When it comes to PC accessories, webcams don’t typically undergo the same rapid advancements seen in CPUs or smartphones. Logitech’s flagship Brio 4K webcam, for instance, has remained relatively unchanged since its introduction over seven years ago. However, today marks a significant update as the company integrates it into the esteemed “MX” lineup alongside revered peripherals like the MX Master mouse and MX Keys keyboard.
The MX Brio webcam introduces a fresh 8.5-megapixel 4K sensor, a physical privacy shutter, and a novel feature allowing quick flipping to showcase your desktop. While this functionality was technically feasible with the previous Brio design, executing it was far from straightforward.
In Logitech’s promotional video for the MX Brio, users effortlessly flip the camera down 90 degrees, causing the streamed image to rotate by 180 degrees, providing a comprehensive view of the desktop from the user’s perspective. This intuitive feature proves handy, especially when showcasing intricate setups like mechanical keyboards.
Moreover, the spec sheet promises enhanced lighting correction for improved visibility, boasting “2X finer image detail and face visibility” compared to its predecessor. Although the 4K/30fps sensor remains unchanged numerically, users benefit from enhanced image control via software and the inclusion of dual beamforming microphones with noise reduction.
A notable addition is the built-in privacy shutter, activated using the knurled ring surrounding the lens, eliminating the need for a separate cover. While Windows Hello face recognition is supported, users must keep the shutter open for functionality. Though the promotional material touts “AI enhancement,” its precise application remains unclear.
Priced at $200, Logitech positions the MX Brio as the ultimate webcam catering to both work-from-home professionals and streamers. While it’s expected to resonate with the former, its appeal to the latter may be more nuanced. While a high-end webcam suffices for entry-level streaming, professionals often opt for DSLR or mirrorless cameras or utilize high-end smartphones with specialized software. Interestingly, Microsoft recently introduced support for using Android phones as webcams in Windows 11 without additional drivers.
The MX Brio is currently available for purchase on Logitech’s online store, with availability expected at major electronics retailers soon. Notably, an identical design is offered as the “MX Brio 705 for business,” a designation likely to be appreciated by IT managers procuring equipment for their teams.
