Logitech QuickCam Fusion
Manufacturer: Logitech Part number: 961403-0403
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Logitech QuickCam Fusion's sleek design and impressive software bundle make it one of the best Webcams we've seen.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com Marketplace |  | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 12/08/2009 |
CNET editors' review
Logitech QuickCam Fusion price range: $45.99
- Reviewed by: Lara Luepke
- Edited by: Justin Jaffe
- Reviewed on: 12/02/2005
- Released on: 08/15/2005
The good: Up to 4-megapixel pictures (interpolated after 1.3 megapixels); cute cartoon avatars; good built-in microphone; flawless integration with MSN Messenger; good software package; lots of adjustment options.
The bad: Pixelated image at any size; slightly blurry video; poor integration with Yahoo Messenger.
The bottom line: The Logitech QuickCam Fusion's sleek design and impressive software bundle make it one of the best Webcams we've seen.
The Logitech QuickCam Fusion's sleek new design and impressive software bundle make it one of the best Webcams we've seen. Though it won't replace your digital camera or video recorder, this $99 device can take clear still pictures and video, and it works seamlessly with multiple instant-messaging clients.
Installing the Logitech QuickCam Fusion is easy. In addition to MSN Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), and Yahoo Messenger, the included installation CD includes drivers and plenty of software: Logitech's QuickCapture app for taking still photos and videos, an application for sending e-mail with video, and Logitech's Desktop Messenger software, which automatically checks for software updates. You can select the software you'd like to install or install it all at once. Both applications are easy to use and fairly self-explanatory, though two brief setup guides are included.
The Fusion's flexible tail can fit atop a CRT, an LCD, or a laptop display. The tail is adjustable but not very stable. It doesn't hold its shape particularly well, and adjusting it can be a balancing act. We prefer the stands that come with the Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000, which offers a more stable tail-style stand and a desktop stand. The Fusion's camera tilts back 90 degrees but doesn't tilt forward and can't swivel from side to side. With the QuickCapture application open, you just push the unlabeled button on top of the camera to make the Fusion take a snapshot. The small, fairly sensitive microphone built into the front of the camera can record a conversation from six feet away.
The included QuickCam software lets you adjust a myriad of settings, including brightness, saturation, contrast, white balance, hue, sharpness, gamma, and backlight. You can also change exposure, gain, and the ambient-light setting. In the less-useful-but-cute department is the Avatars feature, which tracks the movements of your nose, eyebrows, and mouth and applies them to a cartoon character such as an alien or a shark.
The Fusion performed well in our tests, though we noticed digital noise in both still and video images. Video was generally clear and smooth, but we noticed blurring during fast movements, such as waving a hand. The Fusion can take still pictures of up to 4 megapixels, though it interpolates anything larger than 1.3 megapixels. It can record video at resolutions up to 640x480 and at a maximum of 30 frames per second (fps).
The Fusion works well with AIM and Yahoo Messenger, but it works best with MSN Messenger. In our tests, video looked smooth when sending and receiving, and color distortion was minimal, even in low light. Video over AIM also looked smooth, though colors were a bit more distorted than on MSN, especially on the receiving end. We were disappointed with Yahoo Messenger's performance: video played very slowly and looked more like a series of stills--we attribute this to Yahoo's software, not the Webcam. With the built-in microphone, voice messaging worked well over all three messaging services; the included headset provided the best call quality.
Logitech backs the Fusion with an industry-standard two-year warranty. You can get service and support online or from a toll-free phone number. Logitech's support Web site also offers software updates, driver downloads, and user discussion forums.
User reviews
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Did I buy a lemon? Not good for MSN Messenger
by CWPete on September 11, 2005
Pros: None on the Internet. Maybe on stills.
Cons: Picture blurry on MSN Messenger not on Intel CS430
Summary: I have the new QuickCam Fusion camera. The problem I have with it is that when I am on MS Messenger people say my face is blurry. The camera I ...
Summary: I have the new QuickCam Fusion camera. The problem I have with it is that when I am on MS Messenger people say my face is blurry. The camera I had installed before I got the Fusion camera was an Intel CS430 and all the reports I got on MS Messenger said my picture was crystal clear, but not on the Fusion camera. I don't know if I got a lemon or not. I may take it back to BestBuy and stay with my Intel.
I sent an email to Logitech 3 days ago and have not gotten a response from them yet.22 out of 28 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Best consumer webcam I've seen
by jeffcorcoran on October 10, 2005
Pros: Great image quality, face tracking, built in mic with AEC, works great in low light
Cons: a bit expensive at $99
Summary: I'm not sure why the other posts gave this camera such a bad rating. Perhaps they received an early release or are confused with another camera? The only issue ...
Summary: I'm not sure why the other posts gave this camera such a bad rating. Perhaps they received an early release or are confused with another camera? The only issue that I've had is that the video effects and avatars didn't work until I went to Logitech's website and upgraded to v9.0.2 (the auto update feature didn't work). The face tracking works great and the color and brightness looks totally natural in dim lighting conditions. The built in mic with echo cancellation seems to work fine but isn't quite as good as using a multimedia headset, of course. I would probably give this webcam a 9 if it was still going strong a few months from now. There's a 2 year warrantee, so hold on to your receipt if you buy this. I recommend it!
14 out of 14 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Not the camera that you think it is, save your $
by samsongrey on September 22, 2005
Pros: stylish exterior
Cons: MSN Instant Messenger image quality is Horrible!!!!
Summary: This camera is not the camera Logitech has been hyping!
It does nothing better than the Quickcam 4000, and ALOT of things worse. I had the 4000 for a week ...Summary: This camera is not the camera Logitech has been hyping!
It does nothing better than the Quickcam 4000, and ALOT of things worse. I had the 4000 for a week before this came out. When I saw this had been released I thought "if the 4000 is this good the Fusion must be better, right?" Wrong! Fuzzy and blurry images, especially in MSN instant messenger (I didn't try any others). The reason I bought a webcam was to use it on the WEB! The 1.3MP option means that you get a BIGGER blurry/fuzzy picture of yourself sitting in front of the computer. The avatars are gimicky and only fun because I could show my son how I could become a Shark. A novelty yes, but one that is short lived. I don't actually think I would use them online. Really, what's the point of having a camera broadcast over the internet a picture that isn't you? I don't get it. (maybe Im too old) In any case, no one could explain the fuzzy image and obviously its standard for this camera after reading the other posts and combing through logitechs "discussion boards". It's going back tonight. In my opinion the Quickcam 4000 is a great option, the MSN messenger quality was very crisp and clear, and the audio smooth. The Fusion while much smaller and far more stylish than the large "eye ball" of the 4000, it lacks in every other respect. The design of the Fusion saved it from receiving a rating of 1.
To Logitech, I say, you can do better and your customers deserve more in every way when you release a product like this. I feel as though I have been had.
Maybe when the Quickcam 5000 comes out in October, Logitech will have worked out the kinks.
I'll let you be the guinea pig for that one....Updated
curious to know if the people who rated this camera an 8 or a 9 are planning on using it as a web camera or just to take pictures of themselves at a desk. I noticed not a single one commented on its web camera image abilities. Just an additional thought...It is a web camera afterall.11 out of 13 users found this user opinion helpful.
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incompatible with windows xp
by torgralil on May 15, 2006
Pros: none really because I couldn't use it
Cons: it nearly fried my computer
Summary: After installing, it worked for a few minutes, and then all hell broke loose. The computer froze and upon restart, I got the dreaded blue screen. When that went away, ...
Summary: After installing, it worked for a few minutes, and then all hell broke loose. The computer froze and upon restart, I got the dreaded blue screen. When that went away, all my online settings were gone. I tried reinstalling, etc. Had to do system restore 3-4 times, and then I uninstalled the software. After doing a search for logitech on my computer, finally found a hidden message that said this product is incompatible with windows xp. This same message directed me to Windows Marketplace, which lists all kinds of compatible products. Fusion was not there. It's going back to the store ASAP. I wish products and reviewers would tell us this stuff.
9 out of 12 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Nice camera; works great
by cnetgirl on January 1, 2006
Pros: clear video, decent price, nice shape
Cons: gets warm after awhile
Summary: I don't know why people are ragging on this webcam. It works perfectly fine for me - color and images are super clear, especially on MSN Video but Yahoo'...
Summary: I don't know why people are ragging on this webcam. It works perfectly fine for me - color and images are super clear, especially on MSN Video but Yahoo's video is pretty crummy, even with the Creative camera that I had before. This new one is cool - I can even do these cartoon things and add glasses to my face. And when its on sale, it's a great deal. I'm gonna get one for my sister when she goes to college next year.
7 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
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The negative reviews are unjustified
by Kamokazi on December 4, 2005
Pros: Execellent picture, best res for consumer cams, superb mic, face tracking is excellent
Cons: Would like a better mounting solution, does not pivot side to side
Summary: Most of the bad reviews have basically equated to people either a) not taking the time to properly configure it b) expecting too much from a consumer webcam (they are ...
Summary: Most of the bad reviews have basically equated to people either a) not taking the time to properly configure it b) expecting too much from a consumer webcam (they are still pretty poor overall), and c) perhaps had a bad unit (or dirty lens in the case of the blurry picture).
7 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Probably returning this one to the store
by JTNLJ on June 25, 2006
Pros: Good quality image at 100% zoom (i.e. no zoom-in at all)
Cons: Unacceptably blurry when zoom used
Summary: One reviewer here commented that the focus ring was stuck. It isn't stuck. There just isn't one. Too bad, too, the cam really needs help when you use ...
Summary: One reviewer here commented that the focus ring was stuck. It isn't stuck. There just isn't one. Too bad, too, the cam really needs help when you use the zoom (i.e zoom greater than 100%). The auto focus does what it can, but when CNET says one of the CONS is slightly blurry, I think they are being kind. Many far less expensive cameras have a much sharper image.
I suppose one could use this camera at 100% all the time, but the lens has such a wide angle, you need to be very close to it to have any size in the pic. Simply sitting 2 or 3 feet away from it makes you small in the frame unless you zoom..and then you are blurry.6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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JAYESHPARMAR
by JayeshParmar on September 19, 2005
Pros: nice glossy packaging
Cons: pathetic content - i.e. the webcam
Summary: Let me begin my stating why I bough this webcam. There has ben so much hype over the new range of Logitech webcams which are supposed to have some RIGHT ...
Summary: Let me begin my stating why I bough this webcam. There has ben so much hype over the new range of Logitech webcams which are supposed to have some RIGHT color technology BS. I used my old webcam - the logitech quickcam pro for notebooks as a benchmark to compare this product.
1. For a start, Logitech are not being open about the specs of this webcam - the sensor is CMOS - the sensor on my Logitech Quick Cam Pro for Notebook is CCD. The difference between the two is dramatic - CCD lenses capture colors in a much more truer way than any CMOS sensor can capture - SO PLEASE DONT BE FOOLED BY LOGITECH'S CRAPPY CLAIM OF THEIR TRUE COLOR TECHNOLOGY. As a test - I suggest you buy both the webcams i have mentioned above and you will see that the Logitech webcam pro for notebook OLDER model is much much much better.
2. When you connect your webcam to msn messenger - you are in for another disappointment - the frame rate is the WORST i have seen on any webcam - its just so jerky - the colors are NO WAY even close to being accurate - lots of pink hues - makes a real nasty webcam pic - The older webcam, i.e. Logitech quickcam pro for notebooks(please do not confuse it with the newly released one with true color bs - im talking about the model prior to the ones which have just been released) had a much much better frame rate -despite logitech claiming this new webcam is usb 2.0 - who are these clowns trying to kid.
3. You will notice on previous logitechs with ccd sensors you have this option to set the ligthing to DAYLIGHT, FLORESCENT, etc these options are now out of the new driver - what for i wonder - thus its almost impossible to get a good color on the new webcam despite tweaking with the settings.
4. THe focus ring on my webcam cam stuck - and this is supposed to be brand new piece of kit.
If you own a previous high quality logitech ccd type of webcam which you bought 6 months earlier DONT EVEN BOTHER UPGRADING - take my advice on this subjust go to amazon.com and see the reviews on the old QUickcam Pro for notebooks webcam or even on CNET people raved over it for a good reason - it was out of this world and still is.
I agree with the previous owner - the intel webcam he is using produces beautiful colors - and i can understand why he feels he got a raw deal. DONT BELIEVE THE HYPE.
Oh yeah one more thing Logitech is raving about the use of avaters for the new series of webcams - well guess what they arent at all easy to setup - its a REAL GIMMICK without the type of fun you would expect -
I really hope Logitech does the right thing by recalling any of these new webcams they have sold and sending their esteemed customers an apology letter saying they messed up - preferably with a box of chocolates and candy.
YOURS GOD I WISH I DIDNT BY THIS
J.PARMAR
oh i sent the new webcam back by the way
[Edited by: admin]8 out of 11 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good Camera at a great price.
by etfd on September 13, 2006
Pros: great microphone quality, modest price, software facial tracking is adequate
Cons: possible problem attaching cam to a CRT monitor.
Summary: I bought this camera for use with the Skype voice/video-over-IP service. I was very pleased, or rather my calling party was pleased, with the video quality of the camera. ...
Summary: I bought this camera for use with the Skype voice/video-over-IP service. I was very pleased, or rather my calling party was pleased, with the video quality of the camera.
The microphone sensitivity is particularly good. I am able to speak at least 3 to 4 feet away from the camera mic and keep good sound quality.
Face tracking by the camera is also adequate. It does tend to move around a little bit more than one would like, but not to the point that it's distracting.
The only issue I see with this camera is in regard to camera positioning. The camera fits best on an LCD flatscreen. Placement on CRT monitors may be awkward (particularly monitors that do not have a 90 degree fall off from the top of the monitor to the screen.)5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Does Not Work with Media Center Edition XP
by dafonte on April 7, 2006
Pros: Is a great looking non-working cam
Cons: Doesn't work with MCE XP
Summary: When I purchased this webcam, there was nothing on Logitech's site which said the cam would not work on the Media Center Edition of XP. When it failed to ...
Summary: When I purchased this webcam, there was nothing on Logitech's site which said the cam would not work on the Media Center Edition of XP. When it failed to install after multiple attempts, I contacted Logitech and they apoligized, and they let me know that none of their webcams work with MCE XP.
5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Logitech
- Part number: 961403-0403
- Description: Take your video calling experience to a new level of performance with QuickCam Fusion's true megapixel sensor, RightLight 2, and Rightsound Technologies. Capture HD resolution videos at 960X720 or up to 4 Megapixel still images (software enhanced). Sending pictures and video clips to friends and family is one click away with Logitech's QuickCam software. Personalize your calls with Logitech Video Effects 3D animated avatars that imitate your facial expressions or 2D face accessories that move with your face. With the combination of high performance hardware and easy to use and fun software, make every video call an unforgettable experience. PRODUCT FEATURES: Stunning megapixel webcam for sharp images and clear, echo-free audio; 1.3 megapixel sensor for up to 4MP quality images; RightLight 2 Technology for the best possible images regardless of your lighting; Integrated mic with RightSound Technology for clear and echo-free audio; Personalized video conversations with Logitech Video Effects; Flexible clip fits on any monitor, notebook or tabletop; Snapshot button: taking stills is fast and easy; Activity light: Lets you know when you're "live.
General
- Device Type Web camera
- Gross sensor resolution 1,300,000 pixels
- Optical sensor type CMOS
- Software Included QuickCapture, Drivers & Utilities, Logitech Video Effects
- Features RightLight technology, RightSound technology
Camera
- Type Color
- Still Image 1280 x 960
- Audio Support Yes : Built-in microphone
Image Sensor
- Type CMOS
Interfaces
- Computer Interface Hi-Speed USB
Expansion / Connectivity
- Interfaces 1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 pin USB Type A
- Cables included 1 x USB cable - 6 ft
Miscellaneous
- Included Accessories Flat panel monitor clip
- Cables Included 1 x USB cable - 6 ft
- Microsoft Certifications Certified for Windows Vista
- Compliant Standards FCC Part 15
Power
- Power Device None
Software / System Requirements
- OS Required Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP
- Min Processor Type 1.4 GHz
- Peripheral / Interface Devices CD-ROM, Speaker(s), USB port, Sound card
- System Requirements Details Windows 2000/XP - Pentium 4 - RAM 128 MB - HD 200 MB
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 2 years
Override
- Service & Support 2 years warranty
Manufacturer info
- Logitech
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Logitech products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.logitech.com/
- Address:
6505 Kaiser Dr., Fremont, CA 94555
