Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 Review
Despite its high price, compact size, 4X zoom feature, 30 frames/second, and 800x600 pixel resolution, experts and users report that this camera leaves much to be desired in terms of visual quality at lower resolutions and choppiness at higher resolutions. The software packaged with this webcam also requires you to spend a great deal of time downloading programs you may never use.
The Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 is not well-regarded by experts or consumers. This webcam seems like a winner at first glance, according to a Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 review on PC World, given its 4X zoom, noise-cancellation, high definition 2.0 megapixel video sensor, pan, tilt and zoom feature, sleek design, and special effects. But the Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 review concludes that the video is nearly unwatchable at the highest resolution: lighting is poor and frames are choppy. And, it has only 25 fps.
Microsoft LifeCam VX 7000 is compatible with Windows 7, Vista, and XP with Service Pack 2 (or higher) and requires 3GHz processing speed of at least 2 GB of RAM. One user reports in a Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 review on Amazon, however, that he was unable to get this webcam to work with Windows 7 software. The Microsoft LifeCam VX 7000 also sports certain features that only mesh with Windows Live Messenger, which makes it a poor choice for those who prefer using Skype, Yahoo! Messenger, or any other instant messenger service.
This webcam offers easy setup and strong noise-cancelling, two attributes that work in its favor. If it weren't for the high price and lesser quality of the visual/video feature, we would recommend the Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000. But sitting at the higher end of the Cheapism niche for webcams, combined with poor performance reviews, make this one a "don't bother."
Other Recommended Webcams
HP Deluxe Webcam
One of few webcams that work with Mac computers, the HP Deluxe wins rave reviews from users for its ease of setup and use, wide IM compatibility range, and visual quality that approximates high-definition video. This webcam features 1280x1024 resolution, 5X zoom, 30 frames/second, autofocus that follows your face when you move around in front of the camera, and plenty of photo storage. Read more »
Logitech Webcam C500
A tad on the expensive side for a budget model, the Logitech C500 wins praise from experts and users for the glass lens that enables a clearer, more detailed camera image. With technology that can adjust to dim lighting, 1280x1024 pixel resolution, 30 frames/second, IM compatibility with popular instant messaging applications, and a built-in microphone, this webcam is hard to pass up. Read more »
Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000
A favorite of experts and users alike, the Microsoft LifeCamVX-5000 has good image quality given its 640x480 resolution, 30 frames/second, and 3X zoom; it also features a built-in microphone and unique features like live photo swap. The main downfall of this webcam: you can't use it with non-Microsoft computer programs. Read more »
Creative Live Cam Video IM Pro
User reviews give the Creative Live Cam Video IM Pro a thumbs up for its built-in microphone, special effects, and ease of use. Users report that this webcam's sound and audio are good for the price, and they like the 640x480 pixel resolution, 30 frames/second, 4X zoom, and auto-tuning feature. Read more »
