Razer has expanded its webcam line-up with the new Razer Kiyo V2 Pro, a professional webcam capable of recording at 4K resolution and 60FPS. It is aimed at gamers, streamers, content creators and anyone wanting higher-quality video without having to move to a dedicated DSLR or mirrorless camera setup.
The Kiyo V2 Pro follows the Razer Kiyo V2 and Kiyo V2 X that launched last year, but there is the jump to 4K at 60FPS. The standard Kiyo V2 tops out at 4K 30FPS, so the Pro should offer noticeably smoother motion, particularly for streamers who tend to move around on camera.
At the heart of the webcam is a Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, using back-illuminated sensor technology designed to capture more light in darker environments. Combined with 4K 60FPS recording, Razer says this should result in sharper footage with reduced motion blur while also maintaining better image quality when lighting conditions are less than ideal.
The Kiyo V2 Pro also uses an 86-degree wide-angle lens, giving creators enough room to show more than just their face. That could be particularly useful for product demonstrations, tabletop content, streaming setups, or anyone who wants more of their room visible in the shot without having to position the webcam too far away.
I particularly like that Razer is still treating a webcam as something that should be simple to set up. A dedicated camera can undoubtedly offer excellent image quality, but having to deal with capture cards, lenses, batteries and additional mounting gear isn’t something everyone wants on their desk.
Smarter framing and more control over your image
The Razer Kiyo V2 Pro includes intelligent auto-framing with dynamic pan, tilt and zoom. Rather than physically moving the camera, the software can follow your movements and adjust the crop to keep you centred if you lean across the desk, grab something from the side, or move around while presenting.
Razer’s One-Click Image Enhancement can also automatically handle exposure, white balance and noise reduction. For users who would rather configure things themselves, more advanced controls are available for adjusting colour, sharpness and other image settings.
There is also Ultra-High Dynamic Range (UHDR) support, designed to retain more information in bright highlights and darker shadow areas. This should be useful for rooms with difficult lighting, particularly if you have a bright window or lighting source behind you.
Razer has once again partnered with Camo Studio, with the Kiyo V2 Pro including a complimentary Camo Pro subscription. The software provides access to additional features including auto-framing and more advanced webcam controls.
On the hardware side, the webcam has a universal pivoting mount that can be attached to a monitor or used with a tripod. There is also an integrated privacy shutter that can be closed with a simple twist when the camera isn’t being used.
The Razer Kiyo V2 Pro looks like a significant step up from the Kiyo V2, especially for creators who want the smoother appearance of 60FPS without sacrificing 4K resolution. For streamers and content creators who don’t want the added complexity of a dedicated camera setup, it could be an interesting middle ground between a conventional webcam and a full interchangeable-lens camera.
Razer Kiyo V2 Pro retails for AU$469.00 and is available now at Razer.com, RazerStores, and select e-tailers worldwide.
