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One of the most frequent questions I receive is "What webcam should I get?" I often answer with a vague description of what features to look for and what types are available. This is usually followed up with, "Just tell me which one to get." So I am going to put in the top three choices for webcams. There are many sites that review webcams and will compare features, but really it doesn't matter that much which one you get. So here are my top picks. Retail prices are included, but these webcams can be found for much less than retail prices. I have included a link to pricegrabber that will search out the best price. One of my favorite retailers is Newegg.com because they have good prices, are reliable with good service, and their shipping is fast.
Logitech Quickcam Pro 9000	This webcam is rated as the top pick in several different websites. This webcam features a high quality picture and many additional features. It can also record video in High Definition. The clip for this webcam makes it easy to mount just about anywhere. It should be able to be mounted on a whiteboard for a front of class view. Retail cost for this webcam is $99. Pricegrabber price comparison Newegg listing
Logitech Quickcam Orbit AF	This webcam is the one that I use in my classroom. It produces a high quality picture and many features the same as the 9000. It does not have a clip for mounting on a laptop or whiteboard. I created a mount for mine to put on top my Smartboard. It can be desk mounted. This webcam has the features of being able to pan, tilt, and zoom. This is a nice feature when a clinician wants to see a specific section. There is an optional 9 inch stand bringing the webcam up a little higher. May not work on a Mac using ustream.tv. Retail price is $129. Pricegrabber price comparison. Newegg listing.
Logitech Quickcam Communicate STX	This webcam is a great less expensive camera. For the person who is looking to get started and doesn't want to invest a lot of money, this is a great option. It still has good quality video and will give good results. The mount is able to be desktop mounted as well as on a screen or whiteboard. Retail cost $49. Pricegrabber price comparison. Newegg listing.
Lastly, here are some additional resources for webcams, including reviews and other information about how to use and set them up. Cowboy Franks Webcam Reviews Howstuffworks Webcam Consumer Guide PC Magazine Webcam Reviews CNET Webcam Reviews Lastly, because Mac computers generally all ship with a built in webcam, many webcam companies are no longer including support for Macs with their webcams. These webcams can still be used, but may need some additional driver help. Macam provides webcam support for mac so that virtually any webcam can be used with a Mac.