Dell is adding a new option to its selection of webcams and hybrid workstations. The new Dell Pro webcam (model WB5023) follows the same operating guide as last year Dell UltraSharp 4K Webcam, with a compact barrel-style design and automatic cutting program to keep you centered in the frame. Although instead of 4K resolution, the Pro webcam records and streams at a resolution of up to QHD 2560 x 1440. This more modest resolution helps it come to a lower price tag of $134.99, but thankfully Dell has squeezed a noise-reducing microphone at this price point — To correct the biggest omission from the 4K model. This new camera is available globally today.
At the center of the Pro Webcam is a Sony STARVIS sensor that outputs QHD at 30, 24 fps or 1080p at 60, 30 or 24 fps. There’s also a 720p HD setting, though it doesn’t offer any frame rate advantages over 1080. Optical in front of this sensor is a multi-element autofocus lens with f/2.0 aperture and 4x digital zoom. It has fields of view of 65 and 78 degrees, which is not as wide as the 90-degree field of view of the more expensive model. Like the 4K model, though, the Dell Pro Webcam uses image processing to reduce noise and enables HDR to keep faces brightly lit when backlit in poor lighting conditions — with Dell Peripheral Manager support so you can adjust some advanced settings.
While this new webcam shares some features with the premium version, such as being certified for both Zoom and Microsoft Teams, it differs in good and bad ways. On the plus side, it has this built-in mic at a much better value than the 4K model along with an additional mic. On the downside, it uses a built-in USB-A cable rather than the detachable track—although the cable is fairly long at 4.9ft/1.5m.
Being restricted to USB-A and having to go the route of adapters or dongles for USB-C compatibility is a bit tricky, but the Pro Webcam seems to be making a fair concession for this low price. In the end, picture and sound quality will likely determine whether this is the best buy over the 4K version or competing options from the likes of Logitech, Microsoft, and ScannerAnd the others.
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