Customer Reviews

Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000

5 star:		(97)
4 star:		(53)
3 star:		(17)
2 star:		(12)
1 star:		(29)

 

 

Ok, where do I start... After searching through dozens & dozens of reviews (Not only on this site & not only for the Pro 4000) Did I Come to the choice of the Pro 4000. I've read many negative & many positive reviews for this Webcam, so I thought what the hell & purchased one to find out for myself. here's what I can tell ya.

1. I use windows XP on my home pc and it installed the drivers for the Pro 4000 simply and efficiantly & works great.

2. The picture you get from the webcam is very, very clear, even when lighting is to a minimum. I bought this webcam so i could use it to see family in the UK, my brother purchased a more expensive one and the Picture quality between the two is beyond comparison, the Pro 4000 outshines his phillips and my mothers logitech messenger.

3. I like the auto zoom feature and you can also manualy zoom as well, so you have the best of both worlds.

Here's the negative...

1. Yes the microphone is sensative and does pick up background noise, if your having a party or playing loud music it's gonna pick it up.

2. The USB cable is a little heavy and can move your webcam a little, depends on how much slack you have for the wire. But you dont have to be a rocket scientist to tape a little slack down at the back of your PC so it does'nt move.

3. Reviews have mentioned how flimsy the base is, but I have had no problems with that.

4. It should come with more directions. Installation directions are basic, but ok. Needs to have directions regarding the software that comes with it, the movie maker is fun but it's gonna take you a while to find out what does what, just be patient!

5. If you want this webcam to take quality digital pics then dont bother, pics turn out grainy & not at all good quality.

6. Price, I search various places for the best deal and found some amazing prices, but then read the reviews on the company's that's selling the Pro 4000 and been detered. This is what I can tell you. If you want this webcam then buy it from Amazon, $80.00 is in the middle of the price range, but I know that Amazon has never let me down on delivery time or refunds. If your still not convinced on the Pro 4000 then buy it from Best Buy, your gonna spend $104.00, try it & see for yourself, if you dont like it, return it with no hassles , if you do like it, return it anyway & then order it from Amazon for $20.00 less!!
This saves you time in shipping and returning it, waiting for your money back etc..

Well, that's it. Ive never tried any other webcam's because I didn't need to! This IS the one webcam for me & maybe you....

I just received this camera and I'm a little blown away by the quality of it.

First of all may I suggest that you don't test it out, first thing in the morning, when you have bed head? The startling clarity and resolution might depress you, as it did me. Heh.

This cam's resolution and speed is remarkable. It's comparable to the laser sharp quality imaging you get with a digital camera ... crisp, clean and very responsive. Movement is immediate, there's no lag or delay, it's like using a video camera; it's that quick. On messenger chat, there is some delay, but that has more to do with the messenger server than the camera itself.

I had an old logitech webcam that was grainy in picture, but still acceptable for using in conferences and on chat. I decided to spend the money and buy the pro version as an indulgence. The contrasting difference between the old cam and the new one is amazing. I cannot praise it enough.

The software included with the camera is neat too ... offering a wide array of image recording from the single photo to video stream to setting up an online webcam. Roxio is another software program included in the package that allows you to later burn your video/images onto a CD (if you have a CD burner). The software also comes with something called face centering ... this takes tonalities and hues of the person in the image and makes sure it's evenly presented when a photo is snapped.

The camera itself has a little button on the top of it that you can press to take single shots, as well as a privacy guard to put down over the lens when not in use.

The only negative would be the lack of manual that comes with the camera. Logitech ships it with a single sheaf of paper, explaining how to install, but nothing about how to use the software in the package. Thankfully most information can be found online.

I read reviews here saying the camera caused failures and other problems, so I was hesitant to buy it, but I'm glad I did. I've encountered no problems with it, but I do have a newer machine. I would suggest that if you don't have at least a newer/higher level video card (iNvida or RAGE), this camera probably isn't for you. It requires system resources to make it work to its full potential, and on older machines with older cards or not enough RAM (memory -- at least 512megs), you'll likely run into problems that others have described.

Otherwise, buy this camera. It is very much worth the price.

I bought this camera with expectations that it would be a bit better than the MCI Videophones I bought a decade ago. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it's a *lot* better, thanks to better resolution (640 x 480), faster frame-rate (24+ FPS)and of course more robust broadband connections. Set-up was very simple: I installed the Logitech software (running WinXP-home), rebooted the computer and then plugged the camera into the USB hub as per the onscreen instructions that followed the reboot.
In 2 minutes, I was up and running. The taskbar icon allows you to make any adjustments you want to the image, including zooming, and a somewhat imprecise rubber ring around the lens allows you to adjust the focus if necessary (it wasn't necessary). A very nice extra is the built in microphone, which is automatically set up during install and which does not require a separate mic jack (it uses the same USB connection as the video does). About the only complaint I have is the stand for the camera; it does not really lock the camera in very securely and therefore makes touching the camera (for example, to rotate the focus ring) a tricky, two-handed operation.

This is loooong, I know, but bear with me if you will; I think it'll really help. (Note: $20 Logitech rebate offered for the month of August 2005-- Jump on it!)

Pros:
1) Best image clarity on the market. I have Comcast High-speed Internet and use it with their "Video Mail" software to outstanding result!
2) Ease of set-up and installation for inexperienced and experienced alike.
3) Simple user interface (software).

Cons:
(Note: all 'cons' are of a relatively insignificant nature, and in no way interfere with the actual performance of this webcam.)

1) "Flimsy stand"- Explanation: I think most users are referring to a small, screw-in piece, which connects the camera to the base. This piece has a tendency to loosen with movement, but like I said, "screw-in" -- solution? ==> tighten it back down! If you are one of those people who like to frequently move your camera about for better angles and such, a single droplet (and I do mean ONE DROPLET) of your favorite brand of cyanoacrylate adhesive (aka- "Krazy Glue" or "Super Glue") applied to the threads with the tip of toothpick should solve your woes. I say only one droplet because this piece is made to be replaceable, and allows for a wider array of mounting options, if you get too "krazy" with the "Krazy Glue" these options will no longer be available to you should you need them; or if you break the piece somehow, you'd have to buy a complete new stand from Logitech, rather than just ordering a new connector.

2) "The microphone is too sensitive." Explanation: Granted, the mic IS very sensitive, but is this really a problem? Depending on your application, it could prove beneficial. Besides, the mic sensitivity can be adjusted via the included software, and the reality of webcam mics is that very few (if ANY) are reliable for 2-way web communications; you end up with a lot of overlap, echo, and "Whats?" and "Huhs?" You might as well expect to invest in a headset; even the inexpensive ones provide marked improvement over the built-in webcam mics (which are really for room or ambient noise collection anyway). [Addition: if you should decide to stick with the built-in mic, I've found that it helps to position the privacy shade directly in front of it for less background noise interference (fans, typing, etc.)]

3) "The snap shots aren't clear." Explanation: Well, no solution to this one. While the camera does take 1.3 megapixel snaps, have you ever really looked at a 1.3 megapixel photo? They ain't too pretty. [Lighting and distance play heavily into this issue too.] If it's clear snap shots you want, don't look to this webcam, or ANY webcam for that matter, buy a true digital camera instead. The snapshot function of this camera should be considered a fun extra, not a functional main reason for purchase.

4) "The instructions aren't clear enough." Explanation: The camera and included software are simple to install and use. Don't be afraid to tinker with the settings, and customize them to your suiting -- You Cannot Hurt It. Just get in there and "tweak".

5) "The USB cable is too heavy." Explanation: Come on now, "the cable is too heavy"? A heavier gauge USB cable is a good thing people. The thicker the wires inside, the faster and clearer the data transfer. I think this complaint comes back to the screw-in piece mentioned above in "con #1" (see above). Like reviewer, Adrian Derbyshire said, adjusting the slack in the cable solves this one just fine.


Now for my personal tidbits:
I ran into a bit of a problem the first time that I ordered this one online. A certain online retailer, who will unfortunately go unnamed (as per Amazon's guidelines), features an image of this camera, in the version of its retail packaging WITH the flat panel clip included. Well, WATCH OUT FOLKS! If you need the flat panel clip (and I DO recommend it- much more versatile and stable than the hard plastic version), pay attention to the packaging and seller's description and listing, and if in doubt, contact the seller prior to purchase. The "flat panel clip" or LCD monitor adapter, or other similar description, is the second, `extra' stand included with SOME versions of this camera. It is the flexible, rubber coated stand that Amazon shows with this camera in their description There are apparently two versions of retail packaging available for this webcam, one with the flat panel clip, and one without. Here's what to consider:

[NOTE: See Correction Below!!!]
>If the retail box itself is primarily BLUE, and mentions some included Yahoo! software, the flat panel clip Should Be Included --
Again, Blue box + Yahoo! Software = Flat panel clip (in addition to the first, hard plastic version).

>If, on the other hand, the box is mostly GREEN, and there is no mention of included Yahoo! software, DO NOT EXPECT the flat panel clip to be included. Apparently, Logitech updated their packaging shortly after the camera's release by including the additional stand and changing the software a bit. Most retailers aren't even aware of this distinction folks, and I have found no difference in price related to this issue.
So, Green box + NO Mention of Yahoo! Software = NO Flat Panel Clip.

Now for my initial reason for this 'dissertation' -- PRICE. I have to agree with reviewer, Adrian Derbyshire again; buy it from Amazon [PERIOD]. If I had, I truly believe that I would have had far less hassle with my flat panel clip issue. Plus, their price is much better than most, as well is their reputation. Additionally, for the month of August 2005, Logitech is offering a $20 rebate on the QuickCam Pro 4000! Couple that with Amazon's current 25% off sale price and you're looking at $47.44!!(before shipping). That's less expensive than many other webcams of much lesser quality!!! At this price, I'm ordering another one for my in-laws in Germany so that we can see them as clearly as they get to see us!

That's a wrap. Sorry this is so lengthy, but I sincerely hope that it helps you with your decision, and can help others to avoid the hassle that I experienced with the flat panel clip issue.
[...]
Well, apparently there are MORE THAN 2 VERSIONS OF THE PACKAGING for this camera! As stated in my original post, I took advantage of the sale price and rebate offer and ordered another QuickCam Pro 4000 from Amazon.

When the order arrived (3 days prior to estimated btw, and that's with FREE super saver shipping!) I was a bit stunned to see a green box instead of the blue one that I expected. I immediately thought "Oh No!", but was happy to see that even though the box was GREEN, the flat panel clip WAS INCLUDED. Additionally, there is no Yahoo! software, rather MSN Messenger was included instead (Go Figure?). [I'll try to get an image posted of the this packaging in the next few days]

Turns out, the customer service rep. that I spoke with at Logitech was mistaken about the packaging for this camera. She specifically told me that there were 2 styles of retail packaging and outlined the differences that I originally posted, but obviously, there are more than 2 styles.

So, bottom line is:
---> You'll just have to call your retailer and specifically ask if the flat panel clip is included or not. <---

Hope this clarifies any confusion that may have been created. One would think that the manufacturer's representative would provide accurate information,... perhaps not.
My apologies.


Best,
C. Garrett

I used to own a Kodak DVC325 WebCam and I thought it has good quality. Well, it was true until I start using NetMeeting with my brother in Taiwan. My brother owned a Logitech Pro 3000 which delivered great quality across half of the globe to us in the USA. That became the trigger for me to spend [more] to buy the Logitech Pro 4000. After I installed it, I can't believe my eye because the quality is as good as my Sony Digital Camcorder attached by firewire (IEEE 1394) to my computer. This WebCam comes with software that allows you to set it up as a motion detector. It also has Logitech IM Companion that allows your friends to see you from Yahoo or MSN Messenger. For Netmeeting, it deliver very stable image signal without large Mosaic. Though the price isn't [inexpensive], it does do a good job compared to other model. However, when I use it for capturing live video, it is not as good as the video that I captured using a Sony Digital Camcorder and Firewire card. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a WebCam and wonder about whether you should spent the [extra money] or not, wondering no more. It will server you well. A NetMeeting won't be good without your friends/family seeing you clearly on the other end. Hope this review helps you justify the price.

OK, I did my due dilegence, searched the web, compared products and manufacturers, read most of the Amazon reviews and then purchased the Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000. I received it in short order (Thanks,Amazon!) and installed it on my PC. It was very simple to install (just read the instructions) and worked perfectly from the start. I was able to get it up and running in less than one hour, start to finish, and that included setting up MSN Messenger(tm), adding several people to the contact list and sending all of my contacts a note that I was ready. I was able to make some video clips and successfully sent them to selected contacts. I also had my first video conference, using MSN Messenger(tm), with one of my friends in Germany. Worked perfectly. I have a broadband connection, my friend is on dial up - it still was just fine. I am pleased and happy. I bought two, and sent one to my son in Japan, it will sure beat paying for lot's of overseas long distance phone calls.

IMPORTANT NOTE!!!
Please remember to get the updated version of software from Logitech's web site - this extra step will help ensure success. You will also need to download the latest and greatest version of the Instant Messaging software you plan to use, MSN, Yahoo or whatever.

Warning to anyone running the Window Media Center Edition 2005 (MCE) operating system - This webcam will not work with any messenger program (Yahoo, MSN, AIM)!

From Logitech Tech Support:

Thank you for your recent inquiry about your QuickCam Pro 4000.

I understand that you would like to know if QuickCam is supported on the Window Media Center Edition 2005 OS.

Unfortunately, I regret to inform you that QuickCam is not supported on the Window Media Center Edition 2005 OS currently. We are not sure when and if this OS will be supported.

I request you to check back at the Logitech website in future for updates that may contain support for the Window Media Center Edition 2005 OS.

I apologize for the inconvenience caused.

The resolution on this webcam is a true 640x480 pixels, so the picture quality is very sharp. Best for video conferencing. Still images of 1.3 megapixels gives you good picture. It is a higher version of Pro 3000, with a Digital Zoom. Cool feature. Before buying this product, I bought a Logitech Quickcam Express, but the picture quality was very poor. Price is higher, but it's worth it if you use this camera very often.

After testing this camera I found the following things

1. Video Qualtiy - The video quality is amazing. I got 640 x 480 @ 30 FPS. I use Windows Movie Maker to capture and edit. Awesome and free. (or Virtual Dub, I like windows movie maker format a little better though)

2. Image Quality - The image quality is great, for its design. The resolution is 640 x 480 = 307 200 dots in the picture. For photo quality you need 2 000 000 minimum. So as you can see its no where near that. But for web shots its great.

3. Base - I heard many complaints about base. I know why. If you look at the webcam base there is a little notch for the webcam to be put in a certain way. If you dont' put it in right then it will not stay in very well.

4. MSN 6.x - If you plan on using this with MSN 6.x and both parties have windows xp and a webcam use the video conferencing feature, much better then the normal webcam feature.

TIP: In the cmaera settings, Take white balance and take it off of auto and put it on the one that makes it look the most natual. For me I have flourescent lightbulbs and incandescent looks the best.

TIP 2: If you want to avoid a crappy and grainy picture/video, make sure you take exposure off of auto and lower the gain. Less gain, less grain. Only do this if you use the same lighting all the time.

Lots of people do not know the difference of CMOS sensor and CCD sensor... and that is the biggest impact on the quality of the images they will have with their webcam...

The QuickCam Pro 400 has a CCD (which is the best sensor) and this means a great light sensitivity.

I was amazed with the quality of this camera, and believe me that all my friends mention the same thing... This is perfect for Web Conferences... I use it on Skype, MSN, and to record some movies with the software that comes with it.. Quality is Great !!

The Microphone on it good as well... It may pick up the background noise, depending where it is located of course.. but in the overall it has a good quality...

Another simple but real handy feature is the plastic cover that goes over the lens and will prevent it from beeing on and filming when you really don't want it...

Also, it comes with two goods monitor (or shelf) stands.. CRT or LCD...
The list goes on with Face Tracking, Zoom and other stuff...

You will Love this camera... Just as I love mine...
:-)