16 and a half years of constant use and still works!
I bought this Pro 9000 in February 2010. Now, 16 and a half years later it still works great! However, I just upgraded my monitor to a 49” Ultra Wide curved WDQHD 5120x1440 monitor and now the webcam at 2MP 720p doesn’t have a sharp enough image to display well on this massive monitor. I’ve loved the Logitech brand for its quality for a very long time, so I decided to upgrade. Today I received a new Logitech Brio Ultra HD 4K that is full 1080p with 60 FPS. It looks wonderful on this new monitor! Thanks Logitech! I hope this one lasts another 16 years!
Sedonartist
★★★★★
Logitech - the best affordable web cameras. IMO
I've used the Logitech 9000 for 10 years now on both my PC's one running on Win 10 and the other on Win 10 Pro. The funny faces were discontinued by Logitech a few years ago. It has many features and a nice control panel. I'm looking for another one here one eBay so that I'll have one in the house as well as one in my studio. It has worked well for capturing videos, taking photos, talking on Skype, and as a microphone. A dependable oldie but a goodie.
Claudio G. Rey
★★★★★
not 2 megapixels and grainy pictures
I used this as a webcam. Trying to replace an old microsoft hd webcam that my wife is using with issues with autofocus. Well the autofocus works OK but the camera is not 2 megapixels. That would have been acceptable if it were good quality bu the pictures are grainy compared to the logitech c920 and to the microsoft hd webcam I was trying to replace. The software seems outdated too as there were mentions of windows 7. Instead I have setup my wife to only use manual focusing at least we get good images.
B
Brad
★★★★★
Logitech 720p Webcam Pro, Excellent!!
Here is a short reveiw of the Logitech 720p Webcam Proo 9000. Hope that it helps you if you are on the fence about buying one. I love it!
Silabhadra Sen
★★★★★
I am more than happy with Logitech Webcam Pro 9000
Seeing is believing. This video shows Logitech Webcam Pro 9000's HD video quality in low-light condition, its autofocus capabilities, its built-in microphone's sound quality and volume control, and the software's ability to upload directly to YouTube. I made this video as a test video and successfully uploaded it to YouTube directly from the Logitech software. (The video I uploaded to YouTube is in 1200 X 720 resolution, and in .WMV format.
which I find all UNTRUE. I think for all these complaints the people are to be blamed, not the product! In many instances, I am sure they are using this webcam in computers that DO NOT meet the recommended MIMIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS.
I am more than happy with this product. Everything works just as they should. Still pictures are terrific too. And the product is soo easy to use. Just make sure your system meets or exceeds the minimum requirements, you install the software correctly after receiving all the LATEST UPDATES, and you consult the HELP FILES if and when stuck.
If you are reading this review to decide whether or not to buy this product, I would say DEFINITELY GO FOR IT.
H
H. Copner
★★★★★
Best webcam on the market today
See video review
YSC
★★★★★
Attempt to Investigate the Difference between Quickcam and Webcam Pro 9000
I got the Quickcam Pro 9000 version, and I found this widely circulated statement of differences, allegedly made by Logitech's employee, on the difference between Quickcam Pro 9000 and Webcam Pro 9000:
--- begin excerpt--
Logitech updated the Quickcam Pro 9000 and released it on August 1st 2009 as the Webcam Pro 9000. The differences are as follows By Ladan Khamsepoor // Sr. Product Marketing Manager, Video Business:
There are a few subtle changes:
- While the QuickCam Pro 9000 offers VGA-quality video at 30 frames per second (high-quality video) on Skype, we made adjustments to ensure the updated Webcam Pro 9000 can perform up to VGA-quality video at 30 FPS on any video application, including Logitech Vid.
- The Webcam Pro 9000 was modified to be capable of adjusting to widescreen format and record 720 pixels (1280×720) at up to 30 FPS.
- Finally, software is no longer required for RightLight. Instead, we\'ve built it into the device, so right out of the box, you\'ll get the best image quality possible, regardless of harsh or dim lighting conditions. Perhaps too much information, but we also adjusted the firmware to make sure that RightLight engages only when necessary.
[...]
---end excerpt
Out of curiosity, I got a frustration free package and compared with a Quickcam version I got a little earlier.
Yes the frustration free package one got recognized by windows 7 as "Webcam Pro 9000" while the earlier version is recognized as "Quickcam Pro 9000". The drivers and softwares specified by Logitech's website appears to be universal and Both cam had a "driver information" showing driver version of 12.10.1110.0. The firmware version reads 5.0.1161 on the Webcam 9000 and 2.96.6009 on the Quickcam, suggesting possible different firmware families than increments of the same firmware. It also may suggest that there are differences in hardware as well.
Testing it in video mode--the quickcam version's flaw wasn't apparent at first, until one investigated closer. The HD video frame on the Webcam version is a little cropped, suggesting it used fewer pixels than the full frame sensor, or only 1280x720 out of the 1600x1200. You can see this when you switch to the 1600x1200 mode. That did not happen with the Quickcam pro 9000. At first I thought the Quickcam gave me a scaled down interpolation of the full resolution video, showing its full wide angle picture, which would have been advantageous over a cropped image on the Webcam version; but then I realized that it is really a scaled up interpolation from 800x450--in other words, full hardware HD video is simply not possible with Quickcam Pro 9000, while it is available on the newer Webcam version.
Despite the less-than-ideal method of using reduced sensor area that produced a cropped image (thereby negating the wide angle lens advantage at full HD setting), I speculate that the Webcam version did this to reduce CPU load for interpolation. Still, I wish a full frame scaled down 720p HD mode is available as an option.
What is more incredible is when I tried to record video. For some reason, the webcam version was able to record smooth HD video at full 1280x720, while the older quickcam version, despite the scale-up interpolation, had a lot of trouble with that resolution setting, or even at 800x450. I use a x61s thinkpad -- hardly speedy by today's standards. However, it goes to show something is done quite differently with the new webcam version, as the results are not even close -- I recorded non-HD videos that looked like still pictures jumping from frame to frame with in-tact audio using the Quickcam version, while the Webcam version was able to record fluid 720p HD videos without problems. Webcam version wins by an unbelievable margin here.
Then the photo test: i imagined both camera will show full resolution in photo mode, or 1600x1200. NOT SO! At 1600x1200, which is supposed to be native resolution for both of these cams, the Quickcam version showed a blurry picture that clearly seems interpolated, or a scaled up version of 800x600. The details are just absent, and looked identical to a 800x600 image. The Webcam was evidently at 2MP with details that cannot be there with interpolation. Why can't the Quickcam version take photos at its native resolution is beyond me.
The above tests made me wonder about these possibilities: 1. the newer driver simply doesn't support Quickcam pro 9000 version fully, and catered to Webcam version instead; 2.Quickcam Pro 9000 had always been a half baked product with these flaws, hence the upgrade; 3.something is wrong with the driver and/or the hardware as tested. If it's either #1 or #2, I find it incredible that Logitech was able to charge close to $100 for the Quickcam Pro 9000 version that doesn't deliver on its HD promises, and performed in reality only slightly better than my old Quickcam fusion.
Testing the cams side by side in real use such as skype and msn, the image quality didn't look all that different -- a little soft than my liking especially for a cam of this price range. AF performance is also similar. There is very little difference that I can discern, other than the ones mentioned above, which is not subtle by any measure.
For what it's worth: the webcam9000 that came in the frustration package is a little scuffed up compared to the Quickcam version I got in a retail package. The plastic on the camera is of a polished/mirror finish, so any hairline scratch/scuff/buffs show up instantly. There was none on the Quickcam Retail, but some on the Frustration Free Packed version wrapped in plastic bag. However I am not sure if it's really related to the packaging or production batches. I am anal retentive in that regard, but for most people it probably doesn't matter. The difference in the amount of plastic and packing material is mind boggling though. For the sake of the environment and savings, frustration free package is a real innovation.
With regards to "built in" right light -- that sounds a bit odd (i.e. it scarcely makes sense), as right light is built into logitech's driver ANYWAY and is always software activated/controlled. On both cams I was offered the option of turning it on or leaving it on always. I believe from the inception, right light was hardware dependent (earlier Quickcams simply couldn't support it), suggesting there were hardware involvement in the cameras anyway. The fact that you don't need driver support to run it doesn't make much sense--the webcam doesn't run without its driver.
Which is better? Webcam Pro 9000. The advantage over the older Quickcam version is significant--unless it's due to software/driver screw-up, which is a real possibility.
I am open to corrections and would love to learn what others find.
J
J. Morgenstein
★★★★★
Great webcam
I did LOTS of research before choosing this webcam and it is every bit as good as the reviews say.
I still have a CRT display and the webcam's articulated arms extend right out to allow it to sit securely on top with its lens just protruding over the edge and angled down as much as is needed. Perfect. It would also fit just as well on an LCD screen or notebook, though it is not the smallest device for travel.
The picture is excellent - as you would expect. I chose to only install the drivers and not the software with all those extra effects that I will never use. You can still adjust face tracking, zoom factor, brightness etc. from within Skype (with which it works flawlessly.)
It shows me as perfectly lit with good color and detail even when I am only lit by the glow from the monitor and there is a window behind me. Amazing. And the autofocus works very well. I would hate to go back to a manual focus cam after this. I can pick it up and turn it around to show other things in the room and know that it will always refocus as I do this.
It is well worth paying a bit more for this. Yes, cheap cams work but this is so much better.
John M. Poltrack
★★★★★
Great WebCam
WebCams are MUCH better than they were in the '80s. This was recorded with the Logitech Quickcam Pro 9000. It installed with no problems on a Windows XP and a Vista Ultimate machine. Very happy with it.
B
B. W.
★★★★★
Upgrade from an Old Webcam
If you have an old webcam and are thinking of buying a new one for better image quality then this is the WebCam for you. Although some people have had some driver issues with Vista so far I have not. The quality of the impage is MUCH better than my 8 month old Logitech webcam.
If you use the WebCam only once in a while then maybe this is not right for you. But if you are like me and use it at least 3 - 4 times per month it was worth the $80 investment (twice - one for me and one for my kids).
RLC
★★★★★
Great Cam; Don't be afraid to play with the software settings!
UPDATE: Uploaded new video around October-November 2010 and this video is current as of February 7th, 2011. LATEST SOFTWARE RELEASE IS BUGGY! Watch Video
Also, I use this webcam to film beauty related reviews on youtube.
For those of you who've had issue with this cam, or those who've heard bad things about this camera; watch the video. I'm no public speaker by any means, but I think it's worth watching so you can get the best out of your new or potentially new webcam.
UPDATE: LATEST Software is Buggy! Watch Video
If you didnt watch the video or want a summary of what I stated in the video, I'll restate the main points below:
1. Always install the appropriate drivers from their logitech site. Often, the drivers on the disc are outdated.
2. Open up the Logitech Quickcam Vision for Enterprises software either through Start>All Programs>Logitech or just click on the icon provided on the desktop if there is one.
3. Unclick both Rightlight Automatic Settings(the eye picture icon) and Automatic Settings for Gain and Exposure(the owl picture icon). You can all find this under the gears icon. You can then adjust the bars left to right (especially exposure and gain) accordingly.
4. Under the camera picture icon in the software, you can also adjust for manual/auto focus, brightness, contrast, color, and white balance.
Doing all of this will raise your picture frame rate and minimize any blurring from motion.
Don't ever worry how you'll mess the camera settings up. If you first don't succeed at what you want, you can always re-click auto settings and start all over. Personally, I find it kind of entertaining when I mess around with it!
B
B. White
★★★★★
Capture is too slow
The video capture is too slow. Watch the video and see why I don't like it.
R
Ryan Imel
★★★★★
Reviewing the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000: Great for Streaming/Chat, Not Great Framerate (Mac Review)
Note: This video may be of a better quality on Ustream: [...]
Video transcript: This is a Mac only review; I'm running the webcam on a Macbook with OS 10.5.2. My reason for buying the webcam was convenience: my desk setup involves the laptop itself being hooked to an external monitor and in a drawer out of sight. The fewer the wires, the better.
I wanted to use the webcam for video recording and livestreaming, chatting too. As far as Ustream.tv goes, working with over-the-web video, I think this cam is ideal. I had no problems with it. Most of the time internet video doesn't have the best frame rate anyway, and this one really delivered. The camera itself is capable of HD and has a really nice sound quality. I debated picking up a USB mic, but didn't, because this webcam has everything I need as far as a mic goes built in.
The "cool" factor of the webcam: I spent a few days looking for just the right one, and this is the coolest looking webcam I found. It sits very solid on top of the monitor but is still easy to move around, if you need to.
Now, desktop applications: I tested it out (and wanted to get it to work in) Photo Booth, iMovie, and Quicktime Pro.
I'm able to gather that the hardware is both Mac and PC compatible, while the software that comes with the camera is PC only. The end result of this is that the camera the Mac user has has no preferences or control for the hardware. Zooming, quality control, etc. isn't controllable.
Photo Booth: taking still shots looked great. Video recording had a terrible frame rate. Audio was great, but frame rate was unacceptable.
iMovie: turns out (as far as I can find out) that in order to use an external camera (vs. the iSight) the connection must be Firewire. This camera's connection is USB. Using this webcam isn't an option, within iMovie itself. Keep in mind that you can record with Photo Booth and then import it to iMovie. But, of course, the frame rate of Photo Booth videos isn't any good.
Quicktime Pro: Although it costs $[...] to purchase, Quicktime does a bit of a better job recording video on this webcam. I still don't like the frame rate. Despite Quicktime claiming that it is recording at a 30fps, there's no way that's actually what it is. Again, this goes back to the inability of the hardware of the webcam to be controlled by the Mac.
Overall, I'd say this is great for the online video streaming/chatting I want to use it for, mainly. But don't pick this one up if you want to use it for high quality video. It is not comparable to the iSight when it comes to the video.
For various webcam difficulties with Mac, try searching "Macam" or "iUSBCam" on Google or YouTube. There are tutorials and information about how they may be able to help you. No promises, though.
X
XTC EVERLASTING
★★★★★
TAKES EXCELLENT CAM PICTURES AND GOOD FOR CHATTING
I LOVE THIS WEBCAM! THE PICURE TAKING ASPECT IS FLAWLESS, ONLINE CHATTING IS FLAWLESS... SOUND QUALITY IS FLAWLESS...VIDEO IS OK. HAS LOTS OF BELLS AND WHISTLES THAT WOW OTHERS WHEN YOUR ONLING CHATTING. I WOULD RECOMMEND GETTING THIS ONE BUT MAKE SURE YOU SECURE IT WITH DUCT TAPE OR SOMETHING STURDY SO IT DOES NOT FALL OFF YOUR PC . OTHERWISE ITS FIERCE!!!
Sean Woodruff
★★★★★
Robert was RIGHT on in his review!
Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 is a great product. Simple to use right out of the box and will give you great picture quality and sound for the money. This product certainly delivers on the value scale.
Robert Stinnett
★★★★★
Amazing Video Clarity; Troublesome Vista Support
The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 is one of the better webcams I have had the opportunity to use over the years. Its stylish design fits easily on top of my LCD screen, while its functionality and features continue to impress. However, Vista functionality can be an adventure at a few times.
First, let's talk about the good -- picture quality. Let me put it to you think way: This webcam works better than my high priced Sony Camcorder at picking up video in low-light settings. I was simply amazed the first time I used it in a room with compact flourescents in the middle of the night and had such remarkable clarity and picture quality. Logitech credits this ability with something they call RightLight technology (in the video review I get it backwards -- sorry Logitech!). Whatever you want to call it, it's one of the features that definitely makes this webcam stand above the rest.
Next, the optics themselves are impressive. The 9000 utilized Carl Zeiss optics and you can tell the difference between this webcam and others. If you want to find out what makes Carl Zeiss optics so good, I encourage you to do a quick internet search or visit Wikipedia to look it up. It's hard to describe in text how this optics setup helps -- this is definitely something you have to see to believe.
Overall, I found it worked well with all the major instant messaging applications -- AOL, Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo. It also worked very well as a stand-alone camera taking incredible video and decent still shots -- but remember, if you want to take a lot of still shots the quality you get from a product like this is fair at best compared to what you will get with a decent digital camera.
Now, let's talk about a few things that weren't so good about this webcam. The biggest struggle I had was with Windows Vista. Even though the box proclaims it is certified for Vista, I had numerous driver issues. The Logitech 9000 worked in Vista just fine, but for some reason at random intervals it wanted to re-install its drivers. One thing you should know if you purchase this camera is that when installing it you will want to make sure you have the installation program check for updates. I found there were two driver updates for the camera during install. However, even with these updates I continue to have that random re-installation issue.
The "helper application" that comes with the 9000 lets you do a lot of things -- such as configure the webcam, add effects, etc. Although I had no problem configuring it I never got the effects to work. However, this wasn't a big deal for me as I have no use for the special effects.
Overall, if you are looking for a quality webcam that can produce terrific results I highly recommend the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000. Just be aware of potential Vista issues (which hopefully Logitech will solve). Other than that it's so easy to use even beginners to computers will be able to get it up and running in no time. A quality webcam at a good price considering all of its features.
