The Logitech WebCam Pro 9000 and the Microsoft LifeCam Cinema are two of the top selling webcams on BestBuy.com. Both of them have an MSRP of $79.99 but end up going on sale for $59.99 and both have great reviews from users (both about 4.5 stars at the time of this article). So, what’s the difference between these two best selling webcams, other than the brand name and design? Read on to find out.
What’s the Same?

In terms of tech specs, there’s plenty of overlap between these two cameras. Both connect via USB 2.0, both use CMOS sensors, both have built-in microphones and both are designed for Windows. Overall, these are both great webcams for the money—so go forth knowing that whatever you choose, you’ll be making a good purchase.

Still Image Resolution – Winner: Logitech WebCam Pro 9000

Webcams are used primarily for video chat, but they can also take still snapshots, which you can use as avatars, for profile pics or anything else you can think of. The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema has a 5.0 MP still image resolution, which is on par with most smartphones, such as the iPhone 4. The Logitech WebCam Pro 9000 has more megapixels though, at 8 MP for still images using its software interpolation. Without it, it has a still image resolution of 2 MP. Either one will take sufficient still frame photos in well-lit rooms.

Noise Cancelling – Winner: Logitech WebCam Pro 9000

The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema uses a built-in noise-cancelling microphone in order to reduce unwanted ambient noise, while the Logitech WebCam Pro 9000 uses its proprietary RightSound technology to reduce ambient noise. Both do a great job, but the RightSound noise cancellation is a bit more effective.

Video Resolution and Quality – Winner: Logitech WebCam Pro 9000

The Logitech WebCam Pro 9000 can shoot HD video at 720p in 16:9 widescreen, which is excellent by any standard. It also has Carl Zeiss optics with autofocus, which consistently produces sharp and clear video. The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema also shoots HD video in 1280 x 720, but it lacks the Carl Zeiss lens that Logitech boasts.

Software – Winner: Microsoft LifeCam Cinema

You don’t have to use the bundled software to enjoy either of these webcams, but they add an additional perk to the hardware. The Logitech model comes with Logitech Vid, which allows oyu to add video effects, create avatars and get creative with other artistic flourishes. The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema doesn’t come with comparable bundled software, but it’s optimized to work with the Windows Live Essentials suite, which includes Windows Live Movie Maker and Windows Live Photo Gallery. These programs are very well developed and make creating movies and sharing incredibly easy. It also integrates with Windows Live Messenger by incorporating a Windows Live Call button that lets you see who’s online and place a video call or begin a video chat or video conference with a single touch.

Conclusion

In terms of hardware, performance and video quality, the Logitech WebCam Pro 9000 wins by a nose in many departments. Both are excellent HD web cams and both are well-supported. It’s worth noting that the Logitech WebCam Pro 9000 has a 2-year limited warranty while the Microsoft LifeCam Cinema has a 3-year limited warranty, but you likely won’t need to call in either.