How to Make a Cheap Webcam Look Better (Lighting + Settings)

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You can make a $30–$80 webcam look surprisingly good with a few simple changes.

7 fast fixes

1. Front light: put a lamp or ring light behind your camera.
2. Eye level: raise your camera so it’s not looking up your nose.
3. Clean the lens: yes, really (microfiber cloth).
4. Turn off auto exposure if possible and set it once.
5. Set white balance so you don’t look orange/green.
6. Simple background: clutter makes video look noisier.
7. Use 1080p/30fps (or 60fps only if your lighting is strong).

If you still haven’t picked a model yet: Best Webcams Under $80.