Logitech C310 HD Webcam

Despite many desktop PCs coming with speakers and other peripheral devices, webcams are not often included. And although many laptop computers have a camera and microphone built into them, the image and sound quality is usually only suitable for basic video in steady conditions.

Logitech high-definition (HD) webcams are capable of more detailed images: the C310 can take five-megapixel still images and record high-quality video in the 720p resolution. The camera took around five minutes to set up, and the supplied instruction booklet was easy to follow. It connects to the computer’s USB socket.

We were prompted to install the Logitech Vid HD software to enable us to make video calls to other Logitech users, but it also worked well with other programs such as Skype.

Video call quality was good, though it will depend on the speed of your internet connection and meeting the computer requirements.

Our callers could hear us clearly without background noise interfering, and we were able to set the camera to 'follow' our face on-screen, though this is done in the software rather than by the camera actually moving (the more expensive C510 will move to track faces).

Adjusting video and audio settings was fairly simple and the software includes some visual effects, which were fun to play around with, though they don’t offer much for those using the camera for work. Both photos and video were sharp and clear (watch our sample video by clicking here). It's possible to share images and video to Youtube or Facebook immediately after capturing them.

For the security conscious, the C310 can detect motion. Left unattended, it can be set to record for a short time after detecting movement in the room. This worked well, though it means leaving the PC switched on.

The C310 has good features and is easy to use. Image and sound quality are a marked step up from most built-in cameras and if you shop around online you'll find it for less than £30.