Which webcam is best to buy?

perdita00

Hi, I want to buy a webcam but not sure which to get. I don't want to spend a huge amount but I would like a decent cam.

Any suggestions?? Thanks

patwa_2

Hi.

With regard to webcames, there are obviously different brands and varieties. The basic criteria you're probably going to want are USB, Video function (to use say, via messenger) and audio.

Logitech are the most well known manufacturer of webcames, and they are also, in my experience the one with the best quality. Creative to also make good webcames, but they are slightly higher priced, particularly for the lower end models and also also slightly more flimsy.

Here are those that I would recommend, in order of price:

Logitech QuickCam Messenger:
Video, microphone, USB, monitor clip. Space saving, with standard video quality and fine for most instant messaging/chat operations. Approx £15.

Logitech QuickCam for Notebooks
Similar to the Messenger but much smaller, also clips onto notebook's monitor. Quite Compact. Approx £20.

Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000
Much better resolution for Video, direction adjustable, audio and good quality microphone and with a greater variety of software included. Approx £30.

I don't know if you'd want to go higher up than this, but if so take a look at the Logitech QuickCam Pro 5000, Logitech QuickCam for Notebooks Pro and Logitech QuickCam Sphere (right at the top at £70).

The three listed above would seem to be the best for a low budget, as they offer the chance to use the webcam for the widest range of tasks, be it taking photos or chatting. I've used the Messenger as my first webcam for taking pics of items to sell on eBay, before I moved to a proper digital Camera.

Hope this helps.

Cheers and take care.

Hussein.

perdita00

Thanks very much. I'm going to take a look at those now. I think I may get one that clips on to the laptop - that sounds great.

Thanks again

Quincy_3

Just make sure you get one with 30 fps or more or the picture will look all choppy.

patwa_2

No problems. Happy to help.

Cheers and take care.

Hussein.

Quincy_3

perdita00 wrote:

Thanks very much. I'm going to take a look at those now. I think I may get one that clips on to the laptop - that sounds great.

Thanks again

No worries