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Buying Guide: Webcams Go High-Def—Sort of
Contents
- Webcams Go High-Def—Sort of
- Hercules Dualpix HD720p
- Logitech Webcam C600
- Microsoft LifeCam Cinema
Many of today's laptops include a built-in webcam, but if you have an older notebook, or a desktop PC and you want to get in on chats or VoIP calls with video, you need a dedicated webcam. These add-on cameras have never been pillars of video quality; this has been true since the first popular model, the (now-defunct) Connectix QuickCam, hit the market back in 1996. But today's webcams have made significant inroads in both audio and video performance. They still don't rival even low-end digital cameras and camcorders, but 2-megapixel sensors, Carl Zeiss optics, and 720p video recording are now commonplace. That's plenty for sharp-looking Skype calls and Web chats, throwaway snapshots, or even an impromptu YouTube performance at your desk.
But beware of manufacturer advertising claims. Both Logitech and Hercules are guilty of grossly inflating the specs. Logitech claims its Webcam C600 can record 30-frames-per-second video. But that's only when you're using Skype for Internet video chats—and in that case, video resolution drops all the way down to VGA quality. And Hercules and Logitech make inflated photo claims, saying that their cameras can snap 5- and 8-megapixel still images (respectively). Yet each cam comes with a 1- or 2-megapixel sensor and interpolates data to reach the higher resolution numbers. The results look about as poor as what digital zoom will do for a cell phone camera picture.
All the webcams below ring up for well below $100 and are capable of high-definition video (720p) recording. All support video chats in popular instant messaging clients like AIM, Yahoo, and Windows Live, as well as Skype for audio and video calls. Most webcams also work with third-party video-editing apps like Pinnacle Studio 14. Actual performance varies widely between the models we've recently tested, though, so check out our reviews to learn which one will best fit your needs.
Webcams included in this roundup:
Hercules Dualpix HD720p
$59.99 list
The Hercules Dualpix HD720p has its quirks, but if you're looking for a low-cost solution for recording smooth, high-definition video and participating in video chats, this webcam should do the trick.
Logitech Webcam C600
$79.99 list
The Logitech C600, our latest Editors' Choice webcam, offers 2-megapixel still image capture, clear, 720p HD video recording (even in lower light), crisp audio, and useful bundled software, all for a very reasonable price.
Microsoft LifeCam Cinema
$79.99 list
The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema offers sleek styling and solid video quality, but audio performance isn't this HD webcam's strong suit.