Hello and welcome to this Free frequently Asked Questions helpsheet.
I have answered these questions so many times I thought It wise to make this.
Cheap action cameras can is used as a webcam for streaming and I use them in my workflow.
Let’s get started
These are some of the most common issues faced by my audience on YouTube.
Question
My cam doesn’t have the pc cam option?
Answer
There are many cheap models of action cameras available and not all offer the PC Cam option. Please see my list of cameras that do have this option.
Question
Why does my Action Cameras not work as a webcam?
Answer
There are a few easy things to check
- Ensure you have the right USB cable
- When plugged in via USB make sure the action camera doesn’t have a memory card inserted in it.
Question
Can I run the Action Camera as a webcam without a battery in it?
Answer
Yes – The camera will still work as a webcam without a battery. My advice would be if you are using the camera as a webcam remove the battery. This will save your battery from always being on charge.
Question
When I connect it via USB to my computer how can I activate it?
Answer
Once the camera is plugged to your system it needs a program to allow you to use the camera. I use OBS, you can also check the camera in programs like Skype, Zoom or Discord. I have a video here to show you how to do this https://youtu.be/bZKIOhzNfMM
Question
What model is the one that automatically goes to the webcam when plugged in?
Answer
Goodman’s goes to webcam auto if the sd card is not plugged in https://youtu.be/JtWVUpoGeOc
Question
I have the Crosstour 4k Action Camera CT9700 but it doesn’t work as a webcam.
Answer
I tried to use it as a webcam. It kept freezing. I sent it back to the manufacturer as defective. I thought I had a bad one but I noticed a lot of people are having the same issue so maybe it’s a wider problem…
Question
Do you know if this will work on Mac OS with obs?
Answer
I did a bit of digging and they don’t offer Mac compatible drivers. It might be worth checking out a cheap HDMI capture card https://youtu.be/aDOfnBTrliE
Question
Hi, did you manage to get the microphone on the Crosstour 4k Action Camera to work?
Answer
Yes – I show some samples in this video https://youtu.be/W6Jj-o9Rr0Q
Question
Have you come across any cheap action cameras that can output 1080p 60fps video as a webcam?
Answer
Not a “cheap” action camera but you can try this if you already have another camera with an HDMI out https://youtu.be/aDOfnBTrliE
Question
I have tested it with OBS. And there does seem to be some lag compared to C920 webcam
Answer
Great question, yes if the lag is the audio not syncing to the video then there are two possibilities either the USB speed is not quick enough or you need to adjust the sync option in obs. I’m sure I covered that in this video and the USB speed here
The final thing is how to sync the audio if that’s what’s lagging lo covers it nicely here at about the 2-minute mark check him out
Question
Do you have any recommendations for a live streaming action camera under $100? Thanks for your reply!
Answer
This will help you
Question
Are you able to use all the camera adjustments in webcam mode? Looking to reduce the field of view.
Answer
On most Action cameras such as Webcams, I was not able to change this in OBS. I tested a cheap 1080p Webcam and I was able to make more adjustments on colour and Exposure but not on Field of View
