Ever since the pandemic started, working from home has become the new norm. And many of us have started spending more time in front of our webcams to attend virtual meetings, online classes, live streaming, etc. While webcams have become essential, they also pose a risk to our security and privacy. Believe it or not, these webcams are all entirely and easily hackable. While the problem may seem at large, the solution for it as simple as using a webcam with a privacy shutter.
Why a Privacy Shutter Is Important in Webcams
The most obvious risk involved with leaving your webcam uncovered is access to the video footage. Hackers could potentially gain from the recorded footage by using it for extortion. The threat even goes further than just you. Background data can also reveal details such as your location, photos of your family, confidential work details, and the list goes on. Many security experts like FBI and tech genius Mark Zuckerberg also favor webcam privacy. And all this can be avoided by simply covering up your webcam with a privacy shutter.
So, if you want the peace of mind that comes with using a webcam with a privacy shutter, here are some of the best options that are worth checking out.
1. NexiGo N660P Pro
Video Resolution: 1080p | FPS: 60 | Weight: 7.4 ounces
Let’s kick off the list with NexiGo N660P Pro that comes with a sliding privacy shutter. The webcam can record or stream videos in 1080p while adjusting the image quality with auto white balance and auto-exposure. NexiGo webcam is also highly flexible and allows for a 360-degree swivel. So, you can record what’s around you without having to move your laptop or PC. Plus, a wide 90-degree viewing angle means that it will easily cover more people in a single frame.
NexiGo N660P is compatible with all major operating systems and comes ready to use with its plug-and-play nature. And, the included 6.5ft USB cable is long enough to accommodate even a standing desk setup.
Overall, NexiGo N660P gets everything right about a webcam and makes a great buy at $65.
Pros
- 360-degree adjustable rotation
- Omnidirectional mic with noise filter
- Autofocus
- 3 color options
Cons
- Slightly muted colors
2. Logitech BRIO
Video Resolution: 4K/1080p | FPS: 30/60 | Weight: 11.8 ounces
Next up is the 4K-enabled Logitech BRIO. It has got everything right from the premium look and feels to high-end specs. It can capture videos in 4K resolution at 30 fps and full HD at 60 fps with 5x digital zoom that delivers fantastic image quality and excellent color details.
On top of that, the webcam’s software allows you to play around with different backgrounds. Also, the Logitech BRIO Ultra is Windows Hello certified which means that you get a password-free login experience by using facial recognition.
However, Using a 4K webcam for video conferencing is a bit of an overkill since most of the apps don’t support 4K for now. Also, using a 4K resolution will require higher computing power and a lot of bandwidth.
That said, if you’re dead set on a 4K webcam that also supports privacy shutter, then there are only a handful of choices available and Logitech Brio 4K is the best option among them.
Pros
- 4K video with HDR
- 5x digital zoom
- Support for Windows Hello
- 90-degree viewing angle
Cons
- Dodgy clip and privacy cover
- Expensive
Buy from Amazon ($179)
3. Logitech C920S
Video Resolution: 1080p | FPS: 30 | Weight: 14.2 ounces
If you’re looking for a decent well-rounded webcam, then take a look at Logitech C920S. It captures full HD videos at 30 fps to deliver sharp images and superior low-light performance. And as if that wasn’t enough, you can further tweak the image to your liking using Logitech’s Capture software.
A 78-degree field of view is more than enough to capture two people sitting side-by-side. And thanks to the cleverly designed L-shaped grip, you can choose to either clip it to a monitor or place it on a flat surface to use it.
One thing worth noting is that at 14.2 ounces, Logitech C920S is certainly heavy and if you have a monitor with thin bezels, chances are the webcam might cover a tiny portion of your screen.
Other than that, Logitech C920S manages to amass decent ratings on Amazon and remains a favorite option among streamers.
Pros
- Dual stereo mics
- Included Knox Gear 4-Port 3.0 USB Hub
- Plug and play functionality
- Excellent image quality
Cons
- Bulky build
- Logitech Capture software is sluggish
Buy from Amazon ($109.99)
4. Qtniue FHD Webcam
Video Resolution: 1080p | FPS: 60 | Weight: 2.89 ounces
If you found the above webcam options with privacy shutters to be pricey, then Qtniue is might interest you. The webcam can capture high quality video in 1080p at 60 fps with automatic white balance and light correction to give you crystal clear images. Also, the vertical tilt and 360-degree horizontal swivel makes it easy to record from any angle.
For audio, it features dual stereo microphones that reduce background noises, making it perfect for live streaming, video calling, and online gaming. However, the mic is not of the greatest quality and fails to cancel out echo effectively.
That said, if you’re looking to buy a webcam for occasional zoom calls or online classes, Qtniue is a great webcam with a privacy shutter.
Pros
- 360-degree adjustable rotation
- Affordable price
- Excellent autofocus
Cons
- Average mic
- Poor color reproduction
Buy from Amazon ($28.86)
5. ToLuLu Webcam
Video Resolution: 1080p | FPS: 30 | Weight: 4.8 ounces
ToLuLu webcam is yet another budget privacy-focussed webcam but from a lesser-known brand for your streaming and video calling needs. The webcam can capture video at 1080p at fluid 30 fps. Also, it claims to offer a wide field of view up to 110 degrees that’s wider than most expensive webcams out there.
The integrated high sensitivity mic effectively cancels out noise and echo to deliver a clear sound output. Also, it can record your voice from a 10 feet distance without any problems.
Compatibility-wise, ToLuLu webcam works with all major operating systems and software and comes ready to use straight out of the box. So, there’s no need to install any additional drivers or software to use it.
As a bonus, the package includes a small tripod and a USB cable long enough to accommodate most setups.
Pros
- Included mini tripod
- Extremely-wide field of view
- Affordable price
Cons
- Struggles in low-light
- Average build quality
Buy from Amazon ($29.99)
Bonus: Webcam Slider
If you already own a webcam or use your laptop’s webcam for your video conferencing needs, using a webcam slider or sticky tape is a straightforward solution for your privacy needs. The best part is – they’re extremely cheap and readily available. What’s more, you can easily install them on your smartphone, laptop, PC, or any smart device with a camera without any fuss.
Buy from Amazon ($4.99)
Wrap Up: Best Webcams With Privacy Shutter
Leaving your webcam uncovered is never a good idea. Aside from making us feel better, webcams with privacy shutters can potentially act as a ‘Kill Switch’. When not in use, you can simply cover your webcam with the shutter and forget worrying about some creep peeping through your camera.
Also Read: Best Popular Chinese Apps Alternatives for Better Privacy
