Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000

Comments about Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000:

My location: home office. My lighting: poor, with only 2 CFL bulbs in ceiling fixture behind me. The results: astounding, nonetheless!

This webcam's exposure latitude, color accuracy, backlight compensation and clarity of image took me by surprise, after being disappointed by another popular brand's unit of similar price.

Except for a bit of noise in the picture at many resolution and zoom combinations, understandable w/ this poor lighting, it does precisely what it's supposed to. The Sharpness control can cover some noise, but the compromise is clarity --the pic will look unfocused. The 800 x 600 mode (its finest video) provides an extremely clear image. Using it, and zooming in even one notch from wide angle will kill the visible noise, but the compromise is that the image will lag and motion will smear. All lesser resolutions are quick and crisp. Focus is fixed, but depth of field is excellent for most uses.

If you're looking for animated face avatars, only simple fun stuff is included --you can't hide as a talking shark or alien with included software, and what's included sometimes won't work. Instructions for the fun stuff are not adequate.

This compact rectangular cam's monitor clamp doubles as a versatile desk stand, and will easily fit in your pocket; no tripod mount. Its manual controls and pic monitor are clear, precise and would be at home in any professional environment. Default settings worked great for me, but the image may be tweaked using all the standard controls, none of which have gimmicky names. It doesn't feel --or look like-- a toy. The push button on top, however, can't be programmed to bring up the IM of your choice --it pops up their Windows Live Messenger when pressed. Perhaps a tweak of software or the Registry by an expert could make this change.

Audio level is a bit too low, even with its volume control at max. Yet the sound is very clear and full-range.

All in all, a great little camera.

Comments about Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000:

Great for home and office use.

Comments about Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000:

I use this on my home computer for personal use and it has a very good picture. Not grainy at all. Actually, I think it is a bit too good for home use. You really don't need one with such a good picture. A cheaper one would really be better for home use. The one down side is it doesn't fit so great on my slim screen - it works but could have a better attachment.

Comments about Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000:

Using Skype to talk to son in Korea, in the Army. Crisp, clear picture of him, sound..like he is here in the room beside me. Best investment I have ever made. Purchased 3 others for family members.

Comments about Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000:

I use it when I call friends on SKYPE. It's great!

Comments about Microsoft Lifecam VX-7000:

Great Camera easy to use nice resolution.