How to test your webcam
- Click Start webcam test and choose Allow when the browser asks to use the camera.
- Check the picture: it should be sharp, well lit and smooth.
- Read the resolution and frame rate on the right. Click Find the best quality to see the highest resolution your camera supports.
- Have more than one camera? Pick it in the Camera list. On a phone this switches between the front and back camera.
What the numbers mean
| Name | Resolution | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| VGA | 640×480 | Old or basic webcams |
| HD (720p) | 1280×720 | Most laptop cameras, fine for calls |
| Full HD (1080p) | 1920×1080 | Good external webcams, streaming |
| 4K | 3840×2160 | High-end webcams and phone cameras |
Frame rate is how many pictures per second the camera sends. 30 fps looks smooth; 15 fps or less looks choppy. Webcams often drop to a lower frame rate in dim light to collect more light per frame, so a slow frame rate is often fixed by turning on a lamp.
Camera not working? Try these fixes
- Access blocked: click the camera or lock icon next to the web address and set Camera to Allow, then try again.
- Windows: Settings → Privacy & security → Camera: turn on camera access for apps and for your browser. Some laptops also have a camera key (often F8 or F10) or a privacy shutter over the lens.
- Mac: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera: turn on your browser.
- “Camera is busy”: only one app can use most webcams at a time. Close Zoom, Teams, Skype, OBS or other tabs and try again.
- Black picture: check the lens cover, then unplug and replug a USB webcam or try another port.
Private by design
The video is shown only on your screen. It isn’t recorded or sent anywhere, and the camera turns off as soon as you click Stop or leave the page. Snapshots are saved straight to your device.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check if my webcam is working?
Click Start webcam test and allow the camera. If you see a live picture of yourself, the webcam works. The tool also shows its resolution and frame rate.
What resolution is my webcam?
The tool shows the resolution your camera is sending right now. Click Find the best quality to test HD, Full HD and 4K and see the highest one it supports.
Why does my webcam look dark or choppy?
Most webcams lower the frame rate in dim light. Turn on a lamp in front of you (not behind you) and the picture usually becomes brighter and smoother.
Is the video recorded or uploaded?
No. The picture is only shown in your browser. Nothing is recorded or sent to a server, and the camera turns off when you stop the test or close the page.
Why does it say my camera is busy?
Another app or tab is using the camera. Close video-call apps such as Zoom, Teams or Skype and any other tabs that use the camera, then try again.
Last updated October 2026 · More device tests