Laptops have become a staple in everyday life, especially those with cameras for when folks are working remotely, are content creators or have a long-distance relationship. Cameras on laptops are essential when wanting to talk with loved ones for a long period of time or Zoom calls with colleagues in different areas. However, can you connect an external webcam to your Toshiba laptop?
Most Toshiba laptops today come equipped with a built-in webcam so that you can record video straight to your hard drive. However, depending on the model of Toshiba laptop, you are able to use a compatible external webcam to get better quality video and audio.
Depending on the purchased webcam, connecting the external camera to your laptop is super easy. You may need to download certain software to get it up and running first, but connecting the webcam itself is super simple.
Using the Built-in Camera vs An External Webcam
External webcams have more space for lenses and other features, like better resolution, better quality photos and videos and better quality audio. If sound and picture is of importance then a high-end external webcam like the Logitech HD Pro Webcam which had great low-light capabilities and Full 1080p.
However, setup cost for external cameras can be an additional expenditure on top of the original cost of the Toshiba Laptop. The external cameras software must also be installed, and the webcam set up manually.
Built-In webcams are included in the cost of your computer and require no additional setup. They are typically ready to go straight from the manufacturer, with all of the relevant software and drivers already pre-installed. When you are on the move with your laptop an internal webcam is best, so you do not have additional devices with you.
How Do I Connect My Webcam to My Toshiba Laptop?
Almost all Toshiba laptops come with a web camera and corresponding application built into them to take photos and record videos. However, most of the built-in webcams lack higher video resolution and audio output/input.
There are a few types of webcams that use different ways of connection. This can look like direct plug-ins webcams or via wifi. The following steps will help walk you through these two most common connection types.
Connecting a Webcam Via USB
If you have a USB webcam connecting it to your Toshiba laptop is very easy. First, locate the USB entry point on your laptop which is typically on the left or ride side. Then using the USB end of your webcam, plug in the device and carefully place the webcam on top of your screen.
Download the Webcam Software
Some USB external cameras require you to install a driver software to the laptop before using the webcam. If this is a requirement for the webcam, it should come with instructions of where to find the download. Once downloaded, follow the instructions that pop up on the screen.
Connecting Via Wi-Fi
Some webcams require a wired internet connection to work. If your webcam falls in this category, follow the steps below to connect it to your Toshiba laptop:
- Use an ethernet cable to connect your webcam to the router. This step is vital for the configuration process. However, you won’t need the cable once the device is installed and set up.Set up the wireless feature of your webcam using your office or home Wi-Fi settings. The setup instructions should pop up on your screen once you’ve inserted the internet cable. Input the requested fields the device requests.Disconnect the ethernet cable and allow for a wireless connection.Test the webcam to see if everything is working as expected.
Webcams Compatible with the Toshiba Laptop
You may have already bought your webcam and came to realize that is it not compatible with your Toshiba Laptop. To get you on your way of connecting with colleagues and loved ones take a look at this list below for webcams that are compatible with your laptop:
NexiGo Webcam
This webcam provides smooth and clear video with professional streaming quality. It delivers a high definition 1920 x to 1080p resolution at up to 60 frames per second. The NexiGo Webcam includes enhanced autofocus which helps to capture videos that are as accurate and true-to-life as possible.
It also offers a built in microphone with noise canceling technology and ring light with three different settings to achieve your ideal brightness levels. The simple plug and play method allows you to plug in the webcam with no extra drivers or downloads required.
Logitech HD Pro Webcam
The Logitech HD Pro webcam C920 allows you to chat and record like a pro with crystal clear HD video and audio. With spectacular video quality up to 1080p you are able to capture the smallest details and dual built in mics on each side of the webcam captures natural stereo-like audio.
The automatic low-light correction adjusts to accommodate wherever you are, including shadowy or harsh lighting conditions. Compatible with USB or internet connection, this webcam will have all clients hearing and seeing you clearly.
Conclusion
Depending on the device you have chosen, you can now have a clearer audio and picture than from your built-in laptop webcam. By downloading the corresponding software or simply just plugging in the device you should be good to go wherever your laptop takes you!