netbook webcam: 0.3M vs 1.3M

[rtsen]

I'm looking for a netbook for my wife so we can do video chatting when she's in Asia.

I was all set in buying the Asus seashell v-series but I noticed it comes with a 0.3M webcam instead of the 1.3M webcam in the P-series. I don't really want to spend $100 for the P-series so i'm looking to buy a Dell 10v mini as an alternative.

From the reviews I read, the seashell seems like the better netbook but the only flaw is the webcam for me.

Can anyone comment on the quality of a 0.3 vs 1.3M webcam?

[coriolis]

I'm assuming you will be using a webcam too of similar resolution? Something to take in mind is that for netbooks with 1280x600 resolution, the screen is only 0.6 megapixels, so 0.3mp really isn't that bad if she's receiving 0.3mp video.

However, I'm assuming that its not concern for you(just wanted to mention in case). 0.3mp is 640x480, 1.3mp is 1280x1024, so its 4x better in terms of number. Something also to keep in mind is the bandwidth used, since she'll be on the other side, the latency might not be as stable, and a higher resolution might result in choppy transmissions.

So main difference would be:

NON-PREMIUM $380
- Matte screen
- Atom N270
- 0.3 MP webcam
- 48Wh battery = 8.5 hours
- NO Bluetooth

PREMIUM $445
- Glossy screen
- Atom N280
- 1.3 MP webcam
- 63Wh battery = 10.5 hours
- Bluetooth

[ChaoZ]

I've heard the 0.3M webcam has a better framerate. I'm not all that impressed with the 1.3M cam on my 901. I say don't let it be a factor in your purchase decision.

[marc_t]

OP,
Do you know if she'll have a fast net connection?
Most connections there are flakey, so the better quality resolution might not have an acceptable frame rate.

g/l !