Megapixels
The number of megapixels in the matrix that the camera is equipped with, in other words, the native resolution of the matrix. First of all, the maximum photo size directly depends on this indicator: for example, a 1600x1200 frame requires at least 1600 * 1200 = 1,920,000 pixels ≈ 2 MP. With video, the situation is somewhat different, where the actual resolution of the matrix can be noticeably higher than required for the frame.
There is an opinion that the more megapixels, the better the image is obtained. Formally, this is not the case: the resolution of the sensor only affects the detail, and in itself numerous megapixels can even worsen the picture — especially if the matrix is small. However, in fact, high-resolution sensors are often installed in fairly advanced cameras, in which high image quality is achieved through a number of characteristics.
Ultra HD filming (4K)
The most advanced format found in today's webcams: approximately double the frame size of Full HD on each side and four times the number of pixels. The most popular
Ultra HD (4K) options for webcams are 3840x2160 and 4096x2160. Note that such models are not cheap, and the video itself puts forward rather high demands on the graphic part of the computer, not to mention the speed of communication when transferring to the Internet. Therefore, you should pay attention to this option only in cases where the maximum detail is crucial for you, and the computer and the communication channel are able to cope with it normally.
Horizontal viewing angle
The viewing angle determines, first of all, how wide the field of view of the camera is, what area of the scene being shot falls into the frame. Accordingly,
a wide viewing angle allows you to capture more space and the lower the likelihood that something of what is happening will be behind the scenes. On the other hand, it should be taken into account that a strong increase in viewing angles leads to distortions of the “picture”, especially at the edges, as well as to a decrease in the size of visible objects and a decrease in detail.
File format
File formats in which the camera can save video footage.
This parameter is for reference only: modern computers are equipped with extensive sets of codecs that allow you to play almost all common formats, and in extreme cases, the missing codec can be installed separately. TVs in this regard have more limited capabilities, however, in webcams designed for them (see "Purpose"), this moment is initially taken into account.
Remote control
The presence of
a remote control in the configuration of the camera allows you to control it from a distance. First of all, this is true in models for conferences and for TV.
PC connection
Ways to connect a webcam to a computer.
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USB-A. A camera connection option that involves transmitting video and audio via a classic full-size USB-A connector. Note that such ports may belong to different versions (2.0, 3.2 gen1, 3.2 gen2), but they are quite compatible with each other. The higher the USB version, the faster the data is transferred, which provides an excellent quality picture in high frame resolution.
–
USB type C. A noticeable advantage of USB type C over the classic USB-A connector is its double-sided design, which allows you to connect the plug to either side. In addition, this connector usually uses a USB 3.1 gen1 or 3.1 gen2 connection, thereby providing high data transfer speeds. This is important when conducting video conferences in Full HD resolutions and higher.
— USB + Mini-jack 3.5. In this option, a connection via a USB port is used to transmit the video stream from the webcam, and a 3.5 mm audio jack (a round socket with a diameter of 3.5 mm, also called Mini-jack) is used to transmit audio.
– HDMI. A universal, comprehensive interface for transmitting high-resolution video and multi-channel audio in digital format from a webcam. Data exchange is carried out over a single cable, which simplifies connecting the camera to a computer.
