The Logitech QuickCam Pro 5000 offers a satisfying variety of features in a webcam that is easy to use. The suggested retail price isn't the greatest, but the Pro 5000 works well in most situations.

The Pro 5000 has an adjustable stand that can fit over an LCD display or stretch out to sit on top of a CRT or other flat surface. The camera has a built-in microphone that uses Logitech's RightSound technology, which helps eliminate annoying echoes.

One concern with webcams is privacy, because you do not want your camera to send out any unintended images. To this end, the Pro 5000 has an activity light that lets you know when you're transmitting, although it's easy to overlook if you're not paying attention. Of course, this is a fault of humans and not the webcam. The Pro 5000 also has a Privacy Shield to cover up the lens. We found the Privacy Shield to be a bit flimsy, and it is susceptible to coming off easily. You can throw a towel over the Pro 5000 when it's not in use, but it shouldn't be necessary to do this.

The Pro 5000 can capture video at resolutions up to 640X480 at up to 30 frames per second, as well as still images at up to 1.3 megapixels (software enhanced). You can tilt the camera manually up, down or to either side, but there is no face-tracking feature. Image quality for both still and video images is reasonably good, but don't expect a webcam to take the place of a digital camera. The Pro 5000 is better at capturing video in low-light situations than many competing models, although you will usually get the best results in normal light conditions.

The Pro 5000 is compatible with most popular instant messaging applications, as well as Skype and Logitech VideoCall. The Logitech QuickCam Pro 5000 offers a well-rounded collection of features and reasonably good image and audio quality in a package that is easy to set up and use.


Pros: Good image and audio quality, includes a built-in microphone
Cons: No manual focus ring, no face tracking feature, privacy shield is flimsy

Warranty
2 years, limited