it has an integrated 3-axis gimbal design with a 4x zoom.
The Insta360 Link lets you control streams, Zoom calls, and video modes through your gestures. For instance, raising your palm commands the camera to begin AI tracking. Making an L-shape when using Zoom can activate the Whiteboard Mode.
Furthermore, the Insta360 Link comes with a clip that lets you attach it to your desktop computer or laptop. The device has a USB-C port for power and connection to your PC with separate cables. Plus, when the camera is inactive for 10 or more seconds, the lens points in a downward direction.
In addition to visual features, the Insta360 Link comes with dual noise-canceling microphones that improve the audio quality of your streams by reducing background noise.
Key Specifications of the Insta360 Link
- 4x zoom
- Autofocus
- 2x microphones
- 4.9ft cable length
- USB-C connectivity
- 1/2-inch CMOS sensor
- UHD 4K video resolution
- Supports up to 30fps frame rate
- 79.5-degree diagonal and 67-degree horizontal FOV
- macOS 10.10 or later and Windows 8 or above compatibility
Pros
- Straightforward setup
- Excellent color reproduction
- The gimbal base adds more convenience to the overall usability
- The streams go pretty smoothly when used with OBS
Cons
- The HDR feature may overexpose the subject
Price
- $249.00 (As seen on Amazon)
10. Dell UltraSharp Webcam – WB7022
The Dell UltraSharp Webcam is constructed with high-quality aluminum and has a fine metallic finish, giving it a modern appearance and sleek design. Feel free to set it up without a complicated process due to its magnetic mount. It also has a privacy cover, allowing you to take a break from the screen without disconnecting from your audience. While it is a certified device for Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and other popular platforms, it also supports both Mac and Windows operating systems.
The Dell UltraSharp Webcam delivers 4K streaming quality since it is equipped with Sony STARVIS CMOS. On the other hand, the camera even supports 720p and 1080p video resolutions with multiple FOVs. This streaming camera provides real-life colors in both high and low-lighting environments through the Digital Overlap HDR. Moreover, this live stream webcam reduces 2D and 3D visual noise and mitigates graininess and motion blur.
But that’s not it! The Dell UltraSharp Webcam uses advanced AI technology for auto-framing with adjustable tracking speed and sensitivity.
Key Specifications of the Dell UltraSharp Webcam
- Autofocus
- 5x digital zoom
- 6.6ft cable length
- 8.3 MP sensor resolution
- STARVIS CMOS image sensor
- Up to 4K video resolution support
- Up to 60fps frame rate support
- USB-C 3.0 to 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity
- 65-degree, 78-degree, and 90-degree FOV
- macOS 12.3.1 and Windows 10 (64-bit) or above compatibility
Pros
- Extremely sturdy design
- The camera mount is highly intuitive
- The CCD and Sony lens used in this camera provides ultra-sharp videos
Cons
- There is no left and right rotation
- Users have complained about loose attachments with the monitor
Price
- $178.94 (As seen on Amazon)
11. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a multi-purpose camera that takes still images and can be used as a device for live streaming on YouTube and other platforms. It allows you to vertically stream videos by getting access to your personal Canon iMAGE GATEWAY account. It lets you connect most external microphones for enhanced sound quality. Plus, it offers an HDMI output to ensure top-class recordings.
The PowerShot G7 X Mark III includes a 20.1 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 for image processing. Together, both components provide outstanding image quality with minimal noise and fast focusing. It permits you to record videos in 4K and 1080p Full HD with support up to 120fps. The G7 X Mark III has a 4.2x optical zoom with a wide aperture to give professional-standard performance in low lighting.
Key Specifications of the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
- 1-inch CMOS image sensor
- 20 MP sensor resolution
- Up to 4K UHD video support
- Up to 120 frame rate per second
- 4.2x optical and 4x digital zoom
- Autofocus function
- Built-in stereo mic
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- Great for live vlogging with time-lapse and slow-motion
- Superior visual quality compared to smartphone cameras
Cons
- Blown-out dark and white shadows
- No cold shoes to attach the external microphone
- Overheating and autofocus issues reported by users
Price
- $1,399.00 (As seen on Amazon)
12. AVerMedia PW513 (4K Streaming Camera)
If you’re a hardworking remote employee during the day. And a pro gamer who loves to show their gaming skills live to the audience, after work. Then, the AVerMedia PW513 can serve both your streaming and meeting requirements.
The AVerMedia PW513 streaming cam is built to offer impeccable video quality. The webcam can capture 4K30 videos through its integrated 4K optics. This ensures crystal-clear visuals when your lighting environment is just right on the track so your audience can enjoy sharp images.
The AVerMedia PW513 provides a wide field-of-view of 94 degrees, permitting you to share more of your streaming setup without feeling isolated. Contrarily, this streaming camera has a sliding shutter that quickly covers the lens for increased privacy.
Key Specifications of the AVerMedia PW513
- Fixed focus
- 94-degree FOV
- 4x digital zoom
- CMOS image sensor
- 8 MP sensor resolution
- Integrated microphone
- 4K UHD at 30fps highest resolution
- USB-C 3.0 to 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity
- Compatibility with macOS 10.14/10.15 and Windows 10
Pros
- High acutance visuals, ideal for viewership
- Robust build quality with detachable USB cable
- Plug-and-play device without software
Cons
- The camera fails to provide optimal performance in a low-lighting environment
- Different variants have distinct pricing and specs, disallowing users to benefit from multiple specs from the same device
Price
- $89.99 (Price of the 4K variant on Amazon)
13. Sony ZV-1 II
Although the main features make the Sony ZV-1 II a digital camera, it can still be used for streaming. Many content creators are already taking advantage of its effortless setup for broadcasting. It is one of the best devices for live streaming that also serves as a webcam by simply connecting it to your PC via a USB-C cable.
Notably, the Sony ZV-1 II supports UAC and UVC streaming standards. This gives you a better sound and image quality during normal video calls or streams. It also has great features, such as Face-Priority AE that automatically customizes exposure by recognizing your face to ensure it is not dull under dim lights.
Key Specifications of the Sony ZV-1 II
- Autofocus
- 4x digital zoom
- 2.7x optical zoom
- HDMI output port
- 3.5mm audio port
- Built-in microphone
- 1-inch CMOS image sensor
- 20.1 MP sensor resolution
- Up to 4K UHD video resolution
- Up to 120 frame rate per second
- Compatible with smartphones and computers
- USB-C and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi)
Pros
- It is a lightweight camera
- The internal mic has good audio quality
Cons
- The autofocus is not reliable
- Too expensive if buying it for streaming purposes only
Price
- $798.00 (As seen on Amazon)
14. AnkerWork C310
The AnkerWork C310 is a 12MP, 4K resolution webcam for conferencing and streaming. It delivers HD images with impressive details. However, it also lets you stream on 1080p60 through its YUV encoding and USB-3.0 technology. So, if you have slow internet, you can still livestream smoothly.
The AnkerWork C310 comes with AI framing, AI autofocus, and dual mics with AI noise-caneling. All these technologies function in harmony to automatically improve video and audio in real time. The AnkerWork C310 streaming camera also has a privacy shutter and it possesses a 1/2.5-inch sensor with f/2.0 aperture that adjusts according to the present lighting conditions.
Key Specifications of the AnkerWork C310
- Autofocus
- Integrated mics
- 1/2.5-inch image sensor
- 12 MP sensor resolution
- 60fps frame rate
- USB 3.0 connectivity
- Windows and Mac compatible
- Up to 4K UHD video streaming
Pros
- Lossless video streaming
- All features, which are backed by AI, give a decent performance
Cons
- The camera requires software to run
- Very flaky software, especially on MacOS
- It has zoom but it degrades the quality of the overall image
Price
- $99.99 (As seen on Amazon)
15. NexiGo N930E
The NexiGo N930E is a low-budget streaming camera with a built-in ring light with three brightness levels. These lights can be easily adjusted by simply touching the mechanism. Besides, all light levels are soft and play a key role in dim environments.
The NexiGo N930E has a wide field-of-view. The camera can capture videos up to 1080p with appreciable results. You can use it to stream on OBS and Twitch. It also serves as a dependable webcam for Facetime and Zoom.
The NexiGo N930E has an intelligent autofocus feature that automatically finds the most suitable focus for your stream. Moreover, the device comes with a noise-canceling mic for reliable audio quality.
From the configuration point of view, the NexiGo N930E has a simple plug-and-play function. The camera can be easily connected to the USB 2.0 port and becomes active without installing drivers. It is also compatible with Linux 2.6.24, ChromeOS 29.0.1547, MacOS 10.6, and Windows XP to 11.
Key Specifications of the NexiGo N930E
- Autofocus
- 1080p video resolution
- 30fps frame rate support
- 2 MP sensor resolution
- Omnidirectional built-in mic
- 1/2.7-inch CMOS digital image sensor
- 78-degree horizontal, 67-degree vertical, and 42-degree diagonal FOV
Pros
- The ring light improves the image quality
- It is a lightweight streaming camera with flexible mounting options
Cons
- App installation is required for Mac systems
- Users are not happy with the microphone audio quality
- Sometimes, the camera captures excessively sharp videos
Price
- $59.99 (As seen on Amazon)
16. Aukey Full HD Webcam
The Aukey Full HD Webcam is suitable for new streamers who are willing to start their career and need to gain experience with camera interaction. It delivers 1080p video resolution. The camera is also equipped with stereo microphones and a CMOS sensor to provide sharp visuals.
From the streaming perspective, the Aukey Full HD Webcam offers 30fps, giving a smooth experience to viewers. And even in inadequate lights, this camera works quite well. It doesn’t have an autofocus feature but the fixed focus is also good at making the subjects sharp within the range of 5 meters.
Key Specifications of the Aukey Full HD Webcam
- 1/2.9-inch CMOS image sensor
- 2 MP sensor resolution
- 30fps frame rate
- Full HD 1080p video streams
Pros
- Lively color regeneration
- The camera delivers good exposure
Cons
- Very poor audio and visual quality – can’t beat built-in Mac cams
- Not enough information about this model is available on the internet
Price
- N/A
How to Choose the Best Camera for Streaming?
This brief guide will help you pick the best streaming camera within your budget.
a. Video Resolution
Each streaming camera supports a specific resolution. In fact, most of the brands support more than one resolution for user convenience. Some prominent resolutions are 4K, 2K, and 1080p. Choosing a 4K streaming can will let you stream in the highest video quality. But such cameras can be expensive. Alternatively, you can pick streaming cams with 1080p resolution as most streamers stream over this resolution.
b. Frame Rate
Frame rate defines how fast the number of visual frames appears in a single second. The 60fps (frame rate per second) is the ideal value for live streaming. Contrarily, you can pick a camera with at least 30fps.
c. Field-of-View
The FOV or Field-of-View describes how much of the space the camera captures within the frame. Streaming cameras with wide FOV can capture you and other subjects or objects in the surroundings. Whereas, narrow FOV cams may capture a limited area. If you have a fancy streaming setup and want to show it to your audience, you can go for wide field-of-view cams.
d. Compatibility
The majority of streaming cameras can be connected to Mac and Windows operating systems. Some of them are also compatible with Linux and Chrome. Nevertheless, there may be restrictions on OS versions. For instance, some cameras may not work with Windows 11. So, when deciding on a product, make sure it is compatible with your PC or laptop.
e. Built-in Microphone
Built-in mics in streaming cameras act as a bonus feature only if they have excellent audio quality. It is noted that live streaming cams usually have an average sound quality, which is why professional streamers use external wireless microphones like the Hollyland Lark M2, to balance the audio and video quality for the audience.
f. Price
Each streaming camera brand has a different price, depending on the number of features it has. But webcam-styled streaming cameras are more affordable compared to digital, mirrorless cameras, or DSLRs. So, it is suggested that you select a brand that comes within your budget since you always have the option to upgrade to a more versatile camera later.
Conclusion
From hundreds of brands, this article picks the top 16 streaming cameras. Through a detailed analysis based on customers’ likes and dislikes, it appears the Hollyland VenusLiv is one of the best cameras for streaming with unique features and vital specifications.
Conversely, the OBSBOT Tail Air, Logitech MX BRIO, Elgato Facecam MK.2, and Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra are great options compared to the remaining list. It is because these models were recently launched and have the latest features, but still they are way behind VenusLiv in terms of streaming functionality. Also, if you prefer digital cameras for streaming, you can opt for the Sony ZV-1 II and Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cameras for Streaming
Q1. What kind of camera do people use for streams?
Most users prefer webcams with multiple Field-of-View and 4K video resolution for streaming.
Q2. Is it better to use a camera or webcam for streaming?
Webcams are ideal for fast live streams and video calls. Plus, they are also affordable compared to cameras. However, they may not match the quality of DSLRs or digital cameras. But if you choose a dedicated streaming camera like the Hollyland VenusLiv, you can enjoy the qualities of both types of cameras.
Q3. What is the most popular webcam for streaming?
Most streamers use OBSBOT Tail AIr, Hollyland VenuslLiv, and Logitech MX BRIO for streaming.
