Comparison Aver Media PW315 vs Aver Media PW513

The number of megapixels in the matrix that the camera is equipped with, in other words, the native resolution of the matrix. First of all, the maximum photo size directly depends on this indicator: for example, a 1600x1200 frame requires at least 1600 * 1200 = 1,920,000 pixels ≈ 2 MP. With video, the situation is somewhat different, where the actual resolution of the matrix can be noticeably higher than required for the frame.

There is an opinion that the more megapixels, the better the image is obtained. Formally, this is not the case: the resolution of the sensor only affects the detail, and in itself numerous megapixels can even worsen the picture — especially if the matrix is small. However, in fact, high-resolution sensors are often installed in fairly advanced cameras, in which high image quality is achieved through a number of characteristics.

The most advanced format found in today's webcams: approximately double the frame size of Full HD on each side and four times the number of pixels. The most popular Ultra HD (4K) options for webcams are 3840x2160 and 4096x2160. Note that such models are not cheap, and the video itself puts forward rather high demands on the graphic part of the computer, not to mention the speed of communication when transferring to the Internet. Therefore, you should pay attention to this option only in cases where the maximum detail is crucial for you, and the computer and the communication channel are able to cope with it normally.

Focus method — focus — provided in the design of the camera.

The simplest and most common option is manual focus; it requires some setup steps, but does not cause any particular difficulties, besides, it allows you to set the sharpness as you wish, without relying on automation. Autofocus, in turn, saves the user from having to fiddle with the settings, however, it is also more expensive. In addition, autofocus systems may not work as you would like, and they still sometimes have to be adjusted manually (however, such a need is extremely rare).

The viewing angle determines, first of all, how wide the field of view of the camera is, what area of the scene being shot falls into the frame. Accordingly, a wide viewing angle allows you to capture more space and the lower the likelihood that something of what is happening will be behind the scenes. On the other hand, it should be taken into account that a strong increase in viewing angles leads to distortions of the “picture”, especially at the edges, as well as to a decrease in the size of visible objects and a decrease in detail.

File formats in which the camera can save video footage.

This parameter is for reference only: modern computers are equipped with extensive sets of codecs that allow you to play almost all common formats, and in extreme cases, the missing codec can be installed separately. TVs in this regard have more limited capabilities, however, in webcams designed for them (see "Purpose"), this moment is initially taken into account.

Types of indicators (usually light) provided in the design of the camera. In modern models, there are (separately or together) two types of indicators:

— Nutrition. An indicator that indicates that everything is in order with the power supply. On some models, this indicator only works when the camera is turned on and ready to use, on others it can also work in standby mode — for example, it will glow in a different light than when the camera is on.

— Activities. An indicator that indicates that the camera is shooting video — and, accordingly, it is being recorded or broadcast on the Internet. Such an indicator makes it easier to keep track of the shooting mode and avoids unpleasant situations, such as accidentally broadcasting to the Internet from a camera that you forgot to turn off.

Ways to connect a webcam to a computer.

– USB-A. A camera connection option that involves transmitting video and audio via a classic full-size USB-A connector. Note that such ports may belong to different versions (2.0, 3.2 gen1, 3.2 gen2), but they are quite compatible with each other. The higher the USB version, the faster the data is transferred, which provides an excellent quality picture in high frame resolution.

– USB type C. A noticeable advantage of USB type C over the classic USB-A connector is its double-sided design, which allows you to connect the plug to either side. In addition, this connector usually uses a USB 3.1 gen1 or 3.1 gen2 connection, thereby providing high data transfer speeds. This is important when conducting video conferences in Full HD resolutions and higher.

— USB + Mini-jack 3.5. In this option, a connection via a USB port is used to transmit the video stream from the webcam, and a 3.5 mm audio jack (a round socket with a diameter of 3.5 mm, also called Mini-jack) is used to transmit audio.

– HDMI. A universal, comprehensive interface for transmitting high-resolution video and multi-channel audio in digital format from a webcam. Data exchange is carried out over a single cable, which simplifies connecting the camera to a computer.

Detachable cable design provides additional options for connecting a WEB-camera: the bundled cord can be changed to a longer or shorter one. Also , the detachable cable is very convenient for storage and transportation.

The built-in cable is always in place - you can lose it only with the WEB-camera itself. On the other hand, a fixed wire cannot be quickly replaced with another one (for example, a longer one); and if it is damaged, you will have to carry the WEB-camera for repair or change it entirely.