How to Test Your Webcam
- Press Start camera and allow camera access when your browser asks.
- Your live image appears in the preview. If you have several cameras, choose one from the list.
- Choose the requested resolution to see the highest quality your camera supports.
- Check the results below the preview.
What the Results Mean
- Resolution — the width and height the camera is actually sending, such as 1920 × 1080.
- Frame rate — frames per second delivered right now, measured from the video itself, not the camera’s advertised value.
- Aspect ratio — 16:9 for most modern webcams, 4:3 for older or document cameras.
- Camera — the device name your system reports.
| Resolution | Name | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 640 × 480 | VGA | Old or very basic webcams |
| 1280 × 720 | 720p HD | Most laptop cameras |
| 1920 × 1080 | 1080p Full HD | Good external webcams |
| 3840 × 2160 | 4K UHD | Premium webcams |
Webcam Not Working? Try This
Permission Denied
Click the camera icon in the address bar and allow the camera. On Windows, check Settings → Privacy & security → Camera and allow apps and your browser. On macOS, check System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera.
Camera Busy
Only one app can use most webcams at a time. Close Zoom, Teams, Skype, OBS and other camera apps, then press Start again.
Black Image
Check for a physical privacy shutter, a camera on/off key (often F8 or F10 on laptops), or a disabled camera in Device Manager.
Camera Not Listed
Try another USB port, avoid unpowered hubs, and reinstall the camera driver. Built-in laptop cameras can be disabled in the BIOS.
Getting a Better Picture
- Light your face from the front. A window or lamp behind the screen improves sharpness, colour and frame rate more than any setting.
- Raise the camera to eye level. A low camera looking up is unflattering and puts the ceiling in the shot.
- Clean the lens. Fingerprints cause a hazy, soft image.
- Use the highest resolution your calling app supports, and a USB 3 port for external cameras.
Check Your Audio Too
Your microphone matters as much as your camera on calls. Test it with the microphone test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Webcam Not Working?
The most common causes are a denied browser permission, another app already using the camera, or a privacy shutter or keyboard key that disables the camera. Check each of these, then select the right camera in the list.
Why Is My Webcam Resolution Lower than Advertised?
Browsers ask for the resolution selected above, but the camera may not support it, or a USB 2.0 port or hub may limit bandwidth. Plug the camera directly into a USB 3 port and choose 1080p or 4K above.
Why Is My Frame Rate Low?
In dim light most webcams lengthen exposure and drop to 15 fps or lower. Add light in front of you and the frame rate usually returns to 30 fps. Low USB bandwidth and high CPU load can also reduce it.
Why Is My Image Mirrored?
Many apps show your own preview mirrored because it feels natural, like a mirror. Others see you unmirrored. Use the Mirror button to compare; it only changes your preview here.
Is My Video Recorded or Uploaded?
No. The camera feed is shown only on your screen, inside this page. Nothing is recorded, saved or sent, and the camera turns off when you stop the test or leave.
Related Tests
- Microphone TestCheck that your microphone works, see how loud it is, and hear exactly how you sound.
- Speaker TestCheck that both speakers work, are connected the right way round, and can play bass and treble.
- Headphone TestMake sure your headphones play each side correctly, are wired in phase, and cover the full frequency range.
Last updated · Part of our audio & video tests.