Where to buy a webcam depends on what you need it for and how soon you need it
You can buy webcams at big-box electronics stores like Best Buy, online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, office supply chains like Staples, and directly from manufacturers' websites. Each route has different return policies, shipping times, and stock levels. The choice comes down to whether you want to see the camera in person, need it within days, or are willing to wait for a lower price.
Local retailers let you inspect the camera and return it the same day if it doesn't work. Online marketplaces usually have more models in stock and lower prices, but shipping takes three to seven business days. Manufacturer websites sometimes offer sales or bundles you won't find elsewhere, but they typically ship slower than Amazon.
Key Takeaways
- Best Buy and Micro Center carry webcams in stock and let you return them within 15 days, so you can test the camera at home before committing.
- Amazon and eBay have the widest selection and often the lowest prices, but you cannot inspect the camera before it arrives and return shipping can be slow.
- Manufacturer websites like Logitech, Razer, and Microsoft sell directly and sometimes offer discounts or bundles not available at other retailers.
- Office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot stock basic webcams for video calls but have fewer high-end models than electronics retailers.
- Check the return window and restocking fees before you buy — some online sellers charge 15 to 20 percent to process returns.
Big-box electronics stores: Best Buy and Micro Center
Best Buy stocks webcams in the computer accessories section and lets you return or exchange any camera within 15 days of purchase. You can also order online and pick up in store the same day if the model is in stock at your location. Best Buy's return policy is straightforward: unopened items get a full refund, and opened items can be returned for store credit or a refund minus a restocking fee if you bought a protection plan.
Micro Center, which operates in about 25 U.S. states, carries a similar range of webcams and offers a 30-day return window. Both stores price competitively with online retailers on popular models, though less common cameras may cost more in-store than online. Staff at both retailers can answer basic questions about resolution, frame rate, and compatibility, though they may not know the details of every model.
Amazon and eBay: Largest selection, fastest shipping for Prime members
Amazon carries more webcam models than any physical store — from budget USB cameras under $30 to professional streaming rigs over $200. If you have Amazon Prime, most cameras ship within two business days. Non-Prime orders typically arrive in five to seven days. Amazon's return window is 30 days, and return shipping is free if the camera arrived defective or doesn't match the listing.
eBay hosts both new and used webcams from individual sellers and retailers. Prices are often lower than Amazon, but shipping times vary by seller — some offer two-day delivery, others take two weeks. eBay's return policy depends on the seller: most allow 30 days, but some charge restocking fees or require you to pay return shipping. Read the seller's return terms before you buy, especially if you are purchasing from a third-party seller rather than eBay's own warehouse.
Manufacturer websites: Direct sales and exclusive bundles
Logitech, Razer, Microsoft, and other major webcam makers sell directly through their own websites. Buying from the manufacturer sometimes means access to bundles — for example, a webcam paired with a microphone at a discount — or sales that don't appear on Amazon or Best Buy. Manufacturer websites also let you register your camera for warranty coverage and access driver updates more easily.
Shipping from manufacturer sites is usually slower than Amazon Prime, often taking seven to ten business days. Return policies vary: Logitech offers 30 days, while some smaller brands offer only 14. Check the return window and whether the manufacturer covers return shipping before you order. Manufacturer sites are worth checking if you have a specific model in mind and want to compare the price to what Amazon or Best Buy charge.
Specialty retailers: Adorama, B&H Photo, and streaming equipment stores
Adorama and B&H Photo are photography and video equipment retailers that stock professional-grade webcams and streaming cameras. They carry models you won't find at Best Buy, including cinema-quality USB cameras and broadcast-ready options. Both offer 30-day returns and have knowledgeable staff who can advise on camera choice for streaming, content creation, or professional video calls.
Shipping from these retailers is typically three to five business days. Prices are competitive with Amazon on popular models, though specialty cameras may be cheaper here than on general marketplaces. These retailers are worth visiting if you are building a streaming setup or need a camera with specific features like interchangeable lenses or professional audio inputs.
What to check before you buy from any retailer
Before you complete a purchase, verify the return window, restocking fee, and whether return shipping is free or paid. Some retailers charge 15 to 20 percent restocking fees on opened electronics, which can add $10 to $40 to the cost of returning a camera. Check whether the camera comes with a warranty and whether the retailer or manufacturer covers it.
Read recent customer reviews on the retailer's site, not just the product reviews — look for complaints about shipping delays, damaged items, or difficult returns. If you are buying from a third-party seller on Amazon or eBay, check their feedback score and how many returns they have processed. For less common models, search the retailer's site to confirm they have it in stock before you order; some listings show items as available when they are actually backordered.
Comparing price and shipping time across retailers
The same webcam often costs different amounts at different retailers. A Logitech C920 might be $60 at Best Buy, $55 on Amazon with Prime shipping, and $52 on eBay from a third-party seller. The $8 difference matters less if you need the camera today — Best Buy's same-day pickup or Amazon Prime's two-day shipping may be worth the extra cost.
Use price comparison tools like Google Shopping or CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon price history) to see whether the current price is typical or inflated. Check whether the retailer is running a sale or offering a discount code. Some manufacturers offer student or military discounts on their websites, which can save 10 to 15 percent if you may have access to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a webcam if I opened the box?
Most retailers allow returns of opened cameras within their return window, but some charge a restocking fee of 15 to 20 percent. Best Buy and Amazon typically waive restocking fees if the camera is defective or doesn't match the listing. Check the retailer's return policy before you buy to know what you will owe if you need to send it back.
Is it cheaper to buy directly from the manufacturer or from Amazon?
Prices are usually similar, but manufacturer websites sometimes offer bundles or sales not available elsewhere. Amazon often has lower prices on popular models because of competition between sellers. Check both before you buy — the difference is usually $5 to $15, but it can be larger on specialty cameras.
What if a webcam arrives damaged?
Contact the retailer when ready with photos of the damage. Most retailers will send a replacement or issue a refund without requiring you to pay return shipping if the damage is the retailer's fault. Keep the original packaging and take photos of the damage before you open the box further, so you have proof for the retailer.
Do I need to buy from an authorized retailer to keep the warranty?
Most manufacturers honor warranties regardless of where you buy, as long as the camera is new and not refurbished. Check the manufacturer's warranty page to confirm — some brands void the warranty if you buy from unauthorized sellers or third-party marketplaces. Buying from Best Buy, Amazon, or the manufacturer's own site is always safe.
Which retailer has the fastest shipping?
Amazon Prime offers two-day shipping on most webcams and is the fastest option if you have a membership. Best Buy's same-day pickup is faster if the camera is in stock at your local store. eBay shipping times vary by seller, so check the listing before you buy — some sellers offer two-day delivery, while others take two weeks.