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To use a phone as a second camera in Streamlabs Desktop, add a Collab Cam source, create its invite link, open that link on the phone, allow camera access, and then show and position the feed in your scene. The phone needs a camera, internet access, and a browser; the audience may not hear its audio automatically, so check the mix before going live.
Set up Collab Cam in Streamlabs Desktop
- Check your main setup. Open Streamlabs Desktop, connect the account or platform you plan to stream to, and confirm your primary camera and microphone work.
- Add the source. In the Sources panel, select the plus button and add Collab Cam. Select or open the source, then start Collab Cam to create an invite link. Streamlabs’ desktop guide documents this source-and-link workflow.
- Open the invite on the second device. Send or open the link on the spare phone or tablet. On an iPhone or iPad, Streamlabs’ tutorial directs you to open the link in a browser and choose the camera to share. Streamlabs says the device needs a camera, an internet connection, and a browser; a special camera app is not required.
- Allow access and check the feed. Approve the browser’s camera permission when prompted. Look at the returned image in Streamlabs Desktop and select Show on Stream when it is ready for the scene.
- Frame the shot. Resize and position the source in your scene. A second angle can show a work surface, instrument, cooking area, keyboard, or controller without replacing the main camera.
Check audio before the audience hears it
Do not assume that audio from the phone will reach viewers just because you can hear the guest or feed in the host setup. Streamlabs’ desktop guide notes that the host may hear a guest while the audience cannot, and suggests adding an extra microphone source when needed. It does not give one universal routing fix, so make a short private recording or another safe pre-live check and listen to the result before broadcasting.
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Keep the invite link private
Treat the invite as access to the collaboration session and share it only with the intended, trusted participant. If it may have leaked, use Generate a new link; Streamlabs says this invalidates the previous link. Avoid sharing your screen while setting up Collab Cam during an active stream, since the invite and setup controls may be visible.
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Desktop and Mobile use different workflows
| Host workflow | How the camera is added | How the other device joins |
|---|---|---|
| Streamlabs Desktop | Add Collab Cam from the Sources panel, then show and arrange the source in the scene. | Open the generated link in a browser and select a camera. |
| Streamlabs Mobile | Add a camera or guest as a scene layer, then adjust its size and position. | Copy or generate the guest invite link from that layer’s settings. |
These are distinct host-side workflows; Streamlabs’ Mobile guide describes the layer-based approach. Labels can change as the apps are updated, so if a control is not where expected, check the current in-app help.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Crisp HD 720p/30 fps video calls with diagonal 55° field of view and auto light correction. Compatible with popular platforms including Skype and Zoom.
- The built-in noise-reducing mic makes sure your voice comes across clearly up to 1.5 meters away, even if you’re in busy surroundings.
- C270’s RightLight 2 feature adjusts to lighting conditions, producing brighter, contrasted images to help you look good in all your conference calls.
- The adjustable universal clip lets you attach the camera securely to your screen or laptop, or fold the clip and set the webcam on a shelf. You’re always ready for your next video call.
What to know about guest limits
Streamlabs’ Collab Cam product page describes one free guest and says Streamlabs Ultra supports up to 11 additional guests or camera angles. However, the Desktop support guide, last updated June 12, 2026, describes up to four guests with Ultra. Those official figures conflict. For a single second-camera setup, the basic use case is described as free; verify the current limit in the app or on the live plan page before relying on a particular Ultra capacity.
Physical setup: useful, but optional
A phone tripod mount can help keep an overhead or side angle fixed, but it is not a Collab Cam requirement. Streamlabs’ stated device requirements are a camera, internet access, and a browser. For a long session, a charging cable or power bank and adequate lighting may be sensible production choices, but they are not prerequisites established for the feature.
Rank #2
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Auto-Light Balance: RightLight boosts brightness by up to 50%, reducing shadows so you look your best—compared to previous-generation Logitech webcams (1)
- Privacy with a Slide: The integrated webcam cover makes it easy to get total, reliable privacy when you're not on a video call
- Built-In Mic: The built-in microphone lets others hear you clearly during video calls
- Easy Plug-And-Play: The Brio 101 works with most video calling platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet—no hassle; it just works
Troubleshoot the second-camera feed
- The phone does not join: Confirm the invite link is current, open it in a browser, and allow camera access. If the link may have been exposed, create a new one and use that instead.
- The feed appears on the host but not in the broadcast: Select Show on Stream and confirm the Collab Cam source is visible in the intended scene.
- The host hears audio but viewers do not: Check the output with a private recording or safe pre-live test; add an extra microphone source if needed. The correct routing depends on the setup.
- The camera view is poorly framed: Reposition or resize the source in the scene and adjust the phone angle so it shows the intended subject.
- The invite may have gone to the wrong person: Generate a replacement link, which invalidates the prior link according to Streamlabs’ guide.
Or let it run in the cloud
Collab Cam is for adding another camera feed to a Streamlabs production. If your goal instead is to keep an uploaded video playing as a 24/7 YouTube live stream, StreamNeo is a different option: upload the video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It runs from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home; uploaded quality streams as made up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or start the free day.
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Best Value
Rank #4
- 1080P Webcam with Cover for Video Calls - EMEET computer webcam provides design and Optimization for professional video streaming. Realistic 1920 x 1080p video, 5-layer anti-glare lens, providing smooth video. C960 computer camera delivers 1920x1080 video with fixed focus (11.8–118.1 inches), so as to provide a clearer image. C960 USB webcam has a cover and can be removed automatically to meet your needs for privacy. For optimal image performance, use the webcam in a well-lit environment.
- Built-in 2 Omnidirectional Mics - EMEET webcam with microphone for desktop features 2 built-in omnidirectional microphones, picking up your voice to create clear audio for communication. When installing the webcam, select EMEET C960 as the default microphone input device in your computer and video applications and select C960 as the default device in Zoom/Teams and ensure microphone permissions are enabled for proper use. Please note that C960 does not include built-in speakers.
- Automatic Light Adjustment - Automatic exposure adjustment is applied in EMEET HD webcam 1080p so that the streaming webcam can deliver stable image performance. EMEET C960 camera for computer also features color adjustment and exposure optimization to help you look your best. For optimal video quality, it is recommended to use the webcam in normal or well-lit environments and select suitable video settings in your application. Proper lighting helps achieve a clearer and more balanced image.
- Plug-and-Play & Upgraded USB Connectivity - New C960 webcam features both USB Type-A & A-to-C adapter connections for wider compatibility. For stable performance, connect the webcam directly to the computer's main USB port and ensure the device is recognized correctly. If a hub or docking station is used, please ensure it provides sufficient power and stable data transmission, as limited ports may affect performance. 90° wide-angle lens captures more participants without frequent adjustments.
- High Compatibility & Multi Application - C960 webcam for laptop is compatible with Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, and Android TV 7.0+. Not supported: Windows Hello, TVs, tablets, or game consoles. It works with Zoom, Teams, Facetime, Google Meet, YouTube and more. Please select C960 webcam as the default camera and microphone device in your application and ensure camera/microphone permissions are enabled, especially on macOS. (Tips: Incompatible with Windows Hello)
Rank #3
- 1080P HD Webcam: This HD webcam delivers crisp 1080p video quality, ideal for PCs, desktops, and laptops. Perfect for video calls, online classes, meetings, live streaming, gaming, and everyday recording. It provides clear, sharp images and smooth video at up to 30 frames per second. This live streaming webcam works with platforms such as Zoom, Teams, FaceTime, Google Meet, and YouTube.
- USB Plug and Play Webcam: Designed for PCs, this webcam is easy to use. No drivers or software are required; simply connect the webcam to your computer and start using it immediately. Operation is smooth and convenient. XWEIRYN webcams are compatible with multiple operating systems, including Mac/Windows XP/7/8/10/11/PC/Laptops.
- Widely Compatible Webcam: This versatile webcam is compatible with most operating systems and major video platforms. As a reliable computer webcam, it supports video conferencing, remote learning, live streaming, and gaming, meeting your various needs for daily work and entertainment.
- Smooth and Stable Performance: This webcam uses a stable transmission chip to ensure smooth, lag-free video streaming, synchronized audio and video, and no dropped frames. Even after prolonged use, this durable webcam maintains stable performance. It performs excellently even in low-light environments. It automatically adjusts to adapt to low-light conditions, reducing noise and restoring vibrant colors, ensuring clear and sharp images even without additional studio lighting.
- Compact and Adjustable Design: This lightweight and portable webcam saves space and comes with an adjustable clip. Our USB webcam uses a reliable USB 2.0/3.0 connection and comes with an upgraded 1.5-meter (5-foot) braided cable. It is compatible with Desktop most monitors and Laptop. Its portable design makes it easy to place and carry, ideal for home, office, or travel use.
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