Whether to buy a webcam now or wait hinges on how often you appear on camera and whether your setup protects the gear you already run.
Quick Answer
Buy a webcam now if you stream or call on camera weekly and your desk power is surge-protected; wait if you rarely appear on camera. A solid 1080p60 webcam is stocked locally from around R900, and a surge-protected strip under R400 guards your whole desk.
Buy Now If You're On Camera Often
Regular streamers and remote workers see an immediate jump moving from a laptop's built-in camera to a dedicated 1080p60 webcam with better low-light handling. Plug it and the rest of your USB gear into a surge-protected strip so spikes do not damage the electronics.
Wait If Camera Use Is Rare
If you only join the odd call, the laptop camera is fine and the money is better saved. Upgrade when consistent on-camera time justifies the quality gain, since an idle webcam adds nothing to a setup that already works.
Protecting Your Setup
A surge-protected power strip rated for your devices shields webcams, capture gear and your PC from spikes. Keep the camera lens covered when idle for privacy, and route the USB cable cleanly so it is not stressed at the connector.
FAQ
Should I buy a webcam now or wait?
Buy now if you are on camera weekly and have surge protection; the quality jump over a laptop camera is immediate. Wait if camera use is occasional and save the money.
What webcam resolution should I get?
1080p60 is the sweet spot for streaming and calls, stocked from around R900. It handles motion and SA indoor lighting better than basic 720p built-in cameras.
How do I protect a webcam and gear from power spikes?
Use a surge-protected power strip under R400 for all desk electronics. It guards webcams, capture cards and your PC against spikes that can damage USB hardware.
If you are on camera weekly, buy a 1080p60 webcam now and add a surge-protected strip; otherwise keep using the laptop camera until usage rises.