Labs

Creative's Webcam Instant starts with a disadvantage, as it has the lowest native resolution on test. It captures video at 352 x 288 pixels, while the others boast 640 x 480.

Despite this, quality was still better than the Genius Trek 310's. During a conversation in Messenger, the small picture window means the resolution deficit isn't that noticeable. But click on the full-screen button, and the relative blurriness and lack of detail are apparent.

Definition is still sharper than the Genius, and we didn't see the

ADVERTISEMENT

same reddish cast of the Trek 310. However, it can't match the rest for detail and clarity. Snapshots and video can be saved at 640 x 480, but that's with software interpolation - the rest go higher still. Audio quality is excellent, if you use the bundled headset. The lapel microphone isn't quite as good and there's no integrated unit.

The headset is Skype certified, which probably accounts for the great quality, and it's worth noting the bundled voucher for 30 SkypeOut minutes.

The Webcam Instant is one of the better-looking models here with two arms clipped over a monitor. A third folds out to support the camera behind, or folds away for sitting flat on a desk or CRT. A stem lets you aim the camera anywhere you want, but it's hard to grip the lens to adjust focus.

On top, there's a snapshot button, and the WebCam Center software has a sensitive motion-detection feature, capturing or broadcasting video or sending an email alert when movement is detected.

Overall, it isn't a terrible choice considering the low resolution, but with the MSI StarCam costing £8 less we can't recommend it.