Today everything runs on communication – more than ever. We have this immense need to communicate all the time and the internet has certainly made this all the more possible. We’re not satisfied any more with telephonic conversations; we rather want to see the person we are communicating with! This is where a webcam becomes a highly useful gadget. With your webcam you can chat with someone on the other side of the planet and yet feel as if the two of you are right in front of each other. Go through this webcams buying guide and you will know which webcam you need.

Choosing your Webcam

Resolution makes all the difference

What you really need to first check in a webcam is the resolution. There are webcams with standard definition resolution – 640x480 pixels and there are webcams with high definition resolution – 720p and 1080p. There is no need to tell you that high definition resolution is way better than standard definition resolution and as a result, the cost of a high definition resolution webcam is more than a standard definition resolution webcam. But yes, if you want those real life, sharp videos, nothing but a high definition resolution webcam will do for you.

Higher frame rate for smoother videos

Next is the frame rate. Your webcam continues to capture still images of you in frames and then broadcasts the frames in rapid succession to make the other person feel as if they are watching your video. The higher the frame rate of webcams, faster is the broadcast and this means smoother videos. When you compare two webcams with different frame rates, you will be able to see the difference in the better one. This is because of the higher frame rate of that webcam.

Webcams with better lens and auto focus

Continuing with the image elements, there are two more points for you to focus on – lens quality and auto focus. There are webcams with higher quality lens and these webcams are able to produce better moving images. The price difference would be there, but again, if quality is what you are expecting, then you are better off spending a bit more on a webcam with better lens. Webcams with auto focus ensure that the subjects are never out of focus. If you are in the habit of walking around when talking on your webcam, you are better off with one of those webcams with auto focus.

Opt for a webcam with a better microphone

Now for the sound element and here also, there is one point for you to consider. The point is about the microphone and the quality of the microphone. If you want to use a separate speaking device when chatting online, you don’t need a webcam with a microphone. But webcams with microphones are quite convenient because you can normally speak without having to use a separate speaking headphone. Some of the modern webcams have excellent microphones that can catch the faintest of sounds. If you go for the higher ranges, you may even opt for webcams with noise cancelling microphones.

Recording facility

Some webcams also have recording facility and can capture high definition pictures and videos. This feature is solely dependent on your preference and you may or may not opt for it.

Great looking designs

Some of the other elements to consider in your webcam include design and compatibility. There are some really attractive looking webcams available for purchase online and you are sure going to get one that you just fall for. As far as compatibility is concerned, you don’t really need to worry because most of the webcams are compatible with most of the desktops and laptops. But this is one point you may just want to keep in mind.

Make sure you compare the prices

And lastly, the prices of webcams can vary widely. It is best to browse through the online catalog and find out which of the models are within your budget. Along with the price comparison, you should also compare the features so that you don’t lose out because of the price element.

Which webcams for which use?

720p is an excellent resolution for webcams. With a 720p webcam you can see clear images and videos. Many of the top webcam models come with 720p resolution and if you want to buy from the best, consider the models Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920, Microsoft Lifecam HD-3000, Logitech Webcam C930e, Logitech HD Webcam C615 and Logitech CC3000e ConferenceCam.

If you spend a bit more money, you could also opt for a 1080p webcam. The images and videos on these webcams are even better. For the top models in 1080p webcam, consider between Logitech BCC950 ConferenceCam, Logitech C920 Carl Zeiss Full HD 1080p Webcam Fluid Crystal Technology Autofocus Mic USB3.0/2.0, HuddleCamHD 12X Optical Zoom and Azend Group Corp PK-910H Webcam - 2 Megapixel.

As far as the bestselling webcam models in Canada are concerned, you may want to consider the models Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920, Logitech Webcam C930e, Logitech HD Webcam C615, Logitech CC3000e ConferenceCam and Microsoft Lifecam HD-3000.