Apple revealed new MacBooks at its third hardware event of the fall Tuesday, which notably feature its M1 chip. What don’t they include? HD webcams.
While Apple says that the M1 chip on the new MacBook Air and MacBook Pro will improve video chat quality with more advanced noise reduction and face detection, the FaceTime cameras only have a resolution of 720p.
In our increasingly video chat-based world, that’s simply not gonna cut it. 1080p or bust, baby.
Hey, we get it. If you’re putting on makeup and getting dressed for a video call, you want that look to be seen in its full glory, in high definition. Here’s how you can do it.
MacBook alternatives
If you’re looking at the new MacBooks, then odds are you’re an Apple fan. The good news: you don’t have to completely ditch the company if you want a HD FaceTime camera.
The iPad Pro, which starts at $799, has a 1080p camera. Of course, a tablet is very different from a laptop. But if the only thing stopping you from the tablet lifestyle is the need to type quickly, you can pair the iPad Pro with Apple’s Magic Keyboard.
Why, Apple, why?
Image: apple
If you would rather have a stationary computer setup, the 27-inch iMac also has a HD FaceTime camera. Starting at $1,799, the computer also offers what it calls a “studio-quality” three mic setup, so whoever’s on the other end of the call will see and hear you crystal clear.
Some of the best 1080p webcams
If you want the latest MacBooks and better camera quality, these webcams, highly recommended from our friends at PCMag (owned by the same parent company as Mashable), will up your video chat game.
Logitech StreamCam ($169.99)
Move this wherever you want!
Image: screenshot/logitech
Logitech is a webcam king, and the company offers plenty to choose from. PCMag found its crisp video quality great for livestreaming. It comes with a top-of-the-screen mount and a tripod, so you can have your camera completely separate from your laptop screen. Plus, its software offers automatic focus, exposure, and framing.
Razer Kiyo ($99.99)
Scared of the dark?
Image: razer
If you’re looking to break into vlogging or your room is kinda dark, this webcam’s included ring light is essential. Its other functions are pretty normal, with 1080p or 720p video and a mono microphone, but it’ll definitely get the job done.
Logitech Brio Ultra HD Pro Webcam ($199.99)
All you could want in a webcam.
Image: logitech
Go big or go home with this one. It’s the most expensive on the list, but also the most advanced. If you’re committed to the video creator lifestyle, you need this camera, which 4k recording and 5X zoom.