I don’t particularly love video conference calls (does anyone?). When I see myself, I just notice how much weight I seem to have gained compared to seeing myself in the mirror – and where did those wrinkles come from? I normally use my laptop webcam, but now that I’m working from home, I prefer to leave my laptop docked and reference dual monitors.
For video calls, I was sick of putting my laptop up to get on camera. I had to constantly adjust it to get my face to show up on the screen and not just show the back of my monitors (although I think it’s a better view). I decided to try the Logitech Brio 4k Webcam and placed it on the top of my monitors. It is a significant upgrade, but it isn’t flawless.
The camera itself feels solidly built. I enjoy the flexibility that the longer cord gives me to maneuver it as needed. The stand doesn’t feel quite as sturdy as perhaps it should, but it isn’t going to break unless you drop it from a considerable height. It also comes with a privacy screen that I had to manually attach. I’m sure Logitech had great intentions by providing this screen, but it consistently pops off of the camera while adjusting it. I would like to see something more user-friendly on future iterations.
During conference calls, my camera simply looks better than everyone else’s. While I would love to pretend this is due to my dashing good looks, the reality is this camera creates optimal imagery despite how light or dark it is in the room. Logitech boasts that this is due to a technology they call Rightlight 3. I didn’t truly believe the Brio’s capability until I saw it first hand. The image quality is superb – vastly superior to any laptop webcam.
The Brio’s 4k captures video at 30 fps (frames per second) and images pop – I can see slightly more detail and patterns in faces and clothing. The problem with 4k is that it still isn’t supported by many platforms. Video conferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Skype still do not support 4k live conferences.
It is important to note, the webcam does support 1080p (full HD) at 60 fps. I see a crisp image even when there is significant movement on the camera. In other words, there is less video stuttering when compared to 30 fps. HDR (High Dynamic Range) is included with the camera and contributes to the image contrast and brightness. I can also adjust the brightness settings in the optional software to get a better picture in a pitch-black room. The autofocus occasionally has trouble finding the right object. If I move toward the camera, it does find me and adjusts quickly, but considering the price, it feels like this shouldn’t happen as often as it does.
I use (and love) the Logitech Zone Wired headset for my calls, but the webcam features a great microphone. I find that webcam microphones are designed to pick up a variety of sounds in a room. This ensures that everyone in a group conference call can be heard. I personally still prefer to use a headset for my sound during personal conference calls. Working from home while my kids are homeschooling just doesn’t allow me to use the webcam mic due to the potential background noise it can pick up. I will use it if no other option is available, but I’m guessing it works best when there are minimal distractions (like a conference room in an office).
If you are looking for a versatile webcam with an incredible image regardless of lighting conditions, this webcam may be right up your alley. The camera captures exceptional quality which is something most consumers have come to expect from Logitech. Despite some minor focus issues, this webcam is the best I have tried. Unfortunately, its true potential is hindered by a lack of support on many platforms. As we continue our launch into 4k, the Logitech Brio may still be ahead of its time.
