Elgato has introduced the Facecam Pro, a second creator-focused camera that costs $299.99 and adds outstanding functionality to the original Facecam. Its unique ability to record 4K definition video at a smooth 60 frames per second sets it apart from many other 4K alternatives, which can only record at 30 frames per second. Since the internet reduces video quality, you won’t always experience those advantages with Zoom calls, but if you stream, it could be worthwhile to give it a try.

Unquestionably expensive at $299.99 (the lesser Facecam is now $149.99), the Pro could provide the enhancements you were hoping for. Aside from 4K resolution recording, it also offers an auto or manual focus option. Most webcams have the option to switch between the two focus settings, however the original Facecam did not. In addition, Elgato guarantees a minimum focus distance of 3.9 inches, which is over eight inches less than the 11.8-inch fixed focus range of the original. This specification is comparable to those other cameras with comparable prices, such as the Opal C1 and the Insta360 Link.

The absence of a microphone is one aspect that hasn’t altered from generation to generation. Even if a webcam-based microphone produces subpar audio, I like to have it as a backup alternative. Elgato makes the assumption that its intended market already has a microphone. If not, I’m certain it would be happy to sell you one.

The F/2.0 aperture, which is wider than the F/2.4 aperture of the Facecam and allows for more light to enter the lens, is one of the additional characteristics that Elgato brags about being a huge deal for the Facecam Pro. You can fit a little bit more of your space in the picture because it has a little broader field of vision at 90 degrees (as opposed to up to 82 with the Facecam).

Elgato sent us a Facecam Pro to test out, but I haven’t had time to test it out in OBS or get into a lot of Zoom conversations yet. However, I was able to spin it up and check whether the camera quality was even slightly better than the Insta360 Link that I usually use. The Elgato Camera Hub software (available for Windows and macOS) required some significant adjustments before I was satisfied with the image it creates, much like the original Facecam. Out of the box, The Link was able to give a superior picture. I appeared oppressively under-lit by default with the Facecam Pro in our well-lit workplace.Some of my coworkers appeared to look better than I did when utilizing the Continuity Camera feature in macOS Ventura to use their iPhones as webcams. In contrast to that Mac-specific function, which doesn’t give as many instantaneous alterations, the software’s numerous options allowed me to modify the picture quality.