Logitech has unveiled its Brio 500 webcam with a built-in privacy shutter and a compact design. The privacy shutter in the webcam is neatly integrated into the device and it also features a Show Mode to broadcast what’s on your desk. The Brio 500 is however only capable of 1080p content unlike 4K webcams on the market.
The Logitech Brio 500 is an improvement on
the classic Logitech C920 which also outputs 1080p. It features an upgraded
sensor than its predecessor for better image quality. The webcam has a
cylindrical design with a pair of beamforming microphones flanking the 4MP
camera. The mics help to reduce background noise during calls for greater
clarity. The privacy shutter can be brought down by turning a dial at the right
of the webcam. You can also tilt the camera angle towards your desk to activate
Show Mode. The 1080p resolution of the Brio 500 yields 30fps, but you can get a
frame rate of 60fps when using 720p resolution.
The webcam’s field of view is 90 degrees
but can provide tighter images at 78 or 60 degrees. It can automatically center
on the person speaking and adjust the lighting in a dimly-lit environment. The
Brio 500 has a magnetized mounting mechanism consisting of a standard plastic
mount and the webcam attaches magnetically to the plastic mount. It can be
rotated 360 degrees. Alternatively, a tripod mount can also be deployed for the
Brio 500.
The Logitech Brio 500 webcam goes on sale
this month at US$ 129. Logitech will also release a new Bluetooth headset – the
Zone Vibe 100 which is priced at US$ 99.99. The Vibe 100 has up to 20 hours of
battery life, while its mic arm can be muted by flipping it.