Microsoft Lifecam HD5000

This is the Microsoft Lifecam HD-5000, a high-definition webcam, or 720p to be precise.

It's unassuming given the promised video quality and the clever stand can be used to attach it to a monitor or stand on a desk by itself. It all comes down to whether you want people to focus on your forehead or chin. Frankly I'd be happier to be able to attach it to the side of a monitor to get a balanced view but perhaps that's my own hangup.

Back to the camera there's a single button on the top to start Microsoft Live Messenger. The LifeCam program gives a preview of what the webcam is seeing and shows the various options that can be adjusted.

These include the resolution of the webcam and what adjustments are made by the truecolor section. If you are willing to experiment with the settings you can greatly improve the appearance of the video. There is also an option to reduce flicker although we didn't need this in our office.

The software has effects that can be applied to the video and the face recognition ensures that they are applied to the right place. They are all for a bit of fun and I was pleased to see that at least one solves my problem of too much forehead showing in the video.

Naturally, the Lifecam is assuming it will be used with Microsoft Live Messenger but it is possible to use it with other software like Skype as well. The video effects dashboard appears automatically so you can use those effects in those calls as well.

The Lifecam HD-5000 is £50 about mid range price-wise but with great video quality and some clever effects.