Dycam Inc was an American technology company based in Chatsworth, California. It was best known for developing and manufacturing the Dycam Model 1, which is widely recognized as the world's first commercially available digital camera.

Fujifilm had created and shown its Fujix DS-1P digital camera in 1988, in cooperation with Toshiba, but it was never commercially available – not even in Japan.

When the Dycam was released, in November 1990, $995 bought you a camera capable of taking 32 black-and-white, 8-bit images, each one just 376 x 240 pixels or 0.09MP. They were stored as highly compressed JPEG images, so as to fit all 32 into a single megabyte of memory.

And that memory was volatile, meaning that if the batteries went flat you lost your photos. But assuming your photos were still there, they could be uploaded to your computer using a cable.

The lens was a fixed-focus, 8.5mm (35mm equivalent), f/4.5 optic. It had a built-in electronic flash and an electronic shutter with speeds from 1/30sec to 1/1000sec (1/25sec when using flash), all packed into a very modern-looking, landline telephone-handset-style case in black plastic.

Power was supplied by two nickel-cadmium AA-sized rechargeable batteries, under the hood. Battery drain was fairly high, thus they batteries needed frequent recharging, so the camera came with a nifty recharging dock/stand.

Once charged, before you could take any photos, you had to connect your camera to a computer to download the software that made it run. Another reason to keep the camera charged!

The whole affair was pretty basic by today’s standards. But it beat the competition – because there was no competition!

The computer accessory company, Logitech, wanted to market a camera. It saw cameras as the next big thing in computer peripherals, so it licensed the basic technology from Dycam for one million dollars and set about creating its own software to run the camera.

The Logitech Fotoman-1 came out in mid-1991 with very similar specs to the Dycam, but a few differences. Because Logitech was originally a Swiss firm, rather than having it made under contract by Dycam, the Fotoman was made by the Swiss watch-making firm that had made its first mice.

The big, visible difference was that the Fotoman cameras came in an off-white shell, rather than Dycam’s black. Essential specs were identical to the Dycam, but Logitech offered improved firmware and software that offered additional features. The software was more frequently updated, too.

More importantly, though, Logitech had worldwide distribution channels, while the Dycam models were made and sold in the USA only. Thus, the Logitech sold a lot more than the Dycam and is often thought to be the first consumer-level digital camera. And it’s almost true!

Logitech’s brand recognition and aggressive marketing (free camera bag sent when you registered your purchase and similar promotions) also helped with sales.

Both cameras were classed as “consumer” cameras, but the high price (£499 in the UK) meant limited uptake. So, in the beginning, both were aimed at businesses such as real estate agents and insurance adjusters, who needed a quick turnaround.

Following the Model 1, Dycam continued to refine its technology with subsequent versions including Models 2, 3 and 4, before eventually expanding into more conventional designs.

Eventually the firm gave up on cameras and evolved into Tetracam Inc, which continues to operate as a specialist in multi-spectral imaging systems – particularly for agriculture.

Logitech abandoned the digital camera market after the Fotoman series, to concentrate on peripherals like mice and keyboards. It later became a leader in webcams, but never made or marketed a standalone digital camera again.

Read more of David Young's ongoing series on classic cameras, as well as his book A Brief History of Photography.

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Logitech has launched two new cameras, the new Rally AI Pro PTZ camera and the Rally AI which, together, have the goal of addressing more complicated meeting spaces.

The Rally AI Pro features a dual-camera system – with a traditional gimbal-mounted PTZ camera at the top with 15x hybrid zoom at the top, and a fixed camera system in the housing with a one-inch sensor and 115-degree field-of-view monitor the entire room.

The 15x zoom is made up of 3x optical and 5x digital, which is the same as Logitech's existing Rally cameras, but this features AI subject tracking and all-new motors for much more responsive subject tracking.

This kind of subject tracking was described as "Great if you're a pacer, like me" by Holly Zhou, who introduced the product.

Despite gaining a camera, and AI, the new Rally AI Pro is thinner than the original Logitech Rally model, protruding only around 10cm (4 inches) from the wall. While the top camera can turn down for privacy, the side camera has to roll away.

In terms of AI features, the cameras come fully equipped for the latest in multi-camera conferencing apps, which include Zoom and (which now supports up to 16 cameras) and Microsoft Teams multi-camera view. The system is also capable of pulling off this kind of AI without the help of the software, identifying the speaker and, indeed, avoiding people the other side of glass walls who might otherwise distract a meeting room camera.

When the camera goes on sale this Spring in America and Europe, it'll retail for $2,999 (around £2,200). The device will be offered in both a gray version and an off-white version, and a large array of fitting accessories will be available from Logitech too, including ceiling mounts and recessed wall mounts.

With several more weeks to wait, it remains to be seen whether this will make our guide to the best conference room cameras.

PTZ cameras have different jobs, and Logitech's brand is oft associated with conferencing or education. This camera is like any other in that regard, and can play well with the company's software, providing the capability to direct at a subject and close in with a powerful 10x optical zoom.

That's you're lot though – there is no built-in microphone, so don't expect a single device to complete your whole setup. This is more of a premium option to, say, provide close-ups to intermix with other video feeds of a classroom or church.

The camera itself isn't able to auto-track subjects, but it can partner with Logitech's software, which does have some capabilities there.

Logitech PTZ Pro 2: Price

With a likely retail price of only a few hundred, the Logitech is a relatively accessible PTZ camera compared to some from the more traditionally broadcast focus brands like Sony and Panasonic. This is where the value seems reasonable.

Logitech PTZ Pro 2: Specs

Build and handling

The Logitech PTZ Pro 2 adopts a simple and mechanically conspicuous approach to its design – no domes or other complexities are needed our used here. That seems reasonable since it's unlikely to be used in an environment where extra protection from elements is needed!

External construction is from good-quality two-tone grey plastics, the only exception being the remote.

The slight exception to the hard plastic quality is the remote control, which has a slightly rubberized feeling. This mgiht well be protective – maybe absorbing a tiny amount of drop impact, or just making it harder too drop. It also has the effect of helping the remote become a magnet to slightly sticky fingers.

The other thing I didn't love about the remote is that the controls are entirely 'on/off' – there is no anaglog (soft) option, so you cannot push the center a little more gently to make the camera move less quickly. This all-or-nothing approach is good enough to line up a shot with, but means you can't really track a moving subject.

Another aspect of the device which felt a little behind the times to me in a very USB-C era was the single DIN style connector which split off into a historic USB-A connector for my computer and a power connector. I did appreciate the length and quality of the power cable though, to be fair, in a world where these things are often not good enough, but why not simply draw power from a USB-C cable? That would feel more modern.

There is a cutout for a Kensington styler security lock on the back too, but that's about it.

In terms of operation, the camera can be placed on a flat surface or mounted on a tripod and the arm controlled by the remote. When disconnected the power, the camera sinks back into a downward looking position and stops.

The options on the remote provide for three preset positions, a video mirror flip, and a picture mute and – beyond the PTZ controls – that's about it.

Logitech PTZ Pro 2: Performance

The camera certainly does pan, tilt and zoom within the promised range, so no complaints there. The motors are not silent, but then there is no microphone built in to pick up the sound so you should be OK depending on how you set up your system.

I did find – and you'll see in the sample video – that the camera could have been a good deal faster to focus on me. The video also seems to revert to hybrid zoom beyond 10x – meaning that you can see the blurring of digital 'guessing' rather than the optical accuracy of the detail of might somewhat untidy (or 'wolf like') beard.

I don't think that's a bad option to have, but it'd be good to be able to disable this and there is certainly no physical switch on the camera.

In general, the speed of focus – and the hunting in a fairly well-lit room (two big windows in daylight) was quite disappointing for me, though once the camera had got there the picture stayed solid and of a good quality.

Firmware updates have gone a little way to redressing the speed of performance here since launch, so make sure you install the Logitech Sync app and use it, but don't expect miracles.

Logitech PTZ Pro 2: Overall verdict

The Logitech PTZ Pro 2 is a decent, if not brilliant, conference camera, no doubt better suited to setups where other Logitech gear is already present and can communicate with it. Conference rooms and low-movement, relatively static education events like lectures rather than dramatic live events would seem more suited to it. That's because the speed of focusing and the difficulty of directing the camera when using the infra-red (included) remote alone are problematic.

In this day and age there are more sophisticated alternative technologies to consider, which might offer more. AI subject tracking in-camera is not unheard of, so expecting it to be provided by the computer software and the computer to send UVC commands (though this is at least a common standard).

On the plus side, I think the camera provides a flattering picture when the focus is successful, adding a great deal more range. It can thus be placed to the side of a room. It can also see a whole lot further into a meeting room than, say, a fish-eye style camera.

Logitech PTZ Pro 2: Alternatives

During the busiest part of the year as a photographer, without fail, my wrist would always start to ache. I initially blamed the overuse injury on the 12-hour days I spent with a camera in my hand as a wedding photographer, but I was in the middle of a marathon editing session when I realized that the biggest culprit wasn’t my camera at all but my laptop. This is why one of my favorite accessories isn’t one that you’ll find in my camera bag at all but on my desk: an ergonomic computer mouse.

I didn’t realize how terrible a laptop trackpad was for my wrist until I realized that the aching wrist that plagues me every busy season didn’t hurt the most with my camera in my hand – but after spending hours editing with a trackpad. Studies have shown that the wider range of motion possible from a computer mouse can create less strain than the static posture required for a touchpad.

The camera’s ergonomics have always been at the top of my list when searching for a new camera, so I was caught off guard that I had forgotten to prioritize ergonomics when editing. I quickly realised that, when I use my trackpad, I’m forcing my hand into the right position. But, a computer mouse fits to my hand, rather than the other way around. I use the Logitech MX Master 3 – the newer version, the 3S, is at the very top of our list of the best computer mouse for photo and video editing.

Besides being a more ergonomic choice, I like having both the mouse and the trackpad. I use the mouse most of the time, but it’s nice to have one hand on the mouse while pinching to zoom on the touchpad. I also feel like the mouse is more precise when working with local edits rather than the trackpad.

There are several things on my list of must-haves as a photographer, like my mirrorless camera, my 50mm prime lens, and a flash. But for editing, that list also includes a computer mouse (and, let’s face it, either some music or TV streaming to make editing less of a bore).

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The Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse is one of many mice that are designed to deal with wrist and hand problems. We recently reviewed the Logitech Ergo Series Lift, although at three times the price, it is a significantly more premium alternative.

Anker's offering is instead the budget-friendly choice for those who want to give this type of mouse a try without breaking the bank. It might not have more advanced features for creativity and gaming but it does have all the expected functionality of a mouse, along with a few extra buttons.

The mouse includes a 1600dpi max tracking resolution and a 2.4GHz wireless link, which, along with the cheap price, are the reasons that it's our top pick for a vertical mouse in our best mouse for video editing and photo editing.

Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse: Specifications

Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse: Key features

The standout feature of this mouse from Anker is its vertical design, which moves your hand from a traditional flat position into a more ergonomic handshake position. This results in smoother movement and less overall strain. Anker has done a fantastic job of creating an ergonomic shaper that sits comfortably in the palm while providing adequate thumb support. I was suprised, but it's as good as the Logitech Ergo Series Lift.

The optical tracking resolution ranges from a minimum of 800 to a maximum of 1600 DPI. This will provide enough sensitivity for most but will be noticeably lacking for gamers who demand extra accuracy.

Two of the five buttons are dedicated to next/previous operations, which are ideal for users who spend a lot of time surfing the web. Thankfully, they are conveniently positioned and easy to locate.

Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse: Build & Handling

The Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse is predominantly constructed of a soft and tactile black plastic, which is very pleasant in the hand. Not only is the material nice to touch but it also provides an adequate level of grip when moving the mouse around. The base, which contains an on/off switch, the AAA battery compartment, and a holder for the USB-A adapter, is made of glossy black plastic.

Despite being so remarkably cheap, the build quality and engineering are good enough to ensure long-lasting durability. My only concern is with the scroller, which has too much friction to make scrolling through long documents or websites particularly easy.

For a vertical mouse, the Anker offering is relatively compact, being no larger than what is required to take an average-sized palm. The weight, without the batteries, is 95.25 grams although with those inserted, the mouse is as heavy as many of its competitors. As a result, it's far from cumbersome to move around.

Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse: Performance

The Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse might be relatively cheap but I had very few problems with its performance. We'll get to some of those issues in a minute but at it's core, the mouse performs very well.

While performing creative and office-based tasks as well as browsing the web, I had no problems with the 1600 DPI resolution. The left and right click buttons were easy to depress, although I would have liked the right button to be larger as well as lower down the mouse. This would have made it significantly more accessible.

The vertical design felt incredibly good for my palm and wrist but it did make it more difficult to efficiently track left and right across pages. Maybe it's just me but the vertical orientation resulted in more rotation from the wrist, which I think was the cause of the lack of lateral movement.

The next and previous buttons are perfectly located to make them easy to access but unfortunately the same can't be said of the fifth button, which is located at the top of the mouse. I'm not sure whether you're supposed to access it with your thumb or index finger but either way, it's tricky.

The only other thing to mention under performance is the fact that the mouse is powered by two AAA batteries. The lack of a built-in battery obviously keeps the cost down but throughout the lifetime of the device, it will more negatively impact the environment.

Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse: Verdict

The Anker Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Mouse is simple and effective. It knows exactly what it is: a budget-friendly vertical mouse with no thrills. As a result, Anker has not gotten carried away with a complicated design or advanced features. It is this ethos that guarantees the cheap price. Above all, I love how comfortable it is, with enough support for both the palm and thumb.

The trackball winner in our best mouse for video editing and photo editing guide is the MX Ergo. Logitech has now released an upgraded version called the MX Ergo S, with the S standing for 'silent'. Additionally, the connection is upgraded from micro USB to USB-C.

Other than the above changes, the Ergo S is similar in terms of shape, button layout, and tracking performance compared to its predecessor. If you therefore currently own the original, I wouldn't bother making the upgrade.

Trackball mice aren't for everyone but if you crave an unrivalled level of pointer precision, you have no other choice. They also reduce muscular strain from not needing to move your wrist and lower arm. Additionally. sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritus are known for getting on better with a trackball mouse.

These types of mice are most suited to architects and audio engineers but if you work in a creative field while at the same time struggle with a wrist or arm condition, then the MX Ergo S could be the way to go.

Logitech MX Ergo S: Specifications

Logitech MX Ergo S: Key features

The MX Ergo S is a trackball mouse with a 20-degree tilt angle and 6 customisable buttons. Shortcuts can be assigned using the Logi Options+ App with the ability to set up application-specific workflows.

It now also includes quiet clicks and charging via USB-C. Unfortunately, and for some unexplainable reason, a USB-C cable is not included. A full charge lasts up to 120 days, while a one-minute charge will give you 24 hours of use.

The mouse can be connected to up to two devices via Bluetooth or the included Logi Bolt receiver. I would have preferred to have the option to connect to three devices like other Logitech mice but that isn't possible with the MX Ergo S. Thanks to Flow Technology, users can also click and drag files across multi-OS devices.

Logitech MX Ergo S: Build & Handling

Material

The MX Ergo S is constructed from two types of materials, with Logitech opting for a soft-touch rubber for the palm rest panel. The rest of the mouse, including the buttons, is made of plastic. The mix of materials makes it incredibly comfortable to use.

Durability

The mouse is as well built and durable as they come, with the buttons, scroll wheel, and trackball all operating perfectly during my test period. I was a little sceptical when I read about the hinged base plate, thinking that it wouldn't require much to damage it. I then discovered that it's not only magentic but also incredibly strong. Suffice to say, I had no issues operating it.

Size

At 132.5 x 99.8 x 51.4 mm and 164 grams the MX Ergo S is a giant of a mouse. If you have small hands, then you might struggle with the button placement as well as getting your thumb in a comfortable position on the trackball.

Logitech MX Ergo S: Performance

The main feature of this mouse is the trackball, so let's begin there. Not only is it perfectly positioned for an average-sized hand, but it also performs as expected with smooth, responsive, and accurate results delivered all the time, every time. If you're looking for a trackball mouse, then you won't be disappointed with how the trackball functions on the MX Ergo S.

If you find the trackball becoming 'sticky' then Logitech has designed the unit so that it can be cleaned. Simply remove the magnetic plate and push the ball out. Clever thinking, Logitech.

One of the improvements with this mouse over its predecessor are the quiet buttons but unfortunately, this is only true for the left and right-click buttons. I'm not sure why Logitech didn't implement the same on all the other buttons but that would have been much better, in my opinion.

The secondary buttons located on the left side of the left mouse button are awkwardly placed, requiring muscle movement that I fear would result in muscle strain over an extended period of time. The thumb button next to the trackball is much better placed and easy to locate.

Logitech MX Ergo S: Verdict

The Logitech MX Ergo S is a well-designed mouse, especially for users who prefer a trackball over moving a mouse around. This might not appeal to a broad range of creatives but will certainly find use amongst those who have experienced wrist and arm strain from more traditional mice. Even though some of the secondary buttons are rather redundant due to their positioning, the trackball itself is smooth, responsive, and accurate—everything you'd want in a mouse of this type.

The best mouse for video editing and photo editing needs to take into consideration the specific needs of creatives. These include usability, handling, and productivity. Any mouse that enables users to quickly access common shortcuts is a big win. The Ergo Lift aims to do all this and more.

At first glance, the most obvious thing about this mouse is its design. The button positioning and functionality are very similar to the MX Anywhere 3S except for the fact that there's a raised ridge located between the side buttons and the main face of the mouse.

The resulting hand positioning takes a little time to feel natural and if your experience is the same as mine, some features you'll find impossible to get used to. This is a mouse that undoubtedly divides opinion.

If this is the first time considering a mouse like this, I would strongly suggest trying to borrow one from a friend or colleague first. That way, you can make sure you'll enjoy using it day after day.

Logitech Ergo Lift: Specifications

Logitech Ergo Lift: Key features

Ergonomic design

The Ergo Lift adopts a 57° angle, which Logitech calls a "natural handshake position." The idea is that it puts less pressure on your wrist and places your arm and upper body into a more natural posture. It also has a thumb rest to further reduce hand strain. The mouse is available in both left and right orientations, which is not always the case when you're buying a mouse.

Shortcuts

The 4 easy-to-reach buttons can be customized to your favorite shortcuts using the simple Logi Options+ app. These can be adjusted to be application-specific, which is incredibly handy for streamlining workflows. Examples of this include mic muting your calls to voice-to-text when editing documents.

Devices

The Ergo Lift makes it possible to easily switch between up to three devices. This is achieved through a button on the bottom, which toggles through the options. It's also possible to move files between devices thanks to Logitech Flow technology using Logi Options+.

Logitech Ergo Lift: Build & Handling

Material

The mouse is made of two types of plastic. The buttons and front portion of the device are a smooth white plastic that has been common on mice for decades. The second is a softer grey plastic that is located at the rear of the mouse and feels extremely comfortable in the hand. The material also helps with maintaining contact between hand and mouse thanks to its soft-grip properties.

Durability

The materials combined with excellent build quality mean this mouse is built to last. The buttons and scroll wheel require minimal movement for operation so these will last as long as you need them to.

Size

The 108 x 70 x 71 mm size and awkward shape mean you won't want to travel around with this mouse. It's designed to sit and stay on the desk and is a great fit for small to medium hands.

Logitech Ergo Lift: Performance

The performance of the Ergo Lift will divide opinion and, if I'm honest, I'm still very much divided too. I love the ergonomic shape that forces your hand into a more natural resting position. It feels good, natural, and is incredibly easy to move around. I didn't experience any hand discomfort while using it, despite not being used to this type of design.

My main issue is with the left and right buttons as well as the scroll wheel. These just don't sit naturally in my hand. On a standard mouse, my middle finger is located comfortably on a scroll wheel, whereas on the Ergo Lift, it sits more naturally on the right-click button. This made it feel very unnatural to operate.

The scroll wheel is also located at a 37-degree angle, which felt odd given that the resulting action moves a page up and down. It felt like there was a disconnect between what I was feeling and what I was seeing. I just couldn't get used to it. More positively, the operation of the buttons and scroll wheel is incredibly quiet. You'll therefore have no problems using this mouse in a shared office.

Unlike the MX Anywhere 3S, the Ergo Lift won't work on any surface. It therefore has to be located on a hard work surface and can't be used on glass or soft fabrics like the Anwhere 3S can.

Logitech Ergo Lift: Verdict

The Logitech Ergo Lift mouse is designed for users who want a more natural resting position for their house. The middle ridge and thumb rest force the hand into a comfortable resting position that limits handstrain. All of this is masterfully implemented. I was less of a fan of the location of the left and right buttons as well as the scroll wheel. My fingers didn't naturally rest where I needed them to. Having the scroll wheel at an angle also felt particularly odd compared to having it flat. The Ergo Lift is a mouse that will take a while to get used to but once you do, your hand will be grateful.

The Logitech MX Anywhere 3S has a strong chance of making it onto our best mouse for photo and video editing buying guide. It also perfectly bridges the gap between creative application use and more general laptop work. This makes it a perfect all-rounder.

Creatives will love the ability to customise buttons, set tracking speed, and use predefined app-specific customisations to optimise workflow. Sure, there are more customisable options out there but this provides more than enough for most users.

It might not have the gesture functionality associated with the Apple Magic Mouse 2 but it more than makes up for it in almost every other regard. Logitech has delivered one of the best all-round mouse experiences available at the moment.

One of my favourite things about the mouse is how good the engineering is. Not only is it perfect for hybrid working and ergonomic for comfort, but it's also unbelievably quiet to maintain ultimate focus. Having used the MX Anywhere 3S, I couldn't imagine using any other mouse.

MX Anywhere 3S Specifications

MX Anywhere 3S: Key features

The MX Anywhere 3S has six buttons that can be customized for that perfect user-specific experience. It's also possible to set up predefined app-specific customizations to optimize your workflow with Logi Options+. Mouse clicks are unbelievably quiet so you'll have no problems focusing on your work or working in a shared space.

The Magspeed scroll wheel allows for up to 1,000 lines to be scrolled per second. This impressive performance is ideal for making light work of large documents or long web pages. It's also responsive enough to handle minor scrolling adjustments.

The mouse will work on any surface, including glass, which makes it ideal for working on the go. The 8k DPI sensor allows for effortless movement with minimal effort. Tracking speeds can also be adjusted, although I found it perfectly set up straight out of the box.

I loved the fact that the mouse can connect with up to 3 devices via Bluetooth. As a result, I didn't have to worry about having to reconnect the mouse every time I wanted to switch the device I was working on. The mouse can connect to Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux operating systems.

The mouse features quick charging via USB-C and lasts an incredible 70 days on a full charge. What is maybe more impressive is that it'll last up to 3 hours off a one-minute charge. Unlike other mice, including the Apple Magic Mouse 2, you can use this mouse while it's charging.

MX Anywhere 3S: Build & Handling

Material

The top and bottom panels of the MX Anywhere 3S are made of plastic, although the sides are composed of a softer and grippier rubber-like material. The mix of materials makes it a joy to handle and effortless to operate.

Durability

Having used the MX Anywhere 3S for a number of months, there are no visible scratches or scuffs despite regularly transporting it to different locations. It's well-made, constructed of durable materials, and built to last.

Size

At 100.5, 65, 34.4 mm in size, the MX Anywhere 3S is a beautifully compact mouse that is designed to be used by hybrid workers. The mouse fits perfectly around my average-sized hand but if you have larger hands, then you might struggle with the compact form factor.

MX Anywhere 3S: Performance

As for performance, I have almost only positives to write about. Let's begin with its handling. The materials, ergonomic design, and effortless scroll wheel meant I could use the mouse day after day without any hand aches or discomfort. It's almost as if they've designed it to minimize the strain on any muscles whatsoever. I've never used a more comfortable mouse.

Button and scroll wheel operation is equally easy, although I think the two side buttons would have benefitted from being closer to the front of the mouse. I found myself having to unnecessarily and unnaturally shift my thumb backward to operate the rear-positioned button.

I didn't find myself requiring any extra buttons, although I did have the Logitech MX Creative Console for more specific creative application shortcuts. This is a mouse that performs well across a variety of workflows, including editing, designing, and browsing.

MX Anywhere 3S: Verdict

The Logitech MX Anywhere 3S delivers on almost all fronts. The compact design is ideal for hybrid working, while the inclusion of six buttons makes it possible to customize workflows. I think the two side buttons would benefit from being further towards the front of the mouse but other than that, it's hard to find anything else wrong with the mouse. This is a mouse that I'll be sticking with.

Peripheral specialist Logitech, better known for making some of the best webcams, has just entered the traditional camera space with the new Mevo Core – an interchangeable lens Micro Four Thirds camera.

Logitech stands shoulder to shoulder with other members of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) standard, including founder members Panasonic and OM System (formerly Olympus), as well as powerhouses such as DJI, Blackmagic and Leica. 

A truly tiny 4K box camera, the Logitech Mevo Core bears a passing resemblance to the Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera 4K G2 and Yongnuo YN433 – but feels like a much more coherent proposition for general consumers, as you might expect from a company whose computing ecosystem includes some of the best keyboards and best mice. 

It proposes a single or multi-camera streaming solution for Facebook, YouTube, X / Twitter, Sideline, Gamechanger, LinkedIn, Vimeo, RTMP and NDI HX, and also acts as a video conferencing webcam for Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Streamlabs, MimoLive and Mmhmm.

The Mevo Core packs an 8.3MP image sensor wired for 30p recording and streaming in 4K, FullHD (1080p) and HD (720p), as well as 30p streaming in SD (480p or 360p). Video is captured in 16:9, using H.264 and HEVC codecs. 

Its integrated WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.1 enables it to seamlessly communicate with other Cores or other members of the Mevo family (Start, Plus and Go) for wireless multi-camera streaming. The Mevo Multicam app enables you to control aspects such as exposure, focus, audio mixing and optical zoom.

Yes, optical zoom. The Mevo Core supports three electronic zoom lenses that can all be controlled from the app to provide dynamic push-ins and pull-outs: the Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm EZ pancake, Panasonic Lumix 14-42mm PZ and Panasonic Lumix 45-175mm PZ.

Curiously, Logitech has only certified four lenses that "have been tested for optimal performance with Mevo Core", the fourth being the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN | C. Of course, you can use any of the best Micro Four Thirds lenses with the camera – though obviously dumb lenses and manual focus lenses won't be remotely controllable.

The Logitech Mevo Core is available now, priced $999.99 body only (UK and Australian availability to follow). 

Order the Logitech Mevo Core at Amazon
Order the Logitech Mevo Core at B&H

Take a look at the best cameras for streaming, the best cameras for Instagram and the best PTZ cameras.

There aren’t many sectors of the technology industry where the most expensive product can cost ten times more than the cheapest, despite performing the same function. But webcams are one of those products, and even within Logitech’s own portfolio, there are models priced at just $20 and some, like the new MX Brio reviewed here, that cost $200.

Can one webcam really be worth ten or 11 times more than another? This is what I’m about to find out, thanks to the new MX Brio, a 4K webcam from Logitech’s Master Series that uses AI to improve image quality. It also packs what Logitech says is its largest webcam sensor yet, and which promises to deliver two times the image detail in difficult lighting.

There’s also a pair of beam-forming microphones, a wide, 90-degree lens (very wide for a webcam, in fact), a USB-C connection, and an integrated lens cover. Add in HDR and broad configurability options in Logitech’s free Logi Options software, and the MX Brio promises to deliver everything a webcam buyer could ever need. Does it live up to that billing? Let’s find out.

Logitech MX Brio: Specifications

Logitech MX Brio: Price

I won’t spend long here, but it's safe to say $200 / £220 is a lot of money to spend on a webcam, especially since laptops have one built into their lid. That said, you’re probably on this page because you want something much better than that tiny sensor in your laptop.

This is certainly a luxury purchase, but one that will be valued by those who really need it – perhaps you’re a Twitch streamer, or you have a job where you need to look your best in every online meeting. Maybe you’re a pundit or a journalist who makes regular appearances on TV and needs something of far higher quality than your laptop’s own grainy webcam.

And besides, while $200 / £220 isn’t cheap, the Logitech MX Brio costs less than the Insta360 Link and Poly Studio video conferencing systems aimed at corporate customers. The MX Brio is available now.

Logitech MX Brio: Design & Handling

The MX Brio is quite large by webcam standards, but not to the point of being unwieldy. It might not slip into your laptop briefcase like some others, but that’s just the price you pay for a webcam with a large sensor, a pair of microphones, and a premium (read: weighty) design.

The body is metal and the integrated lens cover opens and closes with a twist of the ring surrounding it. It’s a small thing, but the movement of the covers feels of very high quality; it’s the little details like this that show Logtich has poured effort into making sure the MX Brio delivers an experience worthy of its price tag.

There’s a white status light to the side of the lens, and a microphone at either side. The rear houses a USB-C port and the whole thing attaches to a monitor mount with a strong magnet. That attachment allows the camera to be moved left or right, and the mount itself tilts forward for when you want to share a view of your desk. Do this, and the camera flips its view 180 degrees, making it easy to include whatever’s on your desk in the video call.

The stand clips to the top of your computer monitor in the usual way but also includes an adhesive pad for a more permanent installation. It balances without this, but if you want to aim the camera at your desk you’ll need to use the adhesive pad. I have a light bar on top of my screen, so I can either position the MX Brio off to the side and turn it to face me, or it will (just about) balance on top of the light without toppling off. Lastly, the magnet on the base of the camera has a screw thread for attaching to a tripod – useful for streamers or YouTubers who want to take advantage of the 90-degree lens and give their audience a broad view.

In short, it’s a premium product with a design and a feel that matches the high price. On the hardware alone, you won’t be disappointed.

Logitech MX Brio: Performance

I’ll just get straight to it: the MX Brio produces some of the best webcam footage I’ve ever seen. Yes, having a 4K sensor certainly helps, but as we’ve seen time and again with dash cams, a 4K pixel count doesn’t always translate into stellar video quality.

It does here, though. Even without diving into the Logi Options+ app and tinkering with the exposure, white balance, brightness, contrast, and other parameters, the MX Brio looks great. Right out of the box, the picture quality is top-notch.

What’s more, this webcam has one of the widest lenses I’ve seen, at 90 degrees. This is likely overkill for most video calls, as such a wide view includes an awful lot of your room, too. But for streamers who want to decorate their backgrounds, the breadth of a 90-degree view looks great. There’s a bit of distortion at the edges, but that’s to be expected and isn’t really a distraction.

There are also 78-degree and 65-degree options, if you prefer a tighter crop. This is done with digital zoom rather than a set of three physical lenses, but since you’re starting with a 4K image cutting in to the tighter, 65-degree view still produces a sharp image with plenty of detail.

Today’s smartphones can double as high-quality webcams, which in some ways undermines products like the MX Brio. But using a phone is still a clunky experience compared to a purpose-made webcam, and makes using the phone tricky while on a video call. It’s a useful function in a pinch, but I think for those who frequently video conference and need a high-quality camera, the MX Brio is the better option.

Logitech MX Brio: Samples

I’ve included a selection of screenshots above, showing the camera’s view at 90, 78, and 65 degrees, plus an idea of what the MX Brio looks like when using Apple’s Portrait and Studio Lighting functions.

Colors are nicely balanced with a good amount of saturation, while HDR helps stop the image from being blown out if you sit in front of a bright window. I have a window behind me when I’m at my desk and the MX Brio handles it just fine, always keeping me and the entire room correctly exposed. There’s a manual exposure option if you need it, and HDR can be switched off (along with an option for low light compensation), but leaving everything at the default setting produces great results.

That said, I chose to boost the brightness, contrast, temperature, saturation and sharpness ever-so-slightly, and I tend to also switch on Apple’s Portrait and Studio Light settings to help blur my background and cast an artificial light on my face.

The Logitech’s low light performance is also very good, and the autofocus reacts quickly, smartly locking onto the subject (in other words, you) and staying with it. It’s not as quick at focusing on non-human objects, such as when you hold something up to the lens, but it gets there eventually.

Logitech MX Brio: Final Verdict

In short, you get what you pay for. The Logitech MX Brio is an expensive webcam, and for many consumers it simply isn’t necessary. But for those who truly value a high-quality image in their video calls or live streams, it’s a fantastic product. Image quality is great, thanks to that 4K sensor, while the wide, 90-degree lens will be valuable to some customers, and the hardware looks and feels top-notch.

The dual microphones also do a stand-out job, and I like how it uses USB-C power with a detachable cable, so if the one included isn’t long enough you can use your own – something that can’t be said for all webcams.

The MX Brio isn’t the smallest webcam, but the monitor stand works well. I like how the magnetic connection makes it easy to adjust, and how the image rotates 180 degrees when the camera is pivoted down at your desk – handy for showing printed documents in video conferences.

Not many people will have the need for a 4K webcam, and fewer still are likely to justify the £220 price tag. But for those who need to look their best, and have the budget to do so, the MX Brio is a fantastic high-quality webcam.

Alternatives

Over 2,100 backers put their money behind the IndieGoGo campaign for the Logitech Reach, which hit its target in under 5 minutes, cruised past 700% in 2 hours, and became 2023's most successful camera campaign. Now Logitech has confirmed they're moving forward to mass production of this document camera.

Why so popular? The device can be adjusted with just one hand, pointing what Logitech call a premium 1080P 60fps camera (we'll have to reserve judgment until we can review it, but the brand has been good in the past as traditional webcams like Logitech C922 testament). The camera has independent vertical adjustment with 360-degrees of rotation. The optics are glass – no cheap plastics here – and lossless zoom of 4.3x is available with a physical push button.

Power is delivered over the USB-C connection so this is more-or-less a "just works" design with the ability to pivot or rotate. The camera will also boast the Logitech StreamCam functionality which allows presenters to stay in the flow of presenting (especially, perhaps, if they remember the days of overhead projectors!)

“Logitech Reach responds to the growing need for an all-encompassing sharing solution, featuring a remarkably adaptable camera,” said Michele Hermann, head of Education Solutions at Logitech. “Its user-centric design enhances the overall experience, offering a seamlessly positioned camera along multiple axes. This promotes effortless and comprehensive presentations, eliminating any potential for awkward setups.”

The Logitech Reach will command a not-inconsiderable $349.99 (£275 / AU$533) at launch and will be available directly from Logitech or retailers sometime in the summer of 2024. If you want to tool up in advance of the autumn term (yes, we know educational outfits do plan ahead), then Logitech will be happy to take your call.

If you can't wait, why not check our guide to the best document cameras, a list which the Reach will no doubt be looking for a place on!

If you’re an avid photo or video editor or simply find yourself spending more time at your computer, then investing in a standalone keyboard can be a huge quality-of-life upgrade. Laptop keyboards especially aren’t really suited for extended typing sessions since portability very often trumps comfort and ergonomics.

The Logitech MX Keys S is the follow-up to the MX Keys, a premium keyboard that boasted automated LED lighting, customizable keys and the ability to switch seamlessly between devices. Fortunately, you can expect all of that and more when it comes to the MX Keys S. And while we reckon it’s one of the best Mac keyboards on the market, it’s compatible with Windows, Android and various other operating systems too. 

The keyboard itself is available on its own or as part of the MX Keys S Combo we were sent in to review. But since we’ve already reviewed the excellent MX Master 3S, we’ve delivered our verdict on just the keyboard itself.

Logitech MX Keys S: Specifications

Size: (Full-size keyboard) H 131.63 x W 430.2 x D 20.5 mm / H 5.2 x W 16.9 x D 0.8 in
Weight: 810 g / 1.8 lbs
Battery: Rechargeable Li-Po (1500 mAh)
Battery life: Up to 10 days (up to 5 months with no backlighting)
Charging: USB-C
Connections: Bluetooth and Logi Bolt USB Receiver
Remembered devices: 3
Wireless range: 10 m / 33 ft
Build: Aluminum and plastic
System requirements: Windows 10 (or later), macOS 10.15 (or later), Linux, ChromeOS, iPadOS 14 (or later), Android 8.0 (or later)

Logitech MX Keys S: Key features

The Logitech MX Keys S comes with the Logi Bolt USB Receiver and a USB-A to USB-C charging cable. You can connect the keyboard via Bluetooth or, if you have an available USB-A port, you can simply plug in the Logi Bolt USB Receiver and connect it that way. A switch on the keyboard’s rear panel powers it on and off. 

It’s worth mentioning that the MX Keys S and MX Master 3S are only compatible with the Logi Bolt USB Receiver and not the previous generation’s USB Unifying Receiver, just as the MX Keys and MX Master 2S are not compatible with the Logi Bolt. This is worth considering if you have the older keyboard and mouse and are only planning on upgrading one of them, since you’d need to use both the Logi Bolt and Unifying Receiver. If you’re happy to just use Bluetooth, this isn’t an issue. 

If you decide to connect the keyboard to two or three devices, you can toggle between them using the device keys above ‘insert’, ‘home’ and ‘page up’. Other than the ‘escape’ key and trio of Bluetooth selection keys, you can customize the entire top row of keys to perform a huge range of functions. Do this by downloading the Logi Options+ app, which is only available on Windows 10 and macOS 11 (or later).

The keyboard is compatible with a range of operating systems including Windows, macOS, iPadOS and Android. Firmware updates can be easily managed via Logi Options+, but otherwise the keyboard is simply plug-and-play. We tested it on a Macbook, PC and iPad, and it paired via Bluetooth or Logi Bolt seamlessly.

Logitech MX Keys S: Design

The MX Keys S looks nearly identical to the original MX Keys. It’s a sleek, minimalist keyboard that will look right at home alongside a trendy computer or laptop, right next to that glass coffee mug and pot plant. If you moonlight as a gamer and prefer colorful neon lights and jumbo mechanical keys or simply prefer the tactile nature of typing using the latter, this probably isn’t the keyboard for you. 

It’s available in two colors, Graphite and Pale Gray. We reviewed the former and it looks really smart. Product photos make the keys look black, but they’re definitely a dark gray in person, arguably with a very subtle blue tint. From my experience, white keyboards are a dust and grime magnet, so it’s nice to have the Graphite option. 

If you’re keen to pick up more sustainable tech then the Graphite variant is definitely the way to go. Its plastics comprise 26% recycled materials, as opposed to the Pale Gray’s 11%. The case itself is made from low-carbon aluminum, which is largely responsible for the keyboard’s surprising heft. It weighs in at 810g, making this a nice, solid desktop peripheral, but something you’d want to avoid slinging in your rucksack on a regular basis.

On the keyboard’s rear plate you’ll find the on/off switch and a USB-C port. Just above the former on the keyboard’s face is an LED that glows red when the battery is low. As with the original MX Keys, we’re pleased to report that the keyboard still features dual Mac and Windows compatibility, with ‘opt/start’ and ‘cmd/alt’ buttons. Various buttons may also display a symbol on a white circular background on the left side of the key or a symbol on a clear circular background on the right side of the key. This is to differentiate between functions used on Mac or another operating system, respectively.

Some of the function keys have changed completely. Three keys that were all used to aid navigation with functions such as showing all open windows have been removed to make room for dictation, emojis and mute/unmute mic hotkeys. For students, this might be a boon, but for photographers and creatives, this does take away some pretty useful functionality, *crying face emoji*. 

The keys have a nice, velvety touch to them – much like the Apple Pencil 2 – but I’ve already made a few light marks on them without rigorous use and well-used keys such as the space bar are already beginning to get a bit shiny. Whether this is due to wear or oils from fingers, this is to be expected due to the materials used. And while I can’t comment on long-term use, overall the keyboard does feel very robust and well made. 

Logitech MX Keys S: Performance

The MX Keys S can be paired with up to three devices via Bluetooth or the Logi Bolt. I connected the keyboard to a Macbook, iPad and Windows laptop. Three keys on the keyboard allow you to switch seamlessly between devices. You can mix and match Bluetooth and Logi Bolt devices too, so I connected the Macbook and iPad via Bluetooth and used one of the Windows laptop’s USB-A ports to accommodate the Logi Bolt. Unfortunately, if you’re using a computer with USB-C ports then you’ll need to pick up a USB-C to USB-A Connector.

An easy-to-digest pictorial diagram on the box shows you how to connect devices, but it leaves out a couple of key pieces of information. Firstly, before you pair your second or third device, you need to hold down the corresponding device button for a couple of seconds before pairing. And secondly, when pairing via Bluetooth, you’ll be asked to input a code using the MX Keys S. Simple enough, but what isn’t communicated is that you need to hit return once you’ve inputted the code. Once connected, I had no problems switching between devices, which can prove extremely frustrating with many other Bluetooth peripherals. 

Typing on the MX Keys S will feel like a bit of a luxury if you’ve come from a standard laptop keyboard. In many ways the subtle, additional springiness reminds me of older Mac keyboards. It looks like a slick modern device, but the keys feel comparatively chunkier with a subtle spongy quality. Sure, it doesn’t feel like a mechanical keyboard, but it is comfortable. This is compounded by each key’s velvety texture and the subtle, rounded indents that guide your digits to the center of each key. I use an Apple keyboard – albeit one that’s a few years old now – and replacing it with the MX Keys S would be a definite step up in comfort alone.

The MX Keys S isn’t an ergonomic keyboard. It’s built to offer both comfort and good looks. Our MX Keys S Combo also includes the MX Palm Rest. And while its thin padding doesn’t seem particularly impressive out of the box, it does make the keyboard more comfortable and is a recommended addition if you anticipate plenty of typing.

When the keyboard arrived it was far from fully charged and even then, I managed to get several days of use out of it. And when I finally decided to charge it, it was still at 25%. Logitech quotes a 10-day battery life or five months with the LED backlight disabled, but as is often the case, this is a bit of a moot point. The battery life will vary depending on how rigorously you use the keyboard and how hard the backlight has to work. This is because the backlight intensifies in low light and fades in ample light. It also switches off when inactive, illuminating once you return your hands to the keyboard. Overall, it’s suitably bright without becoming a distraction and can be customized in the Logi Options+ app.

The Logi Options+ app is available for Mac and Windows, and allows you to customize the MX Keys S via an intuitive user interface. Here, you can alter the backlighting such as increasing or decreasing the duration it stays illuminated, when the keyboard is inactive, or switching it off entirely. You can view the devices that are currently connected to the keyboard and you can access a general settings menu, with features such as searching for firmware updates and backing up your keyboard’s settings. 

The main reason to download Logi Options+ is to set up the 17 customizable keys. I mentioned earlier that the new emoji button isn’t exactly a boon for photographers, but you can customize it to perform one of many options, such as minimize a window or copy. You can even assign keys to applications, so you can quickly access photo-centric software such as Adobe Photoshop CC or Affinity Photo 2 with the tap of a button. Using Logi Options+ couldn't be simpler, but it is a shame more buttons aren't able to be customized.

The app’s most interesting feature is its ability to create Smart Actions, something that wasn't available on the original MX Keys. You tell Logi Options+ what you want the Smart Action to do, assign it to one of the customizable buttons and use that button to initiate a single action or sequence of actions. You begin by adding a trigger – in this case the emoji button – and then one or more actions. I selected an application, Photoshop, and browsed a dropdown list of available functions, before settling on undo. 

You can even set up a hotkey for your choice of text, which is extremely useful if you regularly send identical emails to clients; or record a sequence of keystrokes and much more. Smart Actions have their own tab in Logi Options+, so you can make as many as you like and then assign them to keys as and when you need to. This is a neat way to maximize your workflow efficiency. 

Key customizations and Smart Actions are specific to the device with Logi Options+ installed. This means if you set the emoji key to undo on your Macbook, it will still operate as the emoji button on your Windows computer. Unfortunately, Logi Options+ is only available on Windows and macOS, so you cannot customize the keyboard for your Android device or iPad. 

Logitech MX Keys S: Verdict

If you already own the original MX Keys then you may struggle to justify upgrading unless you absolutely have to have the new Smart Actions. But if you’re sick of tapping against your standard laptop keyboard and are looking for a more premium option, then the MX Keys S will prove a familiar luxury. It’ll look great on a sleek minimalist desktop while providing a comfortable – if not entirely ergonomic – typing experience. And if you’ve never delved into the world of keyboard customization, Logi Options+ makes tweaking the MX Keys S a cinch. 

It’s just a shame there aren’t more customizable keys or a Logi Options+ app for iPad and Android. The automated LED lights are a nice quality of life addition and once you’ve paired up to three devices via Logi Bolt or Bluetooth, switching between them is seamless. The fact that Logi Bolt peripherals don’t work with the previous generation’s Unifying Receiver could be a turn-off for existing Master Series users and it’s a shame the palm rest isn't included as standard, but overall, this is a nice keyboard that will provide a significant upgrade for most users.

Read more: Find out about other graphic tablets and pen display options in our guide for the best drawing tablet, or check out the best Wacom tablets

For over two decades, Logitech has been one of the leading webcam companies. Many individuals educate, engage, and connect with others with Logitech devices and sales grew fast during the pandemic, but, until now, if you wanted to use a Logitech camera with documents a certain amount of jerry-rigging was needed (indeed you'll find YouTube videos telling you how).

Now the launch of the Logitech Reach means the brand is providing a complete answer in the form of a document camera. The Logitech Reach is a versatile, articulating camera designed to elevate non-digital content sharing. 

• Check out the best Logitech webcam - ranging from budget options to professional, high-quality cameras

In recent years, there has been a huge increase in demand for non-digital content sharing. Through lockdown, everyone from personal trainers, to chefs, and crafters turned to video as a way of continuing to communicate with their audience. Although life has returned to normal, many people have continued to adopt video learning as standard practice and the Logitech Reach will help alleviate many of the challenges these content creators face. 

There is no way back for the slide-based overhead projector now the digital classroom has established itself! The Logitech Reach's  “show and tell” experience is delivered using high-quality 1080p video at 60fps through enhanced glass optics. The camera boasts smart autofocus that "delivers a more immersive experience." The camera itself is able to effortlessly move horizontally and vertically allowing the content-creator to show different perspectives and zoom in on details with 4.3x lossless zoom in a single button. 

For content creators wanting to switch from speaking to the camera to showing off a skill, a pivoting camera enables users to easily change the vantage point and position the camera. It’s designed to adapt to the space you have so the Logitech Reach can be operated in full desktop mode when using it on a table or in its compact setup paired with the low-profile edge clamp in more confined spaces. 

Working with the Indiegogo Enterprise platform, Logitech is able to offer the Logitech Reach to early adopters and innovation seekers at a discounted price in return for insight into how it can be used in different environments and for different reasons. To be among the first to use the Logitech Reach sign up at Reach Camera. 

Also check out the best cameras for streaming on Twitch, YouTube and Facebook Live, as well as our guide to the best document cameras.

The Logitech Brio 300 webcam (and its business counterpart, the Brio 305) is a basic desk webcam with 1080p Full HD resolution, a built-in microphone for audio recording, and a streamlined suite of features to ensure your video calls work the way they’re supposed to, with little complication.

While it isn’t the most advanced model out there, it’s hard to argue with the price tag – for just $70/£75/AU$130, you’re getting a reliable, if basic computing accessory that should tick the box for casual use.

Specifications

Resolution: 720p/1080p

Field of view: 70°

Frame rate: 30fps

Digital zoom: 1x Digital zoom

Inbuilt microphone: Mono mic

Autofocus: No

Privacy cover: Yes

Connection: USB-C to USB-C

Key features

The Brio 300 supports both 720p and 1080p video, though it’s worth sticking with the highest quality your monitor supports regardless.

Both video options support 30fps – less than the 60fps found on higher-end Logitech models, but certainly enough for remote work calls to function without issue. Fast movements can get quite blurry, though we imagine this won’t come up too much for a fixed-view webcam at your desk.

The Brio 300 makes do with a single microphone, meaning audio recording is a little unimpressive, but is still functional for general, personal, or workplace communication.

Build and handling

The Logitech Brio 300 is a relatively small device, making it more discreet than larger, more premium options that need to fit in more microphones or camera tech. This is both an advantage and disadvantage, keeping things simple and streamlined while also limiting what capabilities the Brio 300’s limited size has room for.

The Brio 300 has a cone-like shape, with a narrow USB-C cable that connects directly to the laptop at the back. The front, and wide edge of the cone, contains the camera, as well as an integrated camera shutter that slides seamlessly on and off the lens.

It clasps easily onto the top of a computer monitor, with a rubber grip that keeps it stable throughout the day, though not with any adhesive. The webcam comes with an adjustable hinge to help direct the camera at head height, no matter the height of the monitor.

The Brio 300 is available in off-white, rose, or graphite colorways.

Performance

In practice, the Logitech Brio 300 is brilliantly straightforward to use. With a simple USB-C connection, a clearly signposted camera shutter, and an effective screen grip to keep it still, this model fades easily into the background after setup.

There aren’t many video options or adjustments to be made. You can switch between 1080p/Full HD and 720p/HD, and alter the levels of brightness, contrast, saturation, or sharpness – though the default levels will usually suffice. We’d steer clear of the optional filters, too, given how garish they can be – though you may enjoy trying a handful, even if they lack the sophistication or AR technology of a SnapChat filter.

The Brio 300 packs in anti-flicker technology for 50Hz or 60Hz screens, and we never had an issue with flickering during testing. Automatic exposure and white balance settings also ensure a consistent level of illumination and color correction, and are largely effective – though you can get away with turning them off in the daylight, if you want.

There are signs of rather basic processing during video recording, such as a faint white outline around the user, as the Brio 300 attempts to highlight important objects or people in the frame. All in all, the Brio 300 certainly doesn’t feel premium, but it does a decent job with ensuring consistent visibility regardless.

Verdict

The Logitech Brio 300 is a simple, affordable and reliable webcam for your desk. With decently-accurate color, a 30fps frame rate, and a maximum 1080p resolution, the basics of a personal webcam are all provided for here.

While the Brio 300 lacks the more feature-packed design of the Brio 505 – such as head tracking or autofocus – it also benefits from a comparative simplicity. There are few settings to worry about, and a fixed view that stays stable and consistent throughout calls.

For a straightforward webcam that gets the basics right, the Logitech Brio 300 is an appropriate choice that won’t break the bank.

Other Logitech webcam reviews

• Logitech C310 webcam review
• Logitech Brio 505 review
• Logitech Brio Stream webcam review
• Logitech ConferenceCam Connect review
• Logitech StreamCam webcam review
• Logitech C922 Pro HD Stream webcam review
• Logitech C270 HD review

If you're a keen photo or video editor you will know that having a great mouse for video editing will help you tremendously, and the MX Master 3S from Logitech has been designed to take the stress out of photo and video editing by designing a mouse that is fully customizable to help you edit your way to success with your next project.

The appeal of the Logitech MX Master 3S, besides it being a wonderful wireless mouse, is the fact that Logitech has worked with Adobe Creative Cloud to give you a mouse whose buttons can act as a shortcut for multiple tools. 

For example, its handy thumb scroll can be used for brush sizes in Photoshop or scrubbing through a massive timeline in Abobe Premiere in fact, there are several layouts to choose from in the Logitech Options+ software that allows you to make this mouse not just a cursor, but become a vital tool in the likes photo editing software, Zoom calls, and even Microsoft Word - with much more!

Logitech MX Master 3S: Specifications

DPI:  up to 8,000 DPI
Customization: 7 fully customizable buttons (program dependent)
Wireless:  Yes, 10-meter operating distance (can also be used plugged in)
Interface: USB 3.0
Colors: White or black
Weight: 141g
Dimensions (W x D x H): 14.4 x 6.6 x 18.4mm
Operating system: Windows 10 onwards / Mac OS X 10.15 onwards, ChromeOS6, Ipad OS 14 or later, Android 8.0 or later.

Logitech MX Master 3S Key features

The Key feature of the MX Master 3S is its ability to be able to connect to practically any device, so if you have a Mac or PC this will work flawlessly however, the clever part is that the MX Master 3S can remember up to three different devices, all running different operating systems, so if you a heavy video editor using a PC all day, but also love to do a bit of video editing on your iPad, you can keep using the MX Master 3S across devices with the same keybindings so your workflow is never slowed down.

While being a wireless mouse with a built-in non-removable battery the MX Master 3S offers two way on connectivity for those with either a desktop computer or laptop with USB ports - or via a dongle. If you're a Mac user in the box you are provided with a wireless receiver called Logi Bolt, this simple receiver offers a totally plug-in and play service to anyone using Mac or PC.

For those that are traveling light and picking up an iPad for photo or video editing, or even going with the best android tablet the MX Master 3S also offers Bluetooth connectivity making sure you never miss out on that ultimate form of productivity. 

Logitech MX Master 3S Build & Handling

Material

The Logitech MX Master 3S is built from a mixture of hard plastic and recycled plastic, depending on the color option you choose. Black offers 27% post-consumer recycled material, while the option will give you 22% recycled plastic within its construction. Both the thumb and scroll wheel are made from metal, as is the base giving an overall premium feel to this rather light mouse.

Durability

While we can't initially say the Black variant will stay in tip-top condition we can, however, say that the white colorway stays clean in even the most stressed situations. With its solid construction and great battery life, we were not reaching out for the USB Type C charging cable before the end of the day, in fact, having used this mouse since it arrived for testing the unit is still showing 45% battery without being fully charged on arrival. 

If you're someone that likes to chuck a mouse into your bag along with other accessories we are confident that the Logitech MX Master 3S will hold out with the untidiest of packers, while the white model may pick up scratches due to its bright nature, we're positive the Black colorway will hold up very well in this situation.

Size

While there are other wireless mice on the market that offer wireless functionality at half the footprint of the MX Master 3S, some even offered by Logitech, they are only signed for one this  - to be a standard mouse to get most people by. The MX Master 3S really is designed for creatives of all kinds and due to its customizability it tends to be on the larger side of the spectrum, this size. 

However, isn't of putting and the mouse feels great in the hand for long periods of use without any RSI flareups. It will seem large to many but you soon get used to the size, the weight is also very light at just 141g making this a featherweight in comparison to smaller footprint alternatives.

Logitech MX Master 3S Performance

The Logitech MX Master 3S is designed to help content creators perform at their very best day in, and day out. Thanks to its 7 customizable buttons, helpful pre-installed shortcuts for all Abode Creative cloud applications, with the ability to make your own for various devices from its 3-option memory the MX Master 3S really is a multi-tool designed to help creatives get the job done.

While the Logitech Options+ software is a great tool to get the mouse up and running for most applications and users, those who really like to deep dive into DPI settings can really customize this mouse however they like, even to the way in which they hold a button and move the mouse - this is an amazing feature however, it doesn't offer a completely customizable approach when compared to the 6 other buttons you can customizable to your own preferences. The thumb rest button that offers unique gesture control can only be used in supported applications, and not in a way that appears overly useful.

Logitech MX Master 3S Verdict

If you're a photographer or filmmaker who spends a vast amount of time editing on your PC, Mac, or even iPad or tablet then you can really take advantage of the customizable features the Logitech MX Master 3S offers.

Its performance is industry-leading and its construction makes it a solid option for anyone looking for a mouse to take with them on the go or have at their workstation. While Logitech is using up to 27% recycled consumer plastics within the build of this MX Master 3S, it would be good to see those numbers increased with the next edition. 

We enjoyed making custom button profiles for Adobe Creative Cloud applications such as Photoshop, where many will find the pre-installed shortcuts fitting to their workflow seamlessly.  Cost is a big factor in the times we live in and while paying $100 / £119.99 / AU $169.95 for a mouse might sound a little steep, it is worth every penny when you consider how much time you will save in the editing suite of your choice when using its custom profiles - quite frankly its the best mouse we have ever used!

Other Logitech reviews
Logitech C310 webcam review
Logitech Brio Stream webcam review
Logitech ConferenceCam Connect review
Logitech C270 HD review
Logitech StreamCam webcam review
Logitech C922 Pro HD Stream webcam review

Good webcams are crucial in an office environment – whether that’s your home office or an open-plan row of desks for an entire department. It’s a bad look to be stuck with a pixelated face or off-color tint during a Zoom meeting, and there are plenty of webcams that improve on the middling built-in offerings found in the average laptop.

Logitech's Logi Brio 505 is a capable upgrade, with a simple USB-C connection, Full HD picture, built-in stereo microphone, and integrated privacy shutter. That’s not to mention its host of useful smart features, including a variety of zoom, viewing angle, and autofocus options to customize the image you put out to your colleagues or customers. 

The Brio 505 is essentially identical to the 500 model, but comes with a detachable cable and a three-year warranty – unlike the fixed cable and one-year warranty of the 500. There’s also a Brio Stream model that outputs in 4K with improved noise canceling, for about double the price, but the average employee should find the Brio 505 works fine for their needs.

Specifications

Resolution: 720p/1080p

Field of view: 90°/78°/65°

Frame rate: 30fps/60fps

Digital zoom: 4x Digital zoom

Inbuilt microphone: Stereo mic

Autofocus: Yes

Privacy cover: Yes

Connection: USB-C to USB-C

Key features

The Logitech Brio 505 feels tailor-made for a workspace – whether a home office or more corporate setting. Its RightSight technology automatically frames you in the center of the image, with a capable autofocus which means you’ll never be staring at fuzzy faces in an important meeting.

While you’ll get the best results using it as a solo operator, the 505’s adjustable field of view – going up to a 90-degree angle – means you can fit in a few colleagues in a squeeze, and even change the viewing angle on the fly. You can turn off the automatic picture modes to get a fixed angle and focus distance, if you want more of a controlled image, but most users should be happy with an algorithm doing the work.

You’ll get a basic stereo microphone built into the webcam itself. It sounds crisper than the average laptop mic, and comes through clearly on calls – a perfectly capable workhorse for daily meetings. Logitech’s audio tech also highlights nearby voices and filters out background noise; it’s no replacement for a sound-proof room, but will help in the midst of an open-plan office. Just be mindful that getting a dedicated microphone will be a better shout for streamers and those seeking a more premium setup.

One neat feature is Logitech’s Show Mode, which inverts the camera when tilted downwards, allowing colleagues on the call to read notes, sketches or diagrams you’ve been doing on your desk.

Build and handling

The Logitech Brio 505 is a sleek device, with a basic gray palette that will help it blend in with the casing of most monitors. Its longer than some cheap webcams, given its ultra-wide viewing angle and embedded microphones, and you’ll find an indicator on the front that lights up when the camera is in use.

A sleek dial on the right-hand side of the Brio 505 controls a privacy shutter, which covers the camera when you want to be offscreen – a neat feature that should help workers feel more at ease throughout the day.

The USB-C connection is very straightforward, though you’ll want to make sure you have a compatible port on your computer, or an adapter handy. With a 1.5m cable, too, you shouldn’t have a problem reaching the relevant ports.

Getting the 505 in the right position can be a bit tricky – between a screen clamp and an adhesive sticker it will attach securely enough, but the magnetic base of the camera itself can see the Brio 505 pop out of place when you attempt a minor adjustment, or to make use of the webcam’s Show Mode feature. But once in place, the software should do the rest.

Performance

The Brio 505 creates an adept, colorful picture – better than the built-in webcam in your average PC, and certainly superior to the built-in 720p lens in this reviewer’s Macbook Air. There are a host of quite drastic filters, alongside more precise settings for brightness, contrast, sharpness, and the like – but, in general, we found the default presets perfectly fine. For best results, we recommend a well-lit room.

During meetings, the 505 offers a crisp 1080p resolution, without judder, while the camera gently shifts its focus to follow the user’s body when you move out of view – you can also adjust the speed at which this happens. The overall experience is very sleek, with a smart 1-2 second delay to ensure the camera isn’t jumping about at every tilt of the head. 

There is an option to record in 720p/60fps instead of the default 1080p/30fps; the 720p setting can cause some flicker, though we found it ceased when closing the companion Logi Tune software. We would steer clear of the HDR setting, though, as it does little to the picture – if anything, colors are more vibrant without it!

Verdict

The Logitech Brio 505 is an accomplished piece of kit, with a capable Full HD picture and the software smarts to make the most of a workplace setting. 

Some technical wrinkles around 720p video and HDR are disappointing, but also easily sidestepped (neither of these features is activated by default), and the smooth auto-framing more than makes up for it. For an all-in-one office webcam and microphone, the  Brio 505 is a very capable choice. But if you’re after a webcam that outputs 1080p at the higher 60fps frame rate, you may want to check out the Elgato FaceCam instead.

Other Logitech webcam reviews

• Logitech C310 webcam review
• Logitech Brio 300 review
• Logitech Brio Stream webcam review
• Logitech ConferenceCam Connect review
• Logitech StreamCam webcam review
• Logitech C922 Pro HD Stream webcam review
• Logitech C270 HD review

The Logitech ConferenceCam Connect isn’t the newest webcam on the block, having arrived all the way back in 2015. But it’s still an interesting product worthy of some attention. In short, it’s a webcam that, instead of clipping to the top of a computer monitor and focusing on one person, is designed so that an entire meeting room of people can participate in a video call at the same time.

It is battery powered, and therefore portable, while also packing impressive speakers and Bluetooth for boosting the audio of whatever device the video call is taking place on. But, with a recommended retail price of $499/£439 (albeit reduced at Amazon and elsewhere at the time of writing), this is a very expensive webcam with a small but specific intended audience.

Logitech ConferenceCam Connect specifications

Resolution: 1080p Full HD

Field of view: 90 degrees

Frame rate: Not stated

Digital zoom: 4x

Microphone: 2x omnidirectional

Autofocus: Yes

Privacy cover: Yes, doubles as remote

Connection: Mini USB, HDMI, Bluetooth

Key features

The ConferenceCam’s biggest feature, by far, is its form factor, and how that leads to a larger camera and speaker system than almost all other webcams. Around the same size and shape as a first-generation Amazon Echo smart speaker, the cylindrical device has a Carl Zeiss lens with a 90-degree field-of-view, and the bottom half contains a 360-degree audio system with echo noise cancellation and Bluetooth.

The latter lets you connect the ConferenceCam to your computer, vastly improving the audio quality of video calls.

An included wireless remote is helpful for adjusting the volume and zooming in or out. Given the ConferenceCam is designed to be placed some way from those on the call, the remote is a really useful feature to have. We also like how it has a mute button; this may sound obvious, but pressing a button on a remote to mute ourselves during a call is far easier than reaching for a computer mouse and working out where the mute button is in Zoom, Skype or Microsoft Teams.

An integrated battery means the ConferenceCam can be used wirelessly (albeit still plugged into a computer with a USB cable) for up to three hours of video calls or 15 hours of Bluetooth audio. This makes it easy to relocate the camera between calls, and means you don’t need to worry about finding a plug socket when in an unfamiliar meeting room.

Build and handling

With its metal case and fabric speaker cover, the Logitech ConferenceCam has a premium look and feel that is a world away from some other webcams. The remote cleverly doubles as a privacy cover when not in use, snapping magnetically to the front of the unit and covering the lens, while touch-sensitive buttons on the top control power and switch between modes.

There’s a manual scroll wheel below the camera for adjusting its horizontal view, and the rear houses USB and HDMI ports, plus a Kensington security slot to help prevent theft. Lastly, NFC makes it easy to quickly pair the ConferenceCam with compatible devices, such as smartphones or tablets that can use the webcam as a Bluetooth speaker.

At 304mm tall and 766g, the ConferenceCam is a large device that only really feels at home in a shared office environment. This is certainly overkill for the home office, where webcams that sit on top of computer monitors make far more sense.

But, as we said earlier, this is a device intended for shared usage, such as a corporate environment where several people want to sit around one table and be on the same video call.

Performance

With plug-and-play connectivity, there’s no setup or additional software required. Just plug the ConferenceCam into your computer with the included USB cable, and it’ll appear in your video calling app of choice. The webcam is compatible with Skype, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, Cisco Jabber, WebEx, GoToMeeting and others.

We found video quality to be very good. And, while some other (and much smaller/cheaper webcams) push out more pixels than the 1080p resolution of the ConferenceCam, we think the larger lens helps to produce better video quality. We also like the 90-degree field-of-view, although would like to have seen Logitech push this even further, perhaps to 120 degrees.

Audio quality is very good indeed, and where the ConferenceCam really elevates itself above a more traditional webcam setup. When compared to a laptop with integrated webcam and speakers, the Logitech offers a much better experience. But that experience comes at a high price.

Logitech ConferenceCam Connect: Verdict

This is very much a webcam for enterprise users who need a device that is portable and battery powered, and makes it very easy to quickly set up and host a shared video call in an office environment. This is not intended for consumers, who would be much better off buying a traditional, monitor-mounted webcam for a fraction of the price.

We also worry about the age of the ConferenceCam, as it arrived all the way back in 2015 and is now seven years old. Even in the glacial world of webcams, this makes it pretty old.

That said, if you are a business customer who has the budget for a webcam to be used in a shared meeting room, the Logitech ConferenceCam Connect is a nicely designed product with excellent build quality, smart design, good performance and a set of features that will be very useful in most office meeting rooms.

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The Logitech C310 isn’t the cheapest webcam on the market, but its certainly one of the most popular budget webcams around, and happens to be one of the most affordable products in the Logitech family, a brand well known for creating high-quality peripherals and webcams.

It was certainly a budget-buy back when it hit the market in 2010, and even now its listed on the Logitech webstore for $50 / £45, but the age of the Logitech C310 certainly brings its relevancy into question - does a 12 year old product still hold up after all these years? Surprisingly, yes, but only if you fit a certain demographic.

With only 720p / 30 fps to play with, this won’t be the top choice for content creators or streamers, and many modern laptops actually have a built-in webcam that outperforms the C310. This limits the webcams appeal to folks who exclusively use a desktop computer or laptop without a built-in camera, and those that don’t need to care too much about the quality of their broadcast at that.

If you want an affordable way to keep in touch with distant family and friends over a video call, or perhaps you have a child who needs to join an online class then the Logitech C310 will perform admirably, like an old but reliable workhorse. Still, if you want to look your best then there are better options on the market that cost just a smidgen less which might be worth saving up a bit longer for.

Specifications

Resolution: 720p

Field of view: 60 degrees

Frame rate: 30 fps

Digital zoom: x2 (no official app)

Inbuilt microphone: Yes

Autofocus: No

Privacy cover: No

Connection: USB-A

Key features

Compared to products like the Razer Kiyo or the Logitech StreamCam, the Logitech C310 is fairly barren of unique features. In a sense, you’re getting what you paid for though - a stripped back basic webcam used for occasional calls.

One of the few features you do get is automatic light correction which uses Logitech’s RightLight 2 to set the lighting on the main individual in frame, and then lightens or darkens the video accordingly. In low lighting and uneven lighting environments, it  does an alright job of maintaining the light level of your shot, though this isn’t especially effective in a dark room. Instead, it maintains a consistent level of light if, say, you’re in front of a window and people keep walking by and blocking your light source. 

The Logotech C310 also has a built in microphone that supposedly has noise reducing capabilities but we found this wasn’t especially effective. On a few test calls you could hear everything being said with enough clarity to understand someone. But also every noise coming from a noisy desktop PC and the entire street outside because of an open window.

Its safe to say that if you plan on buying the Logitech C310 that you need to have low expectations for the quality of your broadcast, or simply have no need of them if you just need a quick, affordable way of appearing on camera. For students this is still a great choice, especially if you can connect headphones with a stick microphone or even a dedicated USB mic to improve the poor audio. 

Build and handling

The Logitech C310 is petite for a webcam, measuring in at 2.8 x 1.2 x 1 inches, and weighing just 2.5 ounces including the mounting clip and cable. Speaking of cable, it’s non-removable and 5 feet long  with a standard USB-A connection, which makes it suitable for most computers or laptops besides recentl;y released ultrabooks, of which many lack a dedicated USB-A port.

The cable length is a little on the short side, but it shouldn’t cause too many issues if you plan on using it with a laptop, though desktop users may need to move their display closer to their systems for it to reach.

You don’t get a privacy cover or a tripod, nor does it have a standard tripod thread on the underside so your only mounting option is the claw-style grip thatv rests on your computer display. There are also no controls on the camera itself, but you’ll see a green light to the left side of the lens which will turn on when the camera is in use, notifying you that you’re being filmed.

Performance

: Recording quality is better than expected for a budget webcam. The quality might only be 720p, but many video conferencing applications like Google Meets and Zoom actually limit the resolution anyway, especially if there are more than two participants, so if you wanted something to use for school, college or even work meetings then it can hold its own.

This is great news for people looking for a cheap buy but want to avoid being scammed as many cheap webcams sold on third-party sites like eBay and Amazon can’t match the quality of brands like Logitech. You don’t always need to sacrific quality for cost. 

That said, you can snap up an original Razer Kiyo for around $50-$65 dollars because it frequently goes on offer (also likely due to its age), and the quality is a significantly improvement on the Logitech C310. If you have the option to save a little more and wait for a sale, this will offer better performance all round and you even get a built-in light for dark environments.

Speaking of dark environments, while the automatic light correction on the C310 is admirable, there is a lot of background noise if you’re not in a brightly lit room. If you hate looking grainy, you’ll need additional lighting or a better webcam.

You’ll also want to be the only person in your shot as with just a 60-degree FOV you’ struggle to fit another individual in frame. Compared to the Logitech C920 (argueably the brands most iconic product) which offers a 78-degree FOV, this is less than ideal, but won’t cause any problems if you’ll be the only one using the webcam.

A small gripe is that while Logitech has its own camera hub software, Logitech Capture, the C310 isn’t recognised by it and so you can only make adjustments to settings such as brightness, zoom and saturation if you go digging aroundusing a third-party software.

Verdict: 

The Logitech C310 certainly doesn’t shine as brightly as it once did, but it still has a place on the market for people who need a cheap webcam, especially if they don’t care about any funky features, and the Logitech name provides some quality assurance that users won’t always get from buying a brandless product elsewhere.

You can sometimes find it one sale which can bring the price down as low as $25 too, so if you need to grab a webcam for your kid to use in lessons or to hold your over while you transfer to remote working then its still a solid option - just be aware that most modern laptops have a built-in camera that can match it, and that there are better options available to you for only a smidgen more if you need them.

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The StreamCam is Logitech’s latest webcam. Landing in 2020, it sits above the aging C920 in Logitech’s range but below the 4K-enabled Brio. It has a smart design, AI-powered automatic framing, stereo microphones and shoots high-quality Full HD video at a smooth 60 frames per second.

But, while the name suggests this is a camera for streamers, we believe this is instead a good option for remote-workers who want to improve their appearance (and sound quality) without spending needlessly on a 4K webcam whose extra pixels are wasted on HD-only video conferencing platforms.

Logitech StreamCam specifications

Resolution: 1080p Full HD

Field of view: 78 degrees

Frame rate: 60 fps

Digital zoom: -

Microphone: Yes, stereo

Autofocus: Yes

Privacy cover: No

Connection: USB-C (fixed)

See also: Best Logitech webcams

Key features

Logitech desperately wants you to believe this a great camera for streaming. In fact, the StreamCam’s box even states how this is “the ultimate experience for streamers,” but don’t let that fool you. Logitech has unfortunately let its marketing department get in the way, because while a good webcam, the StreamCam is nothing of the sort, at least for those who want to make a successful side-hustle from internet streaming.

A supposed key feature is how the StreamCam can be rotated 90 degrees and used to film HD video in Instagram story-friendly portrait mode. But since it isn’t possible to live-stream an Instagram story from a webcam (only a smartphone), this feature is instead best for content creators, like YouTubers, who want to shoot portrait-orientation stories, rather than stream live at that aspect ratio.

More useful features include a decent autofocus system, and an automatic framing feature that crops in slightly then uses AI to pan and zoom to keep your face in shot while you move around. We’re not sure which streamers stroll around their room instead of sit at their desk, but we probably shouldn’t keep pulling at that particular linguistic thread.

Other features come with the free Logi Capture application, which lets you adjust the camera’s settings, create a colored border and even add text and lower-thirds to your videos, before outputting them to your video calling, recording or streaming app of choice. It’s a nice set of simple features that amateur content creators will undoubtedly find useful.

Build and handling

The StreamCam is one of the more attractive webcams (to our eyes at least) and is bigger than it looks. But that’s no bad thing as a big camera usually means a better camera thanks to larger imaging sensors and more lens elements. We like the fabric front and the universal monitor mount works well, with horizontal and vertical adjustability, while a tripod mount is also included in the box.

Being larger than most, the StreamCam’s lens sits slightly higher, so on video calls you will appear to be looking down more than with other webcams. It’s a small point, but worth pointing out for anyone who sits fairly close to a large monitor, which exaggerates such a shift in gaze.

A good bit of futureproofing sees the StreamCam fitted with a 1.5-metre USB-C cable, but it’s hardwired to the camera so if your computer doesn't have such a port you’ll have to use an adaptor. Also slightly frustrating is how the Logi logo is written sideways when the camera is in its normal, landscape orientation. Rotate it to portrait (easily done thanks to the mount accommodating the webcam either way) and the logo is where it should be, suggesting Logitech really wants the StreamCam to be used for shooting all those vertical Instagram stories that you can’t actually stream.

Performance

We accept we’ve given the StreamCam a fairly hard time so far, but this is mostly down to Logitech’s naming and marketing strategy for what is otherwise a very good webcam. The footage it produces is sharp, smooth and well balanced, with good control over the exposure and white balance, especially in tricky lighting situations, such as with a window full of sunshine behind us.

The autofocus system wasn’t always as quick as we’d like, and would sometimes leave our face slightly out of focus. But once it locked on the image was beautifully crisp, and anyone upgrading from their integrated laptop webcam will see a major improvement. Sound quality is also good thanks to the dual-mic stereo setup.

But anyone actually wanting to use the StreamCam to stream…well, unless you are just starting out, we urge you buy a cheaper webcam, like the aging but still perfectly acceptable Logitech C920, then invest in a ring light and a dedicated USB microphone. Better lighting and sound will help elevate your streaming cam much further than splashing out on the StreamCam.

The 78-degree field-of-view, while perfectly acceptable for video calls, isn’t especially wide when it comes to streaming, when seeing a bit more of the presenter’s background is what the audience usually expects.

Logitech StreamCam: Verdict

All that said, at the time of writing the StreamCam is being offered with a hefty discount in some places, taking the price down to a far more palatable $95/£65 mark. At this price it’s worth it, but at the normal price of $170/£140, we would stop short of recommending this as a camera ideal for streamers (let alone call it their “ultimate experience”). We wish Logitech had removed features like vertical recording and image stabilization (for all those times you walk around holding a webcam?) and lowered the price.

The StreamCam is a great webcam, and for content creators who don’t yet own a dedicated camera, it can also do a decent job of recording footage for a YouTube channel. But Logitech falls short of offering the “ultimate experience for streamers” this camera promises. 

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Not everyone needs a 4K webcam with precise white balance control, autofocus, a privacy shutter, tripod mount and premium metal construction. Instead, for everyone who just wants a way of appearing in their weekly virtual office call, a basic webcam priced at around $20/£20 will fulfill all of their needs.

This is where the Logitech C270 HD comes in. It’s a very simple webcam with a 720p HD resolution, a clip for attaching to your computer monitor, compatibility with video conferencing apps like Zoom and…that’s about it.

This is Logitech’s entry-level webcam and sits some way below the next model up, the C310 HD which is priced at over $30/£30 yet still has only a 720p HD resolution. Those wanting 1080p Full HD resolution will have to spend in the region of $60/£60 or more on the Logitech C920 HD Pro.

If you need a webcam and want to spend as little as possible, while still buying from a reputable brand like Logitech, the C270 HD could be the one for you. Just be sure to keep your expectations in check.

Key features

As you might expect, this is going to be a fairly short section. The main feature here is the Logitech’s affordability. If all you need is a very simple webcam for occasional video calls, that price is hard to beat.

Other features include a universal grip-style mount for connecting the webcam to any computer monitor or laptop lid (although your laptop’s webcam is probably a match for the C270 HD).

There’s also a simple status light next to the lens that glows green when the camera is in use, and a single microphone sits on the front. Logitech says the microphone is only best for capturing sound up to one metre away, so this isn’t a webcam suited to capturing an entire office.

That really is about it. There’s no privacy cover, so you’ll have to rely on the green status light for knowing when you’re being watched, and there’s no additional software to install, so it’s simply a case of plugging the webcam in, opening your video calling app of choice, and getting to work.

Logitech C270 HD specifications

Resolution: 720p HD

Field of view: 55 degrees

Frame rate: 30fps

Digital zoom: No

Inbuilt microphone: Yes

Autofocus: No

Privacy cover: No

Connection: USB-A

See also: Best Logitech webcams

Build and handling

Unsurprisingly, this is an all-plastic webcam. Even the lens cover is plastic instead of glass, meaning the picture isn’t quite as sharp as it could be, and you should watch out for scratches and scuffs degrading quality further still. Thankfully the lens is very small and recessed into the camera a fair bit, so you’d have to be very unlucky for anything to get in there and cause damage.

The C270 HD is nice and compact, with a two-tone design and a good amount of vertical adjustability. The universal monitor mount is similar to those used by other webcams, and should attach to just about any monitor. Rubber inserts ensure the mount won’t scratch whatever the webcam is attached to.

The webcam is powered via a 1.5-metre USB-A cable that is hard-wired into the rear so can’t be removed.

Performance

There’s no setup required and the Logitech really is a case of plug-and-play, on both Mac and PC. That said, you will want to adjust the aspect ratio if your video conferencing app of choice allows, as the C270 HD produces a tightly-cropped image.

We at first found the image to be too tight, with our face taking up almost all of the frame. But once we had switched from a cropped widescreen image to the camera’s native, squarer view, the aspect ratio was closer to what we are used to from other webcams.

All this means that, while the C270 HD works well for video calls where only your face needs to be in shot, anyone wanting to hold online presentations, or include their background and surroundings for any other reason, should look elsewhere.

Logitech’s RightLight 2 system helps to balance the exposure, and it actually does a decent job, with our face still perfectly visible even with a bright window right behind us. Some integrated laptop webcams struggle in such an environment, plunging the subject into darkness as they try to compensate for the bright window, or entirely washing out the background to bring the shadows into view.

It’s not HDR, but we’re pleased to say the Logitech C270 HD managed well in what can be tricky lighting situations.

Sound quality is perfectly acceptable, although the microphone only works in mono, so there’s no stereo separation. However, this really shouldn’t matter for the vast majority of consumers, who just need their voice to be heard clearly on a video call.

Logitech C270 HD: Verdict

Affordable simplicity is the name of the game here. For those who just need a cheap webcam for a weekly catch up with colleagues, and who don’t have a laptop with integrated webcam, the Logitech C270 HD is exactly what you’re looking for.

Build quality is perfectly acceptable for the price, and in reality so is the image quality – remember, this is a webcam that costs just $20. Anyone who has used a better quality camera will likely be unimpressed by the C270 HD, and if your laptop has its own webcam then that will probably produce similar results.

But for everyone else, this is a very affordable webcam that is small, simple to use and gets the job done.

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If you’re on the lookout for a webcam then you will likely have seen it’s a large market spread across a surprisingly broad price range. The Logitech C911 Pro reviewed here has a recommended price of $110/£110, while its bigger brother, the Logitech Brio 4K, costs almost twice as much. Yet they look similar and, since the latter’s 4K resolution can’t be streamed through most video conferencing platforms, they perform in a broadly similar way.

The C922 Pro may not look quite as premium as the Brio, and while it misses out on that webcam’s rather poor privacy cover, the C922 Pro comes with a little tripod for mounting it somewhere other than the top of your computer monitor.

The C922 Pro also has 1080p Full HD at 30 frames per second, or 720p HD at a smoother 60fps, plus a universal monitor mount, automatic focus and brightness, and a 76-degree field of view (down on the Brio’s 90).

Logitech C922 Pro specifications

Resolution: 1080p at 30fps or 720p at 60fps

Field of view: 78 degrees

Frame rate: Up to 60fps

Digital zoom: Yes, 1x

Inbuilt microphone: Yes, two omni-directional

Autofocus: Yes

Privacy cover: No

Connection: USB-A, 1.5m cable

Key features

The two key features here are Full HD video resolution and smooth, 60 frames-per-second video. But you can’t have both at the same time. That’s because 60fps is limited to 720p HD and 1080p Full HD is only possible at 30fps.

Which of these you choose will likely depend on what you use the Logitech C922 Pro for. Recording in Full HD will make for a sharper picture, while streaming at 720p will still look sharp during a video conference call or live stream, but benefit from a smoother frame rate.

Although 720p feels long-forgotten in the smartphone camera and home cinema worlds, it’s still high definition and is perfectly acceptable for video calls with the C922 Pro. Switching to 1080p doesn’t double picture quality for those on the other end of your video call, and the amount of improvement they see will vary depending on the app being used and yours and their internet connection speed.

Other key features include autofocus, plus automatic exposure and white balance correction.

Build and handling

It isn’t quite as slick as the more expensive Brio, but the C922 Pro still looks good to our eyes. It’s small enough to not be a distraction, and the universal folding mount means it should attach to almost any computer monitor or laptop lid. A 1.5m USB-A cable is hardwired to the rear of the webcam.

Usefully, and unlike the more expensive Logitech Brio, the C922 Pro comes with a tripod. This screws into the webcam and is a great addition for if you want to position the camera away from your monitor – perhaps on a shelf, or at a lower angle on your desk.

The webcam itself is glass-fronted and framed by a pair of microphones for stereo sound. It measures 95mm wide, 44mm tall and 71mm deep, including the monitor mount which does not detach. The webcam weighs 162g.

Performance

We have been very impressed with the Logitech C922 Pro. Webcams simply don’t need 4K resolution (at least for now) and so Full HD is absolutely plenty. We can even see many buyers dropping down to 720p so they can make use of the smoother 60fps setting.

The webcam is truly plug-and-play, so doesn’t require the installation of any drivers. Just plug it in and it’ll show up on your video conferencing platform of choice. Video quality is excellent, with the exposure and white balance adjusting quickly to our environment, while the autofocus also performs well. The webcam wasn’t phased by the bright window in the background of our home office, balancing quickly to keep us in focus and correctly exposed.

If you so wish, the exposure, focus, brightness, contrast, saturation and sharpness can all be tweaked manually with the free Logitune application. The company also has Logi Capture for recording video with the camera.

When the webcam is on, the glass front is framed by a pair of arching white lights. It’s an attractive design and one we prefer over the single, often-hard LED bulb of other webcams.

Logitech C922 Pro: Verdict

We haven’t a bad word to say about the Logitech C922 Pro. It’s half the price of the company’s Brio 4K and, 4K resolution aside, every bit as impressive. Full HD is really all anyone needs, and the C922 Pro backs this up with excellent control over focusing, exposure and white balance to make you look your best. The 78-degree field-of-view feels just right, as the 90-degree option of the Brio 4K feels too wide for most occasions.

The optional software is easy to use, the hardware feels well made, and the universal monitor mount works well. We suspect the tripod will go unused by most buyers, but it’s a nice addition for those who need it. All that’s really missing here is a privacy shutter to obscure the lens. 

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For many, the webcam tucked into the lid of their laptop will be good enough for the occasional Zoom meeting or FaceTime family catch-up. But the resolution and general video quality of these tiny cameras is often below par, falling short of what we’re used to from our smartphones.

And for those using a desktop computer with a monitor chances are you don’t have a webcam at all, or at least not one at a suitable height for all your Microsoft Teams meetings. A proper webcam, like this Logitech Brio Stream 4K Edition, could be the answer.

As the name suggests, this is a high-end webcam capable of 4K resolution and with the promise of enhanced audio too. 

Logitech Brio Stream specifications

Resolution: Up to 4K

Field of view: Up to 90 degrees

Frame rate: Up to 60fps

Digital zoom: 5x

Inbuilt microphone: Yes, stereo, dual omni-directional

Privacy cover: Yes

Connection: USB-C to USB-A

Cable length: 2.2 m

Weight: 63g (camera), 44g (clip)

Key features

Logitech wants you to believe that 4K is the biggest feature here, but in many ways it is not. This is simply because, while the camera can record in Ultra HD, few video chatting and conferencing apps can make the most of it. Zoom cannot handle 4K, for example, and neither can FaceTime. Also, we weren't able to record 4K video smoothly using Logitech’s own video capture app, since our Mac Mini (Intel Core i7) wasn’t up to the job.

What’s more important here is the Logitech Brio’s HDR capabilities, which help to balance out the shadows and highlights, effectively tackling the harsh light of a nearby window, and generally improving the video quality of your call. The three field-of-view options (90, 78 and 65 degrees) are also very welcome, and the dual omnidirectional microphones also helped to improve our call quality. Unless you’re already using an external mic, this will probably see an audio improvement over your computer’s integrated mic.

The Logitech Brio Stream is compatible with Windows Hello, since it is smart enough to tell the difference between a person and a photograph of them. As such, it can be used to unlock your Windows machine when it recognizes your face.

Lastly, the Brio Stream lives up to its name thanks to the inclusion of a free 12-month premium trial of XSplit, the video streaming and recording application.

Logitech Brio vs Brio Stream

The Brio Stream is almost identical to the regular Logitech Brio webcam, but there are a couple of small differences in their capabilities. The Brio Stream only offers two video quality options: 4K at 30fps or 1080p at 60fps. However, the regular Brio adds 30fps and 90fps options for 1080p, giving content creators more options should they need them.

Logitech also says the Brio Stream is optimized to produce a consistent frame rate whenever possible, in a bid to keep your live streams nice and smooth, and only the Brio Stream comes with the 12-month XSplit Premium license.

Build and handling

The hardware quality of this webcam really is a game of two halves. The camera itself looks and feels great; well-made and stylish enough to be left in plain sight atop a monitor. But the stand, and particularly the privacy cover, are less impressive.

The monitor mount offers a good amount of vertical adjustment, as you’ll likely want the camera pointing down a little if it’s sat on a large display. But it isn’t particularly attractive, and while it does the job of enabling the webcam to sit on monitors of varying thickness, it’s just a bit strange.

We can live with it though, unlike the lens cover, which feels very much like an afterthought. Wrapping awkwardly and not too securely around the front of the webcam, the detachable cover is probably best left in the box and never used – unless it’s company policy to have a cover in place, of course. Helpfully, a bright LED signals when the camera is turned on and goes some way to placate privacy concerns.

The camera has a USB-C port and is powered by an included USB-C to USB-A cable.

Performance

As we touched on earlier, 4K video quality is largely wasted here, given the lack of support from most video chat and conferencing platforms. And only those with sufficiently powerful computers will be able to record 4K video properly. Instead, we were happy to stick with HD and enjoy the camera’s excellent HDR control, with the company’s RightLight 3 technology, and the smooth frame rate of up to 90fps.

The webcam is completely plug-and-play with both Mac and PC, so there’s no need to install any software at all to get it working. However it’s worth installing Logi Tune for quick access to camera settings, and Logitech Capture if you plan to record video using the webcam. These are both free for Mac and PC.

Logitech Brio Stream: Verdict

Stumping up £220 for a webcam is a significant investment, especially when many of us already have a webcam in the lid of our laptop. However, for those who want the best quality for their calls, with the option to record HD or (computer performance pending) 4K video, the Logitech Brio delivers.

Away from the questionable need for 4K streaming, the Brio won us over with its excellent HDR, smooth frame rate, ease-of-use and good audio quality. The hardware is mostly fine, although the monitor mount is a little strange and the lens cover feels like a poorly-executed afterthought. But the camera itself is good, and there’s even a tripod thread if you want to get creative with how it is mounted.

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Logitech has introduced its latest wireless mouse that is designed for creatives who want a combination of performance and portability. A key feature of the Logitech MX Anywhere 3 its newly-developed scroll wheel that has a free spin mode that can allow you to move at upto 1000 lines per second – making it a perfect choice for coders or those who spend their lives looking at spreadsheets. 

But with a simple press of a button, the wheel can be switch to a ratchet movement, that allows you to feel each line as you move up and down a document or window. Thanks to a downloadable customization Options, you can even control the feel of this MagSpeed ratchet as you scroll. 

Thanks to the buttons on the side of the mouse, you can also use the wheel to scroll vertically – which will prove particularly useful for video editors trying to find the relevant cut or scene on their editing timeline. 

The side buttons have different functions depending on the application you are using them with - they can, for instance, allow you to instantly mute and stop the video in a Zoom meeting. 

For those working on the move, or in places that that are not set up as a permanent office, the MX Anywhere 3 is capable of working on almost any surface – and impressively even works on glass. 

The rechargeable battery in the mouse claims an impressive 70-day running time, and is constructed from stainless steel, with silicon side grips.

The Windows version is available in grey, rose or slate and is supplied with a Bluetooth dongle. The MX Anywhere 3 for Mac is available only in off-white, and does not come with the dongle - but is designed to work with both iPads and Macbooks.

Both versions of the mouse will retail for $79.99 / £79.99.

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