Because it is also one of the most reasonably priced computers that Apple offers, the Mac mini is one of the company’s most widely used PCs. However, in contrast to most other desktop computers, the Mac mini and Mini M1 do not come bundled with a display, keyboard, or even a mouse. Users are able to personalize their desktop arrangement however they see fit, including the selection of a webcam, because of the standalone nature of this technique. This may put off some potential consumers.
Because working or studying from home is increasingly becoming the norm, purchasing a high-quality webcam is essential. The vast majority of displays already come equipped with a camera, and this includes monitors that have been specifically intended for the Mac mini. However, the quality of their videos is inconsistent and frequently poor. The Logitech C922 Pro HD, Logitech StreamCam, Razer Kiyo, NexiGo N930AF, and the Hrayzan Webcam are discussed in the following paragraphs as the best standalone webcams that are currently available for use with the Mac mini.
Best Webcam For Mac Mini M1
1. Logitech C920 Pro HD
$63.00
Save: 16.99
And it performs a remarkably good job of its job, delivering photographs that are clean and sharp even in low-light conditions. Despite this, the camera is not designed for gamers because the image quality suffers from a tendency to blur when used in low-light settings. However, if you use it frequently or make ordinary video calls, you will get your money’s worth out of it.
However, the audio quality on the Logitech C920 Pro is not quite as impressive as the picture quality. The sound is distinct and strong, although it may be perceived as lacking in depth. Even though you have a dual-mic configuration, you should still use a separate headset for the best results. The C920 Pro is compatible with macOS and performs admirably when used with applications such as Zoom and FaceTime, just like the majority of other Logitech webcams.
2. Logitech StreamCam
The Logitech StreamCam has the capacity to record in MJPEG at 1080p at 60 frames per second, and it is compatible with both Windows and Mac. The webcam’s capacity to capture crisp and colorful images is further helped by the high-quality glass lens that it features. The device also comes equipped with AI-enabled facial tracking, which ensures that focus and precise exposure are maintained on your face no matter where you move it when using it.
However, the StreamCam is still most widely recognized for its adaptability. Because of the way that it is constructed, the webcam can be mounted in either the horizontal or the vertical position. This entails support for full HD vertical videos that are optimized for use on social media sites as well as mobile devices in the case of the latter option. The sound quality is not yet of a professional standard, and it has a tendency to take up slightly more background noise than the C920 does. When it comes to video calls, on the other hand, you will continue to take pleasure in clear and well-balanced sound.
3. Razer Kiyo
However, the Razer Synapse program, which provides you with complete control over how the Kiyo is customized, is not compatible with Mac computers. You are still able to use the Kiyo with your mini, but the majority of the time, you will be using it as a USB webcam. The quality of the device’s microphone is also subpar, particularly when contrasted with that of products manufactured by Logitech. The good news is that Razer offers a robust lineup of audio accessories, which includes cutting-edge headsets as well as speakers.
For those who utilize a Mac mini, there are still a ton of useful capabilities available here. For example, the Kiyo flaunts a built-in ring light that offers variable degrees of brightness and is standard equipment. Your images and videos should now have an illumination that seems more professional as a result of this. In the most recent round of firmware upgrades for the Kiyo, an automatic white balance correction and an enhanced autofocus system have been implemented. In addition to this, the field of view is increased to 81.6 degrees, allowing you to capture a greater portion of the scene without degrading the image or video quality.
4. NexiGo N930AF
$49.99
Save: 20
The NexiGo N930AF is equipped with features that are comparable to those offered by the industry’s most well-known brands. You receive a video resolution of 1080p at 30 frames per second, auto-focus, technology that enhances face features, and even light correction. Images that are produced are crisp and high-resolution, particularly when there is sufficient natural lighting. The sound quality is surprisingly high as well, with few customers complaining about static or decreases in quality when they are on the phone. The volume of the audio recordings, on the other hand, is not always maintained at the same level.
Although the camera on the NexiGo N930AF may be rotated through a full 360 degrees, its field of view is only about 65 degrees at its widest point. You won’t have any trouble installing the webcam on your computer, and it will work with all operating systems, including Windows, Android, and Mac. In addition, it is not necessary to install drivers in order for the device to function properly.
5. Hrayzan Webcam
$17.99
Save: 9.99
Hrayzan’s features, on the other hand, belie its relatively low cost. You get a resolution of actual high definition 1080p, as well as low light correction, all of which contribute to better video quality. In addition, it is a webcam that does not require any installation and can be used with any version of macOS 10.6 or later. The nicest part about the purchase, though, is that it comes with a privacy cover as well as a desktop tripod.
The fact that the Hrayzan Webcam only provides a fixed-focus camera is the one significant drawback to using it. Auto-focus ought to already be a normal function considering how frequently people tend to move around, particularly when filming. The audio quality of the camera is also the worst out of all of those on this list. It is possible that you will spend less on the webcam, but you will almost certainly spend more on the standalone headset.
Model | Logitech C920 Pro HD | Logitech StreamCam | Razer Kiyo | NexiGo N930AF | Hrayzan Webcam |
Why You Should Buy It | Value for money HD camera | Versatile mounting options and sleek design | High quality camera with built-in ring light | Full HD cam with privacy cover | Budget webcam with ultra wide angle |
Resolution | 1080p/30 fps, 720p/ 30 fps | 1080p/60 fps | 1080p/30 fps, 720p/60 fps, 480p/30 fps, 360p/30 fps |
1080p/30 fps | 1080p/30 fps |
Field of View | 78º | 78º | 81.6º | 65º | 110º |
Built-in Mic | Dual mic stereo audio | Dual omni directional mic (stereo or dual mono) | Stereo microphone | Stereo microphone | Noise cancelling mic |
MacOS Compatibility | macOS 10.10 or later | macOS 10.14 or later | Work as a USB-webcam | macOS 10.6 or later | macOS 10.6 or later |
Connectivity | USB – A port | USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
Warranty | 2 years | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 3 years |
Verdict
When it comes to purchasing a webcam that is compatible with the Mac mini, the Logitech StreamCam is an excellent option. However, if you are concerned about cost, the NexiGo N930AF is our top recommendation.
Our top recommendation for the best camera to use with a Mac mini is the Logitech StreamCam because it offers a wide variety of mounting options in addition to its high-end video and audio capabilities. The device, which can capture high-definition films both horizontally and vertically, features a one-of-a-kind and streamlined design. This is an excellent, albeit more expensive option, for those of you who are interested in streaming in high definition.
In the meanwhile, the NexiGo N930AF is the model that we recommend for consumers on a tighter budget. Although it is more expensive than the Hrayzan, the few more dollars are well worth it because it has superior features. Included in the package are functions such as autofocus, light correction, and a microphone that is built-in and of decent quality. Even better, the bundle even comes with two privacy covers for you to use.