The QuickCam Chat features Logitech's signature eyeball design. Even if you don't really need a webcam, it's fun to have a Logitech camera peering back at you over the edge of your display.

The QuickCam Chat is easy to set up. The package includes a 6-foot USB cable, which gives you some placement flexibility. The mounting clip fits easily over a flat screen or notebook display. You can also place the QuickCam Chat on a flat surface, such as a desktop or the top of a CRT monitor, but we found it to be an unstable and prone to falling or getting knocked over.

The camera can capture live video images at a resolution of up to 640X480 at up to 30 frames per second, which are standard specs for most webcams. The camera can capture still images at up to 640X480 (software enhanced). Image quality is good enough for sharing via e-mail or on a website, but not satisfactory for printing. The included headset has a built-in microphone for adding audio to chats or internet phone calls, or for adding audio to video that you want to save and share.

The QuickCam Chat is compatible with most popular instant messaging programs, including Yahoo! Messenger, MSN Messenger, AIM and Windows Messenger, as well as Skype video. The included Logitech video e-mail software supports most popular e-mail clients, so with just a few clicks you can save an image and send it off to family and friends.

The package includes a free 30-day trial version of Logitech VideoCall, which you can use to make live audio/video calls over the web. The bundled CD includes drivers as well as ArcSoft Collage Creator and Hewlett-Packard PhotoSmart Essential. ArcSoft Collage Creator lets you create collages and digital scrapbooks from your favorite images, complete with text and special effects. HP PhotoSmartEssential makes quick work of capturing, editing and printing images.

The Logitech QuickCam Chat is an affordable choice for casual use, as long as you won't miss more advanced features or outstanding image quality.

Pro:  Budget price, easy to set up and use, good software bundle
Con:  Basic webcam lacks advanced features

Warranty
2 years, limited