Wide Angle Vs. Normal Webcam | What's The Difference?

Table of Contents_

Differences Between Normal Webcams and Wide-Angle Cameras
Field of View
Mounting and Setup
Cost

If you are new to the universe of digital video, you may look to compare wide-angle vs normal webcams. Many of the best webcams, after all, ship in one of these two variants. So what are the differences between these two types, and which is best for you? Keep reading to find out.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The primary difference between wide-angle cameras and standard cameras is the field of view (FOV.)
A regular decent webcam boasts a FOV of 60 degrees, which is perfect for filming a single person as they sit in front of a computer.
The increased 78-degree wide field of view available with wide-angle lenses allows for more populated videos when using a streaming webcam.

Differences Between Normal Webcams and Wide-Angle Cameras

The primary contrast here is regarding the field of view, which is not the case when comparing auto-focus vs manual focus webcams. As the name suggests, wide-angle cameras offer a wider field of view than traditional webcams, which is something to consider when looking for the best webcams for conference rooms. This difference comes into play even when comparing a standard webcam vs a DSLR camera.

Insider Tip

Whichever you choose, make sure to engage privacy settings to dissuade hackers.

Here are some other contrasting items between these two types so you can move on to conducting a Logitech Streamcam review.

Field of View

This is not simply a case of wide-angle cameras being better just because they offer an increased field of view, as it largely depends on personal preference. As a matter of fact, the standard 60-degree FOV available with standard webcams is perfect for one person sitting in front of a computer, making this the ideal choice for Zoom meetings, video chatting, and more. However, the 78-degree FOV available with wide-angle cameras is better for group meetings, such as those conducted in conference rooms and any scenario where more than one person is in the frame.

Mounting and Setup

The vast majority of built-in webcams for both camera-equipped monitors and laptops are standard-issue. This means that they offer a traditional field of view with no option for wide-angle shooting. In other words, you’ll have to purchase and install a third-party camera to engage in that 78-degree FOV. Experiences vary, but setting up a third-party camera can be frustrating in certain scenarios. Additionally, these cameras will have to be mounted to your laptop rim or monitor edge.

Cost

Wide-angle lenses are considered a premium feature, so wide-angle webcams tend to cost a bit more than standard-issue cameras. If you are on a strict budget, consider going with a cheaper camera with a regular lens or rely on the integrated camera inside your current computer. They do mighty fine in a pinch.

STAT: An external USB webcam offers more flexibility along with other improvements will that help you look and sound your best on screen. (source)

Normal vs Wide Webcam FAQs

How to choose a webcam?

The best way is to shop via your personal preference. Go for an expensive webcam with high-tech video compression and a built-in microphone if you need these features, but otherwise, go with a lower-priced model like the Logitech BRIO.

But why does my phone camera look so good?

Smartphones are known for excellent image quality and fantastic digital zoom, as cameras are one of the main reasons people spend money on high-tech phones.

Does a high resolution guarantee good image quality?

High resolution, such as the type available with the Logitech BRIO, is definitely more important than, say, the built-in microphone but does not always guarantee fantastic image quality. Other factors included light sources, background noise, and more.