Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000
Manufacturer: Logitech Part number: 960-000048
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 offers a winning combination of stellar image quality, easy-to-use software, and a sturdy, stable stand. It's our Webcam pick for desktop and laptop users alike.
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CNET editors' review
Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 price range: $66.99 - $129.74
- Reviewed by: Matthew Elliott
- Reviewed on: 11/05/2007
- Released on: 06/28/2007
The good: Carl Zeiss lens and Logitech's RightLight technology combine to deliver superior image quality, especially in low light; 2-megapixel sensor lets you shoot video up to 1,600x1,200 resolution; included QuickCam software is polished and easy to use; flexible stand works equally well on top of a monitor or a laptop or resting on a desk.
The bad: QuickCam software isn't optimized for Macs, so you're left without the audio and video optimization technology and, less importantly, the goofy video effects and filters.
The bottom line: The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 offers a winning combination of stellar image quality, easy-to-use software, and a sturdy, stable stand. It's our Webcam pick for desktop and laptop users alike.
The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 is nearly identical to the QuickCam Pro for Notebooks Webcam, except for the fact that it's a better fit for laptops. This $99 desktop Webcam is larger than its laptop sibling, but its flexible, two-hinged stand works equally well resting directly on your desk or atop your desktop's LCD or your laptop's screen. As was the case with the laptop Webcams I reviewed last month, the QuickCam Pro 9000 delivers better image quality than competing desktop Webcams from Creative and Microsoft. Logitech's RightLight technology provides a well-balanced, vibrant, and clear image--even in low light. While Creative's Live Cam software has more features, unless motion capture surveillance or time-lapse Webcam photography interest you, you're better off with the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000. With its easy-to-use software, stellar image quality, and sturdy, flexible stand, it earns our Editors' Choice award.
Installation is straightforward. Install the bundled QuickCam software and then plug in the Webcam. An audio-tuning wizard lets you optimize the volume for audio input (microphone) and out (speakers). You can adjust sliders for brightness, contrast, color intensity, and white balance, but I found the best results by enabling RightLight and leaving it at that. I found many complaints online about installation hiccups, particularly with Window XP machines, but I experienced no trouble installing the QuickCam software and drivers on either Vista or XP. I did have trouble when I installed the beta 11.5 drivers in an effort to test out the High Quality Video announcement that Logitech and Skype announced last week (more on that later), but the QuickCam 11.0 software that came on the bundled CD presented no such difficulties. Also, be sure to close out of the QuickCam software when using the Webcam to video conference with a program like Skype. I had a conversation repeatedly come to an abrupt end until I noticed the tiny QuickCam icon staring at me from my PC's system tray and closed it.
My only complaint with Logitech's laptop Webcam I reviewed last week was its awkward clip and vertical orientation, which, taken together, resulted in the camera drooping forward or leaning to one side somewhat regularly. No such problems with the QuickCam Pro 9000. The camera is oriented horizontally, with the lens to the left and the mic on the right. The two-hinged stand can be maneuvered to stand up on top of a desk or so that the camera sits on top of a narrow LCD. A rubber mat covers each potential contact point, meaning that the Webcam will rest firmly in place in a variety of positions. And the stand is made of thick, heavy plastic, which provides enough counterweight to keep the Webcam from being easily jostled.
In testing, the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000's image quality was superior to that of the Creative Live Cam Optia AF and the Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 under any scenario--bright artificial light, low light, or natural light. Particularly in a dimly lit room with a dark desktop background, the QuickCam Pro 9000 was able to lighten the image to that shadows were removed from your face but not to the point of overexposing the image. In addition to using a Carl Zeiss lens, the QuickCam Pro 9000 features Logitech's RightLight 2 technology, which I found to be far better at automatically adjusting the image than anything you get from Creative or Microsoft. Like the other two desktop Webcams, the QuickCam Pro 9000 features a 2-megapixel sensor. It can record video up to a resolution of 1,600x1,200 and can snap still photos up to 8-megapixels (keep in mind, anything above 2-megapixels comes by way of software interpolation, which degrades quality).
The QuickCam Pro 9000 doesn't put AF into its model name like Creative's Live Cam Optia AF, but it does have an auto-focus feature. It's slow to react when recording video at any of the available HD resolutions (960x720 and up), but does a reasonable job of keeping your talking head in focus. The microphone does an acceptable job of picking up audio; just be sure you're not sitting to close to the Webcam.
The bundled QuickCam software features a pleasing interface and is very easy to navigate. Large buttons are provided for recording video or snapping a picture, and changing the resolution of each is dead simple. Your recorded videos and photos are listed as thumbnails at the bottom of the QuickCam window. Videos are recorded as WMV files and played back using Windows Media Player. Logitech's face-tracking features mean you get an assortment of 3D avatars and other video effects, which are fun if you want to surprise your friends with a video call from a shark or a reptile or a wild-and-crazy guy with an arrow through his head. While Macs will recognize this plug-and-play USB device (not tested), you'll be left without the services of the video (RightLight 2) and audio (RightSound) optimization apps as well as the video effects and filters.
Logitech doesn't bundle a video-messaging app, but it works with all the popular IM clients, including those from AOL, Windows, and Yahoo, plus Skype, which I used for testing. As I was testing the QuickCam Pro 9000 last week, Logitech and Skype announced a partnership to bring 640x480, 30-frame-per-second video to Skype calls. Three QuickCams were mentioned in the release, including the Pro 9000. Unfortunately, the updated version of Skype (3.6) necessary for high-quality video calls is still not available for download, so I was unable to test this feature.
Logitech backs the QuickCam Pro 9000 with a two-year warranty.
User reviews
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nice but problems
by jester2k on November 9, 2007
Pros: Beautiful images great software
Cons: Design problems with the stand
Summary: images are great the software is spot on no doubt about it. But the stand drives me nuts it has a fold out leg that is too small so it ...
Summary: images are great the software is spot on no doubt about it. But the stand drives me nuts it has a fold out leg that is too small so it is top heavy. the usb cable catches on everything and causes it to tip over right on the picture button so you take a shot really annoying.
23 out of 32 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Excellent image quality
by roadsterqueen on December 26, 2007
Pros: Superior image quality, easy software install, stand stability and versatility, nice design/look
Cons: No privacy shield (not a huge problem though..you can definitely make due)
Summary: This webcam has amazing image quality. It is clear and crisp even when I use it in very dim lighting. The software was a breeze to install (I am using ...
Summary: This webcam has amazing image quality. It is clear and crisp even when I use it in very dim lighting. The software was a breeze to install (I am using Vista). The video effects are 'kinda neat' although I doubt I will use those often. (Still fun to play around with). I mounted the webcam on my laptop, desktop crt monitor and tried it on the table and the design of the clip worked wonderfully in each area. The autofocus seemed a bit sluggish but did in fact work. There is no physical privacy cover but I just cover the lens with something or point it away. All and all this is the best webcam I have ever owned and it works great for my intended usage.
12 out of 12 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Best consumer web cam I've ever seen
by quadrophonic on December 20, 2007
Pros: Optics, auto light adjustment, built-in mic, mounting flexibility
Cons: Expensive and it has Vista "issues"
Summary: This is by far the best consumer web cam I've ever seen. Optics are fantastic, its ability to adjust to different lighting situations is surprising, autofocus works quite well (...
Summary: This is by far the best consumer web cam I've ever seen. Optics are fantastic, its ability to adjust to different lighting situations is surprising, autofocus works quite well (if slow), the built-in mic works great, and pretty much all the other pros you may have read elsewhere.
There are only two things I don't like about this camera: (1) The price is a bit steep and (2) Vista became slow and unstable after installing the software. Stability was greatly improved by installing the driver only. I admit that it could simply be my overloaded PC that is at fault for the software issue, but it caused me about 36 hours of agony before I figured out that it was the camera software that was causing system problems.
If you don't mind the price, it is money well spent for a quality web cam.11 out of 14 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Crap software/driver, decent camera
by Inner Geek on January 10, 2008
Pros: -When "right light" works, it works well. Camera doesn't require movie lighting to produce decent video
Cons: -The installation process was a nightmare due to the driver not being able to properly locate files in the system, customer support was pathetic and didn't know their product.
Summary: The camera actually produces good quality images even in surprisingly low lighting... IF you can get the camera installed. After exchanging 6 frustrating emails and 2 phone calls with logitech ...
Summary: The camera actually produces good quality images even in surprisingly low lighting... IF you can get the camera installed. After exchanging 6 frustrating emails and 2 phone calls with logitech support, I returned the camera to the store I bought it from. The customer support from logitech was appalling, they kept blaming Microsoft (although Microsoft won't help you because this is not a licensed Windows compatible product). In reality, the technicians in the store were able to, with great difficulty and after an hour and a half of frustration, get the camera operating. The picture is of a good quality, though not really worth the premium price over the HP camera I also tried. As such, I returned this camera and am much happier with my HP that performs as well as, if not better than, the Logitech Pro 9000.
I find it odd that CNET haven't reviewed higher end cameras from Logitech's competitors, why only the lower end models from Creative and others?8 out of 12 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Very nice, few problems
by Tylrplyr on September 11, 2008
Pros: Great resolution, color, low-light image, superb features, easy to use software, gadgets available for Vista users: control motion detector and quick-capture from the Windows sidebar. Upgraded software has motion detector.
Cons: I wish it was smaller. I would also like to have a detachable cord, and a short cord for use with a notebook. The stand is not stable. Tips easily and is bulkier than necessary for a notebook.
Summary: I really like the picture quality, the complete software package, the features and the Vista gadgets you can download from the website. I recommend upgrading the software immediately after installing, ...
Summary: I really like the picture quality, the complete software package, the features and the Vista gadgets you can download from the website. I recommend upgrading the software immediately after installing, the upgraded software has more features. Motion-detection is included in the upgraded software.
Oops - Re: tripod sockets - this webcam does NOT have one. I wish it did.
I experienced no problems with the install and was doing some cool stuff right away. The Vista gadgets are particularly useful and allow you to run the camera from the sidebar without opening the Logitech Quick Cam application. The two gadgets are a Quick-Capture gadget and a Motion-Detector gadget. Nice.
I don't like the permanently attached 6' USB cable. Would prefer a detachable one so that you can swap it with a shorter cable for notebook use. The stand is bigger than it needs to be and is not stable. It tips easily. You'll want to weight it down with something. The stand can be arranged to clamp on a notebook, but it's bigger and bulkier than necessary and it doesn't grip firmly.
I like webcams with a tripod socket installed. You can use a pocket-sized camera tripod and they're much more stable than most webcam stands.
I'm glad I bought this one. No regrets.
Updated on Sep 11, 20083 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great video quality, terrible mount
by andyjos on April 30, 2008
Pros: video and audio quality, good software and driver support
Cons: the mount is terrible!
Summary: I bought this camera based upon the reviews I read on cnet.com. The camera has great video quality (you must install Logitech's drivers to get the bestu quality, ...
Summary: I bought this camera based upon the reviews I read on cnet.com. The camera has great video quality (you must install Logitech's drivers to get the bestu quality, Window's default drivers work but the video is choppy). The camera's microphone is also very good and can be used for video conferencing with multiple people in the room. That's where the positives end as the camera's mount is ther worst design I have ever seen and can only be fixed by gluing it to your monitor or some other "rigging." Seriously, the camera falls during all sorts of conversations and the mere weight of the cord causes the camera to fall. If that doesn't bother you - buy the camera but you've been warned.
3 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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The best I used so far
by Frank_999 on March 22, 2008
Pros: Superbe Image Quality, Easy Installation, Well designed and stable software
Cons: Automatic Focus
Summary: This is the best Web cam I have seen and used so far. The image quality, the still picture quality and the video recording quality are quite impressive for a ...
Summary: This is the best Web cam I have seen and used so far. The image quality, the still picture quality and the video recording quality are quite impressive for a Web cam.
I got mine for 49$ so that was a great price too.
Note that I am using a fast Vista computer.
The installation is a breeze, the softwate is well designed and quite stable.
The video effects feature are very neat and the documentation was the best that I have seen for any hardware products that I bought.
You'll have fun chatting but also taking pictures and videos with this one. And the videos work very well.
The things that I liked less are 1) the microphone; don't put the record level to high or shout or you will get distorted sound. 2) Autofocus; didn't work very well in my case as it tends to be slow to properly focus when I move (stand up for instance). 3) RightLight technology. I have a well lighted room and the automatic RightLight made the image crystal clear but jittery and like if it was a bit in slow motion instead of real time. Turning off the RightLight and decreasing the exposure made a better real time experience in my case.
But this cam is a clear winner and I would recommend it anytime. Watch out for the specifications to make sure your computer is fast enough to really enjoy that Web cam.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Superior Webcam
by vinjov55 on May 13, 2008
Pros: Excellent images with software that just make it even better with follow me to automatically zoom into my face and follow it. The light sensitivity is great. The microphone is excellent.
Cons: Only complaint (and that is minor) is the size but seeing all it offers it is hard to make it a con.
Summary: A webcam that lives up to my expectations and goes beyond. Not only providing a great image the is clear and bright the microphone permits me to leave the room ...
Summary: A webcam that lives up to my expectations and goes beyond. Not only providing a great image the is clear and bright the microphone permits me to leave the room and still be clearly heard. The software is fun with the different filters to change your appearance and helps to set the standard of what should come with a webcam. Quality camera and mic make this a 10 for me.
2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great when it works
by deepboul on June 4, 2008
Pros: Performance
Cons: Freezes under XP
Summary: I had an unresolved s/ware problem with this camera (see web), working with XP, Norton and/or Skype.
Summary: I had an unresolved s/ware problem with this camera (see web), working with XP, Norton and/or Skype.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Not bad, but forget the software
by jiminindy on March 6, 2008
Pros: Decent picture without Fancy Dan settings
Cons: Camera stand! Were they kidding? Software is more than lame.
Summary: This is a decent camera for making your own vids, but, do yourself a favor and don't load anything but the driver! The rest of the software caused a ...
Summary: This is a decent camera for making your own vids, but, do yourself a favor and don't load anything but the driver! The rest of the software caused a continual pileup of warnings in XP's event log.
Not that this is earth shattering, but I found that if I removed the supplied software (the "deluxe" settings of which made for really poor vids)and simply used Windows Movie Maker, it recognized the camera just fine, serves the same function as the troublesome Logitech software with no warnings in the event log. 'Worked for me.1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Logitech
- Part number: 960-000048
- Description: Enjoy image-perfect detail and clarity. Carl Zeiss optics and Autofocus keep images razor-sharp, even in extreme close-ups.
General
- Device Type Web camera
- Gross sensor resolution 2,000,000 pixels
- Optical sensor type CMOS
- Software Included Skype, Yahoo! Messenger, Logitech QuickCam, Drivers & Utilities, Logitech Video Effects, Windows Live Messenger, HP Photosmart Essential
- Features Skype compatible, RightSound technology, RightLight 2 technology, Automatic face tracking technology
Camera
- Type Color - Fixed
- Video Capture 1600 x 1200
- Still Image 1600 x 1200
- Audio Support Yes : Built-in microphone
Image Sensor
- Type CMOS
Lens Construction
- Focal Length 3.7 mm
- Lens Iris F/2.0
- Focus Adjustment Automatic
Interfaces
- Computer Interface Hi-Speed USB
Expansion / Connectivity
- Interfaces 1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 pin USB Type A
- Compatible Slots None
- Cables included 1 x USB cable - 6 ft
Miscellaneous
- Included Accessories Flat panel monitor clip
- Cables Included 1 x USB cable - 6 ft
- Microsoft Certifications Certified for Windows Vista
Power
- Power Device None
- Battery None
Software / System Requirements
- OS Required Microsoft Windows Vista / XP
- Min Processor Type 1.4 GHz, 2.4 GHz
- Peripheral / Interface Devices CD-ROM, Speaker(s), Sound card, Graphics card
- System Requirements Details Windows XP - Pentium 4 - RAM 128 MB - HD 200 MB, Windows Vista - Pentium 4 - RAM 512 MB - HD 200 MB
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 2 years
Override
- Service & Support 2 years warranty
Manufacturer info
- Logitech
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Logitech products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.logitech.com/
- Address:
6505 Kaiser Dr., Fremont, CA 94555
