Dell’s versatile UltraSharp 4K webcam uses AI to put you in the frame.

Dell has released a high-end UltraSharp webcam that costs $199.99 and is now available worldwide. The cylindrical design is reminiscent of Apple’s older but iconic iSight external webcam, but the feature is meant to compete with Logitech’s Brio and other modern 4K-capable webcams. It’s also intended to be a cheaper and easier to install alternative to mounting a DSLR behind your monitor.

The UltraSharp is a USB-C webcam with an 8.3-megapixel Sony STARVIS CMOS sensor. It can record or stream in 4K at 30 or 24 frames per second and in 1080p or 720p at 24, 30 or 60 frames per second. You can adjust the field of view (FOV) between 65 degrees for a closed crop, 78 degrees, or 90 degrees for the widest crop. Webcams have a number of automatic light correction features that are meant to make your images look great regardless of your lighting. It supports digital zoom up to 5x and has autofocus. Dell claims the UltraSharp offers best-in-class image quality.

Image: Dell

This webcam can work without drivers on computers running Windows 10 or macOS, but many of the features are accessible only in Dell’s Peripheral Manager software. One of the most interesting features that the software unlocks is the automatic framing mode. AI that keeps track of your movement so you stay centered on the frame. The webcam doesn’t really move, but the video feed appears to scroll and offers smooth, smooth motion tracking during the live demos shown. on the verge of. (The GIF below is accurate.) A similar feature has recently surfaced on Amazon’s new Echo Show smart displays and the latest iPad Pro, and it’s a plus that sets Dell’s webcam apart from the rest. another

Other notable features include an infrared sensor that can log into your PC via Windows Hello facial recognition, and a proxy sensor that on Dell PCs can take advantage of the company’s quick sign-in feature. which can let you log in and log out automatically It depends on whether you are sitting at your PC or not.

The UltraSharp includes a standard monitor mount and tripod stand. A magnet can be attached to either of them. (There’s also a magnetic lens cover.) The monitor mount seems like a good option for most people. Even for those who own a monitor with the thinnest frame. and for streamers or those looking for a specific angle Having the option to easily place it on a tripod would be great.

But the $199.99 webcam isn’t cheap at all. And I haven’t even overlooked the most important thing. Because there’s no built-in microphone, Dell says it’s mainly focused on the lens for this model. So you will need to supply your own microphone. Either as a standalone USB or XLR microphone or a headset. That could be a deal breaker for some. But this mic has enough discreet features that might make the price still worth it. We’ll be testing this out, so check back soon for more in-depth impressions.