The choice of the webcam can seem simple at first sight. Actually it not so. Upon purchase it is worth paying attention to the price, shooting speed, image quality and a lens.
Image quality
It, as a rule, the first what people pay attention upon purchase of the webcam to. The good model should have resolution about two megapixels. It is quite enough for the majority of the purposes.
Besides, check quality of video before acquisition. The normal webcam has permission 320 on 240 pixels. Such permission is standard, especially if you work on the netbook with the small screen. If you have a laptop or the desktop computer, then you need the image of the best quality. Permission 640 on 480 pixels in this case will approach far better.
Shooting speed
The number of frames per second is closely connected with image quality which the camera can process and send to your computer. It is obvious that the camera is capable to shoot the bigger number of frames per second, the also the quality of video will be better. The majority of webcams can shoot from 10 to 30 frames per second. When shooting with use of the webcam the frame rate changes all the time, especially if you begin to move or to move it. On average, this quantity is about 15 frames per second. Some more expensive webcams can remove up to 120 frames per second. You, probably, do not need such speed of shooting. 30 frames per second more than are enough for most of users.
Lens and sensor
Inexpensive webcams use plastic lenses which are rigidly fixed in the case. In other words, you will not manage to change focus. More expensive webcams have glass lenses. Turning a ring around a lens of such camera it is possible to change focal distance and to improve image quality. Most of people will suit models with the fixed lens. But if you can afford it, buy the webcam with a glass lens. Such lens transfers the image to the device sensor better.
The sensor is the main detail of the camera. It is an electronic component which will transform light to the digital image. There are two types of sensors: CMOS and CCD. CMOS sensors are used at production of inexpensive webcams and much better cope with shooting in the movement. CCD sensors are usually used in digital cameras and expensive models of webcams. They have excellent permission of the final image and a good color rendition. Apparently from characteristics, both types of sensors have the advantages and shortcomings which the buyer needs to consider when choosing model.
Price
Depending on your budget it is possible to buy very good webcam at the price from 50 up to 80 dollars with necessary characteristics. If it is too large sum, then select model which costs from 20 to 30 dollars. You do not get the same permission and quality of video as at advanced models, but will save a little money.