Razer has debuted the second generation of its Kiyo cameras — the V2 as well as the V2 X — powered by Camo’s AI tools to make you look even better.
Razer’s $149.99 Kiyo V2 captures images at 4K, 30 fps. The less expensive $99.99 Kiyo X captures images at a lower 1440p resolution, but increases the capture rate to 60Hz for a more lifelike feel.
The V2 includes some features that have been carried over from the first-generation Pro Ultra, which really only lost its position as PCWorld’s best premium webcam because of its high $300 price tag. Both webcams include an 8.3Mpixel Starvis sensor from Sony, autofocus, and a configurable wide-angle field of view which extends to 93 degrees in the V2. The X steps down significantly with a 3.7Mpixel sensor and a narrower, 80-degree field of view, though it includes autofocus as well.
The selling point of the V2 appears to be some work Razer did with Camo, a free Windows app that touches up your image using the power of a Copilot+ NPU. The app doesn’t need Razer’s cameras; it can use a basic webcam and apply filters, blur your background, or attach an overlay to identify who you are for streaming purposes. The V2 boasts a “one-click image enhancement” that presumably uses the Camo software, auto-adjusting white balance, exposure, and noise reduction to help you look even better.
Naturally, it’s all controlled by Razer’s Synapse software, which has added capabilities like spotlight focus to help make your image pop from the background, custom or not. The V2 also includes HDR capabilities.
Razer is marketing both cameras at content creators and streamers, to take advantage of the features both cameras offer. While some of the best webcams don’t cost more than $100, the $150 price tag of the V2 doesn’t seem overly extravagant.
