
Budget webcam
- Low price
- Built-in microphone
- Unique stand
- Fixed focus lens
- Some complaints about bundled software
- Not easy to attach to laptops
April 2009. Reviewers agree that the Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 is among the best budget webcams available. Image and sound quality are not as good as the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 (*est. $80), but reviewers all recommend this webcam for everyday video chats. Unlike some budget models, the LifeCam VX-5000 has a built-in microphone and a flexible, adjustable stand, although some reviewers note it is awkward to attach to laptops. Otherwise, features are basic, and focus cannot be adjusted. The Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 has VGA resolution, 640 pixels by 480 pixels, for video and a 1.3-megapixel sensor for still shots. The Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 also earns praise for its performance in low light compared to other webcams in its price range. Although some reviewers find the bundled LifeCam 2.0 software an improvement over previous Microsoft webcam applications, others insist that there is still much room for improvement.
CowboyFrank.net, PCMag.com and CNET, among the most authoritative testers of webcams online, all recommend the Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 for casual chats. TrustedReviews.com, Pocket-link.co.uk and BenchmarkReviews.com agree, though these sources are generally not as thorough in their reviews. Despite the consensus over the LifeCam VX-5000's suitability as a no-frills webcam, reviewers are divided on the merits of its bundled software and flexible stand; some like them, some do not.
| Featured Stores | Store Rating | Notes | Total Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In Stock. New | $42.99 | See It | ||
| In Stock. FREE FEDEX 2-3 DAY DELIVERY | $173.57 | See It | ||
| In Stock. Get free shipping on orders over $25! | $30.87 | See It | ||
| See All Stores | ||||
Our Sources
Frank Harrell's review of the LifeCam VX-5000 isn't as detailed as some of his other webcam reviews, but still manages to bring up some unique points and criticisms. He recommends this webcam in its price range for "Instant Messaging-type use." However, he notes that images tend to get over-exposed in daylight conditions, making this best for relatively stationary, indoor-lighting use.
Review: Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000, Frank Harrell, Dec. 19, 2008
Reviewer John Brandon is impressed with the image quality of the LifeCam VX-5000, stating that in basic chats it rivals the universally acclaimed Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000. In this thorough review, Brandon also praises the included software, LifeCam 2.0. He objects that some of the webcam's features only seem to work with Microsoft Messenger, but otherwise finds this a good buy for "video chats with friends or geographically remote relatives."
Review: Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000, John Brandon, July 17, 2008
3. CNET
CNET covers webcams in single-product reviews. Discussion covers important considerations, but it falls short of some other reviewers. Installation and performance are generally described clearly. In this review of the LifeCam VX-5000, Matthew Elliott notes that the webcam is very good for video chats and a marked improvement over earlier Microsoft models. However, Elliott does not like the LifeCam 2.0 application at all.
Review: Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 (Red) Review, Matthew Elliott, May 15, 2008


