The best webcam makes you look your best -- for less. Most laptops ship with a 720p webcam, so a 1080p webcam or even a 4K webcam can make you stand out by comparison. I haven't tested every one of these webcams, just most of them -- and I describe how I test under my recommendations. You can also refer to my separate story on the best Windows Hello webcams for recommendations that aid videoconferencing and log you into your PC. Two recommendations from that list -- a premium and budget option -- appear on this list. Why you should trust me: PCWorld has been testing PC hardware since the 1980s, and I've been a technology journalist for 30 years, with extensive experience in reviewing PC hardware. When it comes to webcams, my recommendations are based on hands-on testing in real-world scenarios. I also tap the expertise and published reviews of my counterparts in Sweden and Germany to offer a comprehensive view of the current webcam landscape. The Anker PowerConf C200 offers an affordable yet substantial upgrade from the 720p cameras found in most laptop webcams to a 1440p webcam, yet does so at an affordable price.

Probably no other hardware category has seen such rapid improvements as webcams, thanks to the work-from-home zeitgeist spurred on by the pandemic. Manufacturers now realize that 1080p resolution, proper lighting, and improved audio are quickly becoming basic requirements. Premium options often go far beyond. However, most laptops still ship with a 720p webcam, so a 1080p webcam can be a step up--what better way to stand out from the pack on your next Teams call? There are even premium models with integrated ring lights for a few dollars more. Other, more expensive options feature 4K resolution or higher refresh rates, which will make a noticeable difference to both you, your friends, and your colleagues. We haven't tested every one of these webcams, but we've selected out the best webcams based on specs and bundled extras, including our own reviews. You can also refer to our separate story on the best Windows Hello webcams to buy a webcam for videoconferencing and to log you in to your PC.

"That's probably the best-looking webcam I've seen you test," one of my colleagues remarked over Zoom the other day as I stared into the eye of the Insta360 Link webcam. A chorus of agreement piped in through my computer speakers from the rest of the team. I'm zoom, zoom, zooming more work days than not, so it's a great way to test webcams. A great many cameras have adorned the space above my laptop screen and monitor over the years, and I've been quite happy during my time with the Insta360 Link. It's from a company known for its action cameras--which we like a lot--so this webcam has a lot going for it.