Webcams grow more sophisticated every day, and Microsoft recently entered the market with some high-end models of its own. One good example is the LifeCam VX-6000, which is geared toward desktop use. However, this smartly designed device plays nicely with laptop computers as well.

This high-resolution webcam can capture video at up to 1.3 megapixels and 30 frames per second, although we did notice some slowdown at this resolution level. You can also take still images with resolutions of up to 5 megapixels, although this is interpolated and not a true resolution. Regardless, the image and video quality of the VX-6000 was quite good, and the webcam worked well even in low-light situations.

There's also a built-in microphone in the VX-6000, so you don't have to worry about attaching a separate mike. Audio quality was crisp and the microphone proved sensitive enough to use while on top of a monitor.

The ball-shape VX-6000 rests on a solid stand, so it sits sturdily on a desktop. But the unique stand also folds out to attach to an LCD monitor or a laptop screen. Setting up the webcam proved to be straightforward, although we had to download software for Vista instead of installing it from the included CD. Nevertheless, the entire process took only a few minutes.

The VX-6000 function well with any video-chatting software, but of course it is designed to work best with Microsoft's own Live Messenger. You don't need to install Live Messenger to use the LifeCam, but if you do, you'll be able to utilize the Live Call button on top of the lens housing to quickly start a video conversation with one of your contacts.

There are some nice extras with the VX-6000, including a face-tracking function to keep you in frame. However, this feature doesn't work when you're in 1.3-megapixel mode. There are also pan, tilt and zoom controls, which make it much easier to take still pictures. You can also add some cartoonish effects to the frame that can be a lot of fun for younger users.

At $100, the Microsoft LifeCam VX-6000 isn't cheap, but it is a robust webcam that lets you easily carry on some very high-resolution conversations.


Pros:  High resolution, versatile mount
Cons:  Expensive

Warranty
3 years