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Logitech C920 vs Logitech C920s (2021): Is There Much Difference?

If you work from home or you do video conferencing on a regular basis, then investing in a high-quality webcam is a must. Although your laptop might already have its built-in camera, a separate webcam that provides crisper images and clearer audio can definitely take your video calls to the next level.

When it comes to consumer-grade web cameras, the Logitech C920, despite being released in 2012, is still considered one of the best choices among buyers. Given the success of this model, Logitech thought of giving this classic webcam an upgrade by releasing the Logitech C920s in 2019. The newer model sports a camera cover that you can flip up or down to maintain your privacy, but aside from this added feature, is there really much difference between the two models? If you are torn between these two models for your next webcam, our detailed review below will help you decide.

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Logitech C920s HD Pro Webcam

Record and stream like a pro with the Logitech C920s HD Pro Webcam. Featuring 1080p HD video, clear stereo audio, dual mics, and HD autofocus for sharp and clear video and crystal audio.

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Logitech C920 vs Logitech C920s Comparison Chart

ModelLogitech C920Logitech C920s
 
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at Amazon

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at Amazon

Dimensions  (height x width x depth) 29 mm x 94 mm x 24 mm29 mm x 94 mm x 24 mm
Max Resolution1080p/30fps and 720p/30fps1080p/30fps and 720p/30fps
Focus TypeAutofocusAutofocus
LensFull HD GlassFull HD Glass
Light Correction HD Light CorrectionHD Light Correction
Field of View78°78°
Built-in MicrophoneStereoStereo
Privacy CoverNAYes

Design

The most noticeable difference between the two models is the presence of a privacy cover in the Logitech C920s. 

The Logitech C920 (left) and the Logitech C920s (right) look identical except for the privacy cover in the newer model.

When it comes to build and design, the two models look exactly the same if you remove the privacy cover of the Logitech C920s. The two cameras have dimensions of 29 mm x 94 mm x 24 mm for their height, width, and depth. In both models, the camera is attached to a rubber-lined clip that fits securely to most laptop screens and external displays. The clip can also function as a stand, but if you want to use it with a more stable tripod, you can find the tripod mounting hole on the clip’s underside.

Again, for both models, the glass lens is flanked by two microphones that allow the unit to capture stereo sound. Aside from the microphones, also located on both sides of the lens are two blue LED lights that light up when the camera is turned on.

The 1.5 m cable attached to these cameras is sheathed with sturdy rubber material and is long enough to help you position it comfortably on your desk.

Video Quality

Both the Logitech C920 and the Logitech C920s can capture videos in 1080p at 30fps or at 720p at 30fps.

 

Whether you choose the Logitech C920 (pictured above) or the Logitech C920s, you’ll be able to enjoy Full HD 1080 video conferencing experience. 

When it comes to choosing a web camera, the video quality is of topmost consideration. After all, you’re buying a webcam as an upgrade to your laptop’s built-in camera. Given the popularity of the Logitech C920, it’s no surprise that the video quality it produces is impressive.

Both models can give full HD 1080p videos at 30fps or 720p videos at 30fps. These webcams are also capable of autofocus and automatic light detection which allows them to render clear images in both brightly-lit and low-light environments. They are also equipped with face-tracking technology which further improves their capability to focus on your face and come up with the perfect white balance and exposure.

Deal Finder
Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam

Get a Full HD 1080p video quality with the Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam. With Logitech Fluid Crystal Technology, enjoy sharper images, smoother video, and richer colors.

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In case you want to capture photos, these webcams can capture 15mp images with outstanding clarity and detail. Both models have a 78° field of vision, which is enough to fit a large object or another person into the view.

Sound Quality

Both models are equipped with stereo microphones for clearer audio quality.

 

The ‘s’ in the Logitech C920s supposedly stands for ‘stereo’, but even the older model has stereo microphones.

Sound quality is another consideration when choosing a web camera. Lifelike, high-quality videos can only be achieved if it’s accompanied by top-notch audio. For this reason, both the Logitech C920 and the C920s have two built-in stereo microphones located on each side of the camera lens. This strategic placement allows these cameras to deliver natural-sounding audio. However, some users note that there are times when the sound they produce can be muffled, especially at high volume.

Software Compatibility and Features

The Logitech C920s is sold as a UVC compliant device.

 

The Logitech C920s (pictured above) is compatible with macOS® 10.10 or later, XBox One™, Chrome OS™ and Android™ v 5.0.

Perhaps the biggest improvement in the newer model is the fact that it’s UVC compliant. While the Logitech C920 was also marketed as “UVC compliant”,  it comes installed with a Logitech driver by default. This driver will not allow you to use more than one camera on your computer. Testers also found out that this driver consumes too much CPU power which can be a problem for gamers who would want to use this camera while streaming.

There’s technically a workaround in Windows that will allow your computer to treat the C920 as a standard UVC webcam. However, this requires extra steps which can be a hassle for some users. Luckily, with the newer model, the webcam will automatically appear on the UVC driver of your OS. Both models are compatible with the Capture app, which is Logitech’s video editing software. These webcams work well with Skypeâ„¢, Google Hangouts™  and  FaceTime for Mac

Verdict

The Logitech C920s provides a fresh spin to the widely successful Logitech C920

Deal Finder
Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam

Get a Full HD 1080p video quality with the Logitech C920 HD Pro Webcam. With Logitech Fluid Crystal Technology, enjoy sharper images, smoother video, and richer colors.

Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Walmart
We are reader supported. When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission.
Deal Finder
Logitech C920s HD Pro Webcam

Record and stream like a pro with the Logitech C920s HD Pro Webcam. Featuring 1080p HD video, clear stereo audio, dual mics, and HD autofocus for sharp and clear video and crystal audio.

Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Walmart
We are reader supported. When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission.

While the Logitech C920 remains to be the most popular webcam in the market, Logitech’s move of creating a new version of this well-received camera is necessary. After all, the old model has been in the market since 2012. A lot has already changed since its release date, and newer OS and software work better with gadgets that have more optimized internal electronics. It won’t even be surprising if Logitech decides to phase out the older model in the future.

With the Logitech C920s, you’ll get the same high-quality video and audio from its predecessor, a conveniently-placed privacy cover, and a UVC compliant device that consumes less CPU power. The differences between these two models may be subtle, but overall, if you are planning to buy a new webcam the Logitech C920s offers better value for your money.

FAQs

📌 What is the main difference between the Logitech C920 and the Logitech C920s?

The Logitech C920s carries the same features of the Logitech C920 but includes a much-needed privacy cover, while also being more optimized to newer OS and software. In addition, the C920s is a UVC-compliant device.

📌 Which is better for vloggers, the Logitech C920s or the Logitech StreamCam?

While the Logitech C920s comes equipped with HD recording, the Logitech StreamCam is the more versatile webcam, thanks to its flippable design.

📌 How do I share photos and videos take with the Logitech C920?

To share photos and videos on the Logitech C920, simply open the Camera app, select the photo or video you want to share, then click on Share on the Charms bar. You can then choose where you want to share the media, whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or email.

📌 Can I also get a privacy shutter for the Logitech C920?

Because the Logitech C920 does not come with a built-in privacy shutter, you can opt for a separate privacy cover case from Logitech instead.

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Andy Mathews

Lead Editor at Compare Before Buying. Product researcher and tech enthusiast passionate about consumer products, comparison charts and surfing.