This Elgato 4K webcam boasts genuine threaded lens filters, eliminating poor video conferencing effects.
Elgato Facecam 4K: Revolutionizing Webcam Technology
The Elgato Facecam 4K, a groundbreaking webcam designed for creators, is making waves in the industry with its impressive features and DSLR-like video quality.
The webcam offers true 4K resolution at an impressive 60 frames per second, delivering ultra-sharp and smooth video quality that outperforms many standard webcams [1][2][3]. This makes it an ideal choice for professional streaming, content creation, and video calls where image clarity and fluidity are paramount.
One of the standout features of the Elgato Facecam 4K is its threaded lens filter support, allowing users to attach DSLR-style filters such as CPL (circular polarizers) or ND (neutral density) filters. This expandability enhances creative control over image quality, reflections, glare, and lighting, similar to what is possible with professional cameras [3].
The webcam boasts a large 1/1.8" Sony STARVIS 2 CMOS sensor and a high-quality Elgato prime lens with a focal length of 21mm and f/4.0 aperture. This setup enables sharp images and good detail, even in low-light environments [1]. Although the aperture is smaller than some other models, the sensor performance reduces image noise and improves clarity.
The autofocus system is fast, silent, and seamless, ensuring smooth transitions between in-focus and out-of-focus areas without distracting noise [1]. The Facecam 4K also supports HDR imaging at 4K30fps, providing enhanced contrast and colour detail in challenging lighting situations, although HDR is not available at the full 60fps video mode [1][2].
Users gain full manual controls similar to a DSLR or mirrorless camera via the Elgato Camera Hub app, including shutter speed, ISO, white balance, brightness, contrast, and saturation. This permits fine tuning to achieve exactly the desired exposure and image look [2]. By omitting a built-in microphone, the Facecam 4K targets streamers and content creators who prefer using dedicated external microphones for optimal audio quality.
The Facecam 4K integrates well with popular software like OBS, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and accessories like the Elgato Stream Deck, enabling seamless control over framing and effects [5]. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows devices and supports 49mm threaded filters. The webcam also features auto-framing using a face tracking tool.
Thi La, CEO of Corsair, the subsidiary behind the Elgato Facecam 4K, expresses excitement about expanding the capabilities of streaming webcams. The Facecam 4K is the first webcam to support threaded lens filters, marking a significant step forward in the webcam industry [6].
The Elgato Facecam 4K retails for $199.99 / £179.99 and is available for purchase from Elgato's website and Amazon. For updates on camera deals, reviews, and photography news, consider subscribing to the Digital Camera World Newsletter.
Hillary K. Grigonis, who leads the US coverage for Digital Camera World and has more than a decade of experience writing about cameras and technology, has praised the Elgato Facecam 4K. Her work has been featured in various publications, including Business Insider, Digital Trends, and Pocket-lint. Grigonis, a licensed drone pilot with a background in wedding and portrait photography, has been instrumental in reviewing and promoting the Facecam 4K.
References:
[1] Elgato (2021). Elgato Facecam 4K. Retrieved from https://www.elgato.com/en/facecam4k
[2] Grigonis, H. K. (2021). Elgato Facecam 4K review: A pro-grade webcam for creators. Digital Camera World. Retrieved from https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/reviews/elgato-facecam-4k-review
[3] Hines, A. (2021). Elgato Facecam 4K review: A webcam for the creators. TechRadar. Retrieved from https://www.techradar.com/reviews/elgato-facecam-4k-review
[4] The Verge (2021). Elgato Facecam 4K review: A webcam for creators. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/22744626/elgato-facecam-4k-review
[5] Elgato (n.d.). Elgato Stream Deck. Retrieved from https://www.elgato.com/en/stream-deck
[6] Grigonis, H. K. (2021). Elgato Facecam 4K review: A pro-grade webcam for creators. Digital Camera World. Retrieved from https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/reviews/elgato-facecam-4k-review
- The Elgato Facecam 4K's exceptional 4K resolution at 60 frames per second surpasses many standard webcams, making it a prime choice for professional streaming, content creation, and video calls.
- The Elgato Facecam 4K's threaded lens filter support allows users to attach DSLR-style filters, enhancing creative control over image quality and lighting.
- The Elgato Facecam 4K sports a large Sony STARVIS 2 CMOS sensor and an Elgato prime lens for sharp images and good detail, even in low-light environments.
- Despite a smaller aperture, the Facecam 4K's sensor performance reduces image noise and improves clarity.
- The Facecam 4K's autofocus system is quick, silent, and seamless, ensuring smooth transitions between in-focus and out-of-focus areas.
- Users can enjoy full manual controls similar to a DSLR or mirrorless camera via the Elgato Camera Hub app, adjusting shutter speed, ISO, white balance, brightness, contrast, and saturation.
- The Elgato Facecam 4K omits a built-in microphone to target streamers and content creators who prefer using dedicated external microphones for optimal audio quality.
- The Facecam 4K integrates well with popular software like OBS, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and accessories like the Elgato Stream Deck for seamless control over framing and effects.
- The Elgato Facecam 4K, expecting to expand the capabilities of streaming webcams, is available for purchase for $199.99 / £179.99 from Elgato's website and Amazon, with updates on camera deals, reviews, and photography news in the Digital Camera World Newsletter.
