The $300 Webcam - Elgato FaceCam Pro Review

Elgato just launched the FaceCam Pro, a $300 webcam capable of capturing in 4K at 60FPS. In this video, I put it through its paces comparing it to other "premium" webcams and even some entry-level mirrorless cameras.
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⏩ Timestamps:
0:00 Elgato FaceCam Pro
0:48 FaceCam Pro vs FaceCam
1:49 Do Streamers NEED a 4K Webcam?
2:31 Tests in different lighting conditions
3:38 Camera Hub software
4:15 Auto Focus
4:59 Field of view
5:23 Comparison to a budget mirrorless camera
7:03 My thoughts and recommendations
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Hashtags:
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Disclaimer:
This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and buy a product, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@GamingCareers]

For every like on this video, Ralph get's an extra treat 🐕‍🦺

[@dazzlerweb]

gonna be a lot of treats lol

[@MarkDice]

The embargo was obviously lifted today on the FaceCam Pro. 3rd video about it i've seen posted since yesterday. Great review!

[@KieranAstraeus]

Marky mark is that you??

[@kevinprendergast5885]

Need to see that kitchen in 4k

[@chadkbrignall22]

weird bumping into you here! Surprise only 4 thumbs up brotha!

[@Casperr]

Pete's genuine smile after his doggo does its trick 🥰

[@GamingCareers]

Training him to be the future host of the channel

[@lunarharpy]

thank you so much for this video, seeing all the side by side comparisons was incredibly helpful!

[@lostlilmew]

I really appreciate the direct comparison with the original facecam! I have the facecam and keep seeing everyone saying how much better the pro is, comparing it to other brand webcams but not the original facecam lol, I do like the upgrades but personally do not see the value of upgrading for my uses of a cam. Thanks for your helpful insight :)

[@AdamStuart1]

Just found your channel, super concise video with great editing (can really see the time you put in), bravo!

[@AndrewTanielian]

Comparing to mirrorless was helpful! Thank you for making this video.

[@elixyr83]

You are a very helpful individual and your work is greatly appreciated man. Thanks so much.

[@johnvdl]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video😉👍 It was very helpful❤✨

[@Teehs]

Another great video!! So helpful thank you so much!

[@solemgameinsights]

One thing you didn't cover is the amount of room a DSLR requires, often you need to place it on a tripod, which requires a bit of space behind the monitor, also, the lens itself usually stretches out a bit. You can't place it on top of the screen, which a webcam easily can do.

[@oldskoolgaming]

I have the Elgato Facecam and its great. I cannot see a reason at this point to consider upgrading the camera beyond what I have at the moment. The money would be better spent on improved lighting I expect. However, its great that Elgato is pushing the envelope here, I am sure there are people who would benefit from this 4k60 camera, just not me. The DSLR seems like overkill for Twitch streaming to me, but I could see going that route if I was doing a lot of KZbin videos - and as he said you can use it outdoors too. Great and very concise and informative video

[@hayden7787]

The color science of the original Facecam is very poor. This is 100% a reason to upgrade.

[@JoonKimDMD]

@@hayden7787 I heard that pro isn't any different.

[@CastellaTV]

@@hayden7787 Colours cant be fixed easily with filter and correction. Gaming Careers even released a bunch of amazing LUTs which u can apply for a DLSR/Cinematic look. Use them myself to make my current C920 look way better

[@eddiebello9547]

your tips were really needed, thank you. Great video

[@ismailberkeren]

Thank you very much for video. Helpful about having idea before buying one.

[@TSIXGaming]

great review with comparisons

[@fmbray_]

This is another option for me to consider while I'm deciding what to upgrade my recording equipment to. You are very cute and helpful. Thanks!

[@gamingwithlin987]

I just got Elgato FaceCam Pro and I can't wait to use it!

[@mehcha_]

really love these videos, helps me improve my streaming game, so thank you

[@GamingCareers]

You're welcome dude

[@DKTD23]

I know it's overkill for streaming especially, but I love the idea of pushing the envelope on webcams, and creating a new chip to make the processing power required to render properly. This would be a great option at the $200-220 price range

[@BariEX]

true

[@UnknownUser-vz2kp]

its $300

[@DKTD23]

@@UnknownUser-vz2kp I was suggesting an ideal price point, so not sure what you are alluding to. Yes it is launching at $299.99

[@HighTeq]

@@UnknownUser-vz2kp You didn't read his comment.

[@edenassos]

@@DKTD23 I'm thinking it should be $500. That's my ideal price point.

[@vladimirmartynov1056]

thanks for the review.. what's your light setting to achieve such a great picture quality?

[@SoyYoSherman]

muy buena comparación men, saludos desde Ecuador

[@K3ns4i]

Amazing video! Thank you :D

[@LaMartyMar]

I really hope to see a comparison video between this camera and the Insta360 Link. The price is exactly the same and they both have unique features.

[@Swill-Plays]

Im in South Wales, in September, and its raining 😂😂 thank you for the review 👌👌

[@citizenstrife]

This seems like future proofing if nothing else. KZbin hasn't enabled 4k to everyone, much less Twitch. It does look better with contrast out of the box. However, I wonder if you can get the same effect on 1080p60 with some finagling. Also, good job repping the Sigma Lens. I personally went with the 30mm for a close up shot from an angle, but 16 is probably great for straight ahead view.

[@JoonKimDMD]

Cant you post 4k videos on youtube??

[@citizenstrife]

@@JoonKimDMD 4k mostly depends on tech and hardware. I don't personally have a computer suitable for it, so I cap at 1080 for now.

[@Crewzing6]

Great information and review. Im sure it will come in handy for many streamers out there

[@stokemoran]

It's a great option for those that don't want to get a mirrorless or dslr camera to shoot their high quality video talking head bits in front of their system along with streaming.

[@fernernerner01]

Hopefully they restock soon I really want one 😩

[@1978tabla1]

what camera are u using to shoot this video? It's amazing.

[@korbovlog]

Thanks!

[@eks007]

What camera and lens setup do you use for your videos? The quality looks awesome!

[@krishnansrinivasan830]

Awesome & Thanks :)

[@NateNakao]

I've been using the Canon EOS M50 Mk.II with the Sigma 16mm on my main setup for a few years now. I picked up the original Elgato Facecam for my second rig, and it certainly does the job as a decent webcam for work and Zoom calls with friends, but I don't think I'd want to run a full stream on it. The Facecam Pro looks like it can be quite effective for a full stream, but at $300 it's just not for me.

[@Emidivergent]

Do you have an opinion on how this compares to the Logitech Brio? I've used a Logitech C922 for years, got the Brio and decided it wasn't enough of an upgrade (and it had a weird green tint I couldn't get rid of). I'm looking for an upgrade in image quality but for now want to stick with USB. Would love to know how you think this compares :)

[@adriantan2745]

get the Kiyo Pro Ultra, the best webcam on earth

[@JoonKimDMD]

How so?

[@adriantan2745]

@@JoonKimDMD watch the actual review videos...

[@Kiwkhiii]

What camera were u using in this video

[@KavorkaDesigns]

I use the Canon 60D with an EF 8-15mm fisheye L-lens(among others), the lens alone is more than everything you've shown together lol. I love the new Elgato thou, may want it so I can take my 60D back into photography, rather than just there on a tripod not really being used, my plans to stream will never happen, the quality is too good and I'm too self conscious lol

[@CodingAdventures]

I'm currently streaming with an Elgato Facecam on my channel. I'm looking forward to get the Facecam pro that was just announced.

[@CoalitionGaming]

I've done content showing that a secondhand Sony A5000 (with a quick software trick) and a secondhand Sony 16mm F2.8 lens with a dummy battery and capture card could all be had under $300. If the 4k isn't a selling point to someone, I'd say this is the way to go in the $200-$300 price bracket instead of a webcam. Big 1080p quality difference, as you showed, for same to less money. Interchangable lens mirrorless camera setup for under $300. Hard to beat. Though admittedly, this is probably the best looking webcam yet. But the best sure comes at a cost.

[@GamingCareers]

That's awesome, I definitely think if you're patient you could find a great deal secondhand on eBay etc! I've never tried the a5000, what's the limitation that you need the software trick for?

[@77netwar]

I like the auto focus, that was the only thing missing from the Nexigo Iris.

[@burbschannel4541]

When is this cam going to be available? I've checked everyday for like the past couple weeks and nothing.

[@Aerems]

Your hoodie is nice!! I love nike skateboarding!

[@humansrants1694]

The quality I got with it with an LED light on me was just a bit better than my Canon m50 with a £500 lens with no LED light on me. With the Facecam Pro I get twice the frame rate over my M50 and I don't need to worry about Battery levels or setting up. I got my Facecam Pro for Ai face mocap for animation, Another thing is the higher frame rates means the lighting is more important really shows how good the Facecam Pro is.

[@AhmadAlnajjar]

Ah, you almost will change my mind to get the cam link card + dummy battery now omg. Not sure why it does not have a background removal option there without a chroma key background like Logitech used to have. Sad it's not available on Amazon yet. no one has it in UAE!! is insta link 360 4k is similar?

[@mylivinghell9595]

I have the first facecam and streamcam as much as I like elgato products I agree with saving a little more and just get a used camera if I upgrade.

[@RaphaelsKnicksPodcast]

7:45 What do you prefer the Sony A6400 for live-streaming and making KZbin videos indoor and outdoor vlogging or the Sony A7 S3?.

[@apollian]

OK, I'm in need of some help and advice. If you look at my channel, I'm using a Logitech 920c, and its very grainy(I don't use a light source) how do I Improve my video quality? What's the best £100-150 cam to have? Or is this one that's being reviewed the go to?

[@jkpinpdx]

Insta360 Link Webcam: Hold my beer… (can’t wait for the comparison video between these two awesome webcams)

[@thatguyStrike]

The question is: What's the best / cheapest MFT that gives out clean 4K60 HDMI? Is there any?

[@danmagoo]

Great video, and for me, the answer is that the original Facecam looks better, is more useful, and makes more sense. If you are a serious creator, recording content for later playback at 4K, you should use a "real" camera, not a webcam. And if you are using a webcam the way most webcam users do, for streaming during meetings and such, or for a small corner image during gameplay, 4K is an unwelcome bandwidth hog. And I maintain again that the original Facecam has a better-looking picture. At $170, it can't be beat right now. Elgato should lower that one's price further, and sell more of them.

[@najiahgriffiths4216]

where do i buy this. i think it's out of stock. can't find it anywhere and says out of stock on elgato's website

[@poetparrot]

Which audio interface do you use with the SM7B ?

[@michelzalac8841]

How did it compare to the AverMedia 4K Ultra HD Webcam - PW515 ?

[@EMAZINGERIK]

what camera and lens do you use for your talking head?

[@birthing4blokes46]

thank you for this great video, was very helpful for sure. I want to record a reaction video, I am finding lag when doing the recording, it is so frustrating. I have made all the changes that chatGPT suggest, my settings seem to be ok. i have unplugged and repluged the cam link etc. etc. i am using a mac mini m2 with 8 gigs of ram. I do not know what to next to improve the video quality? feel frustrated etc etc. i am also getting lag on zoom, not so much when i record with quick time player, but still there is a little lag still, i have turned off every other program so that only obs is playing. do i need a new camlink? aghhhh if you could help that would be great. i am using a sony camera

[@Coophack6584]

3:52 Yeah sums up Razors apps in 2022. I hate my Kiyo because it keeps getting disconnected from the PC. Like The App causes the problem.

[@jasonsignor7237]

lol what is the clip from at 3:50? Is that a random clip or from a movie? :)

[@happycloudgamer1088]

Is there a way too ad Webcam to elgato 4k software to record

[@JarvisDavis]

cool video

[@SimpleParadigm]

Whats the min and max FOV of Facecam pro if you have to configure it on the app?

[@falconvelocity]

Worth the money increse for the sensor alone... although think I'll stick to my Sony ZV-1!

[@chrono32123]

I really like what Elgato is offering but I think I’m gonna stick with my dslr for a little longer. I want to move to a mirrorless and CamLink setup but right now my Canon T6 is getting the job done.

[@DKTD23]

I used to do Sony A6000 with the Sigma lens. The third party adapter to always keep it powered on was a nuisance, and honestly the FaceCam gets at least 75% of the quality thanks to the fixed lens. It's sharp enough that I switched out when it was on sale around 140 last year and sold my mirrorless kit

[@adriantan2745]

time to move on with a worthwhile webcam, the Kiyo Pro ULTRA!

[@AnimeXCulture]

Facecam Pro 4k Vs Elgato CamLink 4k which should I do I already have a Sony A7III with lens but IDK what to do. Please Help Thanks.

[@sexy02081988]

Thank you for your hard work…..I am now about to make my purchase and I bow know what I’m looking for Thanks :)

[@ayushgogna9732]

did you review opal c1 ?

[@The_Chad_]

Dangit! I didn't even know about this cam until I just saw a Camera Hub update pop up. It's already out of stock😢

[@RaikaSTi]

Wait for the November batch

[@innovationphilosophie]

Can you please do a side-by-side with Lumina AI Cam?

[@danielblomqvist1566]

It looks like the focus is whacko at 3min 14 seconds. It seems to be sharp in the background and off on your face. Making the Insta360 link the winner. ?! Super happy for a comparison against the insta!

[@DR19X]

Hi did elgato fix the camera hub software overexposing after unplugging and plugging the webcam? the original facecam has that issue where all the settings are saved but the iso need to be readjusted after each camera unplug and plug or computer restart?

[@DR19X]

the iso number is saved like other numbers it just does not register after unplug and plug until it is readjusted.

[@DanielBerzerk]

What is your $5k camera set up that you used for the opening shot?

[@SergeyFM_en]

Magenta hue, especially in low light. No hue settings in SW.

[@captainglutenfree]

I’m listening. If your streaming games is this really needed

[@DR19X]

streaming game with your face in a little square? you can go cheaper than this and is absolutely not needed. $300 on this is not a good use of your money. other options include regular facecam, brio, logitech c922 or c920s among other options

[@DR19X]

like others said, get the other options and spend the money difference in lighting.

[@adriantan2745]

@@DR19X nope. get the Kiyo Pro Ultra... no lighting needed

[@AAron859318]

A buddy of mine uses his Canon digital camera for his face cam, he spent $1000+ for photography school. Best quality I've ever seen. People always say his web cam is better then his game play lmao

[@BlackBl00dbrother]

Which canon camera?

[@m00st]

bought two 2nd hand a5000's which work fine as 1080p HDMI webcams (with a bit of tweaking). Such a setup is cheaper even with a better lens. But still, for a webcam it looks good. But not mirrorless or DSLR good.

[@adriantan2745]

have a try at the Kiyo Pro Ultra, see if its worth a buy...

[@benjiang9789]

It seems to be a lot better.

[@DR19X]

$300 is entering used Sony mirrorless territory for a much better camera with many uses outside streaming. I agree with your analysis for those just starting in the stream world can find cheaper options

[@ByLuxley]

problem is you need a camlink to stream with a dslr or something similar which costs 130$ as well

[@DR19X]

@@ByLuxley you are right. I have gathered these equipment here and there over time. My advice is to check used gear or wait for blackfriday these can be had for $90 which is still substantial number for better quality.

[@muffinberg7960]

On facecam pro your hair looks green. If colors can't be balanced and made to be stored on memory of the device then it is indeed a good comparison. Because I don't want to install webcam software on all of my devices. I am blonde too, and I can't care to have my hair washed green so I'll be skipping this one. Maybe they'll save it with a firmware update, so at the very least that would be something to look out for.

[@SeeYouLaterLeaner]

Hopefully I wont have to buy multiple USB C cords to get the Facecam Pro to work. I had such a hard time finding compatibility with my Facecam.

[@TheClearSight]

oh damn, that doggo is a real good boy

[@jz-xd1xu]

a5100 with stock lens looks still goodie in 2023

[@juanete69]

Hello. Which one is better, Facecam Pro vs Insta 360 Link vs Avermedia PW515?

[@adriantan2745]

Kiyo Pro Ultra is the best... period.

[@JoonKimDMD]

@@adriantan2745 it's only 4K 30fps. How is it better?

[@adriantan2745]

@@JoonKimDMD best image

[@JoonKimDMD]

@@adriantan2745 I ended up getting Kiyo Pro ultra. I still don't like non 60fps in 4K, so I am hoping that at least it has the best 1080p 60fps image.

[@adriantan2745]

@@JoonKimDMD you will be blown away! anyone that wants the best image quality, should get this...

[@Dew4lk]

Looks great but elgato should include a flip cover with their webcams, dont want my fbi agent watching me all the time

[@MrTitanFTW]

Bought the Elgato Facecam for 90 Euro about a month ago and can't see a reason to upgrade to this, camera is perfect for my needs, whether that be Discord calls or Livestreaming!

[@adriantan2745]

checkout the Kiyo Pro Ultra, it leaves all the facecam in the dust

[@MrTitanFTW]

@@adriantan2745 For $300 I'd hope it would but you'd be better off getting an actual camera for that price.

[@adriantan2745]

@@MrTitanFTW if only you could get a camera setup that can do what the kiyo pro ultra does for 300

[@davidcottrell1308]

I have a 5100...how do you get the perfect skin tone....I am struggling with that....PLEASE HELP!!!

[@TwoFlames]

the facecam pro is realy nice until it dosnt get recocnized anymore py ur system for some odd reason the lamp on it is green but nothing works

[@dilipchoudharyp1043]

Just a FYI most Sony Mirrorless Cameras now support webcam support via USB.

[@GloryGeist]

100 to 200 extra dollars? more like 500 extra dollars - 400 for the A5100 is a HARD find these days, its safe to say kitting out a mirrorless camera would bring a price point realisticly way closer to 700 dollars.

[@OiiMerch]

While it may not be useful for streaming, I'd love to use it to shoot YT videos! I currently use the Logitech webcam and have been meaning to upgrade to the Elgato webcam and honestly I'd love to use the Pro version instead and get that better quality. The problem with Canon DSLR cameras that no one talks about, for some reason, is that it has a 30 minute recording limit which is not only annoying but pointless. It restricts content creation as it has now become tiring to make content as I have to constantly get up to press record again when I should be able to just press it once to record and when I'm done...press it to stop. But instead every 30 mins I have to get up and it means far too many files and far too much interruption during talking. I hate it. Not only will I upgrade from Canon to Sony but I'd love to upgrade from Logitech to Elgato!!

[@adriantan2745]

if you want a webcam upgrade, definitely go for Kiyo Pro Ultra.. the Facecam Pro is rubbish in comparison. Elgato even removed the sensor size from their technical spec website...

[@diebygaming8015]

Where do i buy this? i can't find it, i this a real camera, i dont understand

[@Pabula]

I think ElGato / Corsair, should release a webcam with interchangble lens with a m4/3 sensor, there are very nice Sigma lens out there, among others, just settle which and now you can charge $300 for the webcam without lens.

[@RealOwtmeelTV]

Which camera are you currently using?

[@JustAGenericGamer]

One of the biggest shockers for me is that a $300 camera doesn't support Windows Hello. Biggest reason I am avoiding this camera. I'll get the Dell Ultrasharp instead. Even cheap $70 webcams have Windows Hello support!

[@claudioagmfilho]

🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷👏🏻, Awesome video! Thanks for app the info…

[@successshampoo]

You can just buy a Canon and use their "EOS Webcam Utility" which allows you to use your camera with a usb cable without all the capture cards and hdmi cables.

[@positronicbrains]

Still, there is NO quick privacy cover and didn't see significant enough of a difference between pro and std that's wouldn't be ironed out in post. Std is fine, Mirrorless as step 2.

[@lega-xyz]

Best budget is to get the Elgato FaceCam 1080p and buy some decent lighting gear. Good lighting goes a long way even with the cheapest of cameras.

[@ehsanr21]

I think Live Streamer CAM 513 is better than others with the best price 😎😎

[@GeorgeFromCy]

I wonder when webcams will have 240fps and in the case of elgato they should have an HDMI output

[@CastellaTV]

since most that use webcam dont have much movement compared to gameplay. anthing more than 60 fps is overkill and u wouldn't see a difference unless the person what dancing or something and even then it would be overkill.

[@GeorgeFromCy]

@@CastellaTV very true. In my case I am one of those few people who need to show replay of throwing dice in very slow motion to understand their mechanics. I guess GoPro it is then.

[@JorgeLG]

The dummy battery is $18, a cheap capture card with 1080p 30fps is $5 to $7, hdmi cable $0.45 to $1 and the stand could be $2 to 5. The most expensive kit will be $31 tops. That’s what I have done over and over. I have like that 2x a5100 2x a6000 and 1x Canon M200 2 of them with the Sigma 16mm f1.4

[@GamingCareers]

That's true, you can save a lot of money going for a cheaper capture card or dummy battery! I've always gone for the official dummy batteries and Elgato's Cam Link as the capture card, but I definitely want to do a video comparing the cheaper ones out there to see if there's any reason not to save that $$.

[@downthecrop]

compared to original it's way better. compared to the real mirrorless camera it's still not even close. Good review! thankx

[@DR19X]

the original one's claim to fame is the "1080p uncompressed quality compared to compressed webcams". this one here compresses quality using their "advanced image engine" I get it it is a different sensor but the image is still crap and 4k webcam is not adopted despite the niche punch-in uses. for the price of $300+tax, this one is too expensive when the original can be had for new 130 dollars often or used for $100

[@4flipsake187]

I still use a Gopro hero 5 looks amazing for the price