The Apple iSight Personal Web Camera. Still the Best!
23 of 23 people found this review helpful.
This is the now discontinued Apple iSight Personal Web Camera, or Webcam.
There wasn't and still isn't anything that remotely compares to it. It is truly in a class all by itself.
In a world where practically every Webcam is a cheap piece of plastic junk (regardless of price) the iSight shone as a magnificent example of what can be done when cost is no object. At the original retail price of $149 it was one of if not the most expensive Webcam available but made a good argument for being an excellent value.
To start, here's some of the specifications: This Webcam uses a camera-grade 1/4" CCD sensor with glass lens and built-in AutoFocus and Image Processing. The Sensor is "only" 1.3 megapixels, but it is an ACTUAL 1.3mp, NOT "Interpolated" or "Effective". The Microphone is of a dual-element noise-suppressing design.
Contrast this with the specs of practically any other "high-end" Webcam with cheap and inferior CMOS sensors rated in "Effective" mp, plastic lenses, software dependent AutoFocus and Image Processing....
mostly they appear to be designed for shelf appeal, high profit margins and "looking good on paper".
The iSight is a joy to use with its metal body, combined "Off" switch with highly visible white privacy shutter and smooth acting mechanical tilt and swivel mount. Oddly, the camera remains warm even when turned "OFF" and the green indicator is out.
The picture is decidedly barrel-shaped to focus attention on the subject (user) using the Webcam. The picture is smooth and fluid with good resolution and even manages to correct quite a bit for bad lighting. Sound is reportedly good on the other end.
The FireWire400 interface is unusual but hold some benefits over USB2.0 mainly less overhead for the CPU and more stable, higher sustained speed. As every modern Mac has at least one FW400 port, this shouldn't be an issue.
Apple stopped making these excellent Webcams in December 2006 reportedly due to either low sales or inability to make them "environmentally friendly" enough for sale in Europe. Since then they continue to hold value well in the eBay market, often surpassing the original list price.
Rumors abound of Apple developing an iSight HD to re-enter the external Webcam market, so keep this in mind when considering purchasing one of these jewels.
Have Fun,
Keri
Review ID: 10000000008178747
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