Best Webcam Under $50: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs 2023

You've just got yourself a brand new laptop. As you turned on the screen and checked out the features, one thing would probably disappoint you- the webcam.

That's right! Most laptops today have a high-resolution display and longer battery life, but as they are getting thinner for the sake of convenience, manufacturers tend to shrink the webcam's sensor and lenses so that they fit perfectly. As a result, the image becomes dim and grainy.

Considering the poor image quality, you might want to invest in an external webcam. It doesn't have to be crazy expensive nor cheap enough to lack good features. You need a webcam that gives you everything at a moderate price.

Here in this article, we have listed some of our top choices to help you find the best webcam under $50. So, if you are on the hunt, keep reading!

Editors' Picks for Top Webcam Under $50

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• Bestseller No. 1
  
  AutoFocus Full HD Webcam 1080P with Privacy Shutter - Pro Web Camera with Dual Digital...
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• Bestseller No. 2
  
  PC 1080P Webcam with Mic. USB Camera for Video Calling & Recording Video...
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• Bestseller No. 3
  
  Webcam with Microphone, Wansview Autofocus HD 1080P USB PC Web Camera with Privacy Cover...
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• Bestseller No. 4
  
  NexiGo N60 1080P Web Camera, HD Webcam with Microphone, Software Control & Privacy Cover,...
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• Bestseller No. 5
  
  Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920, Widescreen Video Calling and Recording, 1080p Camera,...
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• Bestseller No. 6
  
  Microsoft LifeCam Cinema Webcam for Business - Black with built-in noise cancelling...
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• Bestseller No. 7
  
  Logitech C615 HD Webcam
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List of Top 9 Webcams Under $50

1. Gesma Webcam With Microphone - Best Budget Webcam For Streaming

2. NexiGo HD Webcam With Microphone & Privacy Cover - Best PC Webcams Under 50$

3. Logitech C270 Webcam

4. ToLuLu USB Webcam With Microphone

5. Anvask Webcam With Microphone

6. NexiGo N60 USB Computer Camera

7. EMeet C960 Web Camera

8. Corlitec 1080P Webcam with Microphone

9. CASECUBE FHD Webcam with Microphone and Ring Light

Comparison Chart for Top 9 Webcams Under $50

Top 5 Best Webcam Under 50 Reviews

1. Gesma Webcam With Microphone - Best Budget Webcam For Streaming

Here's an affordable webcam you can use for your video-conferencing needs, the Gesma Webcam with Microphone!

This 1080p webcam is excellent for virtual meetings on Skype, online classes on Zoom, or live streaming on YouTube. It features 6-layer glass-coated lens, which allows you to stream videos with clarity and vibrancy.

In addition, there's a microphone integrated into the webcam so that you don't go through the hassle of setting up a separate one. Plus, it reduces background noise from all directions as you speak, letting people from the other end hear you well.

Often you might need to adjust the webcam for better viewing. You can do so with this webcam because it allows you to rotate it 90 degrees. Other than just your laptop, it sits sturdily on your desktop, LCD screen, or tripod. So, whenever you feel the need of changing devices, nothing can stop you!

Setting up this webcam is very simple. You don't need to install any software or drivers, because it starts working as soon as you plug it in! It is compatible with a wide range of video-conferencing applications, such as Skype, Zoom, WeChat, and FaceTime.

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Highlighted Features

• Features built-in noise-reducing microphone
• It has a resolution of 1080p
• Can be rotated 90 degrees
• Secures perfectly to desktop, LCD screen, and tripod
• Supports a wide range of video-conferencing applications

2. NexiGo HD Webcam With Microphone & Privacy Cover - Best PC Webcams Under 50$

If you're concerned about privacy when using a webcam, look no further than this one by NexiGo!

This versatile webcam comes with an attached privacy cover that you can use to cover the lens. Since hackers can access your webcam and gather footage without your knowledge, it is a good idea to cover the lens when you're not using the webcam. Covering the lens not only protects you but also prevents dirt from entering.

Now, let's talk about the resolution. This webcam offers full HD resolution that ensures crystal-clear videos. Plus, it automatically adjusts white balance and contrast so that you don't have to spend time adjusting the settings.

The glass lens has a focal length of 3.6mm, and it allows you to capture videos at an ultra-wide angle of 110 degrees. This field of view lets your audience see the most from your videos.

Apart from that, the webcam features a noise-canceling microphone. Whether you are conducting webinars, taking online classes, or attending virtual meetings, you can simply plug in the webcam and start speaking without worrying about the background noise!

Like the previous webcam, this one can be easily mounted onto a desktop, LCD screen, or tripod for convenience. Also, there's no need to install any software or driver once you connect the webcam.

Highlighted Features

• Features a noise-cancelling microphone
• It has a viewing angle of 110 degrees
• It has a focal length of 3.6mm
• Automatically adjusts white balance and contrast
• Does not require installation of driver and software

3. Logitech C270 Webcam

You must have heard about the popular brand, Logitech, haven't you? If you did and want to own a webcam by this brand, you can check out the C270 model!

This webcam offers a resolution of 720p, which is decent enough for video chatting. It produces smooth and clear video quality that you will appreciate when you're chatting with people. Also, it has a smart light correction feature, which automatically adjusts the lighting when you're using the webcam in a dim room.

When you're testing the webcam and wish to take a picture of yourself before joining a virtual meeting, you can do it without worrying about the result! The 3MP camera lets you take vibrant images with a single click. It also tracks your face and maintains focus while you are moving or showing something.

Like the previous webcams, this one comes with a built-in microphone that cancels out background noise. So, if you hear pet noises while you're on a video call, don't worry about it because the microphone will take care of it.

If you intend to use this webcam only on your laptop or LCD monitor, then this is for you! With the foldable flat panel, you can securely mount the webcam into place.

Highlighted Features

• It has a noise-cancelling microphone
• It has a resolution of 720p
• Automatically adjusts light
• It has a diagonal field of view of 60 degrees
• Suitable for laptops and LCD screens

4. ToLuLu USB Webcam With Microphone

The ToLuLu USB Webcam with Microphone is specifically designed to comply with your requirements.

It is a full-HD webcam supporting a wider viewing angle of 110 degrees, which allows the audience to see more of you clearly as you are playing games, doing a presentation, or conducting lectures. Plus, it uses automatic light correction and HDR technology to make your videos appear natural.

The webcam also uses facial recognition technology that ensures you look good as you are presenting yourself to the audience.

Another great feature you would want to look for in a webcam is its built-in stereo microphone. Not only it reduces background noise, but also picks up sound with clarity. It works even if you are talking at a distance of 10 feet!

Setting up this webcam is not a hassle because you don't need to install drivers or software. All you need to do is plug the equipment into your laptop's USB port and start streaming. It is compatible with most operating systems, including Mac, and supports a wide range of video-calling applications.

ToLuLu cares about your privacy as well as convenience. So, when you purchase the product, you will be getting a privacy cover and a tripod!

Highlighted Features

• It has a viewing angle of 110 degrees
• It has a resolution of 1080p
• Features automatic light correction and HDR technology
• The microphone picks up sound from long distances
• Compatible with most operating systems

5. Anvask Webcam With Microphone

Last but not least, the Anvask Webcam with Microphone lets you stream videos with ease.

This webcam has a resolution of 1080p, which means it produces high-quality images when you're live streaming, working remotely, or video-chatting with friends and family. It works flawlessly with any video-conferencing platforms and applications, including Facebook Live, YouTube, Zoom, and Skype.

If your existing microphone fails to work properly, there's no problem, because this webcam has one! The built-in microphone ensures your voice sounds clear and reduces background noise from all directions.

Privacy is a priority. So if you're worried that someone might hack your webcam and record what you're doing, you can use the privacy cover to cover up the lens when you're not using the webcam. Not only that, but the privacy cover also keeps the lens away from dust.

What's more, the webcam can rotate 360 degrees and offers a viewing angle of 110 degrees. This means you have more flexibility of adjustment and also let viewers see more from your videos.

While you can clip the webcam to your laptop or desktop screen, you can also use the included mini tripod stand to keep the webcam on your desk!

Highlighted Features

• Rotates 360 degrees
• It has a viewing angle of 110 degrees
• It has a resolution of 1080p
• Comes with a mini tripod stand
• Features privacy cover

Buying Guide for The Best Webcam Under $50

Resolution

When you are shopping for the best budget webcam, the first thing you need to look for is its resolution because it's the aspect that determines the video quality. The higher the resolution, the better is the video quality.

Webcams under $50 typically offer 1080p resolution, which is suitable enough for video-conferencing or live streaming. They give you the utmost clarity and vividness that you will enjoy while you are using them.

You can't expect 4K quality from these webcams because it sounds unrealistic! In that case, you will need to choose a webcam with a higher price tag. It's not necessary to buy one though, you're better off with 1080p resolution.

Frame Rate

Frame rate or frames per second refers to the number of still images a webcam can capture each second. A higher frame rate means smoother video, while a lower frame rate results in a jerky video.

You will find that most webcams come with a minimum frame rate of 30 fps, and it is suitable for personal usage. But, if you are looking for the one that is suitable for professional purposes or streaming games, you will need to go for higher than that.

Microphone

Unless you want to invest in a separate microphone, know that some webcams also have one built-in.

Choosing a webcam with a built-in microphone will not only give you convenience during video conferencing but also reduce the overall cost. You are simply getting a device that offers great video as well as audio quality!

These webcams typically feature a stereo microphone. You will also find some with two microphones, which come in handy, especially if you want the audience to hear your voice more clearly.

If you want to be sure if your desired webcam comes with a microphone, you need to check the package or the manufacturer's website.

Adjustability

Indeed, you can't adjust your laptop's webcam without moving the screen. If you want to show your friend that beautiful artwork on your bedroom wall, you would need to carry the entire device towards it.

This is why you should look for a webcam that gives adjustability. Such webcams should be able to move, tilt, or rotate according to your requirements. So, when you choose one, be sure to play around with it.

Mounting Options

Apart from a laptop, you might be interested in using a webcam on your desktop or flat-screen TV. Or it might arise as a necessity if the laptop fails to respond. In such cases, it is a good idea to pick a webcam that has different mounting options instead of a single one.

What are the benefits of using an external webcam?

You might think that the camera on your computer is all you need. Most cameras are high quality enough to capture video of you and your friends. However, using an external webcam can offer some distinct benefits in a variety of situations.

Streaming

If you're a YouTuber or live streamer, an external webcam might be the perfect addition to your setup. In addition to streaming with more clarity than what many laptops can offer, the camera features higher frame rates and better low-light performance than any built-in cam on a laptop ever would be capable of achieving.

Video Chat

The camera on your computer might not have enough quality to view video chat between two different screens. If you're hosting a webcam-based live stream, you should definitely consider using an external webcam so that viewers can see the person they're talking to much more clearly.

Portrait Mode

External webcams are capable of taking portrait mode photos that look nothing like those taken from the front of your laptop. With portrait mode, you can take photos of yourself and your friends with less distortion than what most laptops can produce in this style.

Face Tracking

If you're using an external webcam to conduct video chat, face-tracking can help your conversation partner better identify the people they're talking with.

Professional use

Some professionals require a more professional camera setup on their computers, and in this case an external webcam is the best option. This is because an external webcam has additional functionality built into it such as lighting, zoom features, and even sound stabilization. Some professional video setups have multiple cameras for a full 360 degree view of your surroundings or a specific area that might need more focus than a traditional laptop camera could offer.

Gaming

Recently, external webcams have added extra features that make them useful for gamers. With an external webcam, you can record your games in high quality or even stream them live as they're happening.

How to Get the Most Out of Your New Webcam

So you've set up your webcam, what do you do now? Here are some ideas of what you can record with the new toy in front of your face. Just remember that if you want to make others happy with your resulting video, especially if they are far away, the webcam's microphone will be your biggest limitation. A cheaper solution is to purchase a microphone (preferably boom) that can plug into your computer or camcorder; check out the cheap microphones available online for easy access.

1. Make Videos of Yourself

If you're the only person that will be appearing onscreen, this is an easy one. Just remember to talk directly into the microphone and not off to the side of it, facing away. It may help to place your webcam so it's directed towards or near where you computer screen appears to be -- this gives your viewers at home a better idea of what you are up to.

2. Make Videos with Friends

The same rules apply for recording video chat sessions as they do for single-person recordings: point the camera right at whoever is speaking most frequently -- if there are two speakers alternating, face them both equally; if there's just one speaker, look straight into their eyes (the lens). The good news about video chats with friends (or even strangers) is that you can include yourself in the video chat. Just turn on your webcam and set your computer to either A) switch between your webcam and built-in camera, or B) use both at the same time. Be sure to keep an eye on bandwidth: video chats with many people mean more data in and out than single person talks, so if things start heating up try closing unneeded applications for a smoother experience.

3. Make Videos of Yourself and Your Group

Just like when there were only two participants, point the microphone towards whoever is speaking most frequently during group recordings -- this may mean arranging yourselves in a pyramid shape so whoever's talking faces forwards. If there are three or more of you, make sure everyone turns their webcam on and set your computer to use both the built-in camera/webcam and an external one (if you have one). Ideally the arrangement of cameras would be in a semicircle with the group members sitting or standing in order around it, so that when you are all talking, each person has at least one camera pointed directly at them. If there is more than one ring of cameras arranged around the group, make sure they face outwards so no matter where someone is standing, there will always be a camera pointing right at them.

4. Make Videos of Your Pets & Other Animals

Chances are what's going on outside your window is funnier than anything you could hope to come up with yourself -- the trick is to get your camera there. Often, you can simply put your webcam in the window and press record; for more control try setting it up on a tripod or book so that it captures just what you're looking for. If possible, use the zoom function of the camera without moving it too much -- this will prevent any shakiness that's caused by movement while recording.

5. Make Videos at Home

We live in an increasingly digital world where people are sharing their lives online before they even do them in real life (IRL). This means you've probably already filmed parts of your home life without even realizing it! For example, if you have recorded yourself playing an instrument or singing, rather than let those videos rot away on your hard drive, post them on YouTube or social media sites like Facebook. Another idea is to film yourself doing regular household tasks (working out in your living room, cooking an easy meal) so you always have a go-to video if someone asks you to describe how you exercise/start the day/etc.

6. Make Videos of Your Travels

Whether it's through family & friends' videos uploaded online, photos posted on Flickr, or clips emailed around by tourists themselves -- chances are you've already seen some footage from offbeat locations that has inspired wanderlust in all who view them. So why not become the filmmaker? Pack up your camcorder and head to wherever speaks to you most -- just be sure it isn't somewhere you'll get arrested for filming! Once you're settled in your destination, start collecting footage from all of the most interesting parts of your trip: upload that footage to YouTube, Flickr, or video sharing sites and then link back to that footage from your blog. You can also create a new photo album on Facebook containing only the best shots from your travels -- just remember to add a few sentences describing what's going on in each shot so viewers know where it was taken, when, and why (if there's any story involved). Or take inspiration from Ira Glass

7. Make Videos at Your Job

If what you do every day is fascinating enough to sustain an entire TV show (or TED Talk ), maybe it would make sense to film yourself at work and upload that footage for the world to see. If you're doing something truly unique, chances are no one has ever filmed it before -- so with a little searching around on YouTube, Flickr, etc., you should be able to find your niche. Once you've set up your camera equipment (or even just your smartphone), remember to keep the focus on what's important/newsworthy rather than boring co-workers milling about behind you, interfering with what's worth filming.

8. Make Videos of Other People

As far as video is concerned, 90% of life is showing up (thank you, Woody Allen ). Whenever there's something important or interesting happening in front of you, make sure at least someone has their phone out and recording. This could be a friend proposing to their significant other, an inspiring speech from a prominent politician being cut short by a bomb threat, or even just the mundane chatter of people in line at an art museum waiting for a new exhibit to open. The more often you're filming in front of you, the more interesting footage there will be to rewatch when something amazing or ridiculous happens that you didn't capture on camera.

9. Make Videos of Yourself

You may have already taken some photos/videos with your smartphone -- but what about using your webcam? In fact, any digital camera (including most smartphones) can double as a webcam when plugged into your computer with the proper cords/software. So if you don't already have a webcam, check your camera's user manual to find out how to turn it into one. And if you do already have a webcam, there are plenty of uses for it: check yourself out in the mirror every morning so you always know what to wear, use your webcam as security when you're not home (i.e., ask unexpected guests to explain their reasons for stopping by while you watch from a distance), film yourself every day to track your progress over time if you're working toward a big goal, and finally keep a video diary of all the weird/funny/crazy stuff that happens in your life.

10. Make Videos About Your Life

Even if you don't have a webcam, smartphone, or any type of camera at all -- you can still release your inner filmmaker. Whenever something cool/funny/meaningful happens in your life, just get out your voice recorder and mold the perfect story around it. You could even send this raw footage to a friend's house (so they can record their own version), then upload the two recordings together to create one epic film that tells two perspectives on the same event. And if you're not interested in making films about your own life, why not make documentaries about other people? Your mom is always complaining that no one ever asks her about how she met dad or what it was like growing up in 1979 -- so give her the opportunity to tell her own story and upload the finished product to YouTube.

11. Make Videos of Your Dreams

You can learn a lot about yourself by recording your own dreams and looking for patterns over time. But even if you're not interested in analyzing your unconscious mind, it's still fascinating to watch silent films of people acting out their nighttime adventures while they sleep (or so I've heard). So whether you do it with a smartphone camera or simply get creative with drawing/painting tools, make sure you upload all those crazy dreams ASAP before you forget them!

12. Make Videos When You Travel

If there's any chance that what you're seeing is unique -- make sure at least one person has the foresight to record it on film. And when in doubt, a selfie will do. Just because there's a 300-year old painting behind you doesn't mean you can't post an artsy pic of yourself to Instagram -- after all, the true artist is always the one who creates something beautiful from their own perspective.

13. Make Videos That Bring You Joy

Creativity is your superpower. Well, maybe not exactly your superpower... but it certainly can be if you practice enough! And since we never know when we'll need our creative powers for good (or evil), make sure you're keeping them in top form through whatever means possible: creating photos/videos that make other people smile, writing down thoughts and life advice for future generations to discover, or just taking random pictures of clouds as they pass overhead.

14. Make a Video About Your Pet

If your pet is so cute that you can't resist taking tons of pictures, why not go the extra mile and make a video about them? You could interview them directly (if they can talk or type), offer play-by-play commentary of their most recent stunt, or just tell stories from the past to give viewers a complete portrait of your furry/scaly friends.

15. Make Videos for Your Future Self

If you're not exactly sure what you want to be when you grow up, that's ok -- no one else does either! So instead of wasting energy trying to figure out the perfect trade or career, make some short films for your future self instead. Just record any advice or stories that you'd like to leave behind for the next generation of yous -- whether it's about fashion, love, life hacks, etc...

Is 720p webcam good enough?

Traditional video chats are all the craze these days, with apps like FaceTime and Skype giving you the opportunity to see a loved one while chatting. But not everyone wants to shell out money for equipment that can make both parties happy.

This is where 720p webcams come in. They are the perfect alternative to expensive hardware that is only used to see someone and talk to them. 720p webcams allow you to video chat with nice quality without spending a lot of money. You can use them on just about any device, and they provide the same great image quality that is displayed in HD videos.

Some people are worried about 720p webcams because they have heard of HD before, and think that 720p (which is the next level down from HD) is not going to be clear enough for them to see. This will never be the case, as long as you find a webcam that has good reviews (or if you are willing to purchase one and return it if you don't like it). Many people think that they need an expensive camera in order to get a good picture on their computer. The truth is that what Webcam Reviews states, a 720p webcam won't be any different from an HD camera in terms of clarity. The only difference is that HD cameras have a higher resolution. 720p cameras are still going to be high quality and perfect for what you need them for.

If you are wondering about the price, 720p webcams are not very expensive at all. In fact, a lot of them are very cheap, and they still provide the same great image quality as an HD camera. So no matter what your budget is, you will definitely find a webcam within it that will be excellent for you. Before purchasing a 720p webcam, it is recommended that you read reviews about it first so that way you know if this is really the right product for you or not.

FAQs About Under-$50 Webcams

1. How Much Should I Spend On A Webcam?

Webcam prices differ from one to another. Typically, cheaper webcams come with fewer features and lower video quality compared to their expensive counterparts.

However, webcams at a moderate price range fall in between low-end and high-end models and are perfect for both home and professional purposes. So, when you are buying a webcam, make sure to buy a good one within your budget.

2. What Is A Good Budget Webcam?

The Gesma Webcam With Microphoneis one of the most affordable options you can find. Not only does it fit your budget, but also it offers the features you need for flawless video streaming.

3. Is It Worth Buying An External Webcam?

Yes, it is. External webcams give you much flexibility and better video resolution compared to your laptop's built-in webcam. These webcams have more space for lenses, which means they use bigger lenses for more clarity. Other than that, the presence of a microphone in some models makes video-conferencing a breeze.

Buy now at Walmart, Etsy, eBay (subject to availability)

AutoFocus Full HD Webcam 1080P with Privacy Shutter - Pro Web Camera with Dual Digital - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

PC 1080P Webcam with Mic. USB Camera for Video Calling & Recording Video - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Webcam with Microphone, Wansview Autofocus HD 1080P USB PC Web Camera with Privacy Cover - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

NexiGo N60 1080P Web Camera, HD Webcam with Microphone, Software Control & Privacy Cover, - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920, Widescreen Video Calling and Recording, 1080p Camera, - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Microsoft LifeCam Cinema Webcam for Business - Black with built-in noise cancelling - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Logitech C615 HD Webcam - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

1. Gesma Webcam With Microphone - Best Budget Webcam For Streaming - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

2. NexiGo HD Webcam With Microphone & Privacy Cover - Best PC Webcams Under 50$ - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

3. Logitech C270 Webcam - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

4. ToLuLu USB Webcam With Microphone - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

5. Anvask Webcam With Microphone - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

6. NexiGo N60 USB Computer Camera - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

7. EMeet C960 Web Camera - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

8. Corlitec 1080P Webcam with Microphone - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

9. CASECUBE FHD Webcam with Microphone and Ring Light - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Gesma Webcam With Microphone - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Conclusion for $50 or Less Webcam Buyers

Having a good webcam is a necessity, especially if you are taking online classes or attending virtual meetings. Even if you intend to capture videos and post them on social media, people would be more interested in viewing the content than they would if it were of low-resolution.

Since finding the right webcam requires some research, we have done that for you! Our list of best webcams under $50 contains those webcams that are bound to give you the quality you deserve.

If you have already picked one from the list, you've found a great alternative to your laptop's webcam!

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