Need a good cheap webcam, any recommendations?

RecklaZ

Senior member
Mar 13, 2001
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I'm mostly going to use the webcam with AOL Instant Messenger. Price rang i'm looking for is under $50, unless theres a kick ass cam thats worth the money. Any suggestions?
 

ttown

Platinum Member
Oct 27, 2003
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I have an Intel Pro PC Webcam that I'm happy with.

I bought it a few years ago for super cheap (I think around $20 after rebate).

I suspect they are all pretty comparable nowadays -- just make sure you get at least 30fps for video.
Some are slow -- 15fps -- and that is distractingly slow and jittery.

The Intel cam I got came with a suprisingly good under-advertised software bundle. I can set mine up to start/stop taking pics when it detects motion. It also came with a couple games similar to the "eye-toy" for console games. Not sure what comes with others, but the motion-detection software seemed worth the price of the camera.

edit: looks like they don't make the Intel Pro PC cam anymore.... but you could search for old stock somewhere if it appeals to you
 

LED

Diamond Member
Oct 12, 1999
6,127
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$25 or so will get you a Logitech or Link Depot My-350, USB 2.0 Web Cam with Mic {640X480, up to 30FPS}...Try Newegg
 

heartsurgeon

Diamond Member
Aug 18, 2001
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if you have a tv tuner card that accepts a video source..
you can hook up any old camcorder as the video source, get the appropriate WDM drivers (drivers.com), and your off to the races!

i've got an old Hi-8 camcorder running off a ATI TV Wonder VE card and messenger 6.2..the video is WAY better than any web cam (i have three of those as well, logitech, intel, 3com)..plus you get better optics, zoom, autofocus, and better low light sensitivity.