When it comes to computer accessories, webcams often don’t get the recognition they deserve. In most cases, a few dominant brands tend to monopolize the market, and the majority of webcams are, for lack of a better term, “webcamy.” However, in 2021, Opal made its mark with the introduction of the C1 model, which sought to elevate the humble webcam with a high-quality sensor, sleek design, and user-friendly companion software, particularly for Mac users. Consequently, Opal is now unveiling its second camera, the Tadpole, which represents a significant departure from its predecessor and other webcams on the market.
Upon first glance, the Tadpole stands out as a major departure from the C1 and almost any other webcam in its class. Designed specifically for laptops, the Tadpole features a notably compact form factor. This design choice was influenced by the revelation that over 40% of C1 buyers were using the camera with a laptop. While most Macbooks and PC laptops come with built-in webcams, the deficiencies of these standard webcams were underscored during the pandemic when remote work became the norm.
In terms of its design, the Tadpole shares similarities with the final generation iPod Shuffle, complete with a clip. Emphasizing portability, the Tadpole is equipped with a built-in cable that conceals a capacitive mute button within the USB-C connector, eliminating the need to hunt for an on-screen mute button during video calls. For added convenience, the Tadpole comes with its own hard carry case, though this is offered as an additional purchase.
As for the camera itself, the Tadpole features a 48-megapixel Sony IMX582 Exmor RS sensor designed to deliver 1080p video with an f/1.8 aperture. Notably, despite its smaller form factor, the Tadpole surpasses its larger, older, and more expensive sibling in terms of optics. The camera is capable of shooting in 4K but downscales to 1080p for compatibility with most video calling software. Companion software for adjusting image settings and other preferences is currently available exclusively for Mac users. The company aims to minimize the need to delve into settings, striving for a user-friendly experience.
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True to its promise, the Tadpole captures visibly clearer and more detailed images than standard laptop webcams. Though slightly darker and softer in background details than the 4K Logitech Brio in initial tests through apps like Zoom and Google Meet, the image quality sharpened when viewed through Opal’s own software.
The Tadpole’s most intriguing feature lies in its audio capabilities. Opal claims that the Tadpole is the first webcam with a directional microphone, which is evident in its ability to minimize ambient noise. In side-by-side comparisons with the Logitech Brio and a MacBook’s internal microphone, the Tadpole effectively dampened ambient noise. Opal also asserts that the microphone is sufficiently directional to eliminate sounds outside of its focus, resulting in clearer and more centered voices with minimal environmental reverb. This feature would particularly be appreciated in office environments and during video meetings.
The Tadpole challenges the convention in a market that has often lacked originality and creativity. While the demand for boutique webcams may not be as high as other computer accessories, there is certainly scope for innovative and practical designs catering to specific use cases, such as the Tadpole.
Opal’s achievement lies in proving that webcams can be compact, functional, and stylish without a hefty price tag. Priced at $175, the Tadpole offers a better sensor, improved autofocus, and a directional microphone at a fraction of the cost of its predecessor, the C1. This marks a significant shift from the traditional large and dull webcams that have dominated the market for far too long. The Tadpole’s sleek design, choice of colors, braided cable, and smart capacitive button demonstrate that it is possible to elevate the webcam experience without inflating the price.
