How to use the webcam test
1. Click "Start webcam test" and allow access when the browser asks.
2. If you have more than one camera (the built-in one and a USB webcam, for example), pick the one to test from the list.
3. Look at the camera for a few seconds. The test measures resolution, frame rate and lighting, and gives a verdict.
4. Click "Take photo" to save an image and check the quality calmly.
Webcam resolution: 720p, 1080p and 4K
Resolution is the size of the image in pixels. Most laptop webcams deliver HD 720p (1280×720). Better models deliver Full HD 1080p (1920×1080), and higher-end external webcams reach 2K or 4K.
The test asks for Full HD 1080p at 30 frames per second, the standard for video calls, and shows the resolution the camera actually delivers, along with the maximum it supports. If a camera is sold as 1080p but the test shows 720p, the browser or driver may be limiting it, or the camera lowers the resolution in low light.
Frames per second and lighting
Frames per second (FPS) is how many images the camera sends each second. 30 FPS is the standard for calls and keeps motion smooth. Below 15 FPS, video looks choppy.
Low light is the main cause of low FPS: in the dark, the camera exposes each frame longer to collect light, so it sends fewer frames per second. The image also gets grainy. The cheapest fix is a light in front of your face, like a desk lamp or a window. Light behind you (backlight) makes your face dark even in a bright room.
Webcam not working or showing a black screen
Privacy shutter: many laptops have a small sliding cover over the camera. A black image with the camera "on" is almost always this.
Camera key: Lenovo, HP, Dell and Acer laptops often have a key (F8, F10 or similar, with a camera icon) that turns the webcam off. Press it and test again.
System privacy: on Windows 11, open Settings > Privacy & security > Camera and turn on "Camera access" and "Let desktop apps access your camera". On a Mac, System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera, enable your browser.
Another app using the camera: usually only one app at a time can use the webcam. Close Meet, Zoom, Teams, Discord and the Windows Camera app.
Driver: if nothing works, open Device Manager, look under "Cameras" or "Imaging devices", uninstall the webcam and restart the laptop so Windows reinstalls the driver.
Camera works here but not in Meet, Zoom or Teams
If the image shows up here, the webcam and its driver work. In the call app’s video settings, choose the same camera that worked here; sometimes the app is using a virtual camera (OBS, Snap Camera) or another webcam. In the browser, each site needs its own permission: click the lock next to the Meet address and allow the camera.
Your image never leaves your computer
Video is processed inside your browser. Nothing is recorded on a server or sent over the internet. A photo is only saved to your computer when you click "Take photo".
Frequently asked questions
How do I test my webcam online?
Click "Start webcam test" and allow access. If the image appears, the camera works. The test shows the resolution, frames per second and whether the lighting is good.
Why is my webcam showing a black screen?
It is almost always a closed privacy shutter or a camera turned off with a keyboard key. It can also be another app using the camera or permission denied in the system privacy settings.
How do I know if my webcam is Full HD 1080p?
Start the test and look at "Resolution" and "Max supported". If it shows 1920×1080, the webcam is Full HD. Most laptop webcams are HD 720p (1280×720).
Why is my webcam image dark or grainy?
Not enough light. Laptop webcams have small sensors and need plenty of light. Put a light in front of your face and avoid windows behind you.
Why is my image flipped?
The preview is mirrored, like a mirror, because that feels more natural when you see yourself. Other people on the call see you the right way. Uncheck "Mirror image" to see what others see.
Why does my camera work here but not in Meet or Teams?
The call app probably has a different camera selected or no permission in the browser. Choose the same camera that worked here in the app’s video settings.
Does the webcam test record or upload my image?
No. Video is processed only in your browser and nothing is sent over the internet. A photo is only saved to your computer if you click "Take photo".
Can I test a phone camera?
Yes. The test works in current Android and iPhone browsers. Use the "Camera" list to choose between the front and back cameras.