Our take
Microsoft's VX-5000 documents 640×480 motion video, a 55-degree diagonal field, fixed focus, an integrated unidirectional microphone, and a flexible attachment base. The family documents color options including red, but the candidate's RKA-00014 part clue is not bridged to Microsoft's listed RKA-00001 red item. This is a legacy model and current software support is not established.
A specific legacy VX-5000 setup where VGA and the flexible base are sufficient and old software compatibility can be verified..
Not for a buyer who needs HD video, a confirmed frame rate, autofocus, a physical privacy cover, or current driver support assurances.
Pros & cons
What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.
What works in its favor
- Microsoft specifies VGA video, a 55° diagonal field and fixed-focus distance.
- A built-in unidirectional microphone and flexible universal attachment base are documented.
- USB 2.0-compatible high-speed connection is listed in the family TDS.
What to weigh up
- The camera is limited to VGA motion video and has no frame-rate table.
- Microsoft documents different digital-zoom multipliers across source documents.
- The red RKA-00014 part clue and B001FA0FVI ASIN are not cross-mapped to the TDS.
The key details
| Model covered | Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 family; RKA-00014 mapping unresolved |
|---|---|
| Documented video modes | 640×480 VGA motion video; separate 1.3MP interpolated stills |
| Focus and framing | 55° diagonal view; fixed focus from 0.5–1.5m |
| Light and lens privacy | Digital pan/tilt/swivel; zoom multiplier differs across documents |
| Integrated audio | Built-in unidirectional microphone with noise-reduction software |
| Connection and mounting | Flexible universal base; high-speed USB compatible with USB 2.0 |
| Identity and setup limits | RKA-00014 and historical ASIN mapping unresolved; old support context |
Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 5, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.
What the features mean for you
Family identity and red variant
The frozen source identifies Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000, calls the trim red and gives RKA-00014 with historical ASIN B001FA0FVI. Microsoft's technical sheet names the VX-5000 family. Its sell sheet says red, blue and green versions were available, but the part number shown there is RKA-00001. That supports the family and red as an available color, not proof that this ASIN and RKA-00014 are an exact red offer or that a present listing includes a particular cable or disc. The product uses a tagged model-and-part search instead of a direct link to the historical ASIN.
VGA motion video and focus distance
Microsoft lists a VGA CMOS sensor and 640×480 motion video. A separate 1.3-megapixel figure applies to interpolated still photographs, not a higher video mode. The materials reviewed do not provide a frame-rate table, so 30fps or another delivered rate should not be assumed. The technical sheet calls focus fixed and gives a 0.5–1.5 metre range; the sell sheet describes this as remaining focused for objects about 21 to 60 inches away. This is not autofocus. It may suit a user who stays around monitor distance, while close demonstrations or frequent distance changes call for a model with documented autofocus.
Field of view and controls
The VX-5000 has a documented 55-degree diagonal field, a moderate framing measurement by current webcam standards. Microsoft describes a flexible attachment base that can bend, sit on a flat surface or attach to a screen. The TDS also lists digital pan, digital tilt and swivel. Those controls are not evidence of an automatically tracking camera head. Microsoft's TDS lists 4× digital zoom while another launch description gives 3×; because official family materials differ, this review does not rely on a multiplier. The exact effect and software availability on a modern host remain unknown.
Microphone, exposure and connection
Microsoft documents an integrated unidirectional microphone and describes noise-reduction software. That may simplify a legacy basic video-chat setup, but the sources do not state pickup distance or a current application path, and there is no independent room test. Microsoft also describes automatic low-light adjustment, which is processing rather than a built-in lamp. USB is specified as high-speed and compatible with USB 2.0; the promotional sheet lists USB 1.1 with USB 2.0 recommended. Physical connector shape, present OS support, included software and privacy shutter are not established by the saved source material.
Who may choose this LifeCam
The VX-5000 is chiefly a legacy choice for someone who specifically wants its flexible mount, VGA video, fixed-focus monitor distance and integrated mic. It is not a good match for 720p/1080p, a confirmed frame rate, autofocus, a physical privacy cover or modern driver assurances. Check the exact part and color on any offer because the row's RKA-00014 clue differs from Microsoft's part number on the red-color sell sheet. The assessment uses Microsoft documents and the frozen title only; it reports no personal testing, buyer-review synthesis, current price, stock or sales.
What else to compare
For HD video and documented autofocus compare Microsoft LifeCam HD-6000 or Logitech C930e; for a privacy shutter compare NexiGo N680P.
Before you buy
Does 1.3 megapixels mean 1.3MP video?
No. Microsoft identifies 640×480 as motion video and labels 1.3MP as an interpolated still image.
Does the VX-5000 autofocus?
No. Microsoft's technical sheet says fixed focus and gives a 0.5–1.5 metre range.
Is the red RKA-00014 variant confirmed?
The row title says red and Microsoft lists red as a family color, but the sell sheet part is RKA-00001.
Can it track a moving presenter?
The source lists digital pan/tilt controls, not automatic two-axis tracking behavior.
Where can I check the current price?
Use the Amazon link for current offers. Check the exact model, seller, product condition, delivery, and return terms. This page does not display a live price or confirm stock.
Sources & review basis
We use the following manufacturer documentation for the product features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.
- Microsoft LifeCam VX-5000 TDS and official sell sheet ↗ — checked October 5, 2026.
- Microsoft VX-5000 TDS: video, FOV, focus, USB, mic and digital controls ↗ — checked October 5, 2026.
- Microsoft sell sheet: flexible base, red family color, mic and legacy software ↗ — checked October 5, 2026.
- Search this model on Amazon · Tagged model/part search; current ASIN not mapped ↗Paid link · We may earn a commission. — checked October 5, 2026.
The decision
Choose VX-5000 only for a verified legacy setup where VGA and fixed focus are sufficient; confirm exact color, part, and host support.
Is it the right fit?
Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.