Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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22 of 24 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
MAC users please read before buying (review not for PC), December 13, 2007
THE CAMERA DESIGN --> 5 STARS
The HUE HD Webcam is modern and has enough "style" to even appease my graphic designer senses. The camera body's construction is sturdy and the gooseneck is rigid, so stays in place when flexed. The camera attaches to the base via a USB connector (convenient if you have a monitor or laptop with a USB port and don't want to use the base). The base is weighted and has a cloth bottom so it won't scratch your desk. The overall look and construction of the camera is 5 STARS.
THE SOFTWARE --> 4 STARS
After searching for a few months I decided to get this webcam because of its claims to be fully compatible with MAC OSX, which is true. First, I went to the company's website to check if there had been any updates to the software. **The software release on the website is version 1.3 and the CD that is provided says version 1.1.** I opted to download version 1.3 instead of installing from the CD. Installation was easy. The software has a bunch of video and compression options that are useful.
COMPATIBILITY --> 2 STARS **Must read for all Mac users**
I know that there isn't much info on the product because it is relatively new and most, if not all of the support info on their website refers to PC issues. So, I contacted their technical support because I wanted to know if it would work with iChat. Turns out the HUE HD Webcam is not supported by iChat. Here is the response that I got from their technical support team.
Hello,
iChat doesn't work with HUE HD Webcam, because the software was designed
to use Firewire Webcams. Hue HD WEBCAM have a USB interface like most
webcams you can find at stores. The alternative way to use iChat with
HUE HD Webcam, is ICHATUSB here is the link for a free download trail
version. http://www.ecamm.com/mac/ichatusbcam/
So, I went to the website and downloaded the software and presto, the camera is located by iChat. The only downfall is that you have to spend another $9.95 for the software.
I have not tested the software with Skype, AOL or Yahoo but I have read other reviews stating that they worked fine with those programs.
OVERALL --> 3 STARS
Overall, I'm giving it 3 STARS because I feel that the compatibility issue is a big negative for Mac users. Hopefully the company will wise up and package their webcam with software that will operate the camera without having to refer a consumer to purchase separate software.
Pros:
-Super cool style that will suit just about anyone
-Sturdy construction
-Picture quality is above average webcams
-Voice quality is excellent
-Software interface is simple with numerous options
-Removable from base (can plug into USB equipped monitor or laptop)
Cons:
-Not supported by iChat unless you purchase iChatUSB software (another $9.95)
-Slightly expensive
-Little Mac support information on company website
I will add to my review as soon as I have tested it on other Instant Message programs.
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
great camera, May 21, 2008
I bought this camera to use with skype on a mac mini. It is gorgeous to look at, you can plug it directly into a usb port or, for more convenient placement, use the base it comes with and put it anywhere the USB cable will reach. Painless setup, great image quality, and the fact that it has a built in microphone means no additional external mic is required, so one less cable and one less thing to crowd the table.
I have heard the issues regarding iChat, and they're valid, but since I do not use it, I can't really complain about it. Setup was simple, and if I have one gripe is that Amazon does not have all the available colors this camera comes in. But that's obviously a very minor point.
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
5 star Camera, ignore the 3 stars., August 28, 2007
I had given it three stars when I first wrote this, but the issues have been resolved, yet I can't seem to adjust the rating. I forgot to restart after I'd connected the camera.
I use a G4 Mac and it works great, I only have USB 1.1 so the image size is smaller than if I had USB 2 but it works for me. I still have to try it with Skype, but the software recognizes the camera, unlike iChat. Woohoo!
I REALLY like this camera. It is well designed, the focus is quite sharp, it sports a sturdy yet flexible neck, mic works well, and it comes in great colors (I chose green.) The snapshot takes a decent photo. I recommend this camera to Mac users.
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