WebCam Recommendations

DeaconFrost · 02 Mar 2011

Does anyone have any specific webcam recommendations? I don't need anything high res or with any fancy features. I just want decent to good image quality for Skype use. My wife and I both have laptops with built-in 0.3 megapixel camers that do the job okay, but we're looking for a USB model for our tower. I could handle one that clips to an LCD monitor, or one with a base, as the tower is sitting right next to the monitor, at nearly the same height.

It seems as though Microsoft and Logitech are the major names here. Should I stick to one of those two brands, or look for something else?

Joan Archer · 02 Mar 2011

I've just got myself a Logitech web cam, it's model 120. it was cheap so it doesn't come with built in microphone so I bought a cheap headset from Argos and the two work really well together on Skype. It does come with their Logitech VID HD, which is video call software but I haven't used that yet as I started first trying out Skype.

The web cam fits onto my LCD wide screen monitor and has a decent length of cable to connect it via USB. I just plug the headset into the front jack connectors when I need it.

The Howling Wolves · 02 Mar 2011

Deacon,
I've got a Microsoft webcam for around $25.00. Probably cheaper now. Sits right on top of my desktop but can be placed anywhere you want it.
Works fine for me as I only use it on Skype when my wife wants to talk to her mom.

TVeblen · 03 Mar 2011

I'm still liking my Logitech Pro 9000, if you can still buy them.
The new models from Logitech are the C210, C260, C310.

But frankly, they are a relatively simple device and I think any brand/model will do the trick for "normal" use. The issues with these things is always the drivers. You need to be sure they have specific drivers for 64 bit W7 and look out for the weasel words "compatible with" and "works with" - you know the drill. I had issues with the Pro 9000 until they released the updated drivers for W7.

They all have some sort of clamping mechanism so you can mount it on top of your monitor without fasteners, or stand it on the desk.