A webcam, by definition, is designed for video conferencing. Its main task is to quickly transmit an image, which will be compressed and sent to the subscriber. There are no special requirements for image quality, no own storage devices. Its entire purpose is to capture an image and immediately pass it on.
But still, sometimes there is a desire (or even a need) to save the image from the webcam. Therefore, it will be useful to have a program on hand that will allow record video from webcam.
The easiest and fastest way is to use the standard Windows tool - Windows Movie Maker. On Windows Vista/7 this is Movie Maker Live. Select File>Video Recording and select the webcam to capture video from.
Online service
You can record video from a webcam using a simple application right on our website! To proceed, click “Launch” below.
Free2X Webcam Recorder
A completely free program that contains all the necessary tools:
- Record from a webcam or digital camera. The result can be saved in AVI, MP4, WMV formats
- Screenshots saved in JPG/BMP
- Scheduler. Scheduled recording
- Possibility to overlay an image
When talking about recording video from a webcam, it is impossible not to mention the media harvester. It seems that he can do everything(). To record video from a webcam, select File-Capture AVI. You will see that the menu and the general appearance of the window have changed. Your face appeared in the window through the eyes of a webcam. No? Then let's select a device. In the Device menu, select your webcam. Got an image? Great! Now you need to tell the program where to save the video. File - Set capture file (F2). Enter the file name, you're done. You can write it down. How? If you want, rummage through the menu. But I will say this too. F5 - start recording, Esc - end.
Particularly inquisitive people can select the video format in the Video - Set custom format menu. But the default settings are quite adequate.
Altarsoft Video Capture
Another program for recording video from a webcam, which can be considered the best in this review. This Altarsoft Video Capture. The program is designed to capture videos and images from various devices (webcam, screen, or even an Internet address) and save them to disk in a specified format. To encode images, the program uses codecs installed on the system, so the number of supported formats is, in principle, unlimited.
In order to record video from your webcam, select parameters similar to those set in the screenshot and click the Capture button at the bottom right. To stop, there is a Stop button nearby.
In the screenshot, Save path (path to save the file) is the root of the C: drive. This is not necessary, choose the folder that is convenient for you.
I would like to warn you that the program may not work well on Windows Vista/7. But it’s worth a try - what if?
Do you need a program that can turn your computer into a video surveillance system for your home, office, apartment or property? Carefully study the section table and the best solution will be found! All those that score more than three pluses for the utility are adapted to work with a large number of cameras simultaneously, both connected to a computer and remote.
They have a built-in motion detector and record at specified intervals when you are not at home. Plus, some can be downloaded for free. But the main question is how the utility works when motion is detected? Features such as an SMS sound signal to your phone or sending a message by email can significantly expand the capabilities of the application, with the help of which you can turn your video surveillance webcam into a full-fledged security alert system. But, unfortunately, they are not supported by all programs.
The universal and inexpensive Xeoma stands out from its analogues. Its main features are ease of use, a developed notification system, and a file manager that copies records not only to the hard drive, but also directly to network storage. The function of recording video from multiple cameras deserves special mention, which allows you to organize video surveillance as efficiently as possible.
Also pleased Ivideon Server– a program that adds remote access to images from your cameras via the smartphone where it is installed Ivideon Client and vice versa (the phone lens works as a webcam, and the video can be turned on in the preview window in the user’s personal account on the PC). The service supports IP cameras, web cameras, broadcasting video in recording or online mode through the user’s personal account. Additionally, the motion sensor always takes screenshots when triggered. They are stored in a separate gallery.
Well done Active WebCam, has many functions, dozens of settings for each display parameter, encoding, auto shooting mode, support for all known capture devices, including capture cards. Perhaps the only significant drawback of the solution is the price of almost $40 and the outdated interface. It seems that it was not designed for Windows 7 - 10, but for the archaic Windows 95 operating system. Otherwise, it has few equals.
Some of the software listed in the selection can be downloaded for free; to expand the functionality of certain utilities, you will need to purchase a license. Depending on the software you choose, with the help of a webcam you will have the opportunity to realize your plans, be it a fun shoot for your friends from VK or targeted tracking of CCTV cameras by IP address.
ManyCam will help you conduct a colorful live broadcast, webinar or productive communication session via Skype. The utility edits video and audio online at a professional level, but is not without presets and “tricks” for amateurs. It integrates closely with popular platforms and works quickly even on a weak PC. We recommend trying at least the free version.
Xeoma It is considered one of the most advanced tools in its category, allowing even inexperienced users to conduct professional video surveillance. The program is distributed free of charge, but if you want to expand its functions, you should consider purchasing the Pro version, which can be called one of the best options for price and quality. IP Camera Viewer will help you build a simple and convenient monitoring system without delving into the detailed settings of certain configurations.
Movavi Video Suite combines the best qualities of other described programs, generously seasoning them with the functions of a high-quality video editor, video editing application, format converter and viewer. Record broadcasts, cut, add effects, improve and create entire films within one program. With their conversion and uploading to YouTube There will be no questions either. This is all done within the Movavi Video Suite menu!
WebcamXP fans of remote control will like it, because it allows you to monitor what is happening both from remote computers and from mobile devices. The official website of the developer provides not only the usual modification, perfect for home use, but also Pro, which, although it costs $99, will allow you to manage several streams simultaneously broadcast to the network.
WebCam Monitor stands out from its competitors with its well-thought-out task scheduler and is considered a professional tool. A disadvantage may be the lack of Russian menu language, but a clear advantage will be the exclusive ability to send SMS to your cell phone or smartphone if movement is detected in the frame.
CyberLink YouCam It will appeal to fans of making presentations and video tutorials, as well as supporters of high-quality protection of their PC from prying eyes. Can change your appearance, but from an entertainment point of view, this function is better handled WebcamMax, which is recommended for downloading by anyone who wants to have a good laugh while communicating with friends in popular online services. But the simplest means of photographing yourself would be Webcam Toy, created specifically for the purpose of further posting the processed photo on social networks.
WebcamMax is a free program in Russian that allows you to add many effects to the image from your webcam. The program can be used with any messenger that has a video call function: Skype, ICQ, MSN and others. Both built-in laptop cameras and USB cameras are supported. In addition, WebcamMax can work without a camera at all, processing any media file or image from the computer screen as a signal source.
The WebcamMax program is, for the most part, entertaining in nature, so the effects it contains are appropriate. All kinds of facial distortions, various hairstyles, headdresses and masks, a halo above the head or a gloomy background overgrown with cobwebs - all this can be combined, changing the appearance beyond recognition.
A distinctive feature of the WebcamMax program is that it automatically recognizes the shape of the face and places the selected effects in the right place. That is, glasses cover the eyes, a cap is put on the head, and a beard grows from the chin. In this case, the effects are scaled, maintaining proportions as the face approaches or moves away from the camera. You can download the WebcamMax program for free in Russian from us, to do this, follow the link below.
Russian language in the WebcamMax program
To enable the Russian language, click on the program icon in the tray of your Windows and select the menu item options. Next, change the English language to Russian. Click the button apply to change the setting. By using WebcamMax You can take photos and record videos from your webcam or computer screen. Such functions allow you to use the utility to create, for example, training videos on using a program. The finished video can be immediately posted on YouTube.
WebcamMax download in Russian available for free on our website. The program has a large number of effects, but, if desired, you can purchase about a thousand additional background pictures, accessories and animated screensavers on the manufacturer’s website.
The programs listed below are primarily needed to operate webcams. The fact is that IP cameras, as a rule, have the necessary software as standard. However, some of the utilities discussed are multifunctional and can cope with a wide variety of sources.
Platforms
The main advantage of AtHome Video Streamer is its multi-platform functionality. In addition to mobile surveillance applications, it has full-length versions for Windows and macOS.
The program can record on a schedule, save video and send notifications to a smartphone when motion is detected. You can use USB, IP, Smart TV, iOS and Android cameras as sources.
Platforms: Windows.
EyeLine Video Surveillance can use up to 100 channels simultaneously. Allows you to use both web and IP cameras as sources.
The program is equipped with a motion detector, an archive recording manager and the ability to upload videos to an FTP server. Event notifications can be received via email or SMS.
EyeLine Video Surveillance is a great option for those who need a simple and effective video surveillance system. The program has a two-week trial period and offers several subscription options with advanced functionality.
Platforms: Windows, iOS, Android.
Netcam Studio was created by the developers of the popular video surveillance program WebcamXP. The multifunctional utility, like its predecessor, works with a large number of cameras.
Netcam Studio has a motion and sound sensor, can recognize license plates and upload recorded recordings to your hard drive, FTP or cloud. Remote access to cameras is carried out both through a browser and through special applications for iOS and Android.
The free version has many features, but you can only view two sources. Purchasing a license will allow you to use the program for commercial purposes, increase the number of available sources and remove the watermark from the video stream.
Platforms: Windows.
A simple and functional program for video surveillance. It has a sound and motion detector, can send notifications by mail and sound an alarm if an unfamiliar object comes into the camera’s field of view. Supports connection of four sources, recording at specified time intervals and video broadcasting.
5. iSpy
Platforms: Windows, iOS, Android.
iSpy is open source, which provides ample opportunities for its modernization and makes detailed configuration very convenient. You can expand the functionality using plugins for license plate recognition, text overlay, and barcode scanning.
You can connect an unlimited number of sources. There is a motion sensor, network broadcasting, notifications. Additionally, iSpy supports uploading to YouTube, Dropbox or FTP server.
You can use not only USB and IP cameras as a source, but also a desktop image.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
This multi-platform program boasts a smart motion sensor that can distinguish a person from a car or pet. It can work with IP and web cameras, but in the free version you can only stream video from one source.
Sighthound Video can save video to cloud services and has many useful features for those who are impressed by the smart home concept.
On the Sighthound website you can buy a kit that will ensure the security of, for example, a country house, and the program itself can work with the IFTTT automation service.
Platforms: macOS.
The program works with both IP and the computer's built-in camera. There is a function for automatically uploading videos to Dropbox, as well as triggering at a certain volume or intensity of movement in the camera’s field of view.
Periscope Pro can shoot video in a resolution of 1,600 × 1,200, uses a small amount of RAM and is easy to set up. It is not designed to detect burglars (although it will work for this as well), but it will do an excellent job as a video baby monitor and help look after a pet or elderly relatives.
