What if you had a dedicated webcam that has its own monitor? The answer is the Poly Studio P21, designed for business. It's a bit more expensive for consumers, but there are some neat features, such as built-in ambient lights, wireless charging, and an enterprise-grade display. Oh and the webcam is pretty decent, too.
Quick specs
- 21.5-inch LCD monitor with Full-HD resolution
- Stereo speakers
- Full-HD camera, electronic 4x zoom
- Mic mute light
The Full-HD webcam is pretty clear, with plenty of clarity. Noise is manageable, even for slightly dim environments. But even if it's dim, fret not, the P21 features side ambient lights. These can be adjusted manually by sliding your finger up and down at the sides of the back, or set to auto via the app. While it does light up your face pretty evenly, if you're wearing glasses, they will be reflected and visible. There are controls at the bottom of the screen — volume, mic mute, a configurable rocket button, and a button to open up either Zoom or Teams (though that didn't seem to launch on the MacBook Pro I tested with).
Credit: Aloysius Low/Can Buy or Not
All of the settings can be controlled via the Poly Lens app. You can tweak your camera's exposure, white balance or let it do so automatically. As mentioned, the app can also let you tweak the ambient lighting. But it's honestly best to leave it at automatic. The app can also play soothing water sounds, but this feels pointless to be honest. To use the P21 as a monitor, you'll also need to download the DisplayLink Manager app. Otherwise the screen won't work.
Credit: Aloysius Low/Can Buy or Not
Other features include a privacy shutter, speakers, and a wireless charging spot for your phone. The 21.5-inch monitor's quality is decent, but the reflective display means reflections can be an issue if you're in a brightly lit spot. The speakers are really clear for voices, especially in the mids and highs. It does struggle for bass, though. Also, while you have to use a USB-C cable to connect to the monitor, it won't keep your laptop charged.
Honestly, if your business needs screens for call booths, the Poly Studio P21 is great for this. But if you're planning to use this as a monitor in a home office setup, the P21 is slightly underwhelming. It does everything, but far from the best. Also, it's a tad expensive, though you will probably save on space since you don't have to get multiple components. Get it from Shopee or Lazada for S$1,100.
Note: Review unit provided by Poly.
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