Logitech QuickCam Notebook Pro webcam review

Redesign, rehash or just a worthy remake? We take a closer look

9 August 2006 0:39 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Logitech has updated its QuickCam Notebook Pro webcam with the aptly named Logitech QuickCam Notebook Pro improving the cameras resolution while at the same time removing Mac support. Redesign, rehash or just a worthy remake? We take a closer look.

Reduced in size, the new QuickCam Pro is more aesthetically pleasing that the previous model. The small rectangular device is compact and to the point. The size of a box of matches compared to the previous effort's pack of 10 fags, the camera attaches to the top of your laptop screen via its included clip.

It's here you encounter the first problem. If like us, your laptop has a thin frame to it you'll soon get frustrated by the overhanging camera on the screen. The only solution to this is to use the rather flimsy three-part stand in the box and perch the webcam on that, it's not ideal, but at least shows that Logitech acknowledge the problem.

Placement issues aside, the webcam comes with all the software you need in the box including Logitech's Video Effects software, which features animated 3D Avatars that imitate your facial expressions and head movements and 2D Face Accessories that you can apply to your own image to change your look. Although the small app has about 5 minutes worth of mileage in it, it is none the less good fun for the kids.

Other packages include support for all the major Instant Messenger applications, as well as support for YouTube and grouper.

Performance wise, like other Logitech cameras we've tested the QuickCam Notebook Pro performs well. To help in low light conditions the camera uses a technology Logitech has called Rightlight and it does well to increase and balance the light levels so you can use the camera at night or dark rooms.

Users can record footage at three different quality levels - 320 x 240, 640 x 480 and surprisingly 960 x 720 however we did experience lag issues with the later.

As for still images these can be snapped up to 1.3 megapixels and 4 megapixels if you use Logitech's software enhancement package.

Verdict

As a follow on to the Logitech QuickCam Notebook Pro, the new look Logitech QuickCam Notebook Pro performs well and updates and enhances enough areas to consider an upgrade, however the that camera overhang for us is just too annoying for us to heartily recommend this model. It might sound small and insignificant, but for us it was a deal breaker.

Score

Review Recap

Made by: Logitech
Price as reviewed: £79.99
The good: Small, compact, lots of software
The bad: Recording lag, design means camera overhangs your screen
Quick verdict: One to consider if your screen real-estate at the top of the screen isn't important
Score