3D printing can be an interesting task, especially if you get to watch the entire process. Unfortunately, this will not always be possible since some prints may take a lot of time.
That is where octoprint comes in! With this open-source software, you can monitor and control your 3D printer from any place in the world. Hence, ensuring you get a satisfactory 3D printing experience, even when you’re on the road.
However, having Octoprint alone isn’t enough to help you control and monitor remotely. Instead, you’ll need extra pieces of hardware such as the best camera for Octoprint. That way, you can create time-lapse videos and stream a live feed of your 3D printer in real-time.
But, which is the best camera to use for Octoprint? Well, in this article, we’ll take you through some of the top octoprint cameras out there at this moment.
Quick round-up table with our top 3 choices:
Image | Name | Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Logitech C270 HD Webcam |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | ||
Arducam 16MP Camera for Raspberry Pi |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | ||
Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon |
To read about our product selection procedure, visit the “About” page.
What’s Octoprint?
By definition, Octoprint is an open-source platform that allows you to control and check 3D printing remotely. However, this program does more than that. For instance, you can use it to change and monitor the temperature of your 3D printer. Also, it allows to check progress, pause print jobs, and stop or start print jobs. Not to forget that you can use it to receive push messages and capture time-lapse from anywhere.
Moving on, you can either use this program with a Raspberry Pi or download it to a PC. More importantly, it’s compatible with most 3D printers, but it may not work on some devices.
Finally, to make this program work smoothly, you’ll need a camera to film the 3D printer during operation. Besides, it allows you to set up many profiles and features various settings. As a result, checking your printer with this software will be more advanced, yet much easier!
Why Use a Camera with Octoprint?
Most people think about video conferencing with VOIP programs or game streaming when webcams are mentioned. However, webcams can also play an important role in 3D printing when used with Octoprint.
As we’ve already stated, you can use the embedded camera to watch your 3D prints remotely in real-time. This helps you to check any issues and monitor the progress. Various plugins work well with Octoprint. Hence allowing you to stream your print task to different online platforms. Best of all, the webcam will allow you to record time-lapse videos of your prints.
Bottom line, if you want to advance your 3D printing operation with Octoprint, you’ll need a webcam! Now, let’s check out some of the best Octoprint webcams worth buying!
10 Best Budget-Friendly OctoPrint Webcam Reviews
1. Logitech C270 Widescreen Webcam for OctoPrint
As far as webcams are concerned, Logitech C270 is by far the best camera for OctoPrint. Thanks to its ability to adapt with the software. Hence giving you an outstanding experience during your 3D printing projects.
On top of that, it’s equipped with various functions including a strong 2.5 GHz intel core 2 duo and HD 720P recording. Also, its 16:9 widescreen allows it to capture wider-length videos with large surfaces.
Regardless of its small size, this webcam will deliver good images and videos that are pleasant to watch! Moreover, it delivers good performance, internal storage, and compatibility.
Key Features:
Operating System
To start, this webcam can run independently, thanks to its 2.4 GHz Intel Core2 Duo system with 2GB RAM. However, it works on various operating systems including Windows 7/8/10, Chrome Os, and MacOS 10.10 or later.
Better still, it’s equipped with a hard disc with a capacity of about 200MB. Therefore, it can record lengthy videos, which is important in octoprint recording.
Video Quality
With its resolution of 1280 X 720px, this camera captures HD 720 videos with excellent stability.
As if that’s not enough, the device comes with basic plastic optics and a 60 deg field of view. Besides, it has an auto-light correction feature that adjusts the color and brightness. As a result, you’ll get quality videos, regardless of the lighting environment.
When it comes to streaming, this webcam works smoothly with Octoprint, ensuring there’s no lag. On the same note, its upload speed is around 1 Mbps, helping you get video coverage in real-time!
Inbuilt Microphone
Another key feature of this webcam is that it’s equipped with an inbuilt microphone. This mic filters and cancels out any extra noise in the background. Hence ensuring that you get superior, crystal clear audio quality. Besides, this auto noise cancellation microphone makes it ideal for other uses. It’s ideal for recording or making conference calls on platforms like Skype, WebEx, and more.
Easy to Set up
Lastly, this webcam is quite simple to install and use. Simply attach it anywhere and use the USB 2.0 port to plug it into your gadget. That simple and you’re good to go! Besides, you’ll get a 2-year limited warranty once you buy this USB camera for Octoprint.
Highlighted Features:
- 60 degrees viewing angle
- 2.1 MP optical sensor
- Uploads videos at 1 Mbps
- HD 720p resolution
- 2GB RAM and 200MB hard drive
- Inbuilt microphone
- 3MP photo resolution
Drawbacks:
- Not 1080p resolution
### Why is Logitech C270 is the Best Camera for Octroprint Compared to Others?
Logitech C270 is considered the best cheap webcam for Octoprint. One thing that makes it stand out is that it’s extremely simple to set up, even for beginners. Thanks to its ability to work with most smart devices available. Besides, setting it up involves a one-click operation.
Apart from being easy to use, this device delivers crisp videos and vivid images. This is because it’s equipped with an HD Widescreen with a resolution of up to 720p at 30 fps. Not to forget that it has an inbuilt microphone to ensure superior audio quality. At the same time, it cancels out ambient noise to ensure that your recordings have clean audio.
2. Arducam 16MP Camera for Raspberry Pi
Using Octoprint with an RPi Camera to check 3D prints is very cheap, yet quite effective. One such item that will help you accomplish this is this 16MP camera module from Arducam. Although the camera doesn’t have a USB port, you can connect it to the Raspberry Pi Card directly.
Moreover, it’s equipped with the IMX298 sensor to deliver a resolution of up to 16MP. Not to forget that this helps it to ensure accurate color and sharp image reproduction. This, plus the autofocus feature makes it ideal for various applications.
Key Features:
Compatibility
Octoprint highly recommends the Raspberry Pi Models 4B, 3B+, and 3B. Therefore, you’ll not experience any performance issues that may affect your prints. Interestingly, this camera module supports all these models including 3A+ and other A & B models. However, it’s not compatible with Raspberry Pi Zero and 2B.
This Octroprint camera also works with libcamera apps maintained by the Raspberry foundation. This includes apps like OpenCV, Gstreamer, and more.
IMX298 Sensor
As we mentioned earlier, this Arducam 16MP camera features an IMX298 image sensor. Raspberry Pi utilizes this sensor for the 16MP camera to ensure high-quality images. Besides, the sensor’s optical format is around 1/28”. This format combines with the camera’s 1.12m by 1.12m pixel size to provide 4656 by 3496p images.
Since this sensor has a rolling shutter, it can capture the entire row/ column. As for the lens, this camera model comes with a stock lens. To be precise, it has a motorized stock focus lens to allow autofocus support.
Design & Operating System
This camera for Octoprint is specifically designed to work on Raspberry Pi boards. And it’s even supported by the Raspberry Pi’s recommended Operating system, Raspbuian. On top of that, you’ll need a special MIPI software, which you can download on the Arducam GitHub site.
In terms of appearance, the board is quite small, seeing that it only measures about 40 X 40mm. While the camera is attached to the Pi’s BCM285 process through the CSI bus. Luckily, this CSI bus-only carries pixel data, delivering extremely high data rates.
Another thing that comes with this camera module is a 15 pin FFC (Flexible Flat Cable). The role of this cable is to connect the camera to the Raspberry Pi’s CSI SOCKET
Highlighted Features:
- Works with multiple libcamera-based apps
- Compatible with Mac, Linux, and Windows
- Auto controlled features (exposure, saturation, white balance, acutance, contrast)
- 60 deg field of view
- 4656 X 3496 16MP resolution
- Wide application (3D printing, robotics, face recognition, etc.)
Drawbacks:
- Lacks inbuilt microphone
3. Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam
C920 is yet another incredible webcam for octoprint from Logitech. This is quite understandable since Logitech is one of the best manufacturers of webcams!
Unlike the model we reviewed earlier, this unit has better performance, especially in low light conditions. Also, it has advanced autofocus, a 78 deg field of view, and a 1080p resolution.
For that, it’s considered the best camera for octolapse and teleconferencing among business professionals. It’s also suitable for creating time-lapse videos and monitoring 3D prints!
Key features:
Camera Quality
As you’d expect, Logitech C920 delivers excellent video quality. For starters, this camera records HD videos at 1080p/ 30 fps. Consequently, It captures clear and crisp images with impressive color accuracy.
However, it also performs well in low light and mixed lighting conditions. Thanks to its ability to adjust the contrast and brightness settings automatically. Moreover, it includes a 5-layered glass lens with a 78 deg field of view.
On top of that, this webcam features autofocus technology. This helps it to provide the best video quality possible. So, although 3D prints are constantly moving, you’ll always get still images with this camera. Not to forget that it’s fitted with a 15MP sensor to deliver crisper images.
Regarding the audio quality, this device is fitted with 2 noise-canceling stereo microphones on both sides. Therefore, it will capture audio perfectly during the live stream. Not to forget that this makes it suitable for other applications.
Design
At first glance, this camera weighs about 165 g and measures 25.4 X 30.48 X 93 mm. Also, it comes with an inbuilt standard tripod mounting screw and a plastic stand. However, it also allows other mounting options such as attaching it to a flat surface. For instance, its clip works on all tripods, laptops, and monitors. Besides, its base has a flexible foot, giving it an additional level of stability.
The only issue with this webcam’s design is that it doesn’t rotate right or left. Nonetheless, it has a good vertical rotation range of about 15 deg back and 30 deg forward.
Compatibility
The C920 is quite simple to set up since you just need to plug its USB 2.0 cable into your laptop or computer. And you’re good to go, even without updating or installing any drivers. Besides, it’s compatible with various operating systems. This includes MacOS 10.0 & later, Chrome OS, and Windows 7 onwards. All in all, this will give you some flexibility when it comes to operating systems and devices.
Highlighted Features:
- Convenient plug & play USB 2.0 setup
- 78 deg angle of view
- 2 omnidirectional stereo microphones
- Captures videos at 1080 p at 30 fps
- Zeiss glass optics
- Mounting clip
Drawbacks:
- A bit pricey
4. Arducam V2 8MP Raspberry Pi Camera Module
Despite its tiny size, this Raspberry Pi V2 board is the best camera module for monitoring 3D printers. Like other RPi video modules from Arducam, it delivers superb video quality. Besides, it’s compact, natively compatible, and provides 8MP resolution. Yet, it’s much more affordable than most Pi Cameras out there. Not to forget that it’s ideal for other machine vision applications. This includes dashcam, home surveillance, and security, etc.
Key Features:
Performance
To start, this Raspberry Pi V2 camera module captures HD still images at 3280 by 2464 resolution. Thanks to the fixed focus lens and Sony IMX219 8MP sensor. Moreover, the sensor delivers outstanding all-around image crispness and incredible color accuracy.
As for the videos, this device supports recordings at 480p/ 90 fps, 720p/ 60fps and 1080/ 30fps. While the fixed focus 1-m camera infinity provides clear, wider shots, due to the 54 X 41 deg viewing angle.
On the downside, the focal length doesn’t adjust automatically. And its focusing ability is a little limited.
Compact Design
In terms of dimensions, this RPi camera module V2 board measures 25 X 23 X 9mm. While its weight is around 3 grams. This compact and lightweight nature make it a perfect option for portable applications.
Moving on, the device includes a high-bandwidth CSI bus that attaches the camera to the board. For this reason, installing this camera module is quite easy. You just need to connect the included 15cm ribbon cable to the RPi’s CSI port.
Compatible RPi Models
Unlike some RPi camera modules, this unit is compatible with all RPi models out there. For that, you can use it with RPi 3, 3B+, and more. However, when using it with Rpi Zero, make sure you’ve got the right connector board. Other than that, this camera model is supported in the recent version of Raspbian.
Power
Compared to other RPi camera modules, this product is powered by a 1.8A power source. So, before you install this model, make sure you check your device’s power source. All in all, it is an excellent option if you want an affordable RPi cam to monitor your 3D prints with Octoprint. Besides, it’s suitable for advanced users and beginners, since it has several features, yet it’s simple to use.
Highlighted Features:
- Works with all RPi models
- Compact & lightweight design
- 8MP native resolution sensor
- Supports video recordings of up to 1080p/ 30fps
- Captures high-quality images
Drawbacks:
- Not ideal for low-light conditions
5. NexiGo N60 HD 1080p Webcam
Due to its ability to handle multiple applications, NexiGo N60 is the most versatile cam on our list. It was recently designed with skype and zoom in mind. But you can use it with Octoprint to monitor 3D printing as well. Other notable applications include use with Facetime, Twitch, Hangouts, and so on. In essence, it’s ideal for streaming 3D prints, gaming, and chatting with friends.
Moreover, it’s compatible with various operating systems. This includes Windows 7 onwards, Mac OS X 10.7, Android 4.0 or later, and more.
Key Features:
Inbuilt Noise-canceling Technology
One unique feature about this webcam is that it’s equipped with double electronic microphones. More notably, these microphones have the exceptional ability to terminate background noise automatically. For that, you’ll always get clear and natural sound recordings with superior quality. So, even if your 3D printer is noisy, you’ll get the sounds you want. Also, this makes it ideal for other uses like video conferencing, streaming, webinars, and so on.
Full HD Video Quality
For starters, this Octoprint webcam is powered by a full HD 2mp CMOS. Yet it delivers high-quality video clip quality with resolutions of around 1080p/ 30fps. Also, it comes with a 3.6 mm glass lens, ensuring you get sharper images. On the same note, it supports long-distance and close-range viewings with optimal ranges.
As for the viewing angle, this camera has an extremely wide field of vision, which is around 110 deg. Therefore, it will give you a wider scene as compared to a typical video cam.
Privacy Cover
Another factor that makes this camera stand out is that it includes a flip-down privacy cover. This will help you to cover the lens when you’re not using the camera to monitor your 3D prints. Hence preventing internet hackers from spying on you. At the same time, this cover protects the lens from dirt and dust particles. As a result, your video recordings will remain crystal clear through the life of this cam.
360-deg Flexible Turning
NexiGo N60 webcam has an integrated 360-deg rotating mechanism. This means that it can rotate right and left. Therefore, you don’t have to transform your computer or laptop to record your 3D prints. Instead, you can move this camera to any angle you want to check with Octoprint.
Best of all, you don’t need any additional software or driver to use this device. Simply plug in the USB 2.0 port to your computer and it’s ready to go!
Highlighted Features:
- Ultra-Wide field of view (110 deg)
- Sturdier and compact design
- Includes a privacy cover
- Records and streams videos at 1080p / 30 fps
- Flexible webcam head
- Plug-&-play webcam type
- Inbuilt microphone
Drawbacks:
- Doesn’t focus adequately sometimes
6. Arducam OV5647 1080p Raspberry Camera
Arducam has been manufacturing some incredible RPi video modules in recent years. Well, their OV5647 1080p model is no different!
And like other cameras from this brand, you can use it to monitor your 3D prints remotely with octoPrint. Moreover, it’s ideal for other applications like video streaming.
Key Features:
Resolution
The OV5647 RPi camera module comes with a 5MP sensor. For this reason, it captures still images at a resolution of up to 2592 X 1944. Also, it’s fitted with the CS-mount lens, which is advanced to the standard RPI camera. This ensures that you get more focus and clarity. Also, this mount type is compatible with various lenses, meaning you can try out other lenses.
Regarding the video output, the camera records videos at a resolution of 1080p/ 30 fps.
Compatible Operating System
Although this product doesn’t come with a Raspberry Pi, it’s fully compatible with the official RPi board. On the same note, it works perfectly with the Rasparian OS. This will optimize its optical performance as compared to the previous RPi camera. In other words, this camera will give you sharper and clearer images. As for the compatible Raspberry Pi models, it works with RPi 3, 3B+, and 4.
Compact Design
To start, this camera module has a relatively small board, since it measures 36 X 36mm. And unlike the official model, this module’s lens is replaceable. For that, it’s such a great option where image quality and size are of major concern.
That aside, the board’s upper surface has 2 small sockets that you can use to connect it to the Raspberry Pi. Not to forget it’s equipped with a CSI bus that carries pixel data at extremely high rates. Note, the CSI bus is located along the 15 cm ribbon cable that connects the board to the RPi’s CSI interface.
Wide Range of Applications
Overall, if you want an Octoprint camera that allows you to change the lens, the OV5647 RPi camera is a great option. It delivers still images and high-quality videos for engineers, inventors, and hobbyists. More importantly, it can handle various applications apart from monitoring Octoprint 3D printers. As an example, you can use it for your home security system and many other RPi projects that need a camera.
Highlighted Features:
- 2592 X 1944 image resolution
- 5MP sensor
- Interchangeable CS-mount lens
- Compatible with Raspberry Pi 4, 3B+ & 3.
- Works on the Rasparian OS
Drawbacks:
- Image quality lags behind expensive models
7. eMeet C960 1080P Webcam
eMeet C960 is a full HD webcam that was specifically designed for gaming and video streaming. However, it can stream high-resolution videos, making it a great camera for octoprint as well.
It delivers sharp and smooth videos. Hence giving you complete satisfaction while monitoring your 3D prints. Besides, it has 4-layer glasses, which also contribute to delivering clear video recordings. On top of that, setting it up is easy, and it even comes with an inbuilt tripod thread to ensure maximum flexibility.
To sum things up, eMeet C960 has everything as the best webcam for Octoprint. Yet it’s reasonably priced and even includes dual microphones.
Key Features:
Design and Handling
Since this webcam uses a ‘plug & play’ operation, setting it up is extremely simple. You just need to insert the included USB port into a computer and it will be recognized right away. Note, this device uses a USB-A connectivity option. So, if your computer doesn’t have such a port, you may need an adapter.
In terms of design, this webcam is fixed in place horizontally. Thankfully, it has a tripod mount that allows you to position it wherever you wish. For instance, you can use a small stand to elevate the camera slightly. Or even place it on a flat surface, using the included tripod thread. Not to forget that you can adjust it at an angle, either downwards or upwards.
Lastly, this package comes with a private cover to ensure your security when you’re not using the webcam.
Video & Image Quality
Basically, this webcam records videos at 1080p resolution. Therefore, in terms of monitoring 3D prints, its video quality will get the task done.
It has an auto low-light correction, helping it work with Octoprint in darker areas. Moreover, this makes it the best Octoprint compatible webcam for low-light performance. Other features offered that improve video quality are exposure and color booster.
As if that’s not enough, this camera has a viewing angle of up to 90 deg. This, plus the 4-layered glass will help you see every corner of your 3D prints with Octoprint.
2 Inbuilt Omnidirectional Microphones
To ensure you get the best sound quality, this webcam comes with 2 microphones. More notably, these microphones have a noise reduction property to allow broad usage. Therefore, it will pick up every sound from your 3D printer without any disturbance.
Operating System
When it comes to the operating system, eMeet C960 can work with various devices. As an example, it’s compatible with Mac OS 10.4 onwards and Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1 & 10.
Highlighted Features:
- 4-layer anti-glare glass
- 2 omnidirectional noise cancellation microphones
- Low light correction technology
- Streams full HD 1080p videos at 30 fps
- 90-deg. Field of view
- Includes a privacy cover
- ‘plug & play’ operation
Drawbacks:
- Supports USB-A only
8. Angetube 1080p HD Webcam
Angetube may not be as popular as some of the brands we’ve included in our reviews. Nonetheless, their 1080P HD webcam delivers great results. Besides, you can even use it as a streaming camera. Thus making it the best HD Octoprint webcam you can buy for monitoring 3D prints.
You’ll also find this camera to be quite flexible. For instance, once you fix it to the top of your device, you can either rotate or tilt it. Thanks to the full 360 deg swivel, helping it adapt to various conditions with ease. On top of that, it comes with other great features like inbuilt mics and autofocus.
Key Features:
Adjustable Ring Light
The most unique thing about this Angetube HD webcam is that it has a ring-light. Note, this light right utilizes warm white diffused LEDs to illuminate the area in front of the webcam. Apart from providing a natural, uniform illumination, this future reduces visible particles. More notably, it allows it to capture the details, even in a dark environment.
Even better, these ring lights have 3 different brightness levels. Therefore, you can adjust the ambient lighting to suit your video streaming needs.
As a drawback, the highest setting of this ring light can be too bright for your eyes. Luckily, that will not be an issue if you’re using the medium or low settings. Alternatively, you can turn off the right light, but that will depend on the available light and space.
Inbuilt Microphones
To ensure your video recordings have high-quality audio, there are 2 microphones on the front of this camera. For this, the videos of your 3D prints captured by this device will have clean and clear audio. And with the microphone’s noise-canceling technology, the camera will filter background noise.
Performance
First, this Angetube camera has a wide-angle lens of around 78 degrees. As a result, you can record multiple HD videos and images at once without moving the camera. In terms of resolution, this device captures videos at 1080p/ 30 fps. This quality is improved further by the fast and accurate autofocus technology used in the lens.
Finally, this webcam has H.264 compression. This property improves the video smoothness without affecting the image quality. At the same time, there is a beauty enhancement property that softens facial features.
Plug & Play Operation
Angetube webcam is quite simple to install since you don’t need any additional software. Besides, it’s compatible with various operating systems out there. As an example, it works with Chrome Os, Linux 2.2.24, Mac OS 10.6, and Windows 10/8/7/XP.
Highlighted Features:
- Noise cancellation microphones
- Wide-angle lens
- Plug-& play operation
- H.264 compression encoding
- Adjustable ring light with 3 different settings
- Works with FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, and more.
- High-quality, lightweight design
- Accurate autofocus technology
- 78 deg field of view
Drawbacks:
- The ring light isn’t suitable for all conditions
9. Unzano HD920 1080p HD Webcam
Due To its great video output and sound output, Unzano HD920 is another great camera for Octoprint. Yet you just need to manually focus it once and it’s good to go! This is an incredible feature when monitoring your 3D prints. At the same, this device has the most updated quality including the H.264 encoding. So, if you want a 1080p webcam that comes at a budget-friendly price, the Unzano HD webcam is an excellent option!
Key Features:
Display & Resolution
Unzano HD920 webcam supports a resolution of up to 1080p at 30 fps. And a viewing angle of up to 110 degrees. Therefore, you can rest assured that you’ll get better image quality with this device.
Another incredible property is that this webcam features the ‘real mechanical’ autofocus. But you can change to manual focus by heading to the camera app settings in your Windows 10 device. Either way, the autofocus has a relatively fast reaction speed.
Audio Quality
Like any other superior webcam out there, this has an inbuilt microphone. More importantly, this microphone is equipped with noise reduction technology. Moreover, this inbuilt dual microphone can capture audio within a distance of up to 20 feet. These features will make you feel as if you’re in the same room with your 3D printer even when you’re away.
Build Quality
In terms of weight and size, this webcam weighs about 6.24 oz and measures 4.5 X 2.6 X 4.5”. For that reason, it’s much smaller than some webcam models out there such as Logitech C270. Nonetheless, it delivers excellent results and its full HD camera can even handle 4 people in a single shot. Thanks to the wide viewing angle of up to 100 degrees and 70 mm focal length. Also, it comes with a 6-layer glass lens, which provides clearer images than glass.
Compatibility
One thing that has made this webcam so popular among professionals is that it’s compatible with major software. As an example, it works with Facebook, Zoom, Skype, Facetime, and more. At the same time, it’s compatible with major operating systems like Mac OS, Windows 10/8/7/XP, and even Android smart TV.
Surprisingly, Unzano HD920 is relatively simple to use and set up. Thanks to its plug & play operation. So, you just need to plug it into your laptop or computer and open the software you intend to use. In this case, that will be octoprint if you’re planning to monitor your 3D prints. Once you do that, the webcam will automatically use the software as the audio/ video source.
Highlighted Features:
- Compatible with major software and operating systems
- 1080p HD resolution
- Inbuilt dual microphone
- 6-layer glass lens
- 100 degrees viewing angle
- Manual focus
- Plug & play operation
- H.264 decoding and encoding
Drawbacks:
- Lacks auto-focus feature
10. Logitech for Creators Streamcam
As the name implies, this SteamCam webcam is specifically designed for content creators. However, you can use it in other applications that need high-quality videos like monitoring 3D prints with Octoprint. All thanks to its 1080p resolution, clear audio, and high level of color accuracy.
Besides, its software offers more customization and functionality options. Not to forget that it’s easy to set up since you can either mount it on a tripod, laptop, or even a monitor.
Key Features:
Design
At first glance, you’ll note that this webcam is a little more square as compared to most webcams. To be precise, its dimensions are 2.6 X 2.3 X 1.9 and weighs around 5.3 oz. The other unique feature about its appearance is that it’s available in different color options. For instance, you can find it in white, graphite, or textured white color options.
Moreover, this webcam includes a fixed, 5 ft. USB-C cable. So, if your device has a USB 3.0 port, you’ll need a USB 3.0 adapter. Unfortunately, this isn’t included in the package, meaning you’ve to buy one separately.
That aside, this webcam comes with a premium HD glass lens, tripod mount, and a monitor mount. The lens has a 78-degree viewing angle, 3.7 mm focal length, and an f/2.0 aperture. As for compatibility, it’s designed to work with Windows 10 OS or later and macOS 10.14 onwards.
Video & Audio Output
Although the StreamCam series is one of the highest-priced cameras from Logitech, it’s worth the price. For starters, it delivers superb video quality of up to 1080p at 60 fps. Nonetheless, it still supports other resolutions like 360p and 720p at different frame rates including 24, 25, 30, and 50 fps.
Regarding the audio output, this device has dual noise-reduction omnidirectional microphones. Therefore, it picks up the sound of your 3D printer clearly, without any background noise.
Capture Software
The Streamcam webcam series works with any Logitech capture software. Something that allows you to add colored borders, effects, filters, and text overlays to your videos. Also, this software will enable you to adjust the webcam stings, aspect ratio, audio, and more.
It’s also worth mentioning that StreamCam has full compatibility with OBS and XSplit. This will help you to enjoy the additional features offered by these 3rd party tools as well. On the same note, you’ll get a 3-month premium license to XSplit recording and live streaming software.
Highlighted Features:
- Premium glass lens
- Smart autofocus
- HD 1080p resolution/ 60 fps
- 78 degrees viewing angle
- Fast USB-Type C connection
- Multiple mounting options
- Available in different color options
Drawbacks:
- Works with USB-C only
Quick Comparison of 10 Best Cameras for Octolapse
Product Name | Resolution | Image Capture Speed | Field of View | Connectivity Technology |
LogicTech C270 | 720p | 30 fps | 60 degrees | USB 2.0 |
Arducam 16Mp Camera | 1080p | 30fps | 62 deg. | FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) |
Logitech C920 | 1080p | 30 fps | 78 deg. | USB |
Arducam V2 RPi Camera Module | 1080p | 30 fps | 41 deg. | 15 cm FFC cable |
NexiGo N60 | 1080p | 30 fps | 110 deg. | USB |
Arducam OV5647 | 1080p | 30 fps | – | 15cm Flat Ribbon Cable |
eMeet C960 | 1080p | 30 fps | 90 deg. | USB |
Angetube 1080p HD Webcam | 1080p | 30 fps | 78 deg. | USB |
Unzano HD920 | 1080p | 30 fps | 110 deg. | USB-A |
Logitech for Creators Streamcam | 1080p | 60 fps | 78 deg. | USB-C |
OctoPrint Camera Buying Guide
Finding an Octoprint camera that will help you monitor your 3D prints effectively isn’t always a simple task. Not to forget that some webcams in the market may not even work with octoprint. For that, there are certain aspects you need to consider when choosing a camera for octoprint. Or else you’ll end up with a webcam that doesn’t meet your 3D print monitoring needs.
Some of those aspects are;
Camera Resolution
The main purpose of investing in an octoprint webcam is to keep track of your 3D printing. Therefore, the video/ image quality should be one of the most essential factors you need to consider. That way, you’ll get satisfactory experience when monitoring your 3D prints. At the same time, you’ll get crisp videos and high-quality images right on your device.
As you know, the webcam’s resolution will play an essential role in determining the video/ image quality. Simply put, a device with a higher resolution will deliver an HD video. Something that will help you monitor what your 3D printers are up to effectively. In essence, the best camera for octoprint should at least have a 1280 X 720 resolution or higher.
Frame Rate
An octoprint with a higher frame per second (fps) rate delivers smoother image transitions per second. At the moment, most webcams have 30 fps, but the minimum rate is around 15 fps. At the same time, you can high-end cameras that capture 1080p videos at 120 fps.
Unfortunately, such models are more expensive since the price increases with the fps rate. The good news though is that a webcam with a rate of up to 30fps works perfectly with octoprint.
Compatibility
Although there are many webcams in the market, only a few models work with octoprint. So, if you’re not careful, you may end up spending your money on a device that’s not compatible with octoprint. The same case applies when it comes to the best raspberry pi camera for octoprint.
Thankfully, all cameras we’ve listed in this article works perfectly with Octoprint. In other words, as long as you choose a webcam on our list, you don’t have to worry about its compatibility with octoprint. Still, on compatibility, make sure you buy a webcam that works with your smart device.
This will depend on the operating system of your device such as iOs, Windows, Android, and so on.
Final Word
Octoprint is an incredible web-based software that makes it easy to monitor your 3D printer in real-time. At the same time, it allows you to create time-lapse videos and stop the machine right away in case of a problem.
Unfortunately, unless you’ve got the best camera for octoprint, you’ll enjoy the cool features offered by this program. Thankfully, if you’ve gone through our reviews, you’ve already selected the ideal webcam for your printing needs. However, we’d still recommend that you check out our octroptrint buying before you make your final buying decision.
FAQs
1. What cameras can I use with OctoPrint?
Octoprint works with various webcams to ensure optimal monitoring of 3D prints. Some popular models you can use with Octoprint include; eMeet C960, RPi Camera Modules v2, Logitech C270, and more.
2. How do I get my webcam to work with OctoPrint?
If you’ve got a ‘plug & play’ webcam, plug it into your device’s USB port. On the other hand, if you’re using a Raspberry Pi Camera module, connect it to your RPi.
Next, open the Octoprint program and head to the settings panel. Then select on ‘MakerGear Setup” > ‘Octoprint Interface Options’. Now, choose ‘Enable webcam’ and click ‘Save’. While still in Octoprint, select the power icon and select ‘Reboot system’. More importantly, refresh the browser window or close it and open a new window.
Lastly, head to the ‘Control tab’ to check the webcam. Once you’ve done that, the webcam view will appear above the control tab window.
3. Can I use a GoPro with OctoPrint?
Octroprint works with various webcams that connect to Raspberry Pi such as the GoPro camera. Besides, there are many other Octoprint plug-ins that you can use with the connected camera.
4. What is the H.264 camera?
H.264 or MPEG-4 AVC (Advanced Video Coding) is a popular video compression technology among IP cameras. This standard offers great video quality with lower bitrates and bandwidth than previous standards like H.263 and MPEG-2.