In this review, I will take an in-depth look at the best Octoprint Webcams by explaining their traits and relevant aspects that make them good for those who use the program.
I’ve spent a lot of my life capturing, photographing, and recording on a slew of different devices. I took that experience and then mixed it with ample research and analysis on both webcams and 3D printers to figure out the cream of the crop.
As great as the models in this guide are, the Lifecam HD-3000 gets my pick for the best webcam for Octoprint because of how it blends features with function.
The model is a reliable webcam filled with great features. It has some of the sharpest visuals around due to the HD widescreen and TrueColor technology. It’s also a reasonable size and is extremely versatile due to its universal base.
There are several great webcams that work with Octoprint. The following sections will go over the best ones by taking a detailed, in-depth look at the different characteristics and traits that make them compatible with the program.
Contents
Top Webcams for Octoprint
The following webcams have specific traits that make them perfect for Octoprint. I explain why below.
1. Lifecam HD-3000
- Best for: Overall
- Key Features: Noise-reducing technology. Widescreen comes with 720p HD recording. TrueColor makes everything bright and vibrant. Seamless compatibility.
- Video Capture Resolution: 720p
- Frame Rate: 30fps
- Mount Style: Universal
If you want a well-rounded webcam that does a little bit of everything, the Lifecam HD-3000 is it. The compact device gets high marks due to the 720p HD video chat and recording. It’s great at noise reduction and freely adjusts so you can quickly maneuver the frame.
When it comes to picture quality, this model gets high marks. The widescreen looks beautiful thanks to the 720p HD recording and it comes with a universal base attachment that you can put on various surfaces at different angles. That gives you a lot of options.
Some people might not like that this model caps out at 720p resolution. The lack of a tripod mount also isn’t great. However, those two drawbacks are relatively minor compared to the various pros packed into the device.
2. Logitech C270
- Best for: Usability
- Key Features: 720p video calling and recording. Built-in microphone. Compatible with different operating systems. USB connectivity. Affordable price.
- Video Capture Resolution: 720p
- Frame Rate: 30fps
- Mount Style: Clip
The C270 is a simple webcam that, when paired with Octoprint, gets the job done. Equipped with HD 720p recording and a strong 2.4 GigaHertz Intel Core2 Duo, the little device is able to make the most of the 2 GB of RAM. It delivers excellent results and is pleasant to watch.
The rather affordable model comes with a nice 60-degree field of view as well as basic plastic optics. It’s simple to set up and a cinch to use. If you’re not tech-savvy, this is a great way to increase functionality. It comes with a solid 2-year limited warranty as well.
If there’s anything not to like about this device it’s the fact that it isn’t 1080p, which does hurt it on the resolution front. I would have liked it to be more durable as well. At the end of the day, however, it’s a basic webcam that does exactly what you need it to.
3. eMeet Nova
- Best for: Value
- Key Features: 1080p shooting with unique 96-degree autofocus lens. Auto low light correction and noise filter. Small body that stays out of the way. Flexible clip.
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Frame Rate: 30fps
- Mount Style: Clip, tripod
The Nova from eMeet is another streamlined webcam. It makes my list, not just for the simple, easy-to-use design, but because of how much value it provides. It’s one of the more affordable models around, and manages to cut the price without giving away any premium features.
This model shoots in 1080p and has a 96-degree autofocus lens. On top of that, the slim body can be mounted in several ways and the auto low light correction works like a charm. The audio is strong, and it’s extremely portable for users who like to keep things low profile.
The only drawback to this model is that, unlike other webcams on this list, it can be quite tricky to get up and running for people not familiar with such devices. It also has a low fps, which is to be expected whenever you’re cutting costs.
How to Choose a Webcam for Octoprint
The aspects outlined in this section are all key traits you need to be aware of when picking out a webcam for Octoprint.
Image Quality
No matter what you’re using your Webcam for, it has to deliver a good image. If it’s blurry or doesn’t have a crisp video, it won’t do you much good. Look for models with high or HD resolutions so you can always keep an eye on what your printer is up to.
Compatibility
When choosing any webcam for Octoprint, compatibility matters. There are many awesome webcams out there, but only a few work with the program. Getting the wrong one will lead you to waste time and money setting something up that doesn’t work.
Always pay attention to specs before making your final purchase. Nearly all USB cameras do work with OctoPrint, but there are some that don’t. You’re going to see a similar thing with Raspberry Pi. Do your research and ensure your webcam is compatible with both.
Size
Though it might not be as important as the above options, you should always pay attention to size when picking out an Octoprint webcam. 3D printers take up a lot of space. As such, you need something that can fit in their room without being too big or bulky.
My Verdict
Out of all the above webcams, I found the Lifecam HD-3000 to be the best thanks to how well it reduces noise, works with your printer, and makes images pop. The screen is simply stunning as well, thanks to the TrueColor technology that brings true vibrance to your recordings.
Another big plus of this model over similar picks is the universal base. You’re not always going to switch or change your setup, but it’s nice to know that you can on a whim and not have to worry about getting into an involved process.
