Camera privacy covers are a small, inexpensive privacy measure that protect against accidental webcam exposure on laptops, tablets, phones and even in-car cabin cameras. This guide presents four top picks based on hands-on testing, lab-style comparisons, and aggregated consumer and expert feedback to help you choose the right cover for your needs.
Considerations & Testing Approach
How we evaluated covers:
- Real-world compatibility: Tested fit and operation on a range of devices (MacBook Air/Pro, Windows laptops, iPad, Android phones, and external webcams). We checked closing-lid clearance and performance with screen protectors.
- Build & materials: Assessed thickness, durability, and construction (metal vs ABS vs TPU), plus the sliding mechanism smoothness.
- Adhesive & mounting: Measured initial tack, long-term hold, and residue after removal on glass and plastic bezels.
- User experience: Installation ease, visibility of status LEDs, and sliding ergonomics.
- Value & packaging: Pack sizes, price-per-piece, and extras (multiple sizes/shapes).
We combined our hands-on tests with customer reviews and expert commentary to prioritize reliability, low profile, and real-world convenience. The result: four covers that excel in distinct roles (budget, premium, value, and overall editor’s pick).
12-Pack Webcam Covers
A simple, ultra-thin 12-pack that gives broad coverage for home and office use. Affordable ABS sliders, easy installation, and small form factor make this a no-frills choice when you need many covers without breaking the bank.
Why this is the Best Budget Pick
CaseHQ's 12-pack focuses on one thing: low-cost, reliable privacy. Each slide is 0.027 inches thick, made from flexible ABS, and uses strong adhesive designed to hold on most flat bezels without interfering with closing a laptop. The pack size makes it great for families, offices, or anyone who wants spares.
Pros:
- Excellent price-per-piece (12 included)
- Thin enough for most laptops and phones
- Simple installation; decent adhesive
Cons:
- Adhesive strength can vary on textured bezels or some tempered glass protectors
- No metal option or premium finish
Practical verdict: If you want inexpensive coverage for many devices, this delivers consistent performance and easy deployment across the house or workplace.
Gadget Ray Premium Covers
Made from flexible TPU and proudly produced in the USA, this 6-pack balances tactile feel and durable mounting. The covers are easy to install, remove, and slide — a refined option for users who want a premium, non-permanent solution.
Why this is the Premium Choice
Gadget Ray uses Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) — a flexible, rubber-like material — giving the covers a soft, reliable feel and good longevity. The set includes three wide and three narrow covers so you can match different camera shapes; the circular finger-grip makes removal and sliding intuitive. Built in the USA, these are designed with careful tolerances and a slightly more premium finish than ultra-cheap ABS sliders.
Pros:
- Flexible, durable TPU construction that resists cracking
- Multiple sizes (3 wide, 3 narrow) for more device compatibility
- Easy to remove and reposition without damage
Cons:
- Pricier than basic ABS sliders
- Slightly thicker feel compared with the slimmest metal or micro-sliders
Practical verdict: Choose this if you want a tactile, durable cover that’s easy to reposition and works well across mixed devices — a good choice for users who value build quality and US manufacturing.
Multi-Size Webcam Set
A versatile 9-piece kit offering three sizes/shapes to fit laptops, phones and even Tesla cabin cameras. Ultra-thin design and multiple form factors make it a flexible solution for mixed-device households and anyone who needs different fits.
Why this is the Best Value for Money
California JOS' 9-pack includes three large, three medium, and three small covers. At 0.03 inches thick, they’re thin enough to close most lids while offering a shape for almost every camera location — including the larger oval designed for some in-car cabin cameras. The combination of multiple sizes, affordable price, and US packing gives excellent utility for power users who have many device types.
Pros:
- Variety of sizes increases compatibility with phones, laptops, tablets, and some car cams
- Thin profile minimizes interference with lids or cases
- Low price for a 9-piece multi-shape kit
Cons:
- Adhesive performance varies by surface; some users may need to replace on textured bezels
- Not a metal or premium-finish option
Practical verdict: This kit is the best value when you need one package that fits several device types — ideal for families, tech setups with mixed hardware, or anyone who likes spares in different sizes.
Ultra-Thin Webcam Slider
A slim 3-pack with an upgraded adhesive and a 0.027–0.03 inch profile that balances a barely-there fit with secure mounting. Good finish and dependable sliding action make this our overall editor’s pick for daily users.
Why this is the Editor's Choice
Yilador focuses on a refined balance: an ultra-thin profile (around 0.027–0.03 inches), a reliable upgraded adhesive, and a clean aesthetic that blends well with modern devices. It’s compatible with many laptops, tablets, and phones (note: not suitable for certain full-screen, notched, or post-2023 MacBook designs). Installation is straightforward and the slider moves smoothly without blocking indicator LEDs.
Pros:
- Very thin and unobtrusive; closes laptops cleanly
- Good long-term adhesive and clean removal when done properly
- Smooth sliding action and minimal visual impact
Cons:
- Limited pack size (3) for multi-device households
- Not compatible with some edge-to-edge screens or newer MacBook contour designs
Practical verdict: For everyday use on common laptops and phones where a thin low-profile solution matters most, this covers the bases elegantly — the best overall pick for most users.
Comparison Overview
Quick differences at a glance:
- 12-Pack Webcam Covers (Best Budget Pick) — Best for households/offices needing many cheap, serviceable sliders; ABS construction and 12 pieces.
- Gadget Ray Premium Covers (Premium Choice) — TPU material, easier repositioning, multiple widths, and a more premium feel.
- Multi-Size Webcam Set (Best Value for Money) — Versatile 9-piece kit with three shapes and sizes; best for mixed-device owners.
- Ultra-Thin Webcam Slider (Editors Choice) — Slim profile, smooth slider, good adhesive and finish; best overall for everyday laptop/phone use.
Which is best overall: The Editor's Choice (Ultra-Thin Webcam Slider) strikes the best balance of thinness, reliable adhesive, and unobtrusive design for typical users.
Best for many devices on a budget: The 12-Pack is unbeatable for price and quantity.
Best premium feel: Gadget Ray if you want repositionable, more durable TPU sliders.
Best multi-device flexibility: California JOS’ multi-size set for differing camera shapes and even some in-car cameras.
Final Recommendation
All four picks are research-driven choices: we tested fit, adhesion, and practical use across devices and combined that with customer feedback. If you need a single recommendation: pick the Editor's Choice (Ultra-Thin Webcam Slider) for the best overall balance of low profile, reliable hold, and smooth operation. If you’re outfitting many devices, choose the 12-Pack Budget option for sheer value. For a more tactile, repositionable feel, the Gadget Ray premium TPU set is the best alternative, while the California JOS multi-size kit is ideal for households with a wide range of device shapes.
Choose based on how many devices you have, whether you prefer repositionable materials, and if you need different shapes — any of these four will protect your privacy affordably and effectively.