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Elgato Facecam MK.2, Premium Full HD Webcam, HDR
Elgato

Elgato Facecam MK.2, Premium Full HD Webcam, HDR

Bottom line: The Elgato Facecam MK.2: Uncompressed 1080p60 over USB 3.0 skips the detail-softening compression pass; main trade-off: HDR only works at 1080p30 - you give up 60fps to get it.

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By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014, focused on GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference. Synthesises community benchmarks, manufacturer specs, and public forum data into actionable buying guides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Uncompressed 1080p60 over USB 3.0 skips the detail-softening compression pass
  • ✓ HDR mode tames backlit windows and high-contrast desk lighting at 1080p30
  • ✓ Camera Hub gives manual exposure, ISO and white balance control like a DSLR
  • ✓ Physical slide-across privacy shutter, no tape or lens cap needed
  • ✓ Six capture modes down to 540p30 for bandwidth-tight setups

Cons

  • ✗ HDR only works at 1080p30 - you give up 60fps to get it
  • ✗ USB 2.0 ports fall back to compressed capture, losing the main selling point
  • ✗ Camera Hub software is a required download to access the manual controls

Manufacturer description

The Elgato Facecam MK.2 is a fixed-focus 1080p webcam built for streamers who want DSLR-style control instead of a set-and-forget autofocus camera. It captures uncompressed 1080p60 video over USB 3.0, so your feed skips the compression pass that softens detail and adds latency on typical plug-and-play webcams. Drop to 1080p30 and HDR kicks in, which is the mode that saves you when a window behind your desk blows out the background. Lower-bandwidth options are there too: 720p60, 720p30, 540p60 and 540p30, plus USB 2.0 compressed capture if your ports are already crowded. The real…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Elgato Facecam MK.2 using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the streaming gear category. Elgato's streaming gear lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for streaming gear of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Elgato Facecam MK.2 shoot in 4K?

No. The Facecam MK.2 is a Full HD camera. Supported modes are 1080p60, 1080p30, 720p60, 720p30, 540p60 and 540p30, with 1080p60 as the top setting.

Do I need USB 3.0 to use it?

It works on USB 2.0, but only with compressed video. Uncompressed capture - the reason to buy this camera - requires a USB 3.0 port.

Can I use HDR at 60fps?

No. Elgato specifies HDR at 1080p30. If you want 60fps you shoot in standard dynamic range, so pick based on whether your lighting or your motion matters more.

Is there a privacy cover?

Yes, a built-in slide shutter covers the lens physically. You slide it across when you are done streaming - no separate cap to lose.

What software do I need to adjust the image?

Elgato's Camera Hub. It exposes DSLR-style settings for exposure, white balance and color so you can save a look instead of relying on auto adjustments. Check the product listing for current system requirements.

Key Features

  • Pro Image performance: Achieve lifelike visuals with smooth motion on camera, complemented by professional-grade image capture that enhances natural colors even in dimly lit settings.
  • Set the shot: Features Camera Hub software, offering extensive customization options to enhance video quality, akin to those available with DSLR cameras.
  • HDR-enabled: Overcome high-contrast lighting in 1080p30
  • Built-in privacy: Enjoy peace of mind with the convenience of an easy-slide shutter for added security and control over your privacy.
  • Uncompressed: Capture low-latency video with enhanced detail and fidelity, ensuring optimal quality for your footage. Supported resolutions (uncompressed*): 1080p60, 1080p30, 720p60, 720p30, 540p60, 540p30. Note: USB 2.0 compressed and USB 3.0 uncompressed.

Full Specifications

ZoomDigital
BrandElgato
ColorBlack
Lens TypeZoom
Focus Typeautofocus, manual
Model NameElgato Facecam MK.2
Style NameFacecam
Unit Count1 Count
File FormatMP4
Form FactorCompact
HDR-enabledOvercome high-contrast lighting in 1080p30
Sensor TypeCMOS
ConnectivityUSB
Model Number20WAC9901
Set the shotFeatures Camera Hub software, offering extensive customization options to enhance video quality, akin to those available with DSLR cameras.
Built-In MediaElgato Facecam MK.2
Camcorder TypeWebcam
Shooting ModesAutomatic
Special FeatureFace Detection
Antenna LocationGaming

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Elgato Facecam MK.2, Premium Full HD Webcam, HDR
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