Introduction
For remote work, a webcam is not just a "picture," but a working tool: calls on Zoom and Teams, interviews, training, and presentations. Good news — on AliExpress you can find budget webcams that will suit these tasks without overpaying.
Below are 5 popular and actually selling webcams from AliExpress that are chosen for remote work.
Tip: before buying, check your current camera, microphone, and internet — sometimes the problem is not in the device, but in settings or lighting. 👉 Check on docam.io
1. Xiaomi USB Webcam 1080p — Basic Full HD for Calls
Resolution: 1080p Full HD
Frame rate: up to 30 FPS
Microphone: built-in
Connection: USB
Classic budget camera from Xiaomi. Works well for Zoom, Google Meet, and Teams. Provides stable image with normal lighting and requires no drivers.
2. IMILAB W88S — Popular Full HD Camera with Good Sharpness
Resolution: 1080p Full HD
FPS: 30
Microphone: built-in
IMILAB is a sub-brand of the Xiaomi ecosystem. The camera is often praised for sharpness and adequate color reproduction in its price segment. Good option for daily remote work.
3. USB Webcam 1080p Autofocus — Mass Option with Autofocus
Resolution: 1080p
FPS: up to 30
Feature: autofocus
Typical "Ali camera" without a brand, but with autofocus. Often used for work if you show documents or objects on camera. Quality strongly depends on lighting.
4. USB Webcam 2K / 4K — Marketing "4K" for Wide Frame
Resolution: claimed 4K (actually — 2K/1080p)
FPS: 25–30
Angle: wide
Most "4K cameras" on AliExpress use upscaling. They're chosen not for honest 4K, but for wide viewing angle — convenient for presentations or if 2 people are in frame.
5. Xiaomi / Mijia Mini Webcam — Compact Camera "Set and Forget"
Resolution: 1080p Full HD
FPS: 30
Format: compact
Minimalist camera for laptop or desktop PC. Suitable for constant calls, doesn't take up space, and requires no settings. Unfortunately, the model has been discontinued, but can still be found in retail stores and marketplaces.
Comparison Table
| Model | Resolution | FPS | Suitable for | Key idea |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi USB Webcam | 1080p | 30 | Calls, work | Stable basic option |
| IMILAB W88S | 1080p | 30 | Remote work | Good sharpness |
| USB Webcam Autofocus | 1080p | 30 | Documents, objects | Autofocus |
| USB Webcam 4K | 2K/4K* | 30 | Presentations | Wide angle |
| Xiaomi Mini | 1080p | 30 | Constant calls | Compactness |
Conclusion
AliExpress is a normal source of budget webcams for remote work, if you understand the limitations: lighting, microphone, and honesty of "4K". For most tasks, 1080p and normal lighting are enough.