Can you plug in a webcam on a MacBook?
This post may contain affiliate links.As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.See the Apple Support article Adapters for the Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, or USB-C port on your Mac. Wait 10 to 15 seconds for your Mac to recognize the camera.
Why Use an External Webcam?
Most modern laptops or all-in-one desktop computers now feature an in-built camera with excellent quality. However, using an external or wireless webcam offers multiple benefits that may be unachievable with your MacBook display embedded cameras.
- Most inbuilt laptop cameras do not carry a multi-piece lens causing their camera or video output quality to be reduced. However, the latest external webcams like the Logitech camera models feature a multi-piece lens stack, which enhances their image output quality.
- Most in-built webcams are limited in their field of view, making them only excellent for one-on-one communication. On the other hand, since external webcams are not restricted in position, they offer a wider field of focus so that multiple people can participate in a conversation at any point.
- External webcams are portable, and their camera sensors are less prone to overheating, unlike in-built webcams. With several webcam manufacturers offering wireless or Wi-Fi webcams, you can easily capture an entire office meeting or organize an online video tour seamlessly.
It is possible to connect an external webcam to your MacBook computer. Simply connect one USB cable to the compatible camera and the other end to one of the USB ports on your MacBook to install the camera driver for use.
Connecting an external webcam to your MacBook is quite simple and straightforward. In this article, you’ll learn more about using an external webcam with your MacBook, why you should use an external webcam, and different webcams that are compatible with MacBook. Let’s go!
How to Connect an External Webcam to MacBook
The Apple Mac OS X operating system available on all MacBook editions makes it easy for users to install an external camera. If you are considering using an external or USB webcam instead of the usual iSight, below is a detailed list of steps to connect your webcam to your MacBook easily:
- Plug your USB cord to the external webcam and attach it to an available USB outlet or port on the MacBook.
- Allow 10-20 seconds for your MacBook to identify the external webcam.
- Open the dedicated camera program to use the external webcam with. Most new MacBook editions come with the “PhotoBooth” app built into the Mac OS operating system that allows you to access live video of yourself. You may also use third-party apps like Zoom and Skype.
- Select the external web camera from the list of available cameras, and your external camera is installed and ready to use.
Note: For specific webcam models like the Logitech external camera, you may need to download and install their dedicated third-party app to allow your camera to work seamlessly with your MacBook.
Allinko 880 Auto Focus Webcam
If you are on a tight budget, then the Allinko 880 webcam with autofocus is one of the most affordable 1080P cameras compatible with MacBook on the market. The Allinko 880 webcam features a noise-canceling microphone and premium autofocus that allows you to achieve a crystal clear video/picture experience.
More importantly, the Allinko 880 webcam also comes with a privacy camera cover that protects you from hackers.
Logitech Brio – Top-Quality 4K Webcam
In the world of external webcams, Logitech is a force to reckon with. While the Logitech Brio is not cheap at $199, it boasts of several high-end features that make it unique. If you are a fan of high-quality videos and picture coverage, then the Logitech Brio, with a superb quality lens that offers full 4K resolution, is one of the best compatible webcams for MacBooks.
The Logitech Brio also supports HDR and the Logitech RightLight technology, which enables your camera to adapt to various light levels automatically. With noise cancellation and three field-of-view focus features, you are guaranteed excellent audio and video.
