Insta360 Link 2 is a plug-and-play device that will work seamlessly with most standard streaming and video calling apps. I tested it with FaceTime, Teams, OBS, Discord, and more, all without encountering any problems. But the Insta360 Link Controller companion desktop app is also worth installing, as it lets you delve into the Link 2’s options, from adjusting frame rate, resolution, camera orientation, and picture and audio settings to attractive software-based features such as AI tracking. background bokeh (blur) and even live virtual makeup application. If you want to look like a goth in Zoom meetings, this has you covered.
In addition to people tracking, Link 2 also features the same Whiteboard and Overhead modes as its predecessor. The former detects whiteboards or similar rectangular objects in the camera’s field of view and frames them perfectly, allowing you to share your notes and diagrams with your colleagues. Top mode points the Link 2 directly down from its position towards your desktop, in order to share documents or objects there.
A camera that is superior
I think Insta360 has done a solid job with the Link 2, retaining almost all of the appeal of the original model while lowering the price and making small improvements here and there. And as such, I don’t hesitate to add it to WIRED’s guide to the best webcams. There’s no dramatic advance here, just a reassuring step in the right direction, and I don’t think there’s much point in upgrading to the newer model if you already own the original.
Courtesy of Insta 360
But anyone looking for a highly capable, easy-to-use webcam for work meetings or streaming will get more than their money’s worth here. Its video and audio quality is excellent, it integrates seamlessly into all the most popular apps and services and offers useful features such as tracking and noise cancellation. It’s hard to think of a better webcam for that price.
NB: While I haven’t tried it myself yet, Insta360 released another webcam alongside the Link 2. The Insta360 2C Link It’s almost identical in terms of specs and features, but it eliminates the gimbal entirely, resulting in a webcam that’s a little less mobile but more compact and priced a little cheaper (around $149).