“Do Chromebooks have a camera and are they good enough for video conferencing at work?”
Thanks to the ongoing pandemic, this has been a very common question. Since the majority of people are forced to work from home, it’s understandable why there is a surge of Chromebook purchases. I mean, who wouldn’t be enticed?
Recent Chromebook models have gone a lot better than their predecessors. Most Chromebooks today come with a touchscreen display, a multi-core processor, a decent amount of RAM, and most importantly, the capability to be used as a work/study laptop.
Do Chromebooks have a Camera?
Short answer, yes – as long as you purchased yours in the last 5-6 years. Most Chromebooks that came out around that time are equipped with at least a 720p (HD) webcam and a touchscreen display.
If you’re wondering if your Chromebook has a built-in camera, one dead giveaway is looking at the top of your screen. See that circle in the middle? That’s probably it. Another way of checking is opening the Camera App on your desktop or app drawer.
If your Camera app is not showing a feed, it’s either your webcam needs to be configured, or it’s broken.
Also see: Camera not working on Chromebook? Here’s what you can do
Not all Chromebook Cameras are the same
Since 2020, video calling and conferencing is one of the most common activities that people engage in. While most Chromebooks are already equipped with webcams, your mileage will vary depending on your price range.
The rule of thumb when it comes to Chromebooks is the more money you shell out, the better specs you get. However, are you willing to pay a premium for Chrome OS? If you are, then we highly recommend these options:
Google PixelBook Go
We recommend the PixelBook Go as they have the best price-to-performance ratio. This Chromebook is capable of delivering a smooth computing experience thanks to its great hardware.
Google Pixel Slate
Choose Google Pixel Slate if you’re planning to use your Chromebook more than just a laptop. Since this device can be in tablet form, you can expect crisp and clear photo and video quality from this device.
For the Budget-Conscious
If you’re not willing to shell out 500 bucks, then you’d probably want a cheaper alternative… as long as you’re willing to lose a USB port. Here are our recommendations:
NEXIGO Angetube 920H Pro
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The Angetube 920H Pro is one of the bestselling webcams on Amazon – and for a good reason. Think of this as a “poor man’s C922,” because it has the hardware to go toe-to-toe with an established brand.
Logitech C922x Pro
When it comes to computer peripherals, Logitech doesn’t need any introductions. The C922x Pro is the latest bang-for-the-buck webcam for Chrome OS. This 1080p camera offers clear and crisp images consistently.
Do Chromebooks have a camera that’s versatile enough for high-quality video while on the go? We have one suggestion for you:
Logitech BRIO 4K Webcam
The BRIO 4K webcam is a great camera as long as you’re willing to pay 200 bucks. Yup, this peripheral is almost the cost of an entry-level Chromebook. However, if you’re looking for the next best thing to using Mirrorless or DSLR cameras as webcams, then the BRIO 4K won’t disappoint.
We can’t recommend subpar 4K webcams as you’re better off with legitimate 1080p (Full HD) cameras. Remember that resolution is not everything. Sometimes the one with a better sensor can produce more beautiful imagery.
Also see: The Best Chromebook for Drawing
In Closing
Do Chromebooks have a camera that’s suitable for everyday needs? Yes, and most consumers are happy with the mediocre quality that it offers – especially when you consider how much they bought it for.
If the nature of your job requires you to have a better video quality, then you can either choose the luxurious route or the practical one. Either way, you will get the result that you need. We hope we made your choice easier for you!
For more Chromebook-related content, be sure to check these out
- Five Amazing Printers Compatible with Chromebooks this 2021
- 5 Best Free Video Editors for Chromebook
- How to Powerwash a Chromebook
Last update on 2023-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API