D-Link DCS-900 Internet Camera Review

What the reviewers like:
The low price for a camera of this type is the biggest attraction of the D-Link DCS-900 Internet Camera. The mount is good. It has a built-in web server.

What the reviewers don't like:
Setup and use can be a challenge; one reviewer couldn’t get the software to work. Even though the maximum resolution is 640 x 480, default resolution is 320 x 200. The D-Link DCS-900 isn't weatherproof, so it wouldn't make a good surveillance camera for outdoor use.

D-Link DCS-900 Internet Camera review highlights

The D-Link DCS-900 Internet Camera is one of the few surveillance webcams you can buy for less than $100. Reviews imply that some expertise is required to set up and use this product, which means that it is only a bargain if you can get it to work.

Surveillance cameras such as the D-Link DCS-900 are only marginally consumer products, which is why they are not reviewed by the mainstream media or most specialty websites devoted to webcams. PC Mechanic.com has a pretty good review of the D-Link DCS-900 with solid, credible conclusions. The Inquirer and DailyGame.com have less detailed reviews that may offer minimal help to prospective buyers. Newegg.com and Amazon.com each provide some user feedback on the D-Link DCS-900.

Also see full report: Webcams

*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. PCMech.com
D-Link DCS-900 Internet Camera Review
Tyler Thompson
May 10, 2006

The single-product review of the D-Link DCS-900 is competent, but it will leave many readers wondering how much better a more expensive model would be. Tyler Thompson experienced significant enough problems in testing to discourage buyers, yet he sees it as a good value as an entry-level surveillance webcam.

2. The Inquirer
D-Link DCS-900 IP camera is a flipping bargain
Fernando Cassia
Dec. 30, 2005

This very favorable review for the D-Link DCS-900 veers far from the mainstream in testing and use. For example, Fernando Cassia apparently only tested the webcam under Linux. The review is too technical for typical users.

3. DailyGame.net
D-Link DCS-900W Wireless Camera Review
Craig Falstaff

Craig Falstaff’s review of the wireless version of the D-Link DCS-900 covers very little. In fact, video quality isn’t addressed at all. The review is wonderfully descriptive, especially the simile that says the DCS-900W "looks like a half-sized soda can and is very lightweight." Comparisons with other webcams would be even more useful.

4. Newegg.com
D-Link DCS-900 Reviews
Contributors to Newegg.com

About half the Newegg.com customers who describe their experiences with the D-Link DCS-900 are totally satisfied with it. Many rate their own tech level as high. Even so, many have problems with the software. Quite a few owners are unhappy with video quality.

5. Amazon.com
D-Link DCS-900 Reviews
Contributors to Amazon.com

Amazon.com customers give the DCS-900 a middling rating overall. Some of the reviews are very old.

Also see full report: Webcams

D-Link DCS-900 Internet Camera Review