Home Logitech QuickCam Messenger
861092-0020 V-UM14 (2003)

Last update Feb 5, 2008
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Logitech QuickCam Messenger, Purchased January 2003, $50

Not a bad little camera, but I was a bit disappointed in the image quality, which was just about the same as the Quick Cam Pro purchased 4 years earlier. I do have to admit that the old camera cost 3 times as much, but still, we've had 4 years of technology since then. While not as good as some of the other low cost cameras, this one is reliable and commonly available. It is a good camera if your budget is limited.

The image is a bit washed out. Tinkering with the contrast and brightness controls I was able to improve the image but it is neccessary to change the settings every time the lighting changes. So I used basically auto settings for the tests with one exception. I adjusted the color balance just a bit which improved my facial color from the auto settings. I suspect the off color was due primarily to my burgundy colored walls.

Incidently, this is the camera which has been included for new subscribers to Comcast a year or two ago. I am finding them popping up in allot of free webcam included type offers.


Screen shots of camera configuration settings
Advanced         Device

Sample images showing how this camera performs under different lighting conditions

    Pluses
  • Fairly good quality image
  • Works fairly well in low light
  • Inexpensive at $50
  • Twain driver works well and is stable
  • Familiar Logitech eyeball shape
  • Nice base which stays put where you place it
    Minuses
  • Poorer quality image than I would expect
  • The default software installs huge quantities of stuff with no choice of components (Note: the software version I downloaded from the website now gives you a custom install option where you can chose not to install the extra software)
  • No tripod mounting hole. Only works with included stand

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