FAQ
TL;DR: Want your phone as a USB webcam? Install the proper phone drivers, use DroidCam, and consider HD—"In the paid version of DroidCam you can set 720p." USB minimizes lag; Wi‑Fi adds delay. Works with OBS/Bandicam after drivers load. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #18648632]
Why it matters: This helps remote workers, streamers, and students turn a phone into a low‑lag webcam and fix USB/Wi‑Fi issues.
Quick Facts
- USB mode delivers very small delay; Wi‑Fi adds latency noticeable in calls. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254190]
- DroidCam’s paid tier unlocks 720p HD capture on PC. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #18648632]
- IP Webcam showed lower Wi‑Fi latency than DroidCam for one user. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254569]
- Iriun Webcam can stream Full HD (1080p) over Wi‑Fi smoothly. [Elektroda, podkopiaczeq, post #18652675]
- Browser preview often stays LAN‑only: "It only works on the local network." [Elektroda, LA72, post #18254206]
How do I set up DroidCam over USB without errors?
Use this quick sequence:
- Install your phone’s USB driver on the PC, then install DroidCam Client.
- Open DroidCam on phone and PC, and connect the USB cable.
- In the PC client, pick USB and Start. If not detected, reinstall the driver.
Driver installation fixed the OP’s USB connection issue. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254569]
PC won’t detect my phone over USB. What should I check?
Install the correct USB driver for your phone model. Restart the DroidCam Client after installation. Use a data‑capable USB cable and try another port. Once the driver was installed, the OP’s USB connection started working. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254569]
Is USB faster than Wi‑Fi with DroidCam?
Yes. Over USB the user reported "delays are very small." Over Wi‑Fi, delays were present. Choose USB for live meetings and recordings. This matches typical webcam needs where latency matters. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254190]
Which app gives the best quality/latency for OBS on phones?
A user achieved strong results with OBS Camera on iPhone (6S–7 Plus) using the OBS plugin. Their Android tests with DroidCam, IP Webcam, and NDI+ had "huge delays and low image quality" and even OBS crashes. Consider iPhone with OBS Camera if available. [Elektroda, RafalB, post #18041847]
How do I record DroidCam in Bandicam or similar tools?
Select “DroidCam Source” (or similar) as the capture device in Bandicam, OBS, or your recorder. Prefer USB for lower lag during recording. If image quality seems limited, check the app’s resolution settings or upgrade the app if needed. The OP used DroidCam with Bandicam but sought higher resolution. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18648425]
Can DroidCam stream in HD? How do I enable 720p?
Yes. "In the paid version of DroidCam you can set 720p." Update to the paid tier, then select 720p in the app/client settings. This improves clarity for recordings and calls, especially in desktop capture software. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #18648632]
Is IP Webcam better than DroidCam over Wi‑Fi?
One user found IP Webcam provided lower latency over Wi‑Fi than DroidCam. They still preferred USB for minimal delay when possible. If Wi‑Fi is your only option, test IP Webcam and compare responsiveness. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254569]
Can I view my phone’s camera from outside my local network?
Using the in‑browser method, it’s limited: "It only works on the local network." This is fine for home or office LAN viewing. For remote access, consider different streaming methods or platforms that support secure external access. [Elektroda, LA72, post #18254206]
Does Iriun Webcam really do 1080p over Wi‑Fi?
A user reports Full HD (1080p) streaming over Wi‑Fi "without jams." This is useful for higher quality streams where USB is impractical. Test on your network to verify stability and CPU load. [Elektroda, podkopiaczeq, post #18652675]
Iriun won’t start on my Android—what should I try next?
Another user could not get Iriun working at all. Switch to DroidCam over USB or try IP Webcam over Wi‑Fi. If DroidCam audio mutes at 720p, drop resolution or record audio from a separate mic. This avoids silent recordings. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18654908]
DroidCam controls are disabled and autofocus hunts (Huawei P10). How can I fix it?
A user reported debugging toggling off, non‑working buttons, and persistent focus issues on a Huawei P10. Improve lighting and distance, or try a different app if controls are blocked. Switching to Wi‑Fi mode or ensuring correct USB drivers may help usability. [Elektroda, doppler1, post #18603416]
How do I connect DroidCam over Wi‑Fi quickly?
Follow three steps:
- Put phone and PC on the same network.
- Install DroidCam on the phone and DroidCam Client on the PC.
- Enter the app’s IP and port in the PC client and click Start.
Users confirm this simple flow works well. [Elektroda, borg18, post #18619849]
Is DroidCam stable enough for everyday webcam use?
Yes. The OP concluded "everything works" and that USB delays are "very small." Wi‑Fi had delays but remained usable. This suits video calls and simple recordings when configured correctly. [Elektroda, Andek82, post #18254190]
What if my phone doesn’t support this—should I just buy a webcam?
One reply suggested skipping the hassle and buying a good webcam. Consider this if driver installs, alternate apps, and USB/Wi‑Fi methods still fail. It may save time for urgent needs. [Elektroda, pp125, post #18039341]
I coped with DoridCam, everything works, a very good and simple program to use the webcam from the phone, as a webcam. After connecting with a USB cable, delays are very small and you can easily use it as a webcam or for convenient video recording. When it comes to wireless connection via wifi, there are delays, but you can also use it.