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Ask HN: Ubuntu Compatible Webcam

1 points| amir734jj | 5 years ago

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

[+] stncls|5 years ago|reply

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/

[+] hackernewslol|5 years ago|reply

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.

[+] netizen-9748|5 years ago|reply

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