General Device:
The AnkerWork B600 Video bar is an all-in-one webcam with integrated speakers, microphones, and a light bar. The combination of traditionally separate devices makes up a compelling solution for those looking to simplify and potentially enhance their web conferencing setup. The integrated light bar on this device is a distinctive feature as it can provide good illumination for a speaker in a dimly lit environment. This device can easily be user-transported allowing for a more professional setup on the go, particularly when compared to the generally substandard quality of integrated laptop webcams.
Video Features
The device centers around a 3.7MP webcam that operates at 2560×1440 (2K) resolution. The higher resolution camera allows it to zoom within an image and still maintain a FULL HD 1080p picture. This is especially useful when paired with the built in motion tracking capability. After an initial configuration in software, this AI-based, person-tracking function can operate independently, without the camera software actively running. This allows the camera itself to pan and zoom without impacting computer performance. In addition to the AI tracking, it features dedicated camera angles of 65°, 78°, and 95°.
The light bar is also enhanced beyond a simple on-and-off. It features “Auto and manual control for brightness level and color temperature.” You can manually adjust the brightness from the front slider of the video bar, and manually turn the light on/off with the side touch control on the right side of the video bar. The touch control on the left side mutes the microphones and displays a red light below the camera when muted. Physically, the light bar can also flip down and become a privacy cover over the lens.
Audio Features
Regarding audio technology, the device features a four-microphone array with “VoiceRadar-Voice Enhancement, AI Noise Cancellation, and Echo Cancellation.” “VoiceRadar” automatically boosts audio when the speaker is farther away from the device. In addition to the microphone enhancements, the B600 features two speakers directing audio out of the left and right sides of the device. These speakers sound full and provide sufficient audio volume.
Other Features
Other physical features of note: this device includes an additional USB-A port on the rear of it for connecting additional accessories (like a USB microphone, or speaker pod). The device does have two USB-C ports on the rear as well. One is for power and the other is for the data connection to your computer. The bottom of the camera housing there is a standard 1/4” threaded tripod mount. The monitor adapter also features a separate mount. This gives users great flexibility in using a mobile tripod while on the go and leaving the monitor adapter at the office.
Video Demo:
Use Cases:
The Video Bar is recommended for a personal workspace. It is very good at tracking a person near or at a moderate distance. For telemedicine applications, this solution could work well in a small clinic space as part of a laptop, or small cart deployment. While the zoom is not powerful enough for detailed viewing of a particular body part, it does a good job of keeping the speaker in frame. On the provider side, this camera could be useful for providers delivering remote care in which the patient needs to see the provider’s whole body, although often the camera tries to zoom in on the speaker’s face.
Product Specs:
| B600 Video Bar | |
| Manufacturer | AnkerWork |
| Manufacturer Address | 10900 NE 8th St Bellevue, WA 98004 United States of America |
| Manufacturer Web Address | AnkerWork | Work Your Way |
| Model Name | B600 Video Bar |
| Camera Resolution | 2K (2560×1440) |
| Light | Automatic and manual control for brightness level and color temperature |
| Power Supply | Universal Adapter |
| Audio Technology | VoiceRadar-Voice Enhancement, AI Noise Cancellation, Echo cancellation |
| Focus Type | AI-Powered Auto Focus |
| Smart Function | AI Image, AI Frame, AI Noise Cancellation |
| Adjustable Field of View (FoV) | 65°, 78°, 95° |
| Cables Included | USB-C Data cable |
| Privacy Cover | Privacy Cover with Lightbar |
| Mic | 4 Mics Array with AGC/AEC/ANC |
| Video Codec | H264. MJPEG YUV |
| Speaker | 2 x 2W |
| Mounting Options | Tripod mount on stand and camera |
| Physical Device Controls | Touch controls for brightness, mute, and light on/off |
| Warranty | 18 months |
| MSRP | $219 |
Summary:
The AnkerWork B600 Video bar pulls together a lot of features that separately would create a more complex setup: lights, sound bar, webcam, USB Hub, etc. This combination of features matched with the relative ease and quality of the AI enhancements makes for an interesting choice for those in the market for a higher quality webcam.
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