1080p webcams: Smarten up your video calls with these external cameras

If you’re still using your built-in laptop webcam for video calls and business meetings, then it’s time to take the next step up. Remote collaboration isn’t going anywhere, and while built-in webcams are fine for the occasional catch-up, switching to a dedicated camera brings with it a number of major benefits.

Firstly, the angle. If you’re using your laptop at a desk or table, then the webcam’s angle is going to be less than flattering - and that goes double for laptops like certain Dell or Huawei models where the lens is fitted at the bottom of the screen. Using a dedicated webcam allows you to experiment with the framing of your video calls, ensuring you look your best for important meetings.

It’s also important to be heard clearly, and most standalone webcams include built-in microphones which may offer better quality than those of your laptop. Some even come with automatic noise reduction to filter out background disturbances.

Finally - and arguably most importantly - the actual quality of your video. Using a 1080p webcam means you’ll be filming in higher definition, with better performance in low light conditions, and usually with more accurate colour reproduction. This will ensure that you look as professional as possible, with no unpleasant graininess.

We’ve rounded up some of the most popular options for 1080p webcams across a range of budgets, and put them through their paces to help you decide which is the best option for sprucing up your home videoconferencing setup.