The gaming experts from Razer have presented a new webcam. The US company promises excellent video quality with the Kiyo Pro, which is supposed to record high-quality content in High Dynamic Range (HDR). However, the hefty price does not look attractive at all. After all, you have to do without practical features like Windows Hello and a now almost standard 4K resolution.
Razer gets support from Sony
When it comes to the sensor, Razer makes no compromises. Here, the company relies on the experts from Sony. A 1/2.8-inch CMOS sensor from the South Korean electronics company is used. This is actually only known from the field of security technology. As part of the Starvis series, it is usually used in surveillance cameras. Considering that this is a webcam, the sensor is quite large.
But despite the impressive sensor size, the webcam only offers a maximum resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels (Full HD). According to Razer, the large sensor is not primarily intended for razor-sharp pictures and moving images. Instead, Razer promises a picture quality that remains consistently good regardless of the lighting conditions. This might be commendable, but a 4K resolution would still have been desirable.
Maximum 30 FPS with HDR enabled
Thanks to the optional HDR, the Kiyo Pro should score with great contrasts. But those who opt for active HDR will have to accept losses in frames per second (FPS). Only a maximum of 30 FPS is possible here. The value increases to 60 FPS when HDR is disabled. You also have the freedom to choose the camera’s field of view. This can be set to 80, 90 or 103 degrees. However, you have to use Razer’s in-house Synapse software to choose between the different fields of view.
However, although 4K and practical security features like Windows Hello are missing, Razer has also done a few things right with its Kiyo Pro. For example, the webcam offers stereo speakers and comes with a flexible mounting option. Also on board is a protective lens that relies on the scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 3. A cover that can be slid in front of the lens ensures privacy.
Price and availability
Despite the many shortcomings, many users should be interested in the Kiyo Pro. Should you also want to test the webcam at least once, you can strike now. However, you will have to pay a hefty price of 209.99 Euro.
