Buying Guide for the Best Computer Monitor With Webcam
Choosing a computer monitor with a built-in webcam can be a great way to enhance your working, studying, or conferencing experience. Monitors with webcams offer a tidy, all-in-one solution, reducing desk clutter and making virtual meetings more convenient. To select the best monitor for your needs, consider how you plan to use it most—whether that's for everyday office tasks, creative work, video calls, or entertainment—then review the key features to match your requirements.Screen SizeScreen size refers to the diagonal measurement of the display, usually in inches. This is important because it determines how much workspace you have and how easily you can see details on the screen. Smaller monitors, typically under 24 inches, are ideal for compact desks or single-person use. Medium sizes, from 24 to 27 inches, offer a good balance between screen space and desk footprint, making them popular for most people. Larger monitors above 27 inches are more immersive and useful for multitasking or watching media, but they require more space. Choose based on what fits comfortably in your work area and suits your typical tasks.
Webcam QualityThis specifies the camera's resolution and frame rate, often listed as HD (720p), Full HD (1080p), or higher. Webcam quality is important for clear video during calls or recordings—the higher the resolution and smoother the frame rate, the better you'll look on camera. Basic webcams (720p) are fine for infrequent meetings, while frequent video callers or streamers benefit from 1080p or better. Consider how clear you want your video to appear when deciding the right quality for your needs.
Display ResolutionDisplay resolution indicates how many pixels are shown on the screen, like Full HD (1920x1080), QHD (2560x1440), or 4K (3840x2160). Higher resolutions give you sharper images and let you fit more content on the screen at once, which is great for multitasking or detailed work. However, higher resolutions are most noticeable on larger screens. If you mostly browse the web or do basic office work, Full HD is plenty. For design or video editing, or if you just want a super crisp image, QHD or 4K are good picks.
Refresh RateRefresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), is how often the screen updates with new images each second. A higher refresh rate makes motion appear smoother, which is most important for gaming or watching fast-paced videos. Standard monitors have 60Hz, which is enough for web browsing and office work. If you play games or watch a lot of action-packed content, you might prefer 75Hz or higher, as this provides smoother motion.
Built-in MicrophoneMany monitors with webcams also have built-in microphones, allowing you to speak during calls without extra devices. The quality varies: some are basic and pick up room noise, others are clearer and may reduce background sounds. If you participate often in virtual meetings, look for a monitor with noise-reducing microphones for better call quality. If you already have a separate microphone, this feature may be less critical.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity covers which ports and connections the monitor supports (like HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or legacy options). This matters because your computer needs compatible ports to connect to the monitor easily. Newer computers may work with USB-C or DisplayPort, while older ones often use HDMI or VGA. Also, some monitors need a USB connection for the webcam and microphone parts to work. Check what ports your computer has and choose a monitor that matches those.
Ergonomics and AdjustabilityErgonomics refer to how easily you can adjust the monitor for a comfortable viewing position, including tilting, raising, or rotating the screen. Good ergonomics reduce neck and back strain if you work at your desk for long periods. Some monitors allow height, swivel, and tilt adjustments, while others are fixed. If you want to stay comfortable or share your screen with others, adjustability is worth considering.
Privacy FeaturesPrivacy features include physical webcam shutters or electronic privacy modes. These ensure you can fully block the camera when not in use, providing peace of mind against accidental or unauthorized use. If privacy is a major concern, look for a monitor that lets you easily cover or disable the camera when needed.