Webcam Roundup
by Phoebe Assenza
The best Webcams for online face time with your grandchildren.
Long-distance grandparents know the importance of keeping in touch, and the super-savvy already gave up regular phone calls in exchange for video chats with their grandchildren. Whether you’re new to online face time, or the kind of seasoned pro who doesn’t remember her last phone bill, we’ve picked out the best Webcams for online grandparents.
Creative Live! Cam Video IM Pro
To use with your favorite instant-messaging program, this cam easily connects to your desktop or laptop computer with a “Multi-Attach” base that fits most monitors, and a USB cable. Unlike older Webcams, which produce some awkward picture and audio freeze-ups, the Live! Cam shoots a smooth 30 frames per second. This model also boasts “Smart Face Tracking,” a feature that always keeps your face in the frame, and a few cool effects that warp your images and superimpose funny masks. As if you can’t crack up your grandkids on your own.
Price: $50
Available at: Amazon.com
Logitech Quick Cam Pro 9000
This premium cam has a glass lens that increases sharpness and reduces image distortion, so your grandkids won’t strain their eyes to figure out which grandparent they’re talking to. Its auto-focus feature adjusts images in less than three seconds, much quicker than you could do manually. Our favorite feature of this cam is Logitech’s signature sound quality, which has practically zero echo or background noise interference.
Price: $85
Available at: Amazon.com
Microsoft LifeCam VX-7000 and NX-3000
Microsoft’s two LifeCams, the VX-7000 for desktops and the NX-3000 for notebooks, are both decent cams, especially if you prefer the Windows Live program for instant messaging. Optimal features include live photo swapping and a one-touch call button. For use with other instant-messaging programs, the cam still offers its crisp video (640x480 pixels) and high-definition still photography (1.3 megapixels). But for a little extra cash, grandparents might be better off purchasing a universal cam with full capabilities for all programs.
Price: $33 for the NX-3000, $53 for the VX-7000
Available at: Amazon.com
The OjoPhone:
Telephone-devotees who still want to try their hand at family videoconferencing can opt for an Ojo videophone instead of the standard Webcam/laptop combo. These 15.5-inch display units have a high-resolution LCD screen, a miniature camera, and a loud and clear speakerphone. The good news is you don’t need a new phone line to use the Ojo, just your regular landline and a broadband connection. The bad news is they are considerably more expensive than a Webcam, and you’ll have to buy two in order to use one. Still, a fun twist on the classic phone call.
Price: $329 for the Ojo PVP-1000, $283 for the Ojo Shadow PVP-900
Available at: Amazon.com
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| Phoebe,
I am using videophone services from www.getvideophone.com. The videophone is free & you pay $28.99 a month. It replaced my home phone, which use to cost me $40 a month and now I can talk to & see my grandchildren every day in Montreal & Dallas. Also there are no Long Distance charges.
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