Opal Tadpole launches as new compact webcam designed to improve video chats with 48 MP Sony IMX582 sensor

Opal has released the Tadpole, the company's second webcam after 2021's Opal C1. To recap, the Opal C1 received glowing reviews upon release on account of its impressive image quality and unique design. Its US$299 starting price proved a sticking point though, which Opal has sought to rectify with the Tadpole.

The Opal Tadpole retails for US$175 at launch, making it 41% cheaper than its predecessor before adjusting for inflation. The Tadpole is also significantly smaller and weighs 45 g, including its USB Type-C cable. Additionally, the webcam supports macOS and Windows natively; the C1 initially lacked Windows integration.

According to Opal, it has equipped the Tadpole with the Sony IMX582, a 48 MP Exmor RS sensor that has a 1/2-inch optical format. While the sensor would only be good enough for lower mid-range smartphones now, Xiaomi used it in the POCO F3 for example, a 1/2-inch optical format is comparatively large by webcam standards. The Tadpole has a 6P lens with an f/1.8 aperture and a 70-degree field of view (FOV) too, which Opal believes provides first-rate image quality.

Theoretically, the Tadpole supports 4K videos, although it automatically downscales to 1080p/30 FPS to maximise compatibility with video chat programs. Furthermore, Opal has included a directional MEMS microphone that should only record sound emitted within the webcam's FOV. For reference, the microphone can be muted at any time by tapping the Type-C end of the webcam's USB cable. Please see Opal's website for more details.

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