OBSBOT Meet SE Webcam Review

The OBSBOT Meet SE targets those looking for an affordable webcam that is small for portability yet powerful enough for a professional look. For those who are happy with 1080p, the Meet SE could be a great option, at least on paper. How does it hold up during real-world testing? Here is my review.

Meet the Meet SE

Out of the box, the Meet SE impresses with its small size. This is a tiny webcam that can be easily tucked out of the way for a desktop setup, or sit tidily above a laptop monitor. It can also be mounted with ease thanks to the included magnetic mount.

As mentioned in the intro, the Meet SE is capable of up to 1080p capture. Interestingly, users can capture at 1080p at up to 100 frames-per-second. Drop the resolution down to 720p and users can crank the frame-rate up to 150 FPS.

Sensor matters

Not all 1080p webcams are created equal, as the sensor used plays a big part in overall image quality. The Meet SE’s 1/2.8″ CMOS sensor results in an impressive overall image, even in low-light scenarios. The “HDR” setting certainly helps here. What’s more, the f/1.8 aperture allows for natural blur behind the focus subject, which leads to a more professional and satisfying look.

The word “AI” is everywhere these days, including in the Meet SE’s product description. Now I don’t know exactly how much actual artificial intelligence is involved in the camera’s AI auto-framing, but the function works well enough to keep a user in the center of the frame. This is achieved through digital zooming, however, which does mean quality degrades the more the image is zoomed in.

Handy gestures

Gestures are also supported, for controlling the webcam’s tracking and zooming with just the user’s hands. I haven’t been able to master gestures, so the results have been hit-and-miss. I think they can be useful in a pinch, but I’d make use of a remote or keyboard shortcuts for any presentations where accuracy is critical.

The Meet SE makes use of OBSBOT Center software for advanced customization. This is great for personalising the tracking, tuning image settings, and more. It works well, just like it does for OBSBOT’s other cameras.

Audio sidegrade

The main downside of the Meet SE is the built-in mic. It’s fine if you’re caught in a pinch, but it pales in comparison to dedicated solutions. I’d pair the Meet SE with a cheap desktop mic for a great sub-$100 setup.

Disclosure: Review sample provided by OBSBOT.