Best Web Cameras for Families

With Skype, Facebook Chat and the many other video calling services out there, having a good web cam is becoming more and more essential for keeping in touch with your loved ones near and far. While most of the latest laptops come with built-in cameras, they aren’t adjustable and usually offer only basic video quality. For more flexibility and crystal-clear video calls, here are our recommendations for great family-friendly web cams.

Best for Beginners: Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000

$18.25 from amazon.com

If you’re looking for a basic web cam, Microsoft’s LifeCam VX-5000 is a good place to start. Its most distinguishing feature is its flexible base, which makes it easy to use with laptops, flat screens, traditional monitors or wherever you’ll be video calling from. There’s also an integrated microphone so no additional hardware is needed.