Due to the increasing adoption of video conferencing, more and more people are wondering why laptop webcams are mostly crappy in the present age when smartphones are already boasting near-perfect cameras.
Well, that question can be answered from the viewpoints of technology and business. From the perspective of technology, the truth is, increasing the resolution of laptop webcams would require more space than the thin lids and tiny bezels would allow. But, of course, we are at a time when laptops are becoming thinner, and bezels are shrinking fast. Since these are what make laptops aesthetically appealing to most consumers these days, it makes more sense for manufacturers to stick with what the limited space can allow. After all, a laptop isn’t bought primarily for its webcam!
From the business viewpoint, sticking higher-resolution webcams into laptops would increase each unit’s overall production cost but won’t necessarily help sell more laptops to consumers. But, again, that’s because most consumers focus on performance and design features, not the quality of the webcams.
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Laptops with 1080p Webcams: What Options Are Available?
During the worldwide lockdowns necessitated by the coronavirus pandemic of 2019/2020, most individuals and organizations resorted to using Zoom and similar channels for business-related correspondence. This drew more attention to laptop webcams, which most users find unimpressive. Most laptop users then started seeing the need for laptops with better-quality webcams since not everyone is cool with the idea of buying and using a standalone webcam.
Now, a few laptops come with 1080p full HD cameras because their manufacturers are willing to pay more for a better model. And changes in consumer expectations in laptops might force more manufacturers to up their game in the laptop webcam department.
As of the time of this writing, we could find only 3 laptops on the market that come with 1080p webcams. These are:
- Microsoft Surface Pro X
- Microsoft Surface Pro 7
- MSI GE76 Raider
Read on to enjoy our in-depth reviews of these 1080p webcam laptops.
1. Microsoft Surface Pro X
- Connectivity Technology: Cellular
- Country of origin : China
- Model Number : QWZ-00001
- Package Dimensions : 9.35″ L x 12.55″ W x 1.89″ H
- Free Upgrade to Windows 11 when available (see below).
- Free Upgrade to Windows 11 when available (see below).
If you want a top-quality laptop from a decent brand, consider getting the Microsoft Surface Pro X. Although it is small-sized, this device can rival many laptops from various brands.
Design
When it comes to Design, the Microsoft Surface Pro X will stun any user. For instance, it has a slim design that offers a futuristic look. Moreover, such thinness allows you to hold the laptop for long periods without achy arms.
Are you looking for a laptop that can stand as a tablet? Well, you can remove the keyboard and convert the computer into a great tablet. If you want a tablet for studio work, just take out the kickstand.
The laptop is sold in matte black. Even if the color feels serious, it makes the Surface Pro stand out from your desk with a high level of attractiveness. In some stores, you might get the laptop in platinum.
Display and Audio
Everything is crisply clear on the Surface Pro X. Because of its 13” PixelSense™ Display, and you can enjoy every inch of your video with amazing clarity. Around the screen, you will have ultra-thin bezels. On top of that, the touchscreen gets protection from Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3.
For audio, the Surface Pro X features 2W speakers with Dolby technology. It also has a pair of microphones that capture sound easily.
Webcam
The Surface Pro X has two cameras – a 5MP front-facing camera with a 10MP rear camera. You can use any of these devices to make 1080p videos. But if you want to go up to 4k, stick with the rear camera.
Software and Hardware
The laptop runs on the latest Windows 10 Home. This software is perfect for downloading the latest apps for video calls. Besides, it works with other apps that you might need for work, school, or play.
As for hardware, the Surface Pro X works with a Qualcomm® Snapdragon chipset. It also supports Bluetooth 5, GPS, and WiFi.
Storage
The Surface Pro X comes with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM. For storage, it has three variants with 128GB, 256GB, and 512 GB.
Battery
On the Surface Pro X, Microsoft promises up to 15 hours of battery life. With this figure, you can use the webcam for several hours. Since the battery offers decent power, it is perfect for trips and remote areas.
What We Like
- It offers a fast processing speed.
- Attractive Design, easy-to-carry.
- It gives suitable battery life.
- Special pricing for parents, teachers, students, and military personnel.
What We Don’t Like
- Available in only a few colors.
- Smaller storage versions do not support heavy programs.
- Not affordable.
- The pen needs improvement.
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
- Next-gen, best-in-class laptop with the versatility of a studio and tablet, so you can type, touch, draw, write, work, and play more naturally
- Faster than surface pro 6, with a 10th gen intel core processor – redefining what’s possible in a thin and light computer.
- More ways to connect, with both USB-c and USB-a ports for connecting to displays, docking stations and more, as well as accessory charging. Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
- Standout design that won’t weigh you down — ultra-slim and light surface pro 7 starts at just 1.70 pounds
- All day battery life up to 10.5 hours, Plus the ability to go from empty to full faster — about 80 percent in just over an hour
- Free Upgrade to Windows 11 when available (see below).
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is another great product with a 1080p camera. Like most Surface products, it has enough specs for home or office use.
Design
Like the Surface Pro X, the Surface Pro 7 has an ultra-slim body. Besides, it doesn’t even weigh much as some laptops. For this reason, you will not have to bother about tired arms or achy backs.
But the similarities don’t end there. As with the Surface Pro 7, you can transform the laptop into a powerful tablet. All you have to do is remove the kickstart and type the cover of the device.
The Pro 7 is sold in matte black and platinum. Because of these colors, this 2-in-1 laptop comes as a sleek tool for work or play.
Display and Audio
A 12.3-inch screen covers the front panel of the Surface Pro 7. Since it is a PixelSense™ Display, you can watch HD videos and interact easily with the screen. Also, the laptop boasts a 2736 x 1824 resolution while offering automatic adjustments to natural light.
Around the screen, Microsoft places thick bezels. However, these features do not disturb your viewing experience.
Sound is also great on this laptop/tablet. Because of the 16w Dolby speakers and good mics, listeners can pick out words without any hassles.
Webcam
The Pro 7 has a 5 MP front camera for full HD videos. Behind the laptop, you will get an 8MP camera that supports 1080p videos. With these cameras, this laptop is one of the most ideal tools for video calls.
Software and Hardware
As with most modern devices, the Surface Pro 7 works with Windows 10 Home. By using this platform, users get a friendly interface and easy-to-use UI. Furthermore, it keeps out threats with its high-end security.
The laptop is sold in three models. As expected, all variants do not have the same type of processor. With this in mind, you should find a model to handle tough tasks such as video editing.
Storage
Microsoft sells the Surface Pro 7 in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB models. It also has a variant that can store up to 1TB of data. On these laptops, you can find different RAM sizes of 4GB, 8GB, or 16 GB.
Battery
With decent use, the Surface Pro 7 can run for up to ten hours. If you want to use the laptop for longer periods, it comes with a charger for quick top-ups.
What We Like
- Slim and lightweight design.
- Reasonable battery life.
- Fast charging.
- Clear microphones.
- It has a headphone jack.
What We Don’t Like
- Thick bezels make the screen look outdated.
- The screen cannot handle sun glare.
- The keyboard is sold separately from the product.
- Volume buttons might freeze.
- Poor battery life.
3. MSI GE76 Raider
- Visual Prowess: The 17.3” 360Hz FHD display delivers true-to-life images with a high refresh rate so you can see every frame of the game.
- Redefined Power: The 11th Gen. Intel Core i9 processor, delivers high performance to take on any games and applications with ease.
- Supercharged Graphics: The MSI GE76 Raider is powered by NVIDIA GeForce RTX, take on today’s most popular games with these performance graphics.
- On the Go Gaming: Designed to be the ultimate portable gaming station with immense power and a 99.9WHr battery to keep you gaming for longer.
- Cool and Powerful: MSI’s exclusive Cooler Boost Technology ensures optimal thermal dissipation. Featuring state of the art fans and heat pipes, get the airflow you need for gaming.
- Customized Keys: Customize each key to your liking and receive real-time in-game status through keyboard lighting, or even watch the lights dance to your favorite tune.
If you want a laptop that will offer incredible specs, consider getting the GE76 Raider by MSI. Although it is built for gaming, it can be used anywhere or anytime. Besides, the laptop is sold in three models with different features.
Design
There are many reasons to fall in love with the GE76 Raider. First, it has a slim design that allows sliding easily into your bag. Next, it sports panoramic lights at the front part of its chassis. You will even get the same lighting on its well-arranged keyboard.
At the back panel, you will find a dragon logo. Overall, this laptop will grab the attention of any user.
Before spending cash on a laptop, look for a brand that offers durability. With this in mind, MSI uses materials that help the laptop endure rough usage.
The laptop is only available in titanium blue. If you don’t like this color, you might have to get another brand.
Display and Audio
The screen is another interesting part of the laptop. Measuring 17. 3″, the FHD display supports a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. Unlike other mentions in our post, the GE76 Raider has a very large screen.
Asides from having a huge display, this laptop has a mic and speakers for sound. It also has a headphone jack. Combined with the webcam, these tools can’t miss any part of a conversation.
We would also like to add that the GE76 Raider has another variant that does not use an FHD screen. Instead, it presents images with a UHD display.
Webcam
All models of the GE76 Raider have front-facing webcams. As you might have guessed, these devices can shoot 1080p videos at 30fps.
Software and Hardware
Windows 10 Home runs on all variants of the GE76 Raider. So if you work with these devices, you should expect a friendly interface and strong protection. Also, the platform is compatible with many types of apps.
The Raider doesn’t only bring the latest software. It also has an Intel chipset that offers WiFi 6. According to the company’s website, MSI is the first company to offer WiFi 6-compatible products.
Storage
The GE76 Raider is sold with RAM sizes of up to 64GB. For storing data, you can get a maximum storage space of 1TB.
Battery Life
This machine offers a decent amount of battery life. If you want to use the laptop for a video call, you’d get nothing less than 6 hours of talk time from a fully charged battery.
What We Like
- Durable materials.
- Large screen.
- Fast processing speed.
- Attractive Design.
- Works with high-intensive apps.
What We Don’t Like
- Moderate battery life.
- Not affordable.
- Incredibly heavy.
- Limited colors.
