Elgato Facecam Review: Is It Worth Buying?

Video content continues to play a key role in the media space. Bloggers, streamers, online course creators, and simply lovers of high-quality video communication are looking for cameras capable of delivering high image quality without unnecessary complications. One of the notable players in the webcam market is the Elgato Facecam — a device that once received many positive reviews thanks to its professional approach to shooting.

But what does the situation look like in 2025? Has the Facecam retained its advantages and does it meet modern requirements? In this review, we will take a detailed look at the camera’s capabilities, compare it with competitors, and give recommendations — whether it is worth buying the Elgato Facecam right now.

Elgato Facecam: a brief overview of specifications

The Elgato Facecam is a webcam aimed at streamers and content creators who value image quality and ease of setup. The main technical specifications to pay attention to are:

Sensor: Sony STARVIS CMOS (1/2.8" sensor) with 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second.
Lens: fixed with an f/2.4 aperture, providing a clear image with natural depth of field.
Focus: fixed focus, reducing the need for constant adjustment.
Connection: USB 3.0, ensuring minimal latency and high-quality data transmission.
Control: proprietary software Camera Hub allows flexible adjustment of image parameters — exposure, white balance, ISO, and others.
Additional features: no built-in microphone, which positions the Facecam for use with external audio devices.

Combined with branded software and a simple interface, the camera is immediately positioned as a solution for professionals and advanced users.

Why was the Elgato Facecam a popular choice in 2020–2023?

The first thing users and experts noted was the high image quality thanks to the professional Sony STARVIS sensor, which is usually installed in high-end cameras.

The ability to shoot in Full HD at 60 FPS allowed streamers to create smooth, detailed images without stuttering or blur — especially important for dynamic broadcasts.

The Elgato Camera Hub software deserves special praise: it provides deep customization of parameters, allowing the image to be adjusted to individual lighting conditions and needs. This made the Facecam stand out compared to standard webcams with fixed settings.

In addition, the camera lacks a built-in microphone, which was positively received by many professionals who prefer separate high-quality audio devices. This eliminated compromises and improved sound quality in broadcasts and recordings.

Modern trends in 2025: what to expect from webcams?

The world of technology does not stand still. Over the past couple of years, webcams have evolved and gained new features that are becoming increasingly in demand:

4K resolution and higher. For those who strive for the sharpest possible image, even during streaming.
Autofocus and auto-exposure. For convenience and stability in changing shooting conditions.
Built-in microphone with noise reduction and filters. Many users appreciate the all-in-one versatility.
Smart features — face recognition, motion tracking, backgrounds without chroma key. All this simplifies work and improves visual perception.
Support for AI software and settings tailored to specific tasks — for example, optimization for conference video, streams, or podcast recording.

In these conditions, the Facecam looks like a “classic” that handles its task well but falls behind in terms of modern “features.”

How the Facecam performs in 2025: pros and cons

Advantages of the Elgato Facecam today

Excellent image quality. Full HD 60 FPS with a quality sensor still looks great for most tasks, especially streaming and video blogging.
Ease of setup. The Camera Hub user interface allows quick adjustment of parameters and saving profiles.
Reliable connection via USB 3.0. Minimal latency and stream stability.
No built-in microphone — a minus for beginners, but a plus for those who value sound quality and use professional microphones.

Limitations and drawbacks

No autofocus. In 2025, many cameras have fast and accurate autofocus, which greatly facilitates work in dynamic conditions.
Fixed aperture and fixed focus limit creative possibilities. For example, you cannot blur the background or quickly switch to objects at different distances.
No 4K support. This is critical for some users, especially if large-format streaming or recording is planned.
The lack of a microphone forces you to buy additional equipment, which can be inconvenient for beginners.
Limited intelligent features. No face recognition or motion tracking — features available in competitors.

Comparison of the Elgato Facecam with popular competitors in 2025

Logitech StreamCam — has autofocus, supports 1080p60, built-in microphones, and intelligent software. Ideal for those looking for “all in one.”
Razer Kiyo Pro — offers high-quality shooting with improved light sensitivity, autofocus, and ring lighting. Suitable for professionals in various lighting conditions.
Sony ZV-1 (with HDMI connection) — not a webcam, but often used by streamers due to excellent image quality and autofocus.

Compared to them, the Elgato Facecam wins in simplicity, stability, and excellent image quality, but loses in functionality and versatility.

Who should consider the Elgato Facecam in 2025?

Streamers and bloggers with basic needs — those who want high-quality Full HD video without unnecessary bells and whistles or complicated settings.
Users who prefer separate audio devices and do not need a built-in microphone.
Those who value stability and simplicity combined with professional image quality.

If you are a beginner or want an all-in-one device, you might want to consider alternatives. But if a quality sensor, stable image, and thoughtful software are important to you — the Facecam is still relevant.

Conclusion: is it worth buying the Elgato Facecam in 2025?

The Elgato Facecam is a camera with excellent video quality and simple control, suitable for those who value a professional sensor and basic features without excess. In 2025, it lags behind competitors in autofocus, resolution, and “smart” features, but remains a reliable choice for a specific group of users.

If you are looking for a camera for IRL streams, video blogging, or conferences and don’t want to fuss with extra settings, the Facecam is an option worth considering. But if you need modern intelligent features, 4K, or a built-in microphone, you should look at other models.