Logitech Quickcam Pro 9000

It’s been a while since I’ve seen a webcam that’s exciting, but the Quickcam Pro 9000 makes me want to revisit that category of devices. Obviously image quality is key for a imaging device so Logitech went to Carl Zeiss, a name that you might have heard before, as their optics are used by Nokia in their N73 or Sony on many of their consumer cameras.

With a good lens, light comes in nicely but you also need a good sensor to actually capture that light correctly. Logitech included a 2Megapixel light sensor, which is quite better than most webcams. However, to get the best sharpness possible, Logitech has included an auto-focus (yes, just like the iSight, although a bit late). The auto-focus is better than Apple’s, according to Logitech. We haven’t done a side-by-side with our iSight, but we can say that the overall image quality is better.

Of course, Logitech has continually improved their software offering and the accompanying webcam utility allows user to apply image filtering effects in real-time. Our favorite one is the “old grainy film” effect that turns your webcast into a classic movie.

It ships in July for $99.99 (Read our complete Quickcam Pro 9000 review). Available at www.logitech.com

Key Features

• Carl Zeiss Five-element lens
• Autofocus system automatically tracks motion and refocuses images in less than three seconds
• Two-megapixel sensor
• Support for 720p HD video format
• Webcam can record to disc at resolution of 960 x 720 (4×3)
• Record video at up to 30 frames per second
• Logitech® RightLight™ 2 technology adjusts intelligently to produce the best possible image in difficult lighting situations
• Integrated mic with Logitech® RightSound™ technology eliminates echo and background noise
• Logitech Video Effects software allows personalized conversations by using 3D avatars, face accessories and fun filters that mimic actual facial expressions and motions
• Warranty 2-year limited hardware warranty

System Requirements

• Windows® 2000, XP or Vista 
• Pentium® III 700MHz or AMD Athlon® Processor 700MHz (Recommended Pentium® P4 2.4 GHz or better) 
• 128MB RAM (256MB RAM Recommended)