Ask HN: Ubuntu Compatible Webcam

Posted by amir734jj on Saturday January 16, 2021 @02:15PM
from the ask-hn dept.

I am looking for a webcam that is compatible with Ubuntu (or Ubuntu based distributions).

I bought this one [1] ("best seller") and worked for a while and audio stopped working. I got it replaced a month later and video is now not working. I am looking for an advice. Thank you.

[1]: https://www.amazon.com/Microphone-Streaming-Computer-Conferencing-Facetime/dp/B087NN41JH

( 3 comments | on HN )

Re:Ask HN: Ubuntu Compatible Webcam by stncls on Saturday January 16, 2021 @03:26PM (#25805183)

There is a standard protocol for USB webcams. It is called "USB video device class" and usually referred to as UVC or UVCvideo in the Linux kernel:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_video_device_class

Unfortunately not all USB webcams use it yet, but its adoption is growing. Webcams that do use UVCvideo are usually well supported by the Linux kernel. Explicit compatibility list here:

https://www.ideasonboard.org/uvc/

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Ask HN: Ubuntu Compatible Webcam by hackernewslol on Sunday January 17, 2021 @12:40AM (#25808476)

Anything made by Logitech will work fine, as long as you are buying from a well-known brand you shouldn't have any issues. Most retailers have reasonable return policies (15+ days) so that is always an option if you buy something and it turns out to be incompatible.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:Ask HN: Ubuntu Compatible Webcam by netizen-9748 on Saturday January 16, 2021 @02:53PM (#25804918)

I haven't had any issues with Logitech under Ubuntu or gentoo, imho it's better to stick with well known brands. Who knows what kind of poorly made junk you'll get from buying whatever is the cheapest on amazon

[ Parent | on HN ]