Simple Webcam

[evilmike]

I need to find a webcam for a non-local relative using a computer running Windows 7. Does anyone have any recommendations for a cheap / low maintenance solution?

 

[GasBandit]

What's your budget?

This is what I use at home, and I'm fairly pleased with it:

Amazon product

This is what I bought to use at work, which is the cheapest thing I could find and has terrible white balance (I look like I've got a floodlight right in my face at all times when using it), but is only $24.

Amazon product

 

[PatrThom]

Heck, we're still using this guy:

Amazon product

An oldie but a goodie. Certified to work with XP and even Vista!

--Patrick

 

[bhamv3]

I also recommend Logitech webcams. Inexpensive, reliable, gets the job done.

 

[ncts_dodge_man]

I have an old, basic Logitech webcam that I bought it many years ago that I plugged in earlier this year when my son needed a webcam for his school meetings - it still works, so I'd recommend to go with Logitech too - it was a really inexpensive one.

 

[Tinwhistler]

I've got a logitech C920, which is probably more than you need at $100. Can't go wrong with one GB's suggestions.

 

[Dei]

Unless it has gotten better in the last couple of weeks, most Logitech cams have been sold out for months though. I had to hunt around to find a second webcam for our house so I didn't have to keep playing musical chairs with mine.

 

[Tinwhistler]

"Conference" webcam is still on sale for almost $300. At that price, get a super cheap Dell laptop with a built in webcam for cheaper

 

[GasBandit]

Yeah, I wouldn't pay more than $100 for a webcam unless it was PTZ controllable.

 

[PatrThom]

Don’t forget there may also be ways to use your phone as an aux camera for your computer.

How to Turn Your Smartphone Into a Webcam

Upgrade your Zoom meetings with that snazzy camera in your pocket.

www.wired.com

—Patrick