Genius VideoCAM GE111
Purchase price - 15.00$. Category - entry level. 2 April 2008

Nice looking entry level webcamera from Genius was the next one to test for me. Honestly I was charmed by the way this camera was build. If there was a mounting clip for a laptop, it would get from me a top mark for the construction. The camera has no integrated microphone or a headset, but of course in this price range, this is not a must have. The mounting mechanism is one of the few things to upbraid, it's just suitable for plane surfaces, three legs with small rubber elements beneath. The maneuverability of the webcam is excellent, you can turn it about 30 degrees all around. Manual focus is something usual for a camera like this, it's a little to sensitive, but acceptable. Images are good, except for the low light condition, you will have to think about turning a light on in the night, if you are to use Genius GE111. The led is nice, green and small, located in front of the web camera, not to bright, just the right size and luminosity. The sensor is CIF size (352x288 or 100k). The small lens (about 2mm in diameter) are located very deep inside, the most primitive and effective protective mechanism in this price range. Snapshot button located on top of the camera is well visible and hard to miss, as it's grey and the camera body is black. Body plastic looks a little cheap, but it does not keep your fingerprints and looks pretty solid. In the camera box there is nothing except for a quick installation guide, a CD with drivers and software, and the camera.

Sample images:


Pros:
* Snapshot button
* Very flexible
* Inexpensive

Cons:
* Manual focus
* USB cable too short (1,5m)
* Poor mounting mechanism

Verdict: Genius GE111 is a nice webcam for those with a limited budget and without a LCD monitor.