7 products to improve video calling
Video calls, without dedicated equipment, they can create various problems, of an audio and video nature. Investing in some tools is the solution to any problem and can improve the experience. In this article, in fact, you will find a series of products that can do for you, chosen and tested by our editors.
Before moving on to the list of solutions, we would like to point out that we have deliberately chosen Amazon as a reference point. Italy . Not surprisingly, the well-known e-commerce store represents a guarantee as regards reliability in shipments and in the availability of tools.
Editor's note: given the recent events related to our territory, the aforementioned article has been updated to 13 October 2021!
Products to improve the quality of video calls
Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam AUKEY Webcam FHD Logitech Brio Stream Webcam Huawei FreeBuds 4i Razer Seirēn X Samson METEOR MIC AVM FRITZ Box 4040 AC 1300 TP- Link TL-WPA4220 WiFi Powerline Kit (300 Mbps) TP-Link TL-WPA7510 WiFi Powerline Kit (750 Mbps) LED Desk Lamp from TEQStone Ikea Forsa - Work Lamp Credit: PixabayA high quality webcam
Most laptops do not have a webcam that guarantees high image quality, and this particular problem is reflected during video calls with all kinds of blur. As a solution, we strongly recommend that you purchase dedicated hardware. Among the many alternatives on the market, the Logitech C920 HD Pro is a good starting point to improve the quality of video calls.The price of this webcam is fluctuating (in this historical period it is around 90 euros ). If you are interested in a less expensive product, we recommend a solution from Aukey at the retail price of 39.99 euros. Instead, for the most demanding, the Logitech Brio Stream Webcam for 4K Ultra HD video is available at 210 euros.
» Click here for buy AUKEY Webcam FHD
A quality microphone or headset with active noise cancellation
In addition to possible interference in the image, background noises are among the disturbing agents of a video call. To overcome this obstacle, there are some headphones that have a feature that actively cancels the surrounding noise. It might seem like an unnecessary solution, but during video calls the absence of background noise is a very important aspect.Therefore, we strongly recommend the purchase of a true-wireless headset. We have selected a pair of headphones equipped with the function called “ANC” (active-noise cancellation) called the Huawei Freebuds 4i. These earphones, compared to the previous generation, have a 10 mm dynamic driver with a very high sensitivity, which guarantees harmonious symphonies, clear voices, punchy bass and an almost balanced sound. It also has a dual microphone system to pick up the interlocutor's voice, eliminating all background noise. The Freebuds 4i also have a waterproof certification.
For some, headphones are not the best solution to compensate for the lack of quality in video calls. For this reason we advise you to take a look at the Elgato Wave microphone: 1, it is a superlative product because it combines a cardioid condenser capsule (for a clean and detailed recording) with a 24-bit / 48 kHz analog to digital converter. (for audio from professional broadcasts).
If you are interested in a cheap but performing product, we advise you to purchase the Razer Seiren Mini, a USB microphone with excellent technical specifications. Ideal for streamers but also those looking to improve the incoming quality of video calls, this microphone boasts a 14mm condenser capsule and a flat frequency response, as well as a minimalist design meant for smaller or minimalist setups
» Click here to buy Razer Seiren Mini
A router that improves your home connection
The speed of the infrastructure is slowly improving throughout Italy, despite some areas still lacking broadband. However, many Italians do not have a router that guarantees high performance, especially as regards Wi-Fi. The home, combined with a device that is not particularly performing, risks compromising the quality of video calls.Among the many alternatives on the market, we recommend a router manufactured by Fritz, in particular the 4040 AC 1300 model. Yes it is a device that has excellent features, such as a Wireless AC + N antenna up to 1300 Mbit / s with Band Steering, and the ability to connect to any modem (ADSL, Fiber and WLL). The price is 76.63 euros.
If your home extends over several floors, you can increase the range of the Wireless antenna through a Powerline Wi-Fi, a device that transforms the electrical circuit into a high-speed network. In this case, we offer two alternatives: the first allows you to reach the speed of 300 Mbps, while the second guarantees a maximum speed of 750 Mbps.
Accessories not to be underestimated and other tips
We are arrived at the final stages of this guide, and in this last chapter we want to recommend some accessories and above all some advice to improve video calls. What is the best way to position the camera? This is a fair question, but not everyone knows the tricks of the trade. First of all, you need to position the webcam slightly above your eyes, which will certainly allow the camera to frame your face well.Another fundamental aspect for a better video call is undoubtedly the lighting. If your room is not particularly bright, you can buy a desk lamp. Currently on the market there are many valid alternatives in this regard, but the best to buy in this particular historical period is a lamp produced by TEQStone, available for about 40 euros on Amazon Italy. If you are directed to a more famous manufacturer, we recommend you get the IKEA Forså!
» Click here to buy Ikea Forsa - Work Lamp
