GearCheckHow to use the webcam test
- Click “Start webcam test” and allow camera access when your browser asks.
- Check the picture. Is it sharp, well lit and smooth? The badges in the corner show the live resolution and frame rate.
- Try other cameras and resolutions from the menus — useful when a laptop has a built-in camera and an external one.
- Take a snapshot to check detail at full resolution, or go full screen to check focus.
What the numbers mean
| Result | Good for |
|---|---|
| 640×480 (480p) | Very old or basic cameras; looks soft on modern screens. |
| 1280×720 (720p) at 30 fps | Most laptop cameras; fine for video calls. |
| 1920×1080 (1080p) at 30 fps | Good external webcams; sharp calls and recordings. |
| 1080p at 60 fps | Streaming and fast movement — needs good light. |
| 3840×2160 (4K) | High-end webcams; most call apps still send 720p or 1080p. |
Measured frame rate counts the frames that actually arrive, not what the camera claims. If it is well below 30 fps in good light, the camera, its USB connection or the computer is struggling.
Webcam not working? Fixes by system
Windows 10 and 11
- Settings → Privacy & security → Camera: turn on “Camera access” and “Let desktop apps access your camera”.
- Open the Windows Camera app. If it also shows nothing, the problem is the camera or its driver, not the browser. In Device Manager, look under Cameras or Imaging devices for a warning sign.
- Check for a physical privacy shutter or a camera key on the keyboard.
macOS
- System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera: enable your browser, then quit and reopen it.
- If the green light next to the camera turns on but the image is black, quit apps like FaceTime, Photo Booth, Zoom or Teams and try again.
In the browser
- Click the camera or lock icon in the address bar, set Camera to Allow and reload.
- Only one app can use most webcams at a time. Close video calls and other tabs that might have the camera open.
Tips for a better picture
- Put your main light in front of you, not behind. A window behind you turns your face into a silhouette.
- Raise the camera to eye level and sit about an arm's length away.
- Wipe the lens — a fingerprint makes the whole image look hazy.
Before a call, also run the mic test and speaker test.
Frequently asked questions
How do I test my webcam?
Click Start webcam test and allow camera access. If you see yourself, the webcam works. The panel below shows the actual resolution and the frame rate your camera is delivering right now, which is what Zoom, Teams or Meet will receive.
Is the video recorded or uploaded?
No. The preview is shown directly from your camera inside the browser and is never sent anywhere. Snapshots are created on your device and only saved if you click download.
Why is my webcam showing a black screen?
A black preview usually means another app is using the camera, a privacy shutter or a keyboard camera switch is closed, or the operating system is blocking camera access. Some laptops also have a camera kill key (often F8 or F10 with a camera icon).
Why is my 1080p webcam only showing 720p?
Cameras deliver the resolution an app asks for, within limits set by USB bandwidth and lighting. Choose 1080p in the resolution menu. If it still drops, plug the camera directly into the computer instead of a hub, and close other apps using USB video.
Why is the frame rate low?
Most webcams lower their frame rate in dim light to collect more light per frame — 30 fps can become 15 fps in a dark room. Turn on more light in front of you. A busy USB hub or a slow computer can also reduce frame rate.
Why is my image mirrored?
The preview is mirrored by default so it behaves like a mirror, which most people find natural. Other people on a call usually see the un-mirrored image. Untick Mirror to see what they see. Snapshots are always saved un-mirrored.