HP Poly Studio P5 USB-A Webcam review

Sometimes the march of technology demands a greater number of features be crammed into every device. However, there are certain gadgets that benefit from simplicity and reliability. Webcams are one such type of device that benefit from this focused approach. And so, HP Poly Studio P5 USB-A Webcam is a compact webcam that aims to provide a seamless videoconferencing experience. Nothing more, nothing less.

In, fact, every feature and extra on Poly Studio P5 is in service of better fulfilling that mission, and, for those who the device is aimed at, this single-minded approach will be appreciated.

Design and Build

HP Poly Studio P5 USB-A Webcam sports a bullet-shaped design, which is a departure from the typical rectangular webcams. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on a monitor or laptop. The device is solid enough to survive being quickly whipped in and out of bags, attachés and cases. The built-in privacy shutter is a welcome addition, allowing users to physically block the camera when not in use. I also really liked the LED showing the cam’s status. Green for IN USE, white for ON STANDBY, and red for OFF.

One of its standout design elements is the USB-A port at the back, enabling users to connect a wireless headset dongle without occupying an extra USB slot on their computer. This is particularly useful for those who rely on Bluetooth headsets for calls and meetings.

The monitor clip is sturdy, but it has limited adjustability, which may restrict placement flexibility. While it works well for most setups, users with thicker monitors or unconventional desk arrangements might find it slightly challenging to position the webcam optimally.

Quality Video

Equipped with Full HD 1080p resolution, HP Poly Studio P5 delivers sharp and clear visuals. The autofocus ensures that subjects remain crisp, even with movement. While the 80-degree field of view (FOV) is sufficient for individual users, it may feel slightly restrictive for group calls or presentations.

The webcam performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, automatically adjusting brightness and contrast to maintain a natural look. This makes it ideal for users who work in dimly lit environments or rely on artificial lighting.

However, the picture quality is slightly soft compared to premium webcams with higher-resolution sensors. While it’s more than adequate for professional calls, content creators or streamers looking for ultra-crisp visuals may prefer a higher-end model.

Audio Performance

One of the standout features of Poly Studio P5 is its directional microphone, which effectively captures voice while minimising background noise.

However, while the microphone is sufficient for standard video conferencing, users in noisy environments or those requiring studio-quality audio may still prefer an external microphone for enhanced sound fidelity.

Easy Setup

The Poly Studio P5 is plug-and-play, and it works seamlessly. The device is certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom, which ensures compatibility with popular conferencing platforms.

The setup process is straightforward, requiring only a USB connection to get started. No additional drivers or software are needed, though users can access Poly Lens software for customisation options such as brightness adjustments and firmware updates.

Performance in Real-World Use

In everyday use, the Poly Studio P5 delivers consistent video quality and clear audio. Whether used for business meetings, online classes, or casual video calls, it provides a reliable and hassle-free experience.

The autofocus works well, ensuring that users remain sharp and in focus even when moving slightly. The low-light performance is particularly impressive, making it a great choice for users who don’t have ideal lighting setups.

However, the limited FOV means that users conducting group calls or presentations may need to adjust their positioning to fit more people into the frame. Additionally, while the built-in microphone is good, it doesn’t match the quality of dedicated external microphones, which may be a consideration for content creators or podcasters.

Specifications – HP Poly Studio P5 USB-A Webcam

I/O:	USB-A in, USB-A out
Resolution:	1080p (Full HD), 720P (HD)
Focus/Zoom:	Compatible Auto focus with digital EPTZ 4x zoom
Field of View:	80°
Built-in Mic:	Directional, noise reduction, 50Hz-16kHz frequency response

HP Poly Studio P5 is a solid choice for professionals seeking a reliable and high-quality webcam for virtual meetings. Its strong audio performance, privacy features, and ease of use make it a compelling option. For the company bean counters, the price will also be a huge draw.

While it lacks some advanced features like adjustable FOV and 4K output, Poly Studio P5 delivers consistent performance with clear audio and dependable video quality in a rugged and highly portable form at a strong price point.