Member Avatar for HisTechBabe

Hello, I'm currently thinking about purchasing a webcam... and I'm not sure which one I should try.

My guidelines:

  • Small, preferrably small enough to where it can't be seen (I have siblings that like to take my hardware *grunt*)
  • Not expensive, but "good enough" video/image quality (preferrably under $30)

So far, I had this in mind but it's for notebook computers... anyone know if this will work on a desktop as well?
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Quickcam-for-Notebooks-961404-0403/dp/B0007ZFLYS/sr=8-3/qid=1159477372/ref=pd_bbs_3/104-8159827-9029564?ie=UTF8&s=electronics

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  • 6 Replies
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  • Latest Post Latest Post by roryt

Dani AI

Generated

A few practical notes to add to the replies so far (builds on points from , and ).

Keep a short checklist when comparing tiny/cheap webcams:

  • Confirm driver/OS support — look for "UVC" or "plug-and-play" so modern systems recognize it without special drivers (USB Video Class (UVC)).
  • Check physical mounting: clip-style units made for thin laptop lids often need adapting to sit on a desktop monitor (clamp, adhesive pad, small tripod or a bit of Velcro). Measure the unit in photos so you know how small it really is.
  • Note the optics and spec tradeoffs: low-cost cameras usually give basic daytime performance (VGA or similar); expect degraded low-light image and slower autofocus. If built-in mic matters, verify its presence and test sample audio.
  • Cable length and connector type: some cheap units have very short cables — plan for an extension or different placement if needed.

Quick setup and troubleshooting steps:

  1. Plug into a USB port and open a camera app or web test; if nothing appears, check Device Manager (or system settings) for unknown devices.
  2. Install manufacturer drivers only if needed; otherwise prefer UVC-compliant devices.
  3. On modern OSes ensure camera privacy/settings allow the app to use the device.
  4. If video is dark or choppy, check lighting first, then try different USB ports (USB 2.0 vs 1.1 can affect frame rate).

Concerns about theft or “hardware grunt”: mount options that are semi-permanent (Velcro, cable-tied guard, or a discreet shelf) are safer than leaving a visible, loose camera. Also check recent user reviews for reliability before buying — brand reputation is useful, but current customer feedback matters most (as and hinted).

Recommended Answers

All 6 Replies

Member Avatar for 'Stein

That looks pretty nice to me.

And yes, it should work, as long as you have an open USB port.

Member Avatar for Dani

The camera is designed to fit over a laptop screen. I suspect that without a thin laptop screen, it might not be free standing.

Member Avatar for UrbanKhoja

Hello, I'm currently thinking about purchasing a webcam... and I'm not sure which one I should try.

My guidelines:

  • Small, preferrably small enough to where it can't be seen (I have siblings that like to take my hardware *grunt*)
  • Not expensive, but "good enough" video/image quality (preferrably under $30)

So far, I had this in mind but it's for notebook computers... anyone know if this will work on a desktop as well?
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Quickcam-for-Notebooks-961404-0403/dp/B0007ZFLYS/sr=8-3/qid=1159477372/ref=pd_bbs_3/104-8159827-9029564?ie=UTF8&s=electronics

how about this;

http://www.consumer.philips.com/consumer/catalog/tree/MONITORS_PC_PERIPHERALS_GR_GB_CONSUMER/PC_CAMERAS_CA_GB_CONSUMER/product/SPC610NC_00_GB_CONSUMER/catalog.jsp?language=en&country=GB&catalogType=CONSUMER&proxybuster=T3E5CXFWXJNN5J0RMRCSHQFHKFSESI5P


i recently brought one for my laptop, think its megapixel as well, and is very small

darren :cool:

Member Avatar for 'Stein

Darren, that looks quiite nice. :)

Member Avatar for StuartP1989

get a creative one thier knew web cams a pretty good i use one myself i get a great picture.

Member Avatar for roryt

I would suggest don't buy logic, their stuff always seems a but unreliable but creative and philips are both good makes.

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