I use a desktop computer as my main machine, so there have been times when I have needed a webcam to make videos and use Zoom, Teams, etc. So there are a few programs I can use to turn my phone into a fully functioning webcam.
DroidCam
DroidCam is the more basic of the two programs, you install the DroidCam app on your phone and connect it to the DroidCam client on Windows.
The free version of the app allows you to toggle between the front and rear camera of your phone. However, you need to make sure the resolution is set to 640×480 or the app will watermark the words “using DroidCam app” onto your video.
The pro version increases the video to full HD (1080p) and 4K with the OBS plugin as well as allowing you to change camera settings remotely.
You can go pro for a one-time purchase of £12.99 or £4.99 per year from the app.
Camo Studio
Camo has a different approach, the app (Camo Camera) is free and you connect using Camo Studio on Windows or Mac.
Camo Studio is feature rich, offering filters, backgrounds and layers in the free version. The limitation is that video can be captured at 720p or below and you are limited to the front and rear cameras on your phone, but there are no watermarks or ads on the video.
One of the more interesting features of Camo Studio are the layers, where you can add a frame around the outside, add custom text and Camo Studio comes with some examples you can switch between when using the software.
You can customise layers easily by double clicking. Click on the + to add a new layer. These layers can be simple rectangle or ellipse to text and image or screen capture from another program on your computer. If you enable the Beta feature in the add-ons section, you can also add a video stream.
There is support for over 40 different video conferencing programs.
The Pro version allows larger resolutions and access to all cameras on the phone and can be used on 2 computers for a one-time purchase of £79.99 or £39.99 per year.
Camo Streamlight
Camo Streamlight is a program you run on your computer that turns the screen into a virtual ring light. You can tune the colour and shape of the light source to improve the look when using a webcam. The software is free.
