To use OBS as a webcam in a meeting app, browser, or other webcam-compatible program, prepare the scene you want to share, click Start Virtual Camera in OBS, then choose OBS Virtual Camera in the receiving app’s camera settings. A physical webcam is optional: OBS sends its selected scene or source as the camera feed.
Set up and start OBS Virtual Camera
- Choose or build an OBS scene. Add the content you want the other app to show, such as a webcam, capture card, image, text, or video. A camera is not required; the virtual camera can send other scene content. OBS documents webcams and capture cards as video-capture sources: OBS Video Capture Sources.
- Start the virtual camera. In OBS Studio’s Controls dock, click Start Virtual Camera.
- Select it in the destination app. Open that app’s camera settings and choose OBS Virtual Camera. The exact settings path differs by app; OBS describes the feature for webcam-capable applications such as Zoom, Skype, and Discord.
- Stop when finished. Return to OBS and click Stop Virtual Camera, the button that replaces Start while the feed is running.
These are the core steps in the OBS Virtual Camera Guide.
Choose what the receiving app sees
Click the gear icon beside the virtual-camera control in the Controls dock to choose an output mode. The right choice depends on whether you want the feed to follow OBS’s current output or remain fixed.
| Mode | What it sends | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Program | What OBS normally outputs. | Choose this for the finished feed you intend to present. |
| Preview | The Preview in Studio Mode. | Use only if you intend to share that preview. In Studio Mode, previewing scene changes and edits can expose them to the receiving app. |
| Scene | One selected scene. | Choose this when the virtual camera should stay on a particular scene rather than follow the changing Program output. |
| Source | One selected source. | Choose this when the destination should receive a single source instead of a composed scene. |
These output choices are documented by OBS; choose deliberately if the feed must stay stable or if you do not want to reveal edits.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Crisp HD 720p/30 fps video calls with diagonal 55° field of view and auto light correction. Compatible with popular platforms including Skype and Zoom.
- The built-in noise-reducing mic makes sure your voice comes across clearly up to 1.5 meters away, even if you’re in busy surroundings.
- C270’s RightLight 2 feature adjusts to lighting conditions, producing brighter, contrasted images to help you look good in all your conference calls.
- The adjustable universal clip lets you attach the camera securely to your screen or laptop, or fold the clip and set the webcam on a shelf. You’re always ready for your next video call.
Troubleshoot by operating system
OBS’s troubleshooting instructions were published on August 31, 2022. Operating-system settings, packaging, and application compatibility can change, so treat the version-specific paths below as the guidance in that documentation, not a guarantee for every later release: OBS Virtual Camera Troubleshooting.
Windows: Start Virtual Camera is missing
OBS’s guide says to find virtualcam-install.bat in the OBS installation folder and run it as administrator. For portable or nonstandard installation locations, use the guide’s shortcut-based method to locate and run the installer from the correct OBS folder.
Rank #2
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Auto-Light Balance: RightLight boosts brightness by up to 50%, reducing shadows so you look your best—compared to previous-generation Logitech webcams (1)
- Privacy with a Slide: The integrated webcam cover makes it easy to get total, reliable privacy when you're not on a video call
- Built-In Mic: The built-in microphone lets others hear you clearly during video calls
- Easy Plug-And-Play: The Brio 101 works with most video calling platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet—no hassle; it just works
macOS: permission prompt or compatibility issue
- macOS 13 Ventura and later with OBS 30.0 or higher: OBS says the newer virtual-camera component is included. If macOS blocks its system extension, allow it in System Settings and restart OBS. The guide gives Privacy & Security for macOS 13/14 and Login Items & Extensions → Camera Extensions for macOS 15 and later.
- macOS 11 or 12: OBS says installation happens the first time you click Start Virtual Camera.
- Compatibility depends on versions: OBS says its component in OBS 29.1 and earlier is not compatible with macOS 14 Sonoma. For macOS 12 and earlier, OBS warns the component may not work with some applications and recommends Chromium-based browsers such as Chrome or Edge for best compatibility, particularly for services such as Discord. These are the guide’s stated compatibility notes and may not cover later releases.
Linux: virtual camera device unavailable
OBS says Virtual Camera uses v4l2loopback. Check that it is installed; the OBS troubleshooting guide links distribution-specific instructions. Setup varies by Linux distribution.
Optional scene equipment
You do not need to buy anything just to enable OBS Virtual Camera. A USB webcam is optional if you want a live camera in the scene; a capture card is relevant if you need to bring a camera or another video feed into OBS. Both are inputs to an OBS scene, not requirements for the virtual-camera output. Device support and source types vary by operating system.
The Tool Desk
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- 1080P HD Webcam: This HD webcam delivers crisp 1080p video quality, ideal for PCs, desktops, and laptops. Perfect for video calls, online classes, meetings, live streaming, gaming, and everyday recording. It provides clear, sharp images and smooth video at up to 30 frames per second. This live streaming webcam works with platforms such as Zoom, Teams, FaceTime, Google Meet, and YouTube.
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- Widely Compatible Webcam: This versatile webcam is compatible with most operating systems and major video platforms. As a reliable computer webcam, it supports video conferencing, remote learning, live streaming, and gaming, meeting your various needs for daily work and entertainment.
- Smooth and Stable Performance: This webcam uses a stable transmission chip to ensure smooth, lag-free video streaming, synchronized audio and video, and no dropped frames. Even after prolonged use, this durable webcam maintains stable performance. It performs excellently even in low-light environments. It automatically adjusts to adapt to low-light conditions, reducing noise and restoring vibrant colors, ensuring clear and sharp images even without additional studio lighting.
- Compact and Adjustable Design: This lightweight and portable webcam saves space and comes with an adjustable clip. Our USB webcam uses a reliable USB 2.0/3.0 connection and comes with an upgraded 1.5-meter (5-foot) braided cable. It is compatible with Desktop most monitors and Laptop. Its portable design makes it easy to place and carry, ideal for home, office, or travel use.
Or let it run in the cloud
OBS Virtual Camera sends an OBS scene to a webcam-compatible application. If instead your goal is to keep uploaded video playing as a 24/7 YouTube live stream, StreamNeo is a separate cloud service for that job: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; uploads stream as made, up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly is $9.99 per month. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start the free first day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- 1080P Webcam with Cover for Video Calls - EMEET computer webcam provides design and Optimization for professional video streaming. Realistic 1920 x 1080p video, 5-layer anti-glare lens, providing smooth video. C960 computer camera delivers 1920x1080 video with fixed focus (11.8–118.1 inches), so as to provide a clearer image. C960 USB webcam has a cover and can be removed automatically to meet your needs for privacy. For optimal image performance, use the webcam in a well-lit environment.
- Built-in 2 Omnidirectional Mics - EMEET webcam with microphone for desktop features 2 built-in omnidirectional microphones, picking up your voice to create clear audio for communication. When installing the webcam, select EMEET C960 as the default microphone input device in your computer and video applications and select C960 as the default device in Zoom/Teams and ensure microphone permissions are enabled for proper use. Please note that C960 does not include built-in speakers.
- Automatic Light Adjustment - Automatic exposure adjustment is applied in EMEET HD webcam 1080p so that the streaming webcam can deliver stable image performance. EMEET C960 camera for computer also features color adjustment and exposure optimization to help you look your best. For optimal video quality, it is recommended to use the webcam in normal or well-lit environments and select suitable video settings in your application. Proper lighting helps achieve a clearer and more balanced image.
- Plug-and-Play & Upgraded USB Connectivity - New C960 webcam features both USB Type-A & A-to-C adapter connections for wider compatibility. For stable performance, connect the webcam directly to the computer's main USB port and ensure the device is recognized correctly. If a hub or docking station is used, please ensure it provides sufficient power and stable data transmission, as limited ports may affect performance. 90° wide-angle lens captures more participants without frequent adjustments.
- High Compatibility & Multi Application - C960 webcam for laptop is compatible with Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, and Android TV 7.0+. Not supported: Windows Hello, TVs, tablets, or game consoles. It works with Zoom, Teams, Facetime, Google Meet, YouTube and more. Please select C960 webcam as the default camera and microphone device in your application and ensure camera/microphone permissions are enabled, especially on macOS. (Tips: Incompatible with Windows Hello)
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