Camera tests

Start with the webcam test: allow camera access and you should see yourself, with the resolution and frame rate your camera delivers. The Webcam Resolution Test lists every common size it supports, and the Webcam and Mic Test checks both before a call.

Which test do I need?

If you noticeTry
You want to check the camera and microphone before a call or an online examWebcam and Mic Test
The camera shows a black screen or an errorWebcam Test
The wrong camera opensWebcam Test
The picture looks blurry or low resolutionWebcam Resolution Test, Webcam Test
The video looks choppyWebcam Test

All camera tools

Testing a webcam on Windows and Mac

Each of these shows whether the camera works. If it works here but not in a meeting app, choose the same camera in that app’s video settings.

  1. In your browser: open the Webcam Test and allow camera access. You should see yourself, with the resolution and frame rate the camera delivers. The Webcam Resolution Test lists which common sizes it supports, and the Webcam and Mic Test checks the camera and microphone together before a call.
  2. In Windows 11: open the Camera app from the Start menu. If a browser or app cannot use the camera, select Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Camera and turn on Camera access, Let apps access your camera and Let desktop apps access your camera.
  3. On a Mac: open Photo Booth or FaceTime. If a browser or app cannot use the camera, choose Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera and turn it on there.

Sources: Microsoft Support: Manage app permissions for a camera in Windows; Apple Support: Control access to the camera on Mac. Checked October 6, 2026.

Before you start

  • Allow camera access when the browser asks, and close other apps that may be using the camera.
  • The preview stays in your browser. Video is never recorded, stored or uploaded.
  • Face a window or a lamp; poor lighting is the most common reason for a bad picture.

Frequently asked questions

How do I test my webcam?

Open the Webcam Test and allow camera access; you should see yourself. If the preview is black, close other apps that may be using the camera, check for a privacy shutter or camera switch, and choose another camera from the list.

Why is my webcam resolution lower than advertised?

The browser gets the video modes the camera and its driver offer, which can be lower than the resolution advertised for photos. In dim light, many webcams also lower their frame rate.

Is the video recorded?

No. The preview is shown only on your screen. Nothing is recorded, stored or sent anywhere.

Guides

  • Camera or microphone blocked? How to allow accessAllow the site from your browser’s address bar or site settings, then check that Windows, macOS or your phone lets the browser itself use the camera and microphone. If it still fails, close other apps using the device and check shutters, mute keys and cables.
  • Camera or microphone blocked in an in-app browser? How to fix itApps such as Facebook, Instagram, Gmail and Telegram can open links in their own built-in browser. There the app, not your browser, decides whether a page may use the camera or microphone, and it may not pass access on. Open the page in your default browser, allow access when asked, then test it.
  • Webcam not working? How to fix it on Windows and MacOpen the privacy shutter, check any camera key or switch, and close other apps that may be using the camera. On Windows 11, run the camera troubleshooter, allow access in Privacy & security and check the driver; on a Mac, update macOS and check Screen Time and the camera privacy setting. Test after each step.