(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample: 171 ratings (Brio 505 business listing).
Wirecutter's top pick: sharp, natural 1080p with the most accurate white balance and fastest autofocus it saw under $200, plus subject tracking and a built-in shutter, for about $130. The catches are a magnetic mount that can work loose, Logitech software that Tom's Hardware dislikes, and a price that's high for 1080p.
Top complaints
- Magnetic mount can come loose
Wirecutter found the magnetic button that holds the camera to its clip can loosen, so the webcam stops staying in place until you retighten it. Tom's Hardware (testing the near-identical Brio 500) kept pulling the camera off the mount when tilting it because the magnet is a little weak. Amazon's summary mentions the camera swiveling in unwanted directions.
- Pricey for 1080p, and value is debated
Tom's Hardware lists 'not budget-priced' and '1080p resolution' as cons, noting the older C920s costs less than half as much. Amazon owners are mixed on value, with some calling it overpriced and some saying it doesn't always work.
- Logi Tune software and autofocus draw mixed reviews
Tom's Hardware says Logi Tune 'is not great' and less precise than Logitech's older software. Amazon owners are mixed on autofocus, with some complaining about poor focus control. Wirecutter, by contrast, calls the software excellent.
What owners love
- Natural, accurate picture out of the box
In Wirecutter's blind panel it beat every camera in its class, including several 4K models, for skin tones and overall picture, with fast autofocus and accurate exposure even in front of a bright window. Tom's Hardware was especially impressed by the Brio 500's auto white balance.
- Built-in privacy shutter
Wirecutter loves the dial-operated shutter that closes with a light magnetic click. Tom's Hardware lists the well-designed privacy cover as a pro.
- Tracking and Show Mode at a mid price
Wirecutter notes RightSight subject tracking works in Zoom without the app open, and Show Mode refocuses on objects you hold up, features usually found on cameras twice the price. Amazon owners praise the video, sound and easy setup.
- You need 4K or want to crop and zoom heavily
- You adjust the camera's angle often (the mount can slip)
- You want the cheapest decent webcam
- Everyday video calls that look good with no tweaking
- Rooms with mixed or tricky lighting
- People who want a real privacy shutter (the Brio 500 is the same camera with a fixed cable)
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick (updated 2026-09-17). Its only listed flaw is a mount that can come loose. Wirecutter says the Brio 500 is nearly identical but has a fixed cable and a one-year (vs. three-year) warranty.
- Tom's Hardware: The Brio 500 is its best webcam for most people. The cons are the price, Logi Tune software and 1080p resolution.