Optimizing Your Webcam and Audio Setup for Zoom and Teams Calls

With remote work and virtual meetings now a regular part of business, having the right webcam, speakers, and microphone setup is essential for clear communication. While laptops come with built-in webcams, microphones, and speakers, desktop users need to add these peripherals to participate in video calls. Let’s explore the best options for improving your Zoom and Microsoft Teams experience.

Webcams: Built-In vs. External Options

Most modern laptops come with a built-in webcam, which is sufficient for basic video conferencing. However, desktop computers do not have built-in webcams and require an external one.

External Webcams: Why They’re a Good Choice

Even for laptop users, an external webcam can provide several benefits:

• Better video quality: Higher resolution and better low-light performance than most built-in webcams.
• Adjustable positioning: Can be placed at eye level for a more professional look.
• Wider field of view: Ideal for group meetings or presentations.

Most external webcams also come with a built-in microphone, which can be useful if you don’t have a dedicated headset or external mic.

Entry-Level Webcams Are Sufficient for Business Calls

For Zoom and Teams meetings, a 1080p external webcam is generally enough. High-end 4K webcams exist, but they are not necessary for standard video calls and may not be supported by all conferencing software.

Speakers and Audio: The Importance of Good Sound

Laptops come with built-in speakers, but these may not always be clear or loud enough for professional meetings. Desktop computers require external speakers or a headset.

Why External Speakers Are Necessary for Desktops

• Desktop PCs do not have built-in speakers, so adding external ones is essential for hearing meeting participants clearly.
• Bluetooth or USB-powered speakers provide clear audio and can enhance the overall virtual meeting experience.

The Best Audio Solution: Headsets with Built-In Microphones

A headset with a built-in microphone is often the best choice for video calls. Here’s why:

Advantages of Using a Headset

• Better microphone quality: Reduces background noise for clearer speech.
• Echo reduction: Prevents sound from speakers feeding back into the mic.
• Improved privacy: Ensures only the user hears meeting audio, preventing distractions for others in shared spaces.
• Comfort for long meetings: Padded headsets make extended calls more comfortable.

Many business professionals prefer USB or Bluetooth headsets, as they offer plug-and-play convenience and compatibility with most conferencing platforms.

Summary: The Ideal Setup for Professional Video Calls

For laptop users:

• Use the built-in webcam (or an external one for better quality).
• Built-in microphone and speakers work but can be improved with a headset.
• A USB or Bluetooth headset is a great upgrade for better sound.

For desktop users:

• An external webcam is essential for video calls.
• Speakers are required since desktops lack built-in sound output.
• A headset with a microphone is the best option for clear audio and convenience.

Conclusion

A good webcam, clear audio, and a comfortable headset can make a significant difference in the quality of your video calls. While entry-level webcams and headsets are sufficient for most business meetings, investing in external peripherals for desktops and high-quality audio solutions can enhance professionalism and productivity in remote communication.

Need help selecting the right webcam or audio gear for your business? Contact us for expert recommendations!

Our Picks

Logitech C925e Webcam – 30 fps – USB 2.0 – $178.14 + GST

Jabra Engage 55 Wireless On-ear Stereo Headset – Black  $309.00 + GST