Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Open Start, search for Camera, and select the Camera app. Choose Photo to take a picture or Video to record a clip. Your captures appear as thumbnails in the app’s Camera roll, where you can review them and open the saved folder or Photos. The app works with a built-in camera or a connected webcam; you do not need a separate webcam if your PC already has a usable camera. Microsoft’s Camera app guide covers these steps.
Open the Camera app and choose a camera
- Open Start, type Camera, then select the Camera app from the search results.
- If your device has more than one camera, select the Change camera icon at the top right to switch inputs.
You can use the camera built into a laptop, tablet, or monitor, or connect a compatible external camera or webcam. An external webcam is optional when your device already has a suitable camera.
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Take a photo
- Select Photo mode.
- Frame the subject, then select the capture button to take the picture.
- Select the new thumbnail in the Camera roll at the bottom right to view the photo larger.
In the photo viewer, you can zoom, rotate, delete, copy, open the saved folder, or open the image in Photos. Microsoft’s documented viewer does not offer a crop option.
Record and review a video
- Select Video mode.
- Select the capture control to start recording. It changes to a red Stop control.
- Select Stop when you want to end the recording.
- Select the video thumbnail in the Camera roll to play it.
The video viewer also offers options to delete the clip, open its folder, or open it in Photos.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- HD lighting adjustment and autofocus: The Logitech webcam automatically fine-tunes the lighting, producing bright, razor-sharp images even in low-light settings. This makes it a great webcam for streaming and an ideal web camera for laptop use
- Advanced capture software: Easily create and share video content with this Logitech camera that is suitable for use as a desktop computer camera or a monitor webcam
- Stereo audio with dual mics: Capture natural sound during calls and recorded videos with this 1080p webcam, great as a video conference camera or a computer webcam
- Full HD 1080p video calling and recording at 30 fps. You'll make a strong impression with this PC webcam that features crisp, clearly detailed, and vibrantly colored video
Adjust Camera app settings
Select the Camera app’s Settings icon to see the controls available for your camera. Depending on the device, settings can be grouped under camera, photo, video, and related options. Documented controls include advanced camera settings, framing grids, photo quality, time-lapse settings, video quality, and flicker reduction, along with links to camera/audio and privacy settings. The available options depend on the camera and device.
Use Windows 11 per-camera controls
For supported cameras, Windows 11 also provides controls at Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras. Depending on camera capability and Windows version, this page may offer brightness, contrast, saturation, sharpness, Windows Studio Effects, rotation, or Video HDR. Not every camera appears there, and not every app uses the Windows default camera settings. See Microsoft’s guide to camera settings in Windows 11.
Rank #2
- 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.
If the Camera app cannot access your camera
Check Windows camera permissions
- Open Settings > Privacy & security > Camera.
- Check that device-level Camera access is enabled.
- Check the permission for the app you are trying to use. For desktop programs, also check Let desktop apps access your camera.
Desktop apps use a separate permission control and may not appear individually in the app list. Microsoft explains the distinction in its guidance on managing camera permissions and camera, microphone, and privacy.
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Check the camera’s physical controls
Look for a privacy shutter, camera switch, or keyboard camera key that may be disabling the camera. If it remains unavailable, Microsoft recommends starting the automated camera troubleshooter in Get Help for Windows 11. See Microsoft’s camera troubleshooting steps.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Full HD 1080P Webcam】Powered by a 1080p FHD two-MP CMOS, the NexiGo N60 Webcam produces exceptionally sharp and clear videos at resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 with 30fps. The 3.6mm glass lens provides a crisp image at fixed distances and is optimized between 19.6 inches to 13 feet, making it ideal for almost any indoor use.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Works with USB 2.0/3.0, no additional drivers required. Ready to use in approximately one minute or less on any compatible device. Compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 and higher / Windows 7, 8, 10 & 11 / Android 4.0 or higher / Linux 2.6.24 / Chrome OS 29.0.1547 / Ubuntu Version 10.04 or above. Not compatible with XBOX/PS4/PS5.
- 【Built-in Noise-Cancelling Microphone】The built-in noise-canceling microphone reduces ambient noise to enhance the sound quality of your video. Great for Zoom / Facetime / Video Calling / OBS / Twitch / Facebook / YouTube / Conferencing / Gaming / Streaming / Recording / Online School.
- 【USB Webcam with Privacy Protection Cover】The privacy cover blocks the lens when the webcam is not in use. It's perfect to help provide security and peace of mind to anyone, from individuals to large companies. 【Note:】Please contact our support for firmware update if you have noticed any audio delays.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Works with USB 2.0/3.0, no additional drivers required. Ready to use in approximately one minute or less on any compatible device. Compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 and higher / Windows 7, 10 & 11, Pro / Android 4.0 or higher / Linux 2.6.24 / Chrome OS 29.0.1547 / Ubuntu Version 10.04 or above. Not compatible with XBOX/PS4/PS5.
Rank #4
- Tewiky's 1080p HD webcam features a wide-angle lens, delivering crisp, fluid video at 30fps. Ideal for streaming, calls, gaming, and online teaching. This HD webcam offers easy plug-and-play setup. Universally compatible with USB ports, it requires no additional drivers and includes a 5ft cable for instant use.
- The built-in noise-cancelling microphone minimizes background noise, ensuring your voice is heard with crystal-clear quality even in loud environments. Perfect for webinars, conferences, and streaming. This webcam features automatic light correction, which intelligently adjusts brightness and color to ensure you look your best in any lighting condition.
- This HD webcam offers universal compatibility with desktops, laptops, tablets, Android phones, and any UVC-enabled device. It supports major operating systems including Windows, Mac, Linux, and more for versatile use.This webcam includes a detachable tripod for flexible setup and a built-in privacy cover that protects the lens and your privacy when not in use.
- Please do not point the camera lens directly to the place with strongsunlight and light, avoid contacting with oil, steam, water vapor,and wet steam. Do not use irritant clearer or organic solvent for cleaning.Certified to UL standards, this webcam uses low-voltage USB power with stable current, eliminating risks of electric shock, fire, or overheating. It remains safe even during extended use.
- Contact us via email, chat, or hotline. Access comprehensive guides and FAQs for quick, convenient resolution of your queries. Enjoy a 12-month warranty for quality-related malfunctions, with lifelong paid technical support and repair services available thereafter.
Rank #3
- 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)
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