Webcams allow people to see each other in a video chat, giving them face-to-face communication. These cameras can be attached to a computer monitor, or they can be standalone devices that connect via USB. Some form of software is needed to drive them and create a video stream that can be viewed on the internet. Some webcams are built into laptop hardware, while others require a separate driver or software for use.

Many businesses take advantage of online webcams for remote videoconferencing. This technology allows employees to participate in meetings regardless of location, and it can also be used to train new hires or provide virtual lessons to students. It is also widely used by tourist attractions to showcase their facilities, and it can help to entice visitors from around the world. Some schools and day care facilities also utilize webcams to allow parents to view their children remotely.

Choosing the right webcam for your needs starts with considering what resolution you want. Webcams with glass lenses typically offer higher resolutions than those with plastic. They can be as low as 720p and as high as 4K. Higher resolutions may be overkill for most uses, but they’re ideal if you plan to use them for content creation or for green screening.

Most webcams feature a CMOS image sensor that’s integrated with supporting electronics on a single chip to save space and reduce cost. The image data is then digitized and transmitted over USB from the camera to your device.