This is the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000, a 720p HD webcam that you can get for just under
$25.
There’s an alternate “for business” model for a few bucks more, but there’s
no details on the product page as to what the difference actually is.
I’ve taken a look a quite a few webcams on the channel, but this is the first time
I’ve stepped outside of the Logitech webcam sphere.
Let’s take a look, as quick as I can!
[PRE-ROLL]
The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 comes in a small form factor - a small black plastic housing,
with a rubbery, grippy “universal mount” to grip around just about any monitor.
Quite convenient!
The USB cable is not detachable, but that’s pretty standard among webcams.
The front features “HD” in white text, an indicator LED, a microphone, and a bezel
around the plastic lens.
With the Microsoft cams, you don’t get glass lens elements until the “LifeCam Cinema”
- according to their crazy product tiers on Amazon.
Seriously, how are they differentiating between “HD Video,” “Good HD Video,” “Better
HD Video,” and “Mobile HD Video”?!
Also, it’s “Skype Certified” - which doesn’t really mean anything other than
someone hooked it up and made sure Skype recognized it.
The camera does feature their “TrueColor Technology” color correction, which works
nicely, but does not feature AutoFocus.
Though it maintains a decent focus in my tests.
Speaking of tests, let’s start showing those!
First is a video test using the built-in Windows 10 camera app.
I did separate tests with Windows 10 Camera and OBS because I have issues with the Windows
10 app scaling the webcam frame around a little.
I’m glad I did, because it didn’t record any sound.
Anyway, one test is with just the webcam hooked up like normal and the second is with a light
illuminating my face, for a more professional content creation setup.
Also, here’s a couple photo samples using the camera app, as well.
Now here are my tests using OBS - with sound!
Along with my Logitech C930 and Canon Vixia HF R500 camcorder in the same position
for comparisons.
So there you go.
It’s nothing fantastic, but for under $25, it’s actually a really good webcam!
It’d be perfect for live streaming, facecam for videos, video calling, that sort of thing.
This has been my review of the Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000.
I enjoy taking a look at webcams on the channel, so hopefully I can get Microsoft samples of
their other models like the LifeCam Cinema and Studio.
Smash the like button if you enjoyed, don’t forget to subscribe for more awesome tech
videos, and I’ll catch you in the next one.
Product links will be in the description below, as always.