Cameras and Microphones
- Marc Miller
Contents
Purpose
While many laptops and some desktops come with integrated webcams and microphones that meet or exceed the needs of most users, what about the ones that do not? That is where this recommendation list comes in. Due to the fluid nature of technology, what is recommended one year might be a bad choice the next. Technology marches on.
Everything on this pages has been purchased at least once by a CoE supported department with the users generally liking said purchase.
Everything on this page is also available for purchase through the UCSB Procurement system at the time of writing, and thus is subject to academic discounts.
Please be aware that due to the high demand for remote work accessories, shortages may occur.
Please also be aware that not all computers have all ports. This article assumes you have at least one USB port as that is the most common port across all brands. However, most common is not the same as every computer. If you have a Mac laptop that only has USB-C ports, you will need an adapter. If you have a Chromebook or tablet that has no ports at all, you need something that is bluetooth capable.
Camera/Microphone Combos
Logitech C930 Camera and Microphone combo (PC/Mac Compatible)
search "Logitech HD Webcam C" or "Logitech pro stream webcam" to find the entire series (Logitech HD Webcam C930e is pictured)
Logitech’s business grade C930e is an affordable add-on that should fit what most of us need from a USB Webcam. HD 1080p video at 30 frames per second will be more than enough quality for your calls, and pan, tilt, 4x digital zoom, auto focus and auto light correction controls make the C930e an all-around capable little camera. Although, the real kicker is the C930e’s 90 degrees field of view to capture more than just one person.
Most of the HD C series have similar built in microphones. Price ranges from $65 to $165 depending on quality of picture, connector cables, and number of microphones.
Note that this is a series of multiple cameras, what model that may be in stock each week may vary.
If you need a USB-C instead of USB connection, adapter cables are sold as part of a kit, however the kit is twice as expensive as a stand alone camera. https://www.cdwg.com/product/logitech-zone-wired-uc-and-c925e-wired-personal-video-collaboration-uc-kit/6345348?pfm=srh
Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000
search "Microsoft LifeCam" to find the entire series
Cheaper version of the above. decent picture and sound. Price is under $80 for the entire series and all are skype certified.
USB-C Cameras
A lot of cheaper USB to USB-C adapters have issues with complicated stuff like webcams so if you do not have any regular USB ports on your computer and are not using a dock with port replication technology, its often better to have a direct USB-C connection if possible.
The following are cameras that have camera, microphone, and have dual Mac and PC compatibility. However since they use a newer technology, USB-C, they tend to be new models without all of the bugs worked out and tend to be less reliable than the above cameras. Despite what they say on the box, these newer cameras tend not to be "plug and play" often requiring drivers, firmware updates or other software to be installed for them to work. All links listed below were available in stock as of January 2022
https://www.cdwg.com/product/cisco-webex-desk-camera-webcam/6418115?pfm=srh
https://www.cdwg.com/product/tripp-lite-usb-webcam-w-microphone-privacy-cover-for-laptops-desktop-pcs/6692253?pfm=srh
Conference Room Solutions
HuddleCamHD-3X G2
This motorized camera is a bit overkill for single users, but with 3x zoom and cinema quality picture, you will definitely look your best. Costs ~$500 after tax
Meeting OWL 3
This camera needs a laptop connected to it to work and a stable wired internet connection, but is both zoom and skype compatible as soon as the camera is registered. Multiple independent cameras and mics automatically track who is talking and there is a fishbowl camera that constantly records the entire room. It has proven itself very popular with multiple departments in the College of Engineering. Conference packages start at $1049 before tax https://owllabs.com/products/meeting-owl-3
Polycom Trio and Poly SoundStation
While technically a conference phone, Polycoms have lots of features and accessories. Featuring Attachable microphones and cameras its more a family of solutions than a single purchase. Cost can vary considerably with model and features. Pure phones range around $500 while a full conference package with adjustable cameras and multiple secondary microphones can easily be over two thousand.
Pure Microphone and Speakers
Jabra Speak Series
This speakerphone represents a simple plug-and-play solution for teams that need an add-on to complement their high end conference camera. The loud speaker allows everyone in the room to hear the other end of the conversation, or users can plug in their headsets for more privacy.
The built-in omni-directional microphone should supply a similar experience as any of the standalone microphones, although at maybe slightly reduced audio quality. The Jabra also comes with an included travel case to take advantage of the compact, all-in-one speaker and microphone design for a mobile solution. Upgrading to the 510 from the 410 raises the price a bit, but also gains Bluetooth connectivity.
The Jabra Speak 410 OC ranges from $60 to $100, while the 500 series starts out at $100 to $200
Headsets
HyperX Cloud Revolver (pc/mac compatible)
While technically a gaming headset, it has one large advantage over most business grade headsets, it is overly padded. Speaking from experience, I can wear this over my glasses for hours and not get headaches. At ~$150-180 depending on exact model, its cheaper than most gaming headsets, while not being completely out of budget for a business solution.
Jabra Biz 2400 II
High quality, noise cancelling microphone, USB connection, and intuitive call controls located directly on the headset. Most headsets include an in-line mute button, but the Biz 2400 II adds volume, an answer and stop call button and even two more programmable soft buttons right on the headset. Only downside is the $199 cost
Jabra TALK 25 - headset (pc/mac compatible)
In ear and connectible via bluetooth, wireless, or usb cable this headset has the advantage of being small, lightweight, and cross platform compatible. At less than $40 this is well in the range for bulk purchases. While its in ear design is off putting to some people, for individuals who want something small and possible to fit under a hat, this works.