For monitor shoppers, however, a webcam heaps extra factors onto an already-complicated world of specs you need to understand when picking out your next PC display. If you need a bit of guidance, we have some thoughts on how to pick the best monitor with a built-in webcam, including a set of recommendations with awesome options for every kind of PC user.
Best overall: Dell S2722DZBest 4K: Samsung M8 Smart MonitorBest 27-inch: HP E27m G4Best curved: Philips Brilliance 499P9HBest budget: Dell S2422HZBest for Mac: Apple Studio Display
How we picked the best monitors with built-in webcams
Most monitors do not have a built-in webcam, so we’re working with a much smaller number of monitors than we usually do. That said, all the usual rules for picking a great one still apply. As a freelance writer who’s covered technology for publications including Engadget, Popular Mechanics, and Reviewed, I’ve spent a lot of time using, researching, and staying up to date on the latest monitors. In addition to testing, I surveyed a wide range of professional reviews and consumer impressions to determine the best monitors with built-in webcams on the market today.
What to consider before buying a monitor with a built-in webcam
While the webcam is the distinguishing feature of the monitors in this guide, it does not change the core requirements of what makes for a great monitor. Ultimately, finding a monitor with the right resolution, refresh rate, and other features are all prerequisites for making this list, and you probably shouldn’t compromise on any of them for the sake of a feature that can be easily tacked on for an extra $100 or so. We have many, many guides on picking specialty monitors—for Macs, color grading, gaming, etc.—so we’ll only cover the basics here. You’ll want to get one that’s the right size for your needs—likely at least a 24- or 27-inch monitor for most people, or even larger for some uses—but don’t compromise on technical performance for the sake of buying bigger. If some features are particularly important to you, like color accuracy for creative professionals or refresh rate for gamers, it’s probably a good idea to broaden your choices and consider monitors both with and without a webcam to see which option makes the most sense for you.
Monitor specs 101
In order to get the sharpest possible picture, you should treat picking your monitor’s resolution and size as a single decision. Bigger and higher-res always look better, but there’s a sweet spot for getting the best possible picture from a display if you pair the right resolution and size. A 1920 x 1080 (or 1080p) monitor looks great on a 24-inch display, but that same resolution will look noticeably less sharp on a 27-inch display, where a 2560 x 1440 (or QHD resolution) will be a much better fit. Likewise, 4K resolution can also provide a bump in picture quality on a 27-inch display, but starts to feel essential when you move up to a 32-inch monitor, or something even larger. You’ll also want to pay attention to the monitor’s refresh rate, which controls how often the screen draws and redraws what it shows on-screen. A higher refresh rate makes anything that moves on your screen look more fluid. Whether or not you need a high refresh rate, however, comes down to what you’re doing: Gamers will want to look for a high refresh rate monitor—144 Hz or more (scroll back up and click on our gaming monitors round-up for examples)—while most productivity monitors are 60Hz, which is fine for basic office work, though a slightly higher 75Hz display will make things feel more fluid. If you specialize in creative work—image and video editing—there are other factors you’ll want to focus on to ensure the most accurate picture, such as color accuracy, which determines just how true the colors you see on the monitor are to real life. There are a number of different standards that different manufacturers use to measure color reproduction. Scroll back up and click through to our round-up on the best monitors for color grading has an explainer if you want to get into the nitty-gritty but, fair warning, it gets very technical, very fast.
What a built-in webcam brings to the table
Webcams built into monitors run the gamut of quality. Some monitors have a tiny webcam built into the bezel just like a laptop. Others have larger pop-up webcams, which can be both more full-featured and flexible. You can conveniently hide them when they’re not needed, and some also let you adjust or tilt the camera to get just the right angle. One of our picks even lets you remove it altogether. Larger built-in webcams are generally better. They feature larger lenses that can take in more light, leading to better picture quality. This is especially important for poorly or unevenly lit rooms, where a little light has to go a long way. They’ll also be able to house a sensor supporting more megapixels (MP), another factor contributing to a better broadcast. Lastly, keep in mind that built-in webcams have utility beyond video conferencing and streaming. For Windows users, we recommend looking for monitors with infrared webcams that support Windows Hello, so you can log into your computer using facial recognition instead of a password.
Other features to pay attention to
Since the appeal of a monitor with a built-in webcam is all-in-one convenience, most also go one step further and include built-in speakers, as well as a built-in microphone (or often multiple microphones for the best performance). As you’d expect, there is a trade-off in sound quality compared to standalone speakers, but they can often be more than adequate if you’re only watching or listening to the occasional video or podcast, and some of the more premium monitors with built-in speakers can sound surprisingly good. If you’re connecting a laptop to your monitor, another way to keep your setup as simple as possible is to look for one with USB-C connectivity. That will let you use a single cable to charge your laptop while it’s connected to the monitor, while your peripherals can remain permanently connected to the monitor USB ports instead of your laptop.
The best monitors with built-in webcams: Reviews & Recommendations
Our list of the best monitors with built-in webcams consists of monitors that make the fewest trade-offs possible while offering all-in-one convenience. We focused on the overall monitor quality first and the webcam quality second, but we ruled out any models that were consistently noted to have poor webcam quality. We also paid attention to other features like connectivity and built-in speakers that can help to further simplify your setup.
Best overall: Dell S2722DZ
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay Why it made the cut: Dell’s S2722DZ is an incredibly well-rounded display, making it a perfect pick for home office workers looking for a monitor with a built-in webcam. Specs
Size: 27-inchResolution: 2560 x 1440Refresh rate: 75HzPorts: USB-C (65W), DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 3.2 (2), 3.5mm audio outPanel type: IPSWebcam: 5-megapixel IR pop-up cameraWebcam resolution: 1080p
Pros
Great valueAmple connectivity Full-featured webcam
Cons
Not 4K
Dell makes quite a few monitors with built-in webcams but the 27-inch S2722DZ hits a sweet spot for generalist office workers. The 1440p, “QHD” resolution will be more than adequate for non-visual arts work, watching videos, and even gaming. Its 5MP pop-up webcam can stream in 1080p at 30fps and is compatible with Windows Hello. Though it looks large, you can conveniently tuck it away when it isn’t in use. A pair of built-in 5W speakers and noise-canceling microphones round out the all-in-one package. There are also plenty of ports and connection options, including USB-C (with 65 W of power delivery), HDMI, DisplayPort, and a pair of USB 3.2 ports—plus a 3.5mm audio out if you do decide to upgrade the speakers. Considering its often discounted price tag, it’s an overall value that’s tough to beat.
Best 4K: Samsung M8 Smart Monitor
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay Why it made the cut: The Samsung M8 Smart Monitor stands out in more ways than one, offering all the features you’d expect from a smart TV in a sleek package that’ll look great on your desk. Specs
Size: 32-inchResolution: 4KRefresh rate: 60HzPorts: USB-C (65W), micro HDMI Panel type: VAWebcam: Detachable webcam with privacy coverWebcam resolution: 1080p
Pros
Built-in processor allows you to use it for basic functions without a PCMagnetic webcam that’s removable and adjustableMultiple color options
Cons
Connectivity options may be limited for someNo Windows Hello support
Plenty of people use their monitor as a TV, whether it’s for console gaming or video streaming, but Samsung’s 32-inch, 4K M8 Smart Monitor goes the extra mile and throws in an onboard processor, allowing to perform basic productivity functions, including video calls, without connecting to a PC. You could call it a smart TV dressed up as a monitor. Wired connectivity options are considerably more limited, however, with only upstream and downstream USB-C ports, plus a micro HDMI port on offer (no DisplayPort or additional USB ports for connecting multiple peripherals). You can also connect wireless devices via Bluetooth. As for the webcam, it isn’t built-in, so much as it is a fully removable webcam that comes baked into the monitor. That gives you the ability to tilt the Full HD (1080p) webcam to get the right angle when you need to. The webcam also comes with a camera cover, an always-welcome feature to let you prevent people from seeing you when you aren’t ready for them.
Best 27-inch: HP E27m G4
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay Why it made the cut: With plenty of connectivity options, HP’s E27m G4 monitor is an ideal all-in-one hub for anyone with lots of peripherals. Specs
Size: 27-inchResolution: 2560 x 1440Refresh rate: 75HzPorts: USB-C (65W), DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 3.2 (4), Ethernet, 3.5mm audio outPanel type: IPSWebcam: 5-megapixel IR pop-up cameraWebcam resolution: 1080p
Pros
Loads of portsPop-up, adjustable webcamFront-facing speakers
Cons
Expensive for its feature-set
The HP E27m G4 has a lot in common with our top pick, the Dell S2722DZ. It’s a little pricier but comes with a few advantages that may give it an edge depending on your needs. The form factor is similar: Both monitors are 27-inch QHD displays with pop-up 5MP webcams: The E27m G4 features larger forward-facing speakers that provide better sound, and even more connectivity options than the Dell, though. It too has a 65W USB-C port, DisplayPort, and HDMI, but also has a whopping four USB-A ports and Ethernet. A monitor is already front and center in your setup: The HP E27m G4 lets it serve as a connectivity hub as well.
Best curved: Philips Brilliance 499P9H
Why it made the cut: An ultrawide display designed with productivity in mind, the Philips Brilliance 499P9H is perfect for dual-computer setups. Specs
Size: 48.8-inchResolution: 5120 x 1440Refresh rate: 70HzPorts: USB-C (65W), DisplayPort, HDMI (2), USB 3.1 (3), Ethernet, 3.5mm audio outPanel type: VAWebcam: 2-megapixel IR pop-up cameraWebcam resolution: 1080p
Pros
Huge displayBuilt-in KVM switchPlenty of connectivity options
Cons
Webcam falls short of other monitorsHard to find
The Philips Brilliance 499P9H can easily take the place of two standard 27-inch displays. Its curved 49-inch 5120 x 1440 resolution display gives you a huge canvas to work on. A built-in KVM switch also makes it a very strong choice for work-from-home power users who regularly switch between using personal and professional PCs. At only 2MP, the pop-up webcam on the 499P9H leaves something to be desired. It does, however, support Windows Hello. A 49-inch curved ultrawide monitor won’t be for everyone, but the Philips Brilliance 499P9H is a unique offering and a great fit for the right kind of office workflow optimizer.
Best budget: Dell S2422HZ
Why it made the cut: An affordable option that doesn’t compromise where it counts, the Dell S2422HZ is ideal for anyone with more modest needs or a smaller space. Specs
Size: 24-inchResolution: 1920 x 1080Refresh rate: 75HzPorts: USB-C (65W), DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 3.2 (2), 3.5mm audio outPanel type: IPSWebcam: 5-megapixel IR pop-up cameraWebcam resolution: 1080p
Pros
AffordableAmple connectivity optionsFull-featured webcam
Cons
24-inch display may be small for some
Technically, you can get a cheaper monitor with a built-in webcam than the Dell S2422HZ, but this smaller counterpart to our top pick offers a better all-around value than you’re likely to find in more basic models, at a similar price point. The 24-inch, 1920 x 1080 display has basically all of the same great features as the Dell S2722DZ, including a 5MP pop-up webcam, 5-watt speakers, and USB-C connectivity with 65 watts of laptop-charging power. Dell also offers one of the best warranties around on monitors and includes a Premium Panel Exchange policy that will replace a panel for free if you find even one faulty pixel.
Best for Mac: Apple Studio Display
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay Why it made the cut: It’s expensive, and not without issues, but Apple’s Studio Display is an attainable 5K display with all the design flourishes you’d expect from an Apple product. Specs
Size: 27-inchResolution: 5120 x 2880Refresh rate: 60HzPorts: Thunderbolt 3/USB-C (96W), USB-C (3)Panel type: IPSWebcam: 12-megapixel fixed cameraWebcam resolution: 1080p
Pros
5K display with great color accuracyImpressive sound from built-in speakers12-megapixel webcam with Center Stage support
Cons
ExpensiveWebcam picture quality issues require an upcoming firmware update
Eagerly anticipated by Mac lovers, the new Apple Studio Display finally delivers on the promise of a high-end monitor made by Apple for its desktop fans and Macbook Pro aficionados. While it isn’t as performant as Apple’s obscenely priced Pro Display XDR, you do get a great 27-inch, 5K display for the money and most of the features you’d expect from a pro-level monitor, including a Thunderbolt 3 port that delivers 96W of power, three USB-C ports, and one of the best speaker systems you’ll find in a monitor. Unfortunately, the monitor’s 12MP webcam has been the monitor’s one big point of contention at launch, with a number of reviews finding its performance to be lackluster given the monitor’s hefty price tag. Apple is promising a fix in a future software update, however, and we did find the webcam to still at least be usable in our testing.
Final thoughts on the best monitors with built-in webcams
Given the growing importance of video calls in our hybrid remote lives, one can only assume that a wave of new and exciting monitors with built-in webcams is on the way. For now, the options are still somewhat limited. That said, you don’t need to wait and hope for good options, because there are already a few good ones to choose from.
